PUBLICITY VIRTUAL ASSISTANT

Getting Media Exposure to Generate Freelance Leads and Clients

2011-07-25T13:18:00.001-05:00

Pitching the media can be one of your best marketing tools. Here are reasons why you should be pitching the media, the benefits of pitching, as well as tips on developing your media pitch. This will be a three-part series. Next part coming in 3 days! In the meantime for more PR tips, sign up for our newsletter at www.virtualwordpublishing.com or email me at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. Don't forget to get your copy of our PR Informational Package

Getting Media Exposure to Generate Freelance Leads and Clients

Getting media exposure is one of the best ways to drive a ton of traffic to your website —traffic that can turn into leads and, eventually, into paying clients.
This type of exposure works because it helps establish you as an expert, something few other forms of marketing can do as well (or as quickly). It also gets you in front of prospects who wouldn’t have heard about you through other marketing vehicles.

Just as important, it brings down your prospects’ defenses and allows you to communicate your value more openly and without having to overcome direct buyer objections. That’s because when most people see you mentioned in an article or featured on the news, they feel you’re providing them with valuable or interesting information, and not necessarily selling your services directly.

Take Jill Hart, for example. Jill is the founder of Christian Work at Home Moms. Not long ago, Jill sent out a press release to local media about her website, which is devoted to helping moms work at home. She hadn’t done this previously and wasn’t expecting great results. However, within a few days of sending her pitch, a local news producer called asking permission to send a reporter and camera crew to interview her for their morning show. It was a fantastic experience and brought hundreds of new visitors to her website.

Here’s why Jill’s approach worked: she did more than just send a press release to the paper, which is what so many businesses still do. Instead, she developed a pitch that incorporated what was happening in the news at that time. She also tied in something that is always a media draw — a holiday.

The pitch focused on a special Valentine’s Day radio broadcast that Jill was presenting for work-at-home moms. She offered businesses the opportunity to call in, send a Valentine’s greeting, and then briefly discuss their business. It worked! It brought visitors to the radio show and to her website, and she was also able to connect with many businesses who wanted to advertise on her site.

Another great tip from Jill’s pitch was that she pitched the entire story as opposed to just talking about her products or services. This is really important, because media outlets are really looking for are interesting twists, hooks or angles — not just facts, figures or self-congratulatory announcements.

So, what exactly does pitching the media involve? Mainly, it’s about contacting media outlets that would be potentially interested in your story. You can pitch to your local TV, radio, newspaper, or even national media. Local media often covers news specific to your area, and oftentimes you are afforded the opportunity to provide more personal information. National media pitches will need to have of a broad appeal, since it reaches a larger audience. You can also pitch through established sources such as Help a Reporter Out (HARO) and Profnet.

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Diana Ennen is the President of Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com offering PR and marketing services. She has been featured on Fox Business News, CBS, CNN Radio, USA Today, Woman’s World, Entrepreneur Magazine and so many more. She’s also the author of six books on starting your own business including VA the Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA, and So You Want to be a Work-at-Home Mom. Contact her at Diana@virtualwordpublishing.com or @dianaennen for a free PR Informational Package.

So You Want To Master Social Media - Ten Tips to Help You Succeed

2011-01-31T08:23:00.002-06:00

Thought you'd enjoy our latest article on mastering social media. Love to hear your tips as well.
Thanks! Diana Ennen

So You Want To Master Social Media - Ten Tips to Help You Succeed

It’s official. Social media is here to stay. It’s not a fad like so many initially thought and it isn’t going anywhere soon. Businesses have realized that not only is it a great way to connect with current clients, but a great way to land potential clients as well. And that’s only the beginning. Social media also allows you to promote all your upcoming events and products, and even gives you front row access to editors and reporters who might write on your area of expertise. The possibilities are truly endless. But the big question now is, how can entrepreneurs best use the current social media opportunities to help increase business? Here are some tips we feel will help.

Ten tips to incorporate social media into your marketing plan:

Determine What Social Media Sites Are Best For You. Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are the top three, but that’s only the beginning. Determine who your target market is and then meet them where they are. It’s okay to ask by taking a survey by email or on your website asking which social media avenue your clients prefer. Once you determine that, be consistent and realize that you can’t be everywhere all the time. Pick the ones that are best for your business and really engage.

Team Up With Other Entrepreneurs. By teaming up, you allow easy access to retweets, Facebook posts, etc. Plus, it’s a great way to provide your audience with more valuable information on topics that would interest them by sharing information that is provided by the business(es) you team up with. Just make sure that your choose teammates with information that is a good fit for your audience.Don’t Just Advertise, Build Relationships. - We’ve all seen them. The tweets and Facebook postings that we know are scheduled and we know are only trying to sell us something. We aren’t saying that you can’t promote your services or products. In fact, we encourage you to do that. But do it right. Don’t just be about landing the deal. Truly connect with your audience and show them why they would want to work with you. We know you’ve heard it a million times already, but it speaks for itself and bears repeating: Social media is meant to be “social.”

Make It a Two-Way Street. You post and you post and you post on Facebook. You’ve tweeted away on Twitter & you’ve updated your status on Linkedin. Finally you’re done. Social marketing is ready to be checked off the list. Not so fast! Realize that just like you are posting there are others out there posting and building relationships as well. Get out there and respond to others, too. When you think about it, how do you feel when someone posts on your Facebook posting or blog entry? It feels good, doesn’t it? When you see a Facebook posting that you like leave a comment - always making sure you add value and are not just promoting your business.

Make It Exciting. We see this often: business owners on Twitter who get on for 20-minute increments and during that time we are inundated with retweets. They will throw in an occasional tip or two, but basically it’s just 20 minutes of nonsense. Now we love a good retweet, but we don’t enjoy this at all. When you are marketing your business via social media, make sure that you engage with others and make it exciting. Give some good information and tips - don’t just retweet to be seen. Provide great value and your followers will not only enjoy your messages, but when they are looking to refer someone who needs your services, you will be on the top of the list.

Learn From Others. One of the best things about being in business these days is that you have the opportunity to follow the pros and see what they are doing right. They eagerly give out tips, videos, etc. Make it a point to follow those who you respect and can learn from. Sit back and take notes. But more importantly, take the action steps necessary to make these points work. It’s more than learning from them, you need to actually do what they recommend as well.Contribute to Other Networks. Another great aspect of social media is getting your message out to more than just your audience. Offer to guest post for other networks in your area of expertise. You never know who may see your posts and become a client.

Create An Expert Status. Why do people follow you? Many times it is because they see you as the best at what you do and they want to learn from you. Therefore it’s important to always give solid tips and advice to really show your expertise. Create high quality blog postings, tips lists and posts to share with your audience. It may take extra time to create high quality work, but the effort will be well worth it in the end.

Spruce Up Your Page. Social media has come a long way in a short time. No more are you limited to a tiny avatar of your logo. Most of the social networking sites today allow you to fully customize your page with images, backgrounds and more. Spend the time to create a page that will draw in your audience and make them want to come back daily.

Be respectful. One of the things that most business owners value most is time. It’s important when you are on Facebook, Twitter and the other networks, that you be respectful of others’ time. A few ways you can do that: Don’t Expect An Instant Response. Sending an Instant Message (IM) to a colleague or respected leader is fine, but recognize that they may not be able to chat with you immediately. Often times that person has allocated a certain amount of time to be on the site. If they are constantly on an IM, they can’t get what they need done. We’re not saying you can’t IM, but be respectful when you do.

Don’t Take Advantage. Social media is a relationship builder and gives us instant access to industry leaders. However, be careful not to take advantage of someone’s goodwill by asking a zillion questions. Most business owners enjoy helping others, however, to provide personalized coaching is a different story. Always respect the person you are communicating with and we bet you’ll find you get way more back than you ever imagined.

See how easy social media is. When done right it can bring amazing results for your business. Not only will you establish yourself as an expert, but you will be promoting your products and services regularly. Make it a commitment to master social media marketing and we promise you next year at this time, you’ll be so glad you did.

Jill Hart, Founder of Christian Work-at-Home Moms http://www.cwahm.com/ and Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com/ have teamed up to write So You Want to Be a Work at Home Mom: A Christian’s Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business http://www.soyouwanttobeawahm.com/. Start or expand your business today with their help. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.
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What can a virtual assistant coach do for you? Everything!

2011-01-07T12:26:00.000-06:00

What can a virtual assistant coach do for you? Everything!

Does it always seem that someone else is more successful than you in their virtual assistant business? I know sometimes it’s hard to hear about all those virtual assistants with too many clients, or those virtual assistants all making six figures when you are barely surviving. Don’t you always wonder just what they are doing to make it happen?

Well, wonder no more. You need to know that there truly are some secrets to success. There are things that when you do them consistently and do them well, business success is sure to follow. The problem is, how can you get those secrets? Easy - Hire a virtual assistant coach.

I truly believe to be successful in your virtual assistant business, sometimes you need help. Imagine meeting weekly with a coach that has been already been there and done that. A coach that can review your media, offer recommendations, provide solid tips on what you need to do better, and just walk you through the ups and downs of running a business.

So what exactly can a virtual assistant coach do? Here are our top 10 things we feel a VA Coach can do for you:

1- A virtual assistant coach will help you establish your goals and find ways to meet them.
2- A virtual assistant coach will help you define your niche and make sure that the marketing you do leads you in that direction.
3- A virtual assistant coach can help you in all your marketing efforts to enable you to find clients. That’s right, a good virtual assistant coach will help you secure clients and isn’t that the name of the game.
4- A virtual assistant coach will review your pricing and offer recommendations. It should be noted this is one area where more times than not, the coach will insist on increasing your rates. That same coach will also show you how to do that, raise your rates and really charge what you are worth.
5- A virtual assistant coach can hold you accountable. Many virtual assistants don’t succeed just because they don’t have someone to personally walk with them and push them when needed.
6- A virtual assistant coach can review all your media including your website, media, blogs, etc.
7- A virtual assistant coach can help you discover what is holding you back from being successful and offer you solid tips on moving forward.
8- A virtual assistant coach can help you at any phrase of your business. Don’t think a coach is just for starting your business. A VA coach can help you even if you’ve been in business for years. They can take you to the next level of your business.
9- A virtual assistant can remotivate you and get you back into the thrill of being a virtual assistant.
10- A virtual assistant can help you focus and crack the whip when you go off track.
When you’re ready to really start seeing some results in your VA business, we recommend looking for a coach. Just make sure that it’s someone with an outstanding reputation and one that is active in the VA community. That way you know they are walking the walk and talking the talk.

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Diana Ennen offers specialized virtual assistant coaching services and has recently released her new coaching packages. Best known as the co-author of Virtual Assistant the Series: How to Become a Successful, Sought After VA, she is passionate about helping virtual assistants succeed. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

Publicity Virtual Assistant Free Class

2010-06-14T14:43:00.003-05:00

Dear Diana,

I'm so excited about the upcoming Publicity Virtual Assistant Summer Success Series

http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com/tips.html

It all starts with a FREE Call on June 15th at 2:00 EST. All sessions will be recorded)
* 5 Top Things You Need to do NOW to get More PR
*3 Pitching Secrets
* 1 Top Mistake I see Most Make

Call in #1-402-237-6812
Access Code - 36213621#

Here's the recording!

Then on June 22nd we have our First Official Call. I'm going to pull all the stops to show you how to get more PR.

Session #1 -- You need a marketing plan. Steps to build your marketing plan and decide what would work best for your particular business (and why) (June 22nd) 2:00 EST

Session #2 - How to write articles, press releases, blogs, etc., that work and get you and your clients on Google's First Page. (Including some SEO secrets.) (June 29th, 2:00 EST)

Session #3 - Pitching the Media - Do's and Don'ts for Success. What to pitch makes all the difference. I'll show you how to pitch. What to do ... What not to do. Pitching HARO and Profnet - (July 6th 2:00 EST)

Session #4 - Social Media / Social Book Marketing / Etc. How to use it for your success. (July 13th, 2:00 EST)

Session #5 - Review of your media. Questions & Answers - (July 20th, 2:00 EST)

All of this and MORE for only $99.00

Early Bird Special -- Sign up by June 18th -- $69.00
Publicity VA Success Series
Email me for details ... diana@virtualwordpublishing.com

! National Be Heard Day is here – and you’re getting the gifts!

2010-03-08T12:51:00.003-06:00

National Be Heard Day is here. AND WE ARE A PART OF IT! How cool is that!! Also, we are giving great bonuses to those who participate including a free 30 minute PR Coaching call & a PR TIPs booklet that literally rocks!

What is Be Heard Day .. The holiday was established in 2005, by publicity pro Shannon Cherry of Be Heard Solutions (www.beheardsolutions.com). She created the holiday to help entrepreneurs – like you - to find their voice, tell their story and be heard by using low-cost marketing tactics to promote their businesses.

And this year, she’s gotten together a great lineup of marketing pros, including me, to give away some of our secrets for free.

All you have to do it go to http://www.BeHeardDay.com

The keys to the kingdom are now yours - so grab those free gifts today.

You’d better hurry, though. This celebration ends on March 20! Go to http://www.BeHeardDay.com

Publicity that Works - Get the PR Results You Want

2010-02-19T06:54:00.002-06:00

I have the honor of being interviewed tomorrow, Friday February 19th. Here's a release that Tess, the Founder of VirtualAssistantForums.com wrote. Hope you can join me. It will be archived on the site too.

Virtual Assistant Forums Welcomes Diana Ennen for: 'Publicity That Works - Get the PR Results You've Always Wanted'

Diana Ennen, co-author of 'Virtual Assistant The Series' with Kelly Poelker, shares her in-depth knowledge and expertise on the topic of publicity with members of Virtual Assistant Forums during an informative chatroom event. Diana will demonstrate how virtual assistants can successfully incorporate publicity into their own marketing plans as well as their clients'.

The virtual assistance industry is booming as layoffs amid a down economy send the previously employed in search of a way to earn a living. The sheer number of new virtual assistant businesses means it takes much more than a traditional approach to marketing and publicity to launch and maintain a successful practice. Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing and author of 'Virtual Assistant The Series', understands the principles of leveraging publicity for small business marketing success. Friday, February 19, 2010 at 9am PST/12 EST Diana shares her expertise with members of the Virtual Assistant Forums (VAF) community in a special chat event designed to help both new and established VAs take their own marketing efforts to the next level.

Virtual Assistants who implement Diana's proven methods will bring more visibility to their virtual assistance businesses and can expect an increase in traffic flow to their websites. Ennen states, "Many virtual assistants are overlooking or misusing some of the best ways to get the word out about their business; from press releases and article marketing, to social media and online networking." Virtual Assistant Forums members in attendance at this free educational event will receive a free copy of Diana's recently revised PR Informational Package, which includes an extensive list of free press release submission options. As a special gift, two forum members will each receive a $35.00 gift certificate to the Virtual Word Publishing online store.

Virtual Assistants who wish to participate in this upcoming informational event at Virtual Assistant Forums can register for a free membership at www.virtualassistantforums.com.

About Diana Ennen and Virtual Word Publishing:
Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing, specializes in professional publicity and marketing services including PR marketing, press releases, social media and article marketing. Diana, who has been a leader and mentor in the work-at-home industry since 1985, is also the highly-regarded author of such titles as: 'Virtual Assistant the Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA'. 'Words from Home: Start, Run, and Profit from a Home-Based Word Processing Business and 'So You Want to Be a Work-at-Home Mom A Christian's Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business'. She resides in Margate, Florida, with her husband and their three children. To learn more about Virtual Word Publishing visit www.virtualwordpublishing.com

About Virtual Assistant Forums:
Virtual Assistant Forums is the social networking and discussion forum for aspiring and established virtual assistants. Register to claim and customize your profile and network with other VAs, share information and experience, create and join discussion groups, and chat with guest experts in the chatroom. Regularly published virtual assistant jobs, tons of great resources, a Virtual Assistant Directory, and more - it's all in one place, and it's all absolutely free. To participate in this friendly, supportive community of professional VAs today visit www.virtualassistantforums.com.

Marketing and Publicity Training Program Specifically For Virtual Assistants

2010-01-13T16:06:00.001-06:00

Marketing and Publicity Training Program Specifically For Virtual Assistants

Margate, Florida (January, 2010) For the last several years, Cindy Greenway and Tina Forsyth have become known for their elite skills-based training, specifically designed for Virtual Assistants. As Co-Founders and Lead Trainers of Hot Skills VA Training http://www.hotskillsvatraining.com both Greenway and Forsyth want nothing more than to support the Virtual Assistant industry with offering great programs to encourage expertise, great clients and a rewarding business.

“The Virtual Assistant industry is growing tremendously. We’ve seen a big shift over the last two years to where business owners are looking for more specialized support.” says Greenway. “To keep up with the growth, we’ve connected with key experts in various fields to offer top-notch training in various specialty areas. It’s critical that Virtual Assistants keep up with the changing needs of our clients, to best support them and also build a rewarding business for themselves.”

To support this initiative, Greenway and Forsyth have partnered with Marketing and Publicity Specialist Diana Ennen, to offer the only Publicity Specialist Training Program for Virtual Assistants. The 3 week program starts January 25, 2010 and promises to teach critical strategies that Virtual Assistants can implement with their clients to generate publicity.

There are very few Virtual Assistants who specialize in this area yet, there are business owners everywhere desperately seeking a VA who can help them build their expertise and generate publicity.

During this three week program, participants will learn how to:

1. Write and distribute a newsworthy press release so it's posted on the front page of Google almost every time.
2. Write and distribute killer articles so they get noticed by your targeted media and generate attention.
3. Create a professional media kit that gets your client noticed.
4. Pitch to the media - how to effectively connect with the media, including newspapers, TV stations, radio, social media, etc.
5. Avoid the most common mistakes in getting book and product reviews.

This program, in addition to helping virtual assistants add the niche of publicity to their services, will also benefit virtual assistants who are looking to get more publicity for their own business. The PR tips mentioned can be extremely instrumental in helping any virtual assistant take their business to the next level as well.

For more information about the Publicity Specialist program, visit www.HotSkillsVATraining.com

About Hot Virtual Skills Training
HotSkillsVATraining.com was founded by Cindy Greenway and Tina Forsyth. Cindy and Tina offer a combined 15+ years in the Virtual Assistant profession and have worked with prominent online based business owners and marketing professionals.

Jumpstart Your Small Business Growth Now!!

2010-01-11T07:20:00.001-06:00

What’s one of the most Powerful Ways to Jump-Start Your Small Business Growth?

If you’re like most entrepreneurs, you’ve got your nose to the grindstone all the time. But when you’re always busy working you don’t notice what’s changing in the marketplace, or what’s new that you could be taking advantage of to better market your business. And these days, thanks to the Internet and the economy both of these things are changing at an incredibly fast pace.

So if you’re always busy putting out fires and taking care of clients and customers, you’re likely missing out on one of the most powerful ways to grow your small business… Attending events!

One of the best ways to stay inspired and on top of the latest trends and opportunities is to regularly attend conferences, events and workshops outside of your industry. Because, while reading about the latest and greatest online or in books is great, nothing substitutes for hearing experts speak live about what they’re doing and what’s new.

But let’s face it, spending a few thousand dollars and taking a week off work to go to a conference or seminar isn’t always possible. So I’ve got the next best thing for you!

I’ve been invited to speak as one of 12 small business experts at the upcoming FREE 3-day “Small Business Success Telesummit.” It’s all done by phone, so you can attend every session, or just one or two, from the comfort of your own home or office.

Topics include everything from using social media and other online tools for marketing, creating a more compelling personal bio, mastering in-person networking, how to market your expertise using tips booklets, time-management techniques, outsourcing secrets and more. There’s even a live Q & A segment with the experts at the end of each call.

Here’s a list of all the amazing speakers scheduled for the three-day event:

social media expert Nancy Marmolejo, PR experts Shannon Cherry, Diane Ennen (that's me!) and Nancy Juetten, Time Liberator Susan Lannis, The Tips Booklet Queen Paulette Ensign, Savvy Networker Zita Gustin, Results Coach Leanne Hoagland-Smith, Founder of the HUBstreet social networking site Nancy Fox, New Business Mentor Leah Grant, Internet Marketing Strategist Erin Blaskie, and Practical Marketing Expert Stacy Karacostas. Plus, everyone who registers receives a bonus ebook packed with helpful articles from these experts.

Now you can get the info you need to transform your business without spending a penny or traveling anywhere!

So what are you waiting for? While the event is totally free to attend live, phone lines for the calls are limited. If you’re ready to take your business to the next level go here and register for the Telesummit right away:

http://tinyurl.com/yej9fjd

What’s the biggest ah-ha moment you’ve had listening in on a teleseminar? Please do share by leaving a comment below…

Small Business Success Telesummit 2010

2010-01-04T14:14:00.002-06:00

Join me this January and 11 other experts to jumpstart your 2010 ...

With each New Year, there’s that heady scent of change in the air… But to breathe in the sweet smell of POSITIVE change, you have to take key steps to create it.

It’s a fast-paced world out there nowadays. So it’s critical to stay a step ahead of your competition. You can’t do that if you don’t stay on top of what’s new.

Embracing business-growing change means getting your marketing house in order and your processes down pat… AND it means learning to use the latest, most forward-looking ways to grow your small business in 2010 (think social media, online PR, and more).

That’s why I’m inviting you to join me for FREE at the Small Business Success Telesummit 2010 in January. Listen in as 12 small business experts (including yours truly!) share our best business-building secrets, AND answer your questions live!

http://tinyurl.com/yej9fjd

Need a preview? Here’s a sampling of what these experts will be covering (complete with live Q&A phone time so you can ask YOUR questions):

· How to spot REAL opportunities on the Web, and what to do about them

· How small-business owners can bust through roadblocks and shift from overwhelmed to in-control, focused action, and use systems to get crucial and routine work done in the fastest, most effective way

· Understanding how the impression you make on people is the impression they’ll have of your business—learn to make it quite good, and memorable

· Discovering the RIGHT way to ask for work to be completed by a Virtual Assistant when you have a hard-to-describe vision in mind, looking specifically at the magic of good communication

· What you need to know to write a press release TODAY, and how they differ from the ones of yesteryear

· …And plenty more!

This awesome line-up is speaking over three weekdays—and that means at least some of the presentation bound to fit your schedule. Check it out here, and be sure to reserve your spot as phone lines are limited!

We both know that if you want your small business to keep growing (regardless of the darned economy), you need to keep soaking up advice on marketing and running your business more effectively.

So go for it, and join me at Small Business Success Telesummit

I promise it’s going to get your business off to a terrific start in 2010!

Diana Ennen

Virtual Word Publishing

www.virtualwordpublishing.com

10 Ways to Market Your Business This Holiday Season

2009-12-11T06:13:00.000-06:00

10 Ways to Market Your Business This Holiday Season

So thrilled that BrowardNetOnline picked up our holiday marketing article! That's my local community. Fortunately I met them on Twitter. Social networking rocks!

Diana Ennen / Virtual Word Publishing / www.virtualwordpublishing.com
follow me on twitter - www.twitter.com/dianaennen

Tips for a Stress Free Holiday with Your Business

2009-12-08T08:44:00.004-06:00

Here are my tips for a stress-free holiday! I'd love your tips as well, please comment away!

1) Let clients know well in advance your holiday schedule and try and stick with the same schedule if possible year after year. For example, I normally take the same days off each year so my clients know this and can work around it. What I find is that when I do this they know in advance so the few days before I take off I don't get tons of work.

2) Have a subcontractor who can help for a few hours. There's no better feeling than being out there shopping and knowing that the work is still being taken care of. You normally still make money on the work that your subcontractor does and it can alleviate so much stress.

3) Really focus and have a daily to do list. Also, keep track of the time you spend on tasks and write it down. During the holidays time flies by and we don't even realize where the days go. By staying focused you can get so much more accomplished. And with writing down your time, you can see that work is getting done. Watch your emails and only check them so many times a day (this will depend on the type of your business.) One small change can make a huge difference. For example, during the holidays you normally get tons of coupons, which you really want to check out. When you do though, you get sidetracked and don't focus as well. I set up in Outlook a rule so all coupons go into a folder first. That way I'm not tempted to look. And when I do look, all my coupons are together.

Thanks! Diana Ennen/ www.virtualwordpublishing.com

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Top 10 Publicity Ideas to Market Your Business This Holiday Season

2009-12-07T11:21:00.002-06:00

It's a great time to do some holiday marketing. Here are some tips we think will help you. Please post yours as well.

Top 10 Publicity Ideas to Market Your Business This Holiday Season

The holidays are upon us. For most business owners that means an increase in sales - or at least it used to. In today's frustrating economy, small and large businesses alike are facing record lows when it comes to sales. Even those in the service industry are seeing less and less clients. So what’s the answer? Think 10? Try these 10 ways to survive and thrive this holiday season.

Top 10 Publicity Ideas to Market Your Business This Holiday Season

1. One great way to boost sales and awareness of your company is to enlist the help of a publicity virtual assistant. These experts specialize in helping you to get more publicity. They can handle everything from writing and sending out press releases to creating entire media campaigns. Let them write better descriptions for your products, find the best keywords to drive traffic there, do research to find where best to locate your target audience, and then finally handle all your PR needs. Publicity virtual assistants take the time to learn their niche and to develop a relationship with their clients so that they can bring amazing results. See, your holiday sales can meet and exceed last year’s sales after all.

2. Do specialized holiday marketing. It’s not too late to take advantage of all that can be done this year to make more sales. Consider having a Black Friday sale or a Cyber Monday sale. Add a contest to your site. Send out postcards and gift certificates.

3. Article & Press Release Writing and Distribution – Article marketing works. It’s a great way to get more exposure for your business and when done right, can result in front page Google rankings, more clients, & lots of sales. Get active and write a press release about your business making a holiday or New Year connection. For example, share how you are giving back during the holidays, any promotions you have, etc.

4. Get speaking -- Set up speaking engagements for the New Year. In January businesses go back to all work, no play after the holidays. It’s a perfect time to get out there and connect with businesses and line up speaking engagements. Also, consider a teleseminar series too.

5. Create a Holiday Blog Tour. If you have products or tips for the holidays, connect with other bloggers. Ask if you can provide some holiday tips. Bloggers are busy this time of year too so they will appreciate the added help. And the best news, you get more exposure.

6. Set up a Google Adword Campaigns – More people are online now because of the holidays. And a lot of those people will be checking out the search engines to find Christmas Gifts. It’s a great time to set up a Google Adword campaign and get that added exposure for your business.

7. Reconnect with ALL your clients and let them know how you appreciate them and perhaps how you can help them with other needs they may not even know you offer. Send a personalized holiday card or greeting. For local clients stop by their office and drop off presents, popcorn tins for the staff and/or their favorite coffee for their afternoon pick-me-up. For potential new clients, drop off a Holiday cup full of wrapped candy with your business card or perhaps get your business name printed on the candy bar.

8. Set up a marketing campaigns designed especially for and around your company or brand. Write down a marketing plan for the year that will focus on brand recognition. Most importantly, make sure your brand represents your company the way it should to your target audience.

9. Update your website. Take a look at your website and see if it is the best that it can be. Pay special attention to your homepage and keywords. Look to the overall appearance, the professionalism of your wording, the explanations explaining the benefits you provide, etc. In fact, everything in your site needs to convince a client to work with you. Now ask yourself, does it do that? Is this something I can be proud of? Too often we throw together a website, just to have it done. Remember this can often be a client’s first impression of you. Is it selling you well?

10. Don’t forget your social networking. Even ½ hour a day can make a considerable difference, Remember to build relationships and share more than sell.

The holidays are a great time to make money, even in this economy. If you’d like additional tips stop by SoYouWantToBeaWahm.com today. Also, share with us your tips for the holidays.

Jill Hart, Founder of Christian Work-at-Home Moms http://www.cwahm.com and Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com have teamed up to write So You Want to Be a Work at Home Mom: A Christian’s Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business http://www.soyouwanttobeawahm.com. Start or expand your business today with their help. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

High Impact Emails from Template Zone

2009-12-07T10:47:00.003-06:00

I had the pleasure recently of reviewing High Impact Emails from Template Zone - www.templatezone.com. Following is my review. Also, they have given me several copies that I can provide to businesses who would like to write a review. Please contact me at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com if you are interested. Thanks!

My review of Template Zones - High Impact Email Marketing www.templatezone.com

One of the most important things I've realized in marketing my business and in helping my clients get additional publicity is that you need to stay in contact with those who have contacted you. They have already expressed an interest in you and your services or products, yet might not have made the commitment to buy or use your services. I was never able to fully do this with my business, although I tried several approaches. Finally, I discovered High Impact Email from Template Zone. I needed something that was easy to do, walked me through the steps, and also created a professional and impressive marketing piece. High Impact Email did that and more. I especially loved the variety of templates offered. It allowed me to do more than just send out a newsletter. What was also amazing for me was how easy it was to import my contacts. I believe a lot of people don't market this way for fear it will be time-consuming and difficult. Thankfully, it's none of that. I highly recommend High Impact email for small and large businesses alike. I do believe it will be especially helpful for those who work from home as well.

Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Opportunities Abound for the Administrative Assistant To Work From Home

2009-12-03T21:13:00.001-06:00

Opportunities Abound for the Administrative Assistant To Work From Home

Administrative assistants are moving from the office back into their homes as the opportunities for working in a home-based environment are growing daily. As modern technology allows for the transfer of information quickly and easily, administrative professionals are finding it has never been easier to do the office work at home. Letters, memos and reports are just a click away. Web conferencing, marketing, publicity, and even bookkeeping can be accomplished from virtually anywhere.

Businesses are also realizing that the same work done at the office can easily be outsourced to a home-based administrative professional. In fact, many businesses find they are not only getting the same work done, but also experiencing better results. The home-based administrative professional is highly qualified and trained in the services they offer and therefore excel at these tasks.

These administrative assistants utilize their skills as a virtual assistant—virtual being the operative word. Being able to do work virtually enables these administrative professionals to do all those tasks normally done in the office. With all the downsizing and layoffs, businesses are thrilled to be able to have the support they need at a cost they can afford.

The services being offered by these independent business owners are varied and can be found to suit the job. The descriptions that follow are just a few of the services they can provide:

Press Release Writing & Distribution: Most businesses today could benefit from a great press release, especially when that press release is distributed to their targeted audience. Many publicity virtual assistants offer this service in addition to other marketing tasks.

Transcription services: Definitely in high demand today. Doctors, specialists, hospitals, chiropractors and many more use outside sources to transcribe their files. Lawyers also require this type of assistance in legal transcription.

Document formatting, data input, correspondence, and report writing: Work can be typed and sent via email, file sharing, fax, Skype—you name it. Keeping up with social networking, answering phone calls, managing email messages, and customer relations are more services that can be handled from a home office.

Event Management: Organizing conferences or workshops from beginning to end,is just another thing that can be done from a home office

Writing effective resumes: Resumes that get the attention of potential employers is a skill that is very useful, especially in the job markets of today. With downsizing, layoffs and business closures, landing that new job for many is so very important. On the employer side, a virtual assistant can set up screening of resumes from their home office.

Researching information: Research can be a task that few can spare the time for. With the amount of information available on the Internet, finding pertinent articles and company information can be very time consuming. There are home-based administrative assistants who enjoy this type of work and have developed methods of finding useful information effectively.

Article Marketing: Submitting how-to and informational articles on the Internet is fast becoming a great marketing tool. Articles are included in ezines and newsletters are often picked up by online news outlets.

For more information on partnering with a Virtual Assistant visit Another8hours.com and VirtualWordPublishing.com where you can also get a free informational PR package.

Kelly Poelker of Another8Hours, http://www.another8hours.com and Diana Ennen of Virtual Word Publishing http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com are the co-authors of numerous books including Virtual Assistant – The Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA, and its accompanying Workbook. For complete information on starting your own VA business or if you need a virtual assistant visit http://www.va-theseries.com. Article is free to be reprinted as long as the author’s bio remains intact.

Black Friday Specials

2009-11-25T13:23:00.002-06:00

We have some major Black Friday specials going on at Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Get 4 hours of article or press release distribution - Black Friday Special - $100.00

(Regularly $65.00/hr.)

Let us write your press release, regularly $250.00 - Black Friday Special $200.00 (Plus submission to the top 5 free sites.)

PR or Virtual Assistant Coaching - Regularly $75.00/hr - Black Friday Special - $50.00/hr.

Copy of So You Want to be a Work at Home Mom: The Christian's Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business by Jill Hart and Diana Ennen - Regularly $15.99 - Black Friday Special -- $13.00 plus free S&H

Copy of Virtual Assistant the Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA - Regularly $29.95 - Black Friday Special - $19.95.

Copy of Zip, Burp & Hula - Black Friday Special - $4.95 (plus 2.00 S&H)

Black Friday Special - 25% off any books in the Virtual Word Publishing bookstore - www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Email me for details -- diana@virtualwordpublishing.com

Thanks! Happy Thanksgiving

Diana Ennen / Virtual Word Publishing / www.virtualwordpublishing.com
Follow me on Twitter - www.twitter.com/dianaennen

Public Relations 101 - You Need a Publicity Virtual Assistant to Market Your Business

2009-11-16T08:25:00.005-06:00

Hi

Here's my latest article on PR! Would love your comments.

Public Relations 101 - You Need a Publicity Virtual Assistant to Market Your Business

In today’s trying economy, it is extremely difficult to succeed. Small businesses and large businesses alike are facing record lows when it comes to sales. Even those in the service industry are seeing less and less clients sign up. So what’s the answer? Easy, hire a publicity virtual assistant to help with all your PR needs.

A publicity virtual assistant specializes in helping clients get more PR. They can handle everything from writing and sending out press releases to creating entire media campaigns. Their clients include authors, small businesses, online businesses, membership sites, coaches, etc. Any business that can use more publicity and marketing can benefit with a publicity virtual assistant.

Publicity virtual assistants take the time to learn their niche and to develop a relationship with their clients so that they can bring amazing results. Here are just a few of the tasks a publicity virtual assistant can help with.

Holiday marketing – A publicity virtual assistant can handle your entire holiday marketing campaign. It’s not too late to take advantage of all that can be done this year to make more sales. From social networking to writing and sending out promotional materials, a publicity virtual assistant will implement a plan unique for your business.

Article & Press Release Writing and Distribution – Article marketing works. It’s a great way to get more exposure for your business and when done right, can result in front page Google rankings, more clients, & lots of sales. Your publicity assistant can not only write your articles and releases for you, but they can help distribute them out to get the best results. Most already have a database of the best places to submit to. So turn it all over and sit back and reap the rewards.

Author Assistance - For authors, a publicity virtual assistant can help sell more books, set up speaking and book signings, create a blog tour, compose your media kit and promotional materials, etc. Even those looking to find a publisher can work with a Publicity VA and get that professional edge they need to succeed.

Google Adword Campaigns - Let your publicity virtual assistant set up your Google Adword campaign. You can benefit with added exposure, but also with the ability to see what keywords truly would bring in the best results.

Online Marketing - Need to get more press for your online shop, then look no further. A publicity virtual assistant can handle everything for you. Let them write better descriptions for your products, find the best keywords to drive traffic there, do research to find where best to locate your target audience, and then finally handle all your PR needs.

With the right publicity virtual assistant on your side, you can finally see the results you’ve been hoping for. If you need a publicity virtual assistant, stop by VirtualWordPublishing.com today.
You can also learn more about becoming a publicity virtual assistant there as well.

Diana Ennen specializes in publicity and marketing and is the President of Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com. Let her handle all your PR needs, large or small. She’s also the author of numerous books including Virtual Assistant: the Series, Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA and So You Want to Be a Work-at-Home Mom: A Christian’s Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business. Articles are free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

Virtual Assistant Class on Incentative Based Compensation

2009-10-20T08:37:00.001-05:00

Are you stuck in the time for money trap? My friends Tina Forsyth and Andrea Lee are sharing a new option for virtual assistants, online business managers and other virtual professionals who are ready to break free.

You’ve seen it … or likely experienced it. You take on more clients, you take on more responsibility, you build stronger relationships, get too busy, exhaustion sets in, you start missing things, and you wonder if it’s all worth it …. You’ve hit what Tina and Andrea refer to as the bursting point.

What if there was another way? A way to make more money while working the same (or even fewer) hours? There is a way … and it’s called incentive based compensation.

On October 20th, Tina and Andrea are offering a free call to share key details and strategies to support virtual professionals with breaking free from the time for money trap. By negotiating and implementing incentive based compensation, you open up a whole new level of income opportunity for yourself … this is critical stuff. It’s time to listen.

Be smart about how to approach this conversation …. Start by joining Tina and Andrea for their fre’e call on October 20th. Register at http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/?af=1076273

Review - So You Want to Be a Work-At-Home Mom

2009-10-16T06:10:00.002-05:00

Review of our new book - So You Want to Be a Work-At-Home Mom: A Christians Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business by Denise of WAHM-Articles.com

As a work at home mom who is also a Christian, the most difficult part of starting my Virtual Assistant business wasn’t writing a marketing plan, setting up my first website, or even finding my first client. It was figuring out what role my faith in God should play in my new business. The answer seems obvious - of course it comes first! The tricky part was learning exactly what that should look like…That’s why I was so thrilled to discover the new book by Jill Hart and Diana Ennen, So You Want to Be a Work at Home Mom: A Christian’s Guide to Starting a Home-Based Business.

Diana’s Virtual Assistance books and Jill’s online community of Christian WAHMs had been very influential for me when I began working from home years ago. Together, Jill and Diana know everything there is to know about working from home, and they know how it all fits together with faith in God.Every inch of starting a home business is covered in this wonderful book. Jill and Diana walk readers through choosing a business, setting it up, marketing a business, and even how to balance your family with your home business. And through it all runs the idea that for a Christian mom like me, faith in God needs to come first, in everything I do.The information in these pages is priceless for any mom considering a work at home lifestyle. But what was most inspiring for me were the personal stories Jill and Diana share about their own work at home journeys, along with interviews with other successful business owners that are sprinkled throughout.

It was encouraging to realize that these women I had admired for so long had once faced the same problems I had, and had asked the same questions.And the most important question this book finally resolved for me, was the role my faith should play in my business. My faith in God is at the beginning, and in everything I do. Just what does that look like? Some days it’s frustrating. Some days it’s amazing. And there are days when I wonder if my hopes will ever be realized. Then I remember that God’s plans are much bigger than mine, and what He has in mind for me is greater than I could possibly imagine.

If you need encouragement in your own work at home journey, or want to know what it really takes to become a work at home mom, you will love the book, So You Want to Be a Work at Home Mom. Visit http://SoYouWantToBeAWAHM.com to learn more about the book and order your copy!

We are featured in Woman's World Article

2009-10-02T07:56:00.003-05:00

We are thrilled to be included in the October 5 issue of Woman's World on Page 26. We were quoted in an article byBarbara Crook (and she's awesome!) in an article on Get Ahold of Anyone Instantly. Here are a few of the tips I presented (in quotes). If you'd like to see the article, please me and I'll be happy to send you the PDF.

Leave this so they'll get back to you faster! You probably know to say your phone number slowly - and better yet, twice. What you may not know? How important it is to leave your email address, too! "So many people prefer e-mail to the phone that you'll almost always get a faster response." promises Diana Ennen, author of Virtual Assistant [the Series].

Make it an instant message - Studies show that while people often respond "fashionably late" to email or voicemail (a fast reply could imply you don't have much to do!), about half consider it rude not to reply to instant messages (IMs) Plus, IMing is so easy! "With email, you feel the need to polish your message, but IMs are simply tapped out and sent, "says Ennen.

Sign up for these! Research shows that users of Twitter and Facebook are more apt to check these sites than email or voicemail when they're on the run, "so they're a great way to reach people, says Ennen.

Send it on a Tuesday .. Worst time to get your email read, Monday morning when inboxes are inudated. In fact, Ennen suggests waiting until midmorning on any day to ensure your message isn't lost in the shuffle.

Love to hear your thoughts! Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Personalize It: Giving the Perfect Gift for Every Occasion

2009-08-31T11:34:00.001-05:00

Personalize It: Giving the Perfect Gift for Every Occasion

The holiday season is looming, the economy is still tanking, and your list of family and friends who need gifts just keeps growing. What’s the secret to finding unique gifts for everyone on your list without spending a bundle? Easy, give personalized gifts! It is possible to find a beautiful, handmade gift that can be personalized to your specifications for $50 or less (sometimes far less). If you haven’t considered how the addition of a name, a monogram, a personal message, or a photo can enhance a gift (and save your budget), here are the facts:

Personalization Turns the Ordinary Gift Into the ExtraordinaryYou might think it’s hard to feel excited about giving a travel mug as a gift. Too boring, you say? Think again. Select the perfect fabric to wrap around that mug (under the plastic exterior), add a name or monogram with the thread color of your choice, and you’ve turned an ordinary product into a one-of-a-kind gift made just for the recipient. A gift that might have said I picked this right off the shelf in a hurry now says I had this made just for you! And there is more good news: you’ve spent less than $25.

There are many products out there like the travel mug: too ordinary on their own, but really fabulous when personalized. Toddler cups and sippy cups, for example, make great gifts when embellished with a child’s name. Notepads turn into something special when you choose their pattern and add a name or clever phrase to the top of each page. Pacifier clips, those handy gadgets that keep children and pacifiers attached, become fashion accessories when you choose the right fabric and add a monogram. A shaving kit or wallet becomes a treasure when you have a photo of the grandkids added to them. A silver money clip means far more to dad when it’s engraved with a message of love from the kids. A sterling silver necklace becomes a treasure to mom when it is hand-stamped with the names of her kids. A wine glass engraved with a special holiday message to a friend is much more meaningful than a plain wine glass. And for the golfer in the family, a personalized golf accessory makes the perfect unique gift for the golfer who has everything. Whether you’re shopping for a family member or your child’s teacher, personalization turns a run-of-the-mill gift into something extra special, without costing a fortune.

Personalization Turns a Holiday Gift Into a Keepsake
Buy your friend a Christmas ornament from a department store and it’s likely to be just another ornament in her mix of ornaments by next year. Give her a hand-painted ornament that features the names of her children plus the year and she’s likely to treasure it forever. When it comes to holiday-themed gifts, personalization is the key to making them keepsakes. Whether it’s a hand-painted ornament to mark a baby’s first Christmas or a ceramic plate designed for Santa’s cookies, the personalized gifts are the ones with sentimental value that lasts a lifetime.

Personalized Gifts Make Kids Smile
“Mine!” comes out of most mouths by age two, so take advantage of every kid’s desire to claim ownership of almost everything and personalize their gifts with their names. Kids love to see their names on their stuff, and that makes it easy to give great gifts that don’t cost much. An ordinary place mat might not excite a child, but one that features his name and a print of a hand-painted, kid-friendly picture (a fire truck, perhaps, for the vehicle-obsessed boy) will surely be appreciated (and will cost you around $20). A handmade, hand-painted door plaque (you pick the design) is a great way to help any child decorate her room and claim her space. Give a kid a hand-painted ceramic plate that features his name and a cool design you chose just for him and he will instantly feel special (and grown-up too). And when it comes to buying holiday-themed gifts for kids, don’t forget their second favorite holiday, Halloween! Order a special t-shirt decorated with a haunted house and personalized with your son’s name and he might think wearing it to school is almost as exciting as wearing his costume. Or spend less than $25 to personalize a silver bucket with a spooky fabric design and ensure your daughter has the coolest bucket around for trick-or-treating.

No matter who you are shopping for this holiday season, give a personalized gift and say you care without spending a fortune. For a complete selection of unique, handmade personalized gifts for the holidays or almost any occasion, from births to weddings to memorials, visit http://www.cccgifts.com today.

Diane Cullen Page specializes in personalized gifts for all occasions and is the founder of CCC Gifts http://www.cccgifts.com - dcullenpage@cccgifts.com. CCC Gifts offers not only the best personalized gifts and holiday favorites, but also unique gifts such as Gotcha Day, memorial and loss gifts, etc. Check out the holiday specials going on now. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

So You Wnat to be a Work at Home Mom Blog Tour

2009-08-26T08:28:00.003-05:00

The blog tour for our book, So You Want to Be a Work-At-Home Mom, will begin on September 1st. You can sign up at (http://cwahm.com/wordpress/newsletter) & we sure hope that you do!

How It Works:

* We will provide a one-time post on your blog. Please post between Sept 1st - Sept. 5th, 2009. (Email me for this text)

* You can post the exact text as provided or add in your own comments. We encourage you to also add in any of your comments for better SEO results.

* AFTER POSTING, you will need to FILL OUT THIS FORM http://cwahm.com/wordpress/blog-tour-form/ with the link to your post once it's up on your blog.

If you post, You Will Receive:
* Free 1 Year Classified Ad on CWAHM.com! ($75 value!)
* Free 20 Minute PR coaching session with Diana! ($25 Value!)
* Free copy of our Press release & Article Teleseminar ($9.95 value)
* Free PR Informational package with lists of places to submit press releases and articles
* Exclusive Thank-You Discounts (see below)
* The chance to win a gift basket including a copy of the book! (over $100 value!)

Please post a comment below or email me at diana @ virtualwordpublishing.com to receive all the information you need!

Jill and I sincerely appreciate your support. For additional information on our book, Learn more about the book at Beacon Hill Press or SoYouWantToBeAWAHM.com.

Thanks!

Diana Ennen

Join me tonight - Laura Kennedy Radio Show

2009-08-19T15:53:00.002-05:00

I'm thrilled to be a guest tonight on Laura Kennedy's Radio Show tonight (August 19th) at 8:00 EST. We will be discussing press releases. Sure to be a fun filled, action packed hour with great information. Please join us!!

http://su.pr/2q5cmS

Diana Ennen / www.virtualwordpublishing.com /
follow me on twitter - www.twitter.com/dianaennen

Pitching Media Requests

2009-07-16T09:36:00.003-05:00

With Profnet, HARO, PRLeads, etc., the opportunity to connect with the media is better than ever. Reporters themselves are asking for experts. It's your chance to get into major magazines, newspapers, TV spots, websites, etc. Aren't cha loving it!

However, just as important as responding back, is responding back correctly. Here are some tips to respond to media leads. Please add comments and share yours too! Love to hear them.

****
When writing back, try and provide as much information as possible that directs to what they are seeking. It's usually not a good idea to off pitch.

Direct the tips or items specially. Be brief but thorough. You never want to say, go to my site to see what I have and that's all. They hate that!

Never send an attachment.

Start with a quick bio clarifying why you are the expert they need. A few sentences and don't just send your regular bio. Personalize it to who you are writing, and why you are expert.

Subject line -- State what it's about specifically.

Add complete contact information including email, website, phone, cell phone, Twitter, etc.

My last paragraph usually is ..

Thanks so much for your consideration. I would welcome an interview. My contact information is ...

***
Thanks!

Diana Ennen / Publicist / Virtual Word Publishing / www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Guest on Virtual Perception

2009-07-13T19:26:00.002-05:00

I was honored to be featured on The Virtual Perfection last week. You can still listen.

http://mypodcastharmony.com/avpnew/episode-29-lets-talk-marketing-show-notes/

Here's the scoop.

Diana Ennen, owner of Virtual Word Publishing and co-author of Virtual Assistant The Series, shares her insight about all things related to Marketing and Press Releases. We talk about creating a marketing plan, marketing online and offline, marketing opportunities, what a press release is, what should be included in a press release and what to do with it once you have it created.

Diana provided so many great ideas and tips….any small business owner will benefit from this episode!

Diana Ennen / Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Publicity Virtual Assistant

2009-07-08T12:10:00.002-05:00

I'm a proud Publicity Virtual Assistant. When you type publicity virtual assistant into Google, I'm all over the place. That's GREAT! However, I got to thinking who really types in publicity virtual assistant? Humm .... Dilemma ...

Do you have tips to share on ways to get more attention for those terms ... publicity virtual assistant? Would love to have them.

What's a publicity virtual assistant ... here's my release to explain. Thanks -- Diana Ennen

Book Marketing & Publicity Success Is Achieved with the Right Publicity Virtual Assistant

Margate, FL – (July 2009) Self-publishers and published authors alike often need assistance with the most vital aspect of their book journey, marketing and publicity. Successful authors know that to sell books, you need to do PR. And even more importantly, you need to do a lot of PR. You can’t just put your book on Amazon and send out a press release or two and hope for the masses to come. You need do an aggressive marketing campaign and get out there and promote your hard work. Fortunately, with the help of a Publicity Virtual Assistant it has never been easier.

Publicity Virtual Assistants are virtual assistants who specialize in publicity and marketing. Publicity Virtual Assistants utilize all their expert talents and superb writing abilities for book marketing and promotions, thereby helping authors achieve the success they deserve by providing extensive marketing solutions, innovative publicity campaigns, proofing and editing capabilities, extensive research, administrative support, and so much more.

Diana Ennen, author of Virtual Assistant the Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA states, “Today’s Internet has opened the doors to successful book marketing by Publicity Virtual Assistants. Being able to send press releases and articles to a targeted group is priceless and knowing how to effectively research to find that group is even more beneficial. The virtual assistant is already well versed on the Internet and well aware of how to find the right connections. Plus, with the increase in social networking, the virtual assistant is able to make their client known in the right places. It’s a matter of knowing what to do and where to do it that sets us apart.”

Publicity virtual assistants are especially beneficial for those many first-time authors who are overwhelmed with the publishing process. By partnering with a Publicity Virtual Assistant, the stress of having to know it all is drastically reduced and the author can rely on their PVA to take over and implement much of the publicity campaign.

If you are in need of a Publicity Virtual Assistant, stop by today at http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com for additional information. Also, if you are interested in learning more about becoming a publicity virtual assistant, contact Ennen directly at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. Ennen will be speaking this July in the 2009 VAvirtuosos Seminar Series http://tinyurl.com/

CellCharge Announces Credit Card Processing Now Available For Your iPhone

2009-06-08T15:10:00.001-05:00

Our fabulous client, Dave Garboski's company, CellCharge, Inc. now has the ability to accept credit cards on your iPhone! Here's more information. Contact me for additional information.

CellCharge Announces Credit Card Processing Now Available For Your iPhone

Attention iPhone owners, we have great news. You’ve seen the commercials where your iPhone can be used for processing credit cards. Well now CellCharge http://www.cellcharge.com has the capacity to do just that. CellCharge, the industry leader in phone-based credit card transactions, is well known for enabling their clients to process credit card transactions anytime, anywhere though their existing phone. Now, CellCharge is thrilled to be able to add iPhone capabilities to their extensive list of services.

This enables transactions to now be processed wherever you need them, from trade shows and flea markets to direct sales parties and salons, right from your iPhone. Small and home-based businesses benefit as well as they can input a customer's credit card information and get paid right on the spot.

CellCharge will set up your account and fortunately, it’s just as easy as it appears on TV.
First they offer guidance on which application they recommend. As there are many downloadable apps available at the iTunes store, the two recommended by CellCharge are CCTerminal and ProcessAway, both very user friendly and both very affordable. However, ProcessAway offers you the ability to add a tip. Studies clearly show that customers spend more money when paying with a credit card than they do with cash or checks, especially when it comes to tipping and impulse buys. Why limit your small businesses success to the amount of cash in your customer’s wallet?

CellCharge also prides themselves with not having those hidden fees that are so often found with other companies. Rates won’t rise unless Visa and MasterCard increases interchange. Also, let’s say your iPhone’s battery dies, what then? Well with any of the other companies you’d be charged an additional $0.75 for each time a transaction needs to be called in. Not so with CellCharge. You still have access to their toll-free number to run transactions. Another great example is let’s say it’s a large trade show and you have 3 or 4 people working your booth. With CellCharge the person with the iPhone can run transactions through their iPhone app, but if it gets busy the others can use their phones to call the toll-free number and all 3 or 4 of them could be running transactions at the same time, for the same cost! Can’t do that through the other companies.

To turn your iPhone into a credit card processor, sign up today at http://www.cellcharge.com. With the ability to have instant approvals, and no expensive swipe machines, you can be accepting credit cards within days. Also, be sure to join our partnership program. It is free to sign up and pays an incredible $20.00 for each new merchant that signs up through your website or network. With so many new and mobile businesses out there that could benefit from a unique product like CellCharge, why not make a few dollars for helping us spread the word.

About CellCharge: CellCharge specializes in setting up merchant accounts to accept credit cards via phone. Perfect for small businesses & others who want the convenience of offering their clients credit card processing anywhere, anytime. http://www.cellcharge.com

Authentic Pre-Owned Handbags - Dress Like a Celeb for Less

2009-05-20T09:31:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite client's newsrelease we just did (well, they are all my favorite!). Check out her site. Gorgeous, gorgeous handbags at prices even I can afford. Comment away!

Authentic Pre-Owned Handbags - Dress Like a Celeb for Less

Women today go to great lengths to carry a designer handbag inspired by their favorite celebrity. To be spotted with the same bag as their trendsetting favorites makes them feel unique and special. Plus, most women realize that the stars have it right when purchasing good designer handbags. They know that the quality of the bags and overall design will not only last longer, but will be a good investment. However, many women don’t feel they can afford an original designer handbag, thus, don’t even try to get one.

We are here to change that and to tell you that you absolutely can dress like the stars, on a budget you can afford. You just need to know how to do it.

Here’s our tips for dressing like a star for less:

1. Buy a pre-owned bag. Here you get to own something expensive and original, but at a fraction of the price you would have to pay if it were new. Pre-owned means it’s an original design, however, it’s been owned before. And as most who purchase designer bags take excellent care of their handbags, this can be just like owning the original. The key to look for is that it’s an authentic pre-owned bag.

2. What does authentic mean? It means that the handbag you have purchased has been authenticated to be original. A professional has reviewed the handbag and made sure that it’s what it says it is.

3. You want pre-owned not fake. There is a huge difference. Watch for words such as replica, knockoff, etc. The price considerations will often alert you too. You will not be able to get an authentic Chanel handbag for $49.00. Not going to happen. Plus, even if it looks good, a fake will have obvious design flaws that shout out fake. Besides that, there’s nothing as good as carrying the real deal.

4. To get the celebrity bags you crave for less, do your research. Look through magazines & read up on the handbag you wish to purchase. Even when purchasing pre-owned, you want a handbag that will carry you through a few seasons and also has features that are right for you. Consider your personality and what you will be using the bags for. For an everyday bag, you will often want something that is larger with more features, such as cell phone holders, etc. A night out on the town handbag can be smaller, but still needs to have the requirements you need.

5. Notice what the stars are wearing with their handbags and consider that when making your purchases. For example, you’ll often notice stars carrying different Chanel handbags while wearing fashionable jeans. Yet, they are able to wear that same handbag for special occasions with a change in outfits. This helps you to find a versatile bag that can be used for many different occasions. Also, by knowing the type of occasions you routinely attend, and your general casual style, you can perfectly match the bag to you.

6. To get the best pre-owned bags, make sure to shop at reputable resellers. There the purses have been inspected, authenticated, and carry a guarantee that you will be satisfied. Learn to look over the site & check the photos of the bag you desire. Here you will be able to spot obvious signs that the bag is not authentic.

So the next time you see the bag of your dreams on one of the hottest celebrities, know that you too can dress like the rich and famous toting that authentic designer bag.

For more information on finding an authentic designer handbag of your dreams stop by Chanel & More at the shops of Malleries or contact Diane Duckett at chanel_more@yahoo.com for personalized attention and to find the perfect fashions just right for you.

Chanel fashions are known for their style and timeless elegance. Stop by Chanel & More today at http://luxury.malleries.com/chanel-more-s-209.html and add to your collection of authentic designer handbags today. Diane Duckett is also available at chanelmore@yahoo.com to personally assist you. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

Speaking at the Summer Speaker Series

2009-05-19T12:00:00.002-05:00

I’m delighted to be speaking at the Summer Speaker Series - May 22, 1:00 p.m. Amazing speakers
http://www.marketerschoice.com/app/?Clk=3019315

New PR — Everything You Need for Great PR Today with Diana Ennen — 1:00 PM Eastern
Getting publicity today is different than it was even a year ago. To succeed you need to learn all you can on what works, and what doesn’t. We’ll provide a step-by-step approach to social networking, creating and submitting press releases online and off, and how to brand your business in all you do.

If you’re looking to get more exposure for your business, then you need to join me. Also, if you feel like you’re always two steps behind with social networking, we’ll give you some of the tips to keep you on top of things. It’s easy once you know how and that’s exactly what you’ll learn. Finally a few of my PR Secrets that have gotten our business featured in some of the major magazines and newspapers and CBS4 news.

EXCLUSIVE interview with Deborah Perez & Family healing with Dr. Jack Singer

2009-05-19T09:31:00.001-05:00

Fellow HBWM Member has a very exciting interview lined up this week. Good luck Rebbekah

EXCLUSIVE interview with Deborah Perez & Family healing with Dr. Jack Singer

Rebbekah Lynn White
http://www.healyourselftalk.com

Toledo, Ohio, (May 15. 2009) Dream Vision 7 Radio Network on our flag ship stations WBNW 1120 am Boston and WPLM 1390 Plymouth Massachusetts enthralls listeners this week when Deborah Perez, daughter of the suspected Zodiac Serial Killer and Dr. Jack Singer Deborah Perez’s Psychologist, joins Rebbekah White on Heal Yourself Talk Radio on air May 22 at 1 p.m. Every family has secrets, but Deborah’s journey with Dr. Jack Singer from realization to acceptance is phenomenal! Listeners can interact with questions by blogging at www.healyourselftalk.com.

Deborah Perez was watching “America’s Most Wanted” in 2007 when she saw a picture of a man who looked just like her adoptive father… but on TV he was referred to as: The Zodiac Killer. After many sessions with Dr. Jack Singer and her faith in God, Deborah has decided to share her story so that she may help to heal families of both victims and relatives of serial killers.
Deborah is a mother of 5 and a real estate agent. Despite being abandoned by her birth father, Deborah went on to have what she thought was a “normal middle-American life”… until memories and clues started to haunt her. From there she “dug deep within” and began to heal. Rebbekah states: “This takes the meaning of heal yourself to a whole new level! Deborah truly has an amazing journey of healing to share… and for all the right reasons: herself, her family, others, and her conviction of right and wrong based on her faith in God.”

Helping people to heal is one of the sole premises of the Heal Yourself Talk Radio Show with the show offering advice on how to nurture and heal your mind, body and soul. Prior guests have included James Twyman, Patch Adams, and Tippi Hedren. Upcoming interviews include Dr. Judith Orloff, Dr. Eric Pearl and many more celebritites are on the horizon in the near future.
The interview will air LIVE on WBNW 1120 AM out of Boston for those who are not in the Boston area you can still listen LIVE by going to either Dreamvisions 7 Radio Network or WBNW 1120 AM and clicking on the LISTEN LIVE link. The recording will be placed up on Heal Yourself Talk Radio after the interview’s completion.

About Heal Yourself Talk Radio- Heal Yourself Talk Radio first aired on August 10, 2006. Owner and host Rebbekah White started Heal Yourself Talk Radio from her passion to help others realize they have the power to heal their mind, body and spirit. Rebbekah believes that anyone can desire it, believe it, accept it and receive it if they have the right tools in their life.

Virtual Assistant Articles & Press Releases

2009-05-15T10:02:00.002-05:00

Happy International Virtual Assistant Day Fellow Virtual Assistants

I'm posting any virtual assistant articles & PR today here. If you have one email me - diana@virtualwordpublishing.com

Prime Admin Solutions, a virtual assistant service, finds cure for ‘Corporate Anorexia’

Oakville, Ontario (CaymanMama.com) — During these tight economic times, companies of all sizes, management teams and salespeople are constantly trying to find a way to cut costs while maintaining productivity and profitability. Often times, cutting back involves scaling down overhead and eliminating staff in favor cutting other “revenue generating” costs.

Unfortunately, most of the positions that are left in the wake of a corporate scale down are administrative assistants and the stress of that workload is felt by remaining employees who soon realize how much they rely on administrative support.

When this happens, high paid professionals end up doing their own administrative work or the remaining administrative assistants are left reprioritize and take on an increased workload. The domino effect can be extremely disruptive and can result in negative consequences like employees calling in “sick” due to stress or leaving their position altogether. This ultimately hurts the bottom line for many companies.

The fact is, companies develop “corporate anorexia”, and it is a slow but certain killer.
Julia Wooster of Prime Admin Solutions, a virtual assistant service, says there is a better option.
Her service helps companies by blending convenience and efficiency; Prime Admin Solutions carries out the administrative duties at a fraction of the cost of a salaried employee, freeing up the full time staff’s schedules.

Prime Admin Solutions Professionals are proficient in:
Formatting Presentations
Completing Reports
Updating Contact Management Systems
Transcriptions

As an added plus, off-site virtual assistant services save money because they decrease the need for overhead, including workstations and equipment.

Virtual assistant clients pay only for what they need, resulting in money savings and overall increased productivity. The result is a win/win situation both for Prime Admin Solutions clients and their clients.

About Prime Admin Solutions:
Prime Admin Solutions, founded in 2007 by Julia Wooster, is a virtual assistant service located in Oakville, Ontario. Technology allows her to deliver services to clients in any location via toll-free fax, telephone, Skype, email and online collaboration systems. Her clients range in size from one-person consultancies to larger businesses. Visit www.primeadminsolutions.com for more information.

Contact Information:
Email: jw@primeadminsolutions.com
Telephone:905-618-0308 or 1-877-701-3332

Mothers Day Special Radio Show

2009-05-08T09:14:00.001-05:00

Mother's Day Special: Author Melody Carlson to appear on The CWAHM Network, Friday May 8th

Omaha Nebraska, (May 2009) - Listeners to The CWAHM Network Talk Radio Show are in for a wonderful Mother's Day treat this Friday as renown Christian author Melody Carlson joins them for a special Live broadcast. Carlson will share about her new non-fiction project, Dear Mom. In her new book, Carlson lets moms in on "everything their teenage daughters want them to know but will never tell them." Listeners will have the chance to win one of 5 copies that will be given away.

A little about the book: Raising a teen daughter can be like trying to chart a course underwater. You can drown in an ocean of one-word answers, defensive conversations, and unpredictable outbursts..and never get anywhere. This book helps you cut through murky, deep, uncharted and seemingly unsafe waters so you can hear what your daughter is really trying to tell you.
The CWAHM Network Radio show is produced by Jill Hart, founder of CWAHM.com, a website devoted to Christian work-at-home moms. CWAHM has 15,000+ unique visitors monthly and offers weekly topics on work-at-home issues. The show is co-hosted by Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing. VirtualWordPublishing.com specializing in publicity and marketing as well as virtual assistant coaching. The weekly show was created for all parents who have the desire to work from home. Hart states, "Helping moms find better ways to connect with their kids and do business better is our primary goal."

Every Tuesday at 11am EST, the live show features Christian entrepreneurs, authors and other inspirational guests. Past guests include Women of Faith's Thelma Wells, self-publishing expert Dan Poynter, organizational expert Marcia Ramsland and author Allison Bottke.

Listeners can tune in for the LIVE special at 11:30 EST, Friday May 8th or listen to the archive anytime at http://blogtalkradio.com/cwahm . Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Hart at jill@cwahm.com.

Social Networking Changed Everything – The New Marketing & PR Model

2009-05-02T08:25:00.003-05:00

Here's my new article - Feel free to reprint as long as bio remains. Comments welcome! Thanks!

Social Networking Changed Everything – The New Marketing & PR Model

It’s pretty obvious that the marketing of today has changed. You have newspapers going virtual/web only, Twitter and Facebook replacing postcards and phone calls, and potential clients now being the main target of your press releases as opposed to editors. It’s all changing and to do PR today, you need to change with it. The good news is that it’s never been easier. The bad news, you need to learn a new way to do things. Fortunately, there are tips that can make it easier and I’m here to show you a few.

First, no one can deny the power of social networking. And those that do are just plain wrong. I’ve been in business since 1985 and I liken this to way back when emails became a way of life. Many still contended they wanted to do it the old fashioned way and nothing would beat a letter. (I know it’s hard to even imagine this today.) It wasn’t long until they realized their error, but by then their competition was way ahead of them. Don’t make the same mistake now. You absolutely need to get with it and get on board. I can practically guarantee you within weeks you’ll be hooked and wondering why you ever hesitated. It’s so easy, and the potential so great, you need to start today.

Let’s break it down. Twitter first. Forget all the “I don’t care what they ate for lunch excuses,” that’s where your competition and peers are and you do need to be there too. Sure you do have a few tweeters who will update you on the latest hot dog they ate, but that’s rare. What you do have is more and more businesses networking and connecting with each other in ways never thought possible. It’s also more than just networking back and forth, you can have chats, host events, get more publicity for your articles and press releases & even announce your seminars and radio shows. And that’s not even the half of it. There are entire books written on this, so my first recommendation is to get them. Why struggle and find your way around when you can easily read the tips from those who know exactly what you need to succeed.

Also, while you are getting your feet wet, don’t jump in and start posting and selling and ranting and raving. Take it slow. Sign up, take a sit, remain quiet for a short time and read what others are posting. Follow the leaders in your industry and take advantage of their knowledge. It can almost feel like walking around with them all day and looking over their shoulders for their secrets. What’s cool is they give their tips freely, why wouldn’t you want to take advantage of that? As an example, if someone were looking for information on starting a virtual assistant business or getting publicity for their business, they could follow me at Twitter.com/dianaennen
Now the key many forget is that not only do you need to follow them, you need to listen earnestly to what they are saying. Go to the sites they recommend. Actually do the things they suggest. And most importantly, if you have the opportunity to contribute and honestly have something of importance to say, do! Even if they aren’t following you, once you list their twitter name @name, it will go to them. Best yet, you might get a retreat or even better a RT and follow back. As many say, those are the ultimate compliments.

Now it’s important to learn the social media lingo – Hashtags, Retweets, Fans, Follow Friday, this is just a few of the many names you need to know to do business better. It can be overwhelming. No, in fact it is overwhelming. However, if you keep it simple and take it a step at a time, you can do it. When you see a term you don’t know, look it up right then. Write down your interpretation and do the investigating to find out more about it. Here are just a few to help you on your journey.

What’s a retweet? That’s when you find somone’s information useful and you want to pass it onto your followers. So basically RT (retweet) is good content that you pass on. Many RT just to RT. Don’t be one of them. You know your followers and what they want and need, that’s what you should be RT’ing. We highly recommend signing up for TweetDeck for ease in doing this. A click of a button and you are there.

Next you need to know about Follow Friday. This is definitely one of my favorites. Think of Follow Friday as your day networking at a business get-together, only better. You get to stay in the comfort of your own home, and you get to immediately make the connections, not when you get home with a handful of business cards. Try and plan your week so you can participate. Remember this can be even more effective than a Chamber meeting or an expensive business seminar. So plan a lighter load on Friday whenever possible. You want people to mention you so mention them. Also, don’t just list 20 screens of twitter names that you want people to follow. Tell your followers why they should follow them. What do they offer that your followers would be interested in? Remember to put #followfriday in your posting. (By the way, see that # in followfriday. That’s what is called a hashtag. Cool huh!) And finally, you want people to retweet your followfriday postings, so keep your count to 120 instead of 140 so they can easily do this. In fact, do this for all tips or postings you wanted retweeted.

Finally, try and post on Friday mornings. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’ll often go down my postings to find those I want to list. I know I want to list them before hand so it’s not that I’m just going down my friends column, but often times I don’t have their information readily available. By posting on Friday you are giving it to them.

Finally, sign up for Trilalerts for your keywords. Start following those of interest. For example, I’m a virtual assistant, so I’ve signed up for virtual assistant updates. Now I can follow other virtual assistants easily. I do the same for Publicity, etc. Who do you want to connect with? That’s who you sign up for. Follow the media. Sign up for Facebook and Twitter for the newspapers and TV stations in your area. Look for business reporters who tweak and follow them. Learn their style and what they are looking for in their articles.

Also, follow some of the owners of the many article and press release directories who tweet. Some of the best are on there and giving away secrets to success left and right.
Facebook is pretty self explanatory. The key here is to spend some time to expand your network. Fortunately you get notices when someone responds to your posts, so try and go and follow-up as soon as you can. However, be careful that you don’t get sidetracked doing this too often. Build relationships. You can have thousands of friends and fans, but can you honestly connect to all of them. I know I sure can’t. Twitter also now allows your tweets to be sent to your Facebook page too. This is definitely a plus. Just make sure that you don’t do this to all of your postings, only the ones you feel would interest your friends on Facebook.

Article Submissions, Press Release Submissions - I also say you need to send out articles and press releases religiously. Many question how some succeed with this and others don’t. What’s the difference? The main thing is that they know what to do. They realize the difference that page ranking can make and don’t waste their time on sites that don’t get results. They sign up for Google Alerts under their keywords and then check out the sites that frequently get spidered. Then they send to those places and add those sites to their database. We do have a fabulous PR informational package that is free to anyone who emails us.

Marketing a business and social networking doesn’t have to be expensive if you just remember to network and use all the tools available to you. In fact, it can be fun as you get to meet new people and develop new ways to sell you and your business. Also, keep in mind if you don’t want to do it yourself, there are excellent qualified pros and virtual assistants available to assist. You don’t need to do it all. You just need to do it!
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Diana Ennen, specializes in publicity and marketing and is the President of Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com. Ready to jumpstart your PR campaign, then email her at Diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. Free PR Informational Package available. Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/dianaennen . Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

Wake Up and Partner With a Virtual Assistant

2009-04-05T09:07:00.002-05:00

Love your comments. Here's Kelly and my latest article. Why do you partner with a Virtual Assistant? Or what should businesses partner with you as a VA?

Wake Up and Partner With a Virtual Assistant

Is your to-do list keeping you up at night? Are you counting tasks rather than sheep to fall asleep? Does this resemble one of your peaceful night’s sleep?

1. Wade through emails - 2. Finalize the presentation for tomorrow’s meeting - 3. Get handouts ready for Wednesday’s meeting - 4. Make follow up calls zzz - 5. Schedule sales meeting zzzzzz - 6. Buy anniversary gift. - 7. Call my kids.zzzzzzzz

If it’s been a long time since you laid your head down on the pillow at night without a care in the world, I assure you – there is hope. You can have sanity and sleep, too.

When business worries and personal commitments get too much, you need to get help. Businesses today are faced with more and more challenges, more work, and also the need to keep up with the latest in social networking. If you’re spending more of your time on administrative tasks, marketing or staying on top of the latest on the web, it’s time to make a change. It’s time to partner with a virtual assistant (VA).

So what exactly is a Virtual Assistant. No, we don’t mean the Veteran’s Administration. And, we are not talking about the state of Virginia. We are talking about a virtual assistant, also known as a VA.

A virtual assistant, or VA, is an independent business professional who among many things, can help busy professionals handle administrative tasks and PR needs so they can focus on growing their business. Utilizing the latest technology your Virtual Assistant, can manage your social networks, write press releases and letters, tweak or create a presentation, make travel arrangements, be your own personal concierge, follow up on trade show leads, handle literature fulfillment, and even prepare your expense and call reports. The possibilities are endless once you start to see how many tasks you really can delegate.

"I don't know what I'd do without my Virtual Assistant. As a sales professional who works out of my home and travels extensively I don't have an on-site staff to keep things moving. I can rely on her to prepare marketing materials, organize my contacts, send out letters, and keep me on track with special projects. Delegating routine tasks and special projects to my Virtual Assistant allows me to spend more time growing the business," says Mark Loudenslager, VP of Sales, Cathay Pigments USA.

Partnering with a virtual assistant affords you the luxury of spending more time in front of your clients and less time behind your desk. Because virtual assistants are independent professionals they come equipped with their own office, their own equipment, the latest software programs, and the know how of running a successful business. They don't, however, come equipped with added expenses like payroll taxes, expensive benefit packages, paid vacations, holiday pay, or "free time" (that you pay for) for talking to co-workers. They're only there when you need them. Sometimes they're even there when you don't think you need them!

Virtual Assistants are also invaluable in helping to keep your business from being lost among its many competitors or overlooked because of lack of professionalism. Amidst the Internet and Social Networking craze, millions of email exchanges, and web and teleconferencing many professionals have literally ‘lost sight’ of their clients. In a day and age where we thrive on customer relationship management, personal sales calls have taken a back seat to technology. Further, today’s economy has forced more layoffs and corporate downsizing, which has impacted the availability of internal support systems and other such resources. The lack of internal resources has forced companies to rely on already overburdened staff to pick up the slack. Staff such as sales people who are now spending more time doing administrative tasks than they are generating sales. Where does the madness end?

It’s time to wake up and get back in the field! Get ahead of the competition and you won’t find yourself saying “Oops, I could have had a VA”

Kelly Poelker and Diana Ennen are successful virtual assistants and co-authors of numerous books including Virtual Assistant: the Series, Become a Highly Successful, Sought After Virtual Assistant and accompanying Virtual Assistant the Series Workbook. Stop by http://www.vatheseries.com for information on starting a virtual assistant business, or contact authors at authors@vatheseries.com if you need a virtual assistant. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/DianaEnnen and www.twitter.com/KellyPoelker

Top 10 Tips for Entrepreneurs to Start & Stay in Business

2009-04-05T08:16:00.002-05:00

Our newest article -- Please add more tips in our comments. We'd love to have them.

Top 10 Tips for Entrepreneurs to Start and Stay in Business

Starting a new business is such an exciting time in life. You’ve got an idea for a product or service that you know will be a success. All you’ve to do is make it happen. Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to entrepreneurship.

1. Find your passion in life - Do some soul searching and make sure that the business you are about to begin is your true passion in life. Why venture into doing something “just because” – make it something you love to do.

2 . Research, research, research - Take the time to do your homework. Find out all that you can about your new business, starting a business, and what kind of competition is out there. Don’t rush in to anything. Your business will only succeed if you are filling a need or a void in the marketplace.

3. Develop a solid business plan - Whether or not you need financing for your business, you still need a business plan. Many people dread this process because they make it out to be a very daunting task. Daunting or not, it’s crucial to your success. A business plan, at minimum, should be an outline of your goals and objectives for the business – attainable and reasonable goals – both strategic and financial. It can be one page, it can be twenty pages – just be sure to do it. Putting the plans that are constantly floating around in your head down on paper will make you accountable. Visit your plan often and make the necessary changes to ensure your success.

4. Develop a solid marketing plan - The marketing plan is an essential part of your business planning. You need to research your competition, analyze your strengths and weaknesses, and identify the risks, opportunities and threats posed by both internal and external factors. In doing so you can easily determine a niche market, the best way to enter the market, and how to best turn your marketing efforts into revenue.

5. Create your USP - Your USP is your Unique Selling Proposition. This is what makes you stand out from the competition. Why should people buy your product or service over the competition? Do you offer the best price? Do you have a superior product? Do you offer the best customer service? Your niche coupled with your USP and a good marketing plan can quickly position you at the forefront of the marketplace – you’ll blow the competition away.

6. Establish your external support system - Starting a business on your own can be overwhelming. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when and where you need it. Draw on the resources closest to you such as family and friends. The Internet offers a number of opportunities to establish a system of peers including social networks such as Twitter, Facebook, etc., teleseminars, message boards, and discussion groups. Check out the various online and offline networking groups and associations. Chances are you have a local SBA office, Small Business Development Center, or SCORE office in your area that can be a great source of resources for starting and growing your business.

7. Communicate with your internal support system - Without the support of those closest to you – kids, spouses, moms, dads, significant others – it can be difficult to dedicate the necessary time and resources to developing your business. By communicating your plans, goals and objectives with your internal support system you better your chances of gaining their support and getting them behind your new venture. Keep the communication lines open so that they understand what you’re going through and let them know how they can best be of help to you.

8. Give it time - Rome wasn’t built in a day, nor will your business turn a profit in a day. It takes time to build a successful business. If the phone doesn’t ring today, it will tomorrow. The key is to be ready for when it does ring. Have all the proper systems in place; be prepared to spend a little money to make some money. If one marketing technique isn’t working, try another one until you achieve the results you desire.

9. Take it serious - If you want others to take your business seriously you have to take it serious yourself. You have to give it your all and apply yourself at all times. A successful business can’t be something that you just play around with or consider it a hobby – even the IRS won’t take you seriously.

10. Reward yourself - Be sure to reward yourself for all your successes no matter how big or how small. Sooner or later all of your efforts will begin to pay off. Be proud of yourself and do a little something special just for you – you deserve it!

Kelly Poelker and Diana Ennen are successful virtual assistants and co-authors of numerous books including Virtual Assistant: the Series, Become a Highly Successful, Sought After Virtual Assistant and accompanying Virtual Assistant the Series Workbook, Stop by http://www.vatheseries.com for information on starting a VA business or contact authors at authors@vatheseries.com if you need a virtual assistant. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains.

Virtual Assistant The Series Textbook Review

2009-04-05T07:59:00.004-05:00

We just received the most awesome review for our book, Virtual Assistant the Series , where it was used as a textbook for a program for starting a virtual assistant business. Thanks Randi!

*****

Just received a course evaluation for the online virtual assistant class I teach during the spring and fall. There was lots of good feedback from students and I wanted to share the following specific feedback about the textbook:

What aspects of the course did you find most beneficial? Student response: The book was soooo awesome - very informative!

What assisted you most in learning and understanding this course material? Student response: The book.

What aspects of the course did you find most beneficial? Student response: The book and additional web sites Randi gave us.

The main textbook(s) required for this course was clear and helpful. Student response: Strongly Agree - Absolutely, I will continue to use this book, especially trying to set up my virtual assistant business
_________________________________
Randi Tucker Barr

Tax Season Is Here - Discover How to Save More & Make More Next Year

2009-03-23T11:23:00.002-05:00

Tax Season Is Here – Discover How to Save More & Make More Next Year

It’s tax time now and there’s never been a better opportunity to really look at your itemized deductions. Line by line they will reveal exactly where your hard-earned money was spent last year. After taxes are done and while the receipts are still handy and the deductions clear, take a moment to review your expenses and see where cost savings can be made. We believe you will be amazed at just how much you spend on various expenses. Yes, you have to continue to market, but can you cut back. You definitely need to still buy office supplies and pay those office expenses, but are there ways you can cut back and not feel the effects? With every penny counting these days, it’s time to look at saving money in every way possible.

One area to pay special attention to is your bank charges and merchant accounts fees. We all realize that to make money today its imperative that you offer every form of payment option to your customers, especially credit cards. People want and need the ability to pay for purchases via credit. However, often times the fees associated with those transactions add up substantially. By looking over last year’s fees, you can see how much you spent on your credit card processing plan. Take the time now to review how much you paid out in merchant fees. Are you surprised at the high amount? Do you think you can do better?

Cutting credit card transactions fees is possible and definitely recommended. Look for companies that don’t have hidden fees or minimum monthly requirements. Those extra fees can add on substantially to your monthly charges. Find a company that offers bundled services at a set price. This ensures that there are not numerous itemized expenses that add up at month’s end. Finally, find a company that is reputable and works with small businesses to help them succeed.

Now that you’ve saved money, it’s also important to look at how you can make extra money too. At tax time more than ever, it’s crystal clear just how much you made last year. Often times it can be a sad awakening. Small businesses took a hard hit and it’s evident that a majority did lose money. However, there are ways to take back the power this year and turn things around. There are several ways to do this. One way, as we’ve already mentioned, is to offer clients more payment options. It’s absolutely essential to provide your clients the ability to pay with their credit cards. We all know that in today’s economy, cash flow isn’t as prevalent as in years past and more and more people are reaching for plastic when it comes time to pay. In fact, you can actually lose money when you don’t. For example, let’s say a massage therapist charges $80.00 an hour and does not accept credit cards. Let’s say she misses out on three customers a year because she only took cash.

Now let’s break that down into dollar amounts. $80.00/hr. for three clients that she sees every other month or 6 times a year. 6 x 3 = 18 x $80.00 = $1440 That’s almost $1500 lost and that’s only three clients. Who knows how many clients she actually lost. It could have been a lot more.

Now, how much would the credit card have cost? Let’s go with one program that we are familiar with.

9.99/month x 12 = 119.88
$119.88 + $55.44 (transaction fees) = $175.32 total cost of processing for the year
She lost $1440.00 and it only would have cost her $175.32.
So by not accepting credit cards she actually lost out on $1264.68 of valuable cash flow for her small business.

Another method to make extra income is to make passive income. Passive income adds to a businesses’ bottom line and when effectively used, can make a substantial amount of money for a business. This is especially true if you have a large member base, run or work at an association, or have a large newsletter subscriber base. You already have those interested and invested in you, so the more opportunities you bring to them, the better value you offer. Plus, normally with passive income programs, you are offering a valuable service that your members need. Look for programs that fit in with your target audience and would meet the needs of your members. Don’t just look for programs that would make you money. Look for programs that offer a real benefit. There are partner programs available for practically every business, even those in the credit card processing business. We’d be happy to provide additional information.

You can survive and thrive in these times. You just need to be creative and watch for ways that you can not only make extra money, but save money as well. Make 2009 your best year ever and stop losing money. Make More, Save More. That’s how it should be done.

Cell Charge Inc., www.cellcharge.com, lets you accept credit cards and have the funds deposited in your bank account automatically. No need for a “swipe” terminal or any computer software to use Cell Charge. An existing telephone or cell phone is all you need to make transactions with us. Cell Charge was recently featured on Eye on America and in USAToday. Contact publicist diana@virtualwordpublishing.com for media interviews and additional information.
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Actress Alicia Cole Appears on The Doctors TV Show Today

2009-03-05T16:48:00.003-06:00

One of my clients and friends appeared on the TV Show Today the Doctors. Alicia Cole, was a working actress until she went to the hospital for a routine surgery. The result was shown on the show today. Flesh Eating Bacteria. She provided tips on how you can protect yourself in the hospital. Tips such as:

1) Make sure nurses and all in contact with you wash their hands always.
2) Watch visitors and make sure they don't sit on your bed with their coats, etc. Have them wash hands too.
3) Watch for signs that something could go wrong. Alicia noticed a small black dot at first.

For media interviews, contact me, diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. Here's her release with additional information.

Actress Continues Fight Against Hospital Errors & Rise in MRSA Cases

Sherman Oaks, California Actress Alicia Cole, a Screen Actors Guild member for 14 years, is known for the many portraits of doctors and nurses, including roles on General Hospital, Young and the Restless, and more. But a year ago, Cole switched from playing a doctor to becoming a real-life patient after contracting Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF), ‘Man-eating Flesh Disease’. This lead to six additional surgeries and a struggle to survive. This also lead Cole to fight to bring awareness to the rise in preventable hospital acquired infections and particularly MRSA Cases.

It is estimated that staph infections alone kill approximately 100,000 Americans in hospitals annually. Dennis Quaid’s family tragedy is a prime example of the increase in preventable hospital errors today.

Cole’s plight began on Aug. 15, 2006 upon entering the same top-rated San Fernando Valley hospital that treated fan favorite John Ritter. Following a minor procedure, a quarter-sized pustule developed that would lead to the traumatizing diagnosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis. To view the ravaging effects of this disease go to Cole’s site at http://www.aliciacole.com.

Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF) is a bacterial infection that attacks the soft tissue and fascia. In order to contact the bacteria, it needs to be introduced into the body. Thereby, NF often occurs through complications from surgery or infections from hospitals.

“I vowed, if I am able to survive this, I will dedicate myself to insuring that no other family has to endure the trauma and burdens inflicted by a preventable hospital infection.” Cole now advocates nationally for safer healthcare and public reporting of hospital infection and death rates. Cole was the first member of the public to address Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Committee on Hospital Associated Infections created by Senate Bill 739.

Cole recently founded the Alliance for Safety Awareness for Patients (ASAP) to educate and protect patients. ASAP works with established advocacy groups, healthcare providers and legislators to strive to reduce the spread of preventable hospital-acquired infections by empowering the public to make informed decisions about healthcare issues.

Stop the disease. Make a Difference. Go to www.aliciacole.com for more details. Alicia Cole is available for media interviews by contacting publicist Diana Ennen at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com.

Hannah Montana's Cody Linley to Appear on CWAHM Network

2009-03-01T17:14:00.002-06:00

Hannah Montana's Cody Linley to appear on The CWAHM Network March 2nd

Listeners to The CWAHM Network Talk Radio Show are in for a real treat this Monday as actor Cody Linley joins them for a special Live broadcast. Linley will share about the new project he is a part of, the Word of Promise-Next Generation CD. Linley plays the role of Jesus in this audio Bible geared for teens and tweens. In addition to Linley, the star-studded cast includes “American Idol” winner Jordin Sparks, "Bridge to Terabithia's" AnnaSophia Robb, and Disney favorites Corbin Bleu, Alyson Stoner and Emily Osment.

Cody Linley has been in many hit feature films, and appeared often on popular TV shows. Cody shot his first feature film as "Spit" in "My Dog Skip" at eight years old and followed up with Miss Congeniality and Where the Heart Is. He has worked with an impressive group of world-class actors, including Luke Wilson (both in Hoot and My Dog Skip), Steve Martin and Hillary Duff (Cheaper by the Dozen), Kevin Bacon and Frankie Muniz (My Dog Skip), Ashley Judd and Natalie Portman (Where the Heart Is), Sandra Bullock and Benjamin Bratt (Miss Congeniality) and Jonathan Lipnicki and Eric Stoltz (When Zachary Beaver Came to Town). Cody also takes occasional guest starring roles for Disney and appeared in several episodes of "Hannah Montana" as the TV star "Jake Ryan" and has done a guest star appearance on "That's So Raven" as well.

The CWAHM Networking Radio show is produced by Jill Hart, founder of CWAHM.com, a website devoted to Christian work-at-home moms. It is co-hosted by Diana Ennen, President of Virtual Word Publishing, VirtualWordPublishing.com specializing in publicity and marketing. The weekly show was created for all parents who have the desire to work from home. Hart states, "Having Cody Linley on the show is a great way to get moms and kids listening together and interacting. I think it's great to give kids a look at what Christian teens in Hollywood are up to, and how they are standing up for their faith."

Every Tuesday at 11am EST, the live show features Christian entrepreneurs, authors and other inspirational guests. Past guests include Women of Faith's Thelma Wells, self-publishing expert Dan Poynter, organizational expert Marica Ramsland and renown author Allison Bottke. Listeners can tune in LIVE at 11:15 EST, Monday March 2nd or listen to the archive anytime at http://blogtalkradio.com/cwahm

Virtual Assistant Get Together - South Florida

2009-02-20T19:04:00.002-06:00

CALLING ALL FLORIDA VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS

This Saturday, we are having an informal GET Together of Virtual Assistants. We will meet at 2:00 p.m. at TGI Friday's in Coral Springs by the Coral Square Mall. From 2:00 to 4:00 we will share coffee, french fries & lots of ideas.

Email me for details. diana@virtualwordpublishing.com

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Buying Authentic Bags Online

2009-02-19T12:07:00.002-06:00

Buying Authentic Bags Online Doesn’t Need to Be Risky Business If You Do Your Homework

High fashion makes you look and feel like a million bucks. But often the price tag is too hefty for today’s economy. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and experience, you don’t have to spend big to look great. Even when purchasing online, you can take steps to purchase designer fashions that are authentic and top of the line. Just do your homework and research as much as possible before you make your purchase. Develop relationships with shops that carry your favorite bags and a personal connection with the shop owner. Stop back often and get on their email lists so you keep in touch. Once they know your style, they are more likely to keep you in mind when they add to their collections or offer discounts.

By knowing the signs to look for in purchasing vintage bags online, you also feel more confident that your purchases are authentic. For example, with Chanel, their classic look is hard to miss with their signature interlocking letter Cs, their exquisite stitchery and hardware, and the quality look and feel of the bags.

Here are some additional tips to help you secure the perfect designer bag:

Do as much research on the handbag you want to purchase as you can. Personally visit high-end stores so you can see the handbag and become familiar with its features. That enables you to easily catch flaws that shout knockoff to an informed buyer.
Look for design consistency. For example, all Chanel bags have signature styles that goes far beyond their trademark C’s. The font used is very specific and is rarely changed on Chanel Bags. Look closely at the fonts on bags you see in the stores and check to see if they match.
The bag and stamp will always match the hardware. When a bag has gold hardware the Chanel stamp and bag will always be gold. If it’s silver, they will be silver, and so forth.
You can also spot obvious design flaws. Check the logo and pay attention to spelling mistakes. Check that the lining and stitching match and also look for uneven stitching. Chanel originals are always very neatly stitched.
Examine the bag’s zippers. New bags come with Lampo zippers. One side should be engraved "Chanel" and the other should have the Chanel logo. The pull of the zipper should match the rest of the bag and its hardware.
Chanel bags come with authenticy cards, serial numbers, and dust bags. You can even check for authenticy with these by knowing what to look for on your bag. For example, the price tags are on white cards. If it is new with a tag, the price tag should be white with Chanel written in black. Fake bags have black price tags.
The authenticity card is black with a gold rim and white writing. The gold on the card should have NO rainbow hue to it.
Also, check to make sure the serial numbers match the cards and bag. When shopping online, most shops will let you know whether the card is included. Don’t dismiss a bag simply because it doesn’t have the card included. Not all bags are sold in the resale market with the card, as owners may have misplaced them. However, this in no way devalues a bag. The same goes for sleeper bags. While it is nice to have them, you are really purchasing the bag. Often times you can get a reduced rate on these bags. Just make sure the other features signify an authentic bag.
In the description take notes of things such as bright shiny colors. Authentic bags will have soft leather or suede. Fakes tend to look and feel more like plastic.

When shopping online and adding to your collection, frequent stores that not only carry your favorite designer bags and shoes, but specialize in them as well. For example, Chanel is by far one of the most recognized handbags today. If you favor Chanel bags and shoes, then shop at stores that carry these fashions as their main products. By specializing in one or two fashions, the shop owners are more than likely to be experts in those fashion lines and will not only be able to offer the finest and latest styles, but carry a full line of accessories to match.

Here are a few more tips to make your online shopping more successful:
Look for websites that have clear photos of the designer bags and shoes. Check for serial numbers, date codes, etc.
Pay special attention to how the products are listed. You can get a true feel for a shop owner when you see honesty in their listings.
Quality sites allow you to contact the owner easily. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get more information on the fashions you want. Shop owners are normally very receptive to this as they too want you to find the perfect bag that meets your individual taste.
Make sure the website you purchase from has a return policy and check exactly what that return policy includes. Pay with Paypal or a credit card for added protection.
Get active online and join purse forums and other sites that provide fashion information.

Fortunately, today you can get great deals on the Internet. Whether it is last season’s styles for a few hundred less or a pre-owned bag in pristine condition, for sometimes a few thousand off, online shopping saves time and money.

It’s just critical to shop at quality shops known for their high standards. One such shop is Chanel & More located at the shops of Malleries. Stop by today to see what a difference quality makes.

**

Chanel and More, located at the shops of Malleries, has original and pre-owned Chanel fashions as well as other designer fashions with the emphasis on Chanel. All designer handbags and fashions are authenticated prior to being listed for sale on their site http://luxury.malleries.com/chanel-more-s-209.html Contact Diane Duckett at chanel_more@yahoo.com for personalized attention and to find the perfect fashions just right for you.

Virtual Assistants Mentioned in Wall Street Journal

2009-02-11T18:35:00.002-06:00

Hi!

We are thrilled that our press release on surviving the unemployment crisis by becoming a virtual assistant to either supplement your income or start a business was featured in the Wall Street Journal. http://tinyurl.com/dxxyfn -- even mentions our book, VA the Series! Yeah us!!

Thanks!

Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Personalized article submissions

2009-02-11T12:54:00.003-06:00

We are adding a new feature to our business, exclusive personalized article submissions. I have found some of the best highest ranking sites on the web to submit to and have set up a system within my company to send these out We personally register your company for those sites that need it and submit the article for you.

We are having an introductory special to jumpstart our program.

80 Article Sites -- $149.00 (one article)

Second article free. You'll get two of your articles sent out to 80 top places for only $149.00. As I mentioned this is our introductory rate and will increase soon to our regular rates.

We also have press release specials as well. Send your press releases out to our database of online submissions for only $49.95, plus 1/2 off second release. I can send you our listing of press release places, just email me.

If you're interested, please email me at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com.

Thanks!

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

10 Reasons to Partner with a Virtual Assistant

2009-02-04T13:00:00.001-06:00

10 Reasons to Partner with a Virtual Assistant

Virtual Assistants are revolutionizing the way business is done today. They partner with you to make sure not only that you succeed, but that you operate your business in a more calm and creative way. Virtual assistants offer everything from publicity and marketing assistance, to bookkeeping and administrative tasks. They pride themselves in partnering with their clients to not only get the job done, but get the job done better than it has been done in the past.

Following are just a few of the reasons you should partner with a Virtual Assistant:

They often know what you need even before you do.

They are experienced and skilled in the areas you need the most assistance with.

They continue to learn and be the best they can be.

They will add to your bottom line because they know how.

They take over tasks you dread and therefore leave you doing what you do best, make money.

They know the latest technology, in fact, they invented most of it. (Okay, that might be an exaggeration, but we do know our technology.)

They work with you to find ways to improve your business. They see things you are too close to. They make a difference.

They are fun, yet professional.

They help you survive and thrive in this gloomy economy.

Fortunately the timing has never been better for partnering with a virtual assistant. The economy is actually fueling the Virtual Assistant Industry. Why? Mainly because businesses have had to downsize, yet still have work that needs done. Businesses appreciate the professionalism and quality of the work that Virtual Assistants do. And there’s also the fact that Virtual Assistants have been in the news now more than ever. When you consider they’ve been written about in Wall Street Journal, Readers Digest, Entrepreneur, Woman’s Day, and talked about on major news channels such as CBS News, the Today Show, etc., you can understand why more and more businesses are seeking the help of a qualified VA.

So when do you know it’s the right time for your business to hire a virtual assistant? Easy. When you’re ready to take control back of your business and start seeing it become profitable again. When you’re ready to enjoy life again and relinquish some of the duties that are taking up so much of your time. When you finally have had enough and realize you can’t do it alone.

Take charge today and partner with a virtual assistant and see what a difference they can make for your business. From marketing and sending out press releases to handling all your administrative needs, the right virtual assistant is there and ready to see you succeed.

Diana Ennen and Kelly Poelker are the co-authors of one of the leading books in the VA Industry, Virtual Assistant the Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA (www.-va-theseries.com). Ennen is also the President of Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com offering publicity and marketing assistance and Poelker the Founder of the Academy of Virtual Professionals. http://www.academyvp.com. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains intact.

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Chanel handbags and designer shoes for Valentines Day

2009-02-03T12:53:00.003-06:00

Want some ideas for Valentines ... Maybe give a hint to hubby .. check out our new client's site. You'll fall in love with some of the most awesome designer handbags and shoes. Go ahead .. check it out!

Chanel & More Opens Shop at Malleries – Right in Time for Valentines Day

Sacramento, CA (February, 2009) What do most woman want this Valentines Day? Easy. Most women crave a luxurious designer handbag by Chanel or perhaps an equally exquisite pair of Chanel shoes. Some might prefer a Louie Vuitton fashion purse or accessories. But in these economically challenging times, is it possible to still give that perfect Valentine gift of Chanel? It is if you shop at Chanel & More, a new designer retailer located at the luxury malls at Malleries, http://tinyurl.com/bwhweq.

Chanel & More features some of the best in Chanel Fashions at truly affordable prices. How do they do it? Diane Duckett, the owner and main purchaser for the shop, searches extensively to find the best Chanel pieces and with her smart buying antics, is able to provide them to her customers at exceptionally low prices.

Duckett states, “I am very proud to be able to offer discounted Chanel handbags, designer shoes, and accessories that are all authenticated prior to listing in my store. I have been a Chanel collector for 22 years, having purchased my first designer bag at 18. I know what to look for and believe my experience is what sets us apart from other shops. Chanel is the ultimate in luxury and I believe that all women should be able to experience the joy that owning a Chanel product brings.” Chanel & More chose Malleries to place their shop because of their commitment to customers and their standard of excellence. Setting up shop in such a fine luxury mall provides repeat shoppers who come back often to get the latest in fashions. Plus, they strive to make sure that all products are authentic, something that Duckett also takes very seriously.

Chanel fashions are known for their style and timeless elegance. Stop by Chanel & More today at
http://tinyurl.com/bwhweq and get your Valentine the Gift of Chanel. Whether starting your collection or adding to an already existing one, you’ll find all you need and so much more.
Give the gift of Chanel this Valentines Day. New designer retailer, Chanel & More, opens shop at Malleries with luxury handbags and accessories at affordable prices.

Free Gift to you From Sunny Florida

2009-01-15T07:38:00.004-06:00

It's cold out there! I mean really cool. Even here in S. Florida we are feeling the chill.

To warm you up -- I'm giving away 1/2 hour PR and Virtual Assistant Coaching calls with me. I've been in business since 1985 and I'd love to share how you too can succeed in your own virtual assistant business or get more PR for your business.

The first 3 who write also get a free copy of The Bizymoms cookbook.

Email to diana@virtualwordpublishing.com Subject - Burr Promotion - Free Coaching

Thanks!

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Goals for the New Year

2009-01-08T14:10:00.003-06:00

Hi

Let's talk about how we can make our 2009 the best EVER! What are your goals? What are you going to do to make them a reality?

Let's work together to see if we can make this happen.

Thanks!

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Follow me on Twitter

2009-01-07T14:45:00.003-06:00

This year I'm determined to get more involved on Twitter and some of the other social networking sites. In fact, on Twitter, I'm starting a "Doing Business Better in 2009 Tips" -- which will be full of different tips to excel in your virtual assistant business or I'll provide PR tips, success tips, etc.

Join me in making 2009, the best year ever for business!

http://twitter.com/dianaennen

Thanks!

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Dr. Phil Show Mentions Becoming a Virtual Assistant

2009-01-02T16:53:00.004-06:00

How cool is that? Taking time off for the holidays and watching Dr. Phil and I see a segment on the economy and one of the guests mentions starting a virtual assistant business to help with finances. I was thrilled. Can you remember when no one even knew what a virtual assistant is? Not no more. Yeah for us!

Plus, I'm really excited because I know that it works. I know that you can become a virtual assistant and succeed. Why? because I know so many who are doing it. Businesses are faced with record layoffs. Work still needs done and that's why a virtual assistant is the perfect match. They can work on as needed basis and get er done. (Can you tell how much time I've taken off this week!)

What does it take to succeed? I think knowledge of the industry is key. You want to do as much research as you can to learn all the do's and don'ts. Plus, fortunately today so many pros are out there on blogs, social networks, etc., that you can get great advice. Read, research, and seek out the pros who are successful themselves.

Second, make sure you match your skills and experience to the right client. So many virtual assistants think you have to do it all and you don't. Find the niche that fits you.

I'd love to talk with anyone who is interested in becoming a virtual assistant. As many know, I'm an email away. diana@virtualwordpublishing.com

I've love to also hear from other virtual assistants. Do you see more demand for us? Tell us what industry you are seeing the growth.

Thanks Dr. Phil!

Diana Ennen, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Unemployment at an All Time High - Fight Back by Starting a Virtual Assistant Business

2008-12-08T15:11:00.001-06:00

Unemployment at an All-Time High-Fight Back by Starting A Virtual Assistant Business

Margate, FL (December 2008) In November alone, 533,000 jobs were lost and the unemployment rose to 6.7 percent nationwide with an estimated 10.1 million people throughout the country out of work. While here in Florida, the news is even worse as Florida hit a 15-year high unemployment rate of 7 percent in October, according to South Florida Sun-Sentinel. So what’s the answer for those people who are out looking for jobs and those companies which are cutting back, but still need work done. Simple-Virtual Assistants.

Virtual assistants are independent contractors who offer administrative support, publicity and marketing assistance, and more to companies large and small throughout the world. These tasks can include anything from typing, medical or legal transcription to website creation and marketing. And because virtual assistants work globally, they are not hindered by their local economical situation. This is a perfect business for those who have recently been laid off, or those who just need to supplement their income.

In fact, according to a recent South Florida-based CBS4 News segment entitled “Working from Home Can Rake in Big Bucks,” the Virtual Assistant business is “one of the fastest growing home-based businesses and getting even bigger.”

Diana Ennen, who was featured in the segment, stated she received a tremendous response from people out of work and looking to supplement their income. “It has been fabulous to be able to help those in my community get back on their feet,” says Ennen.

Ennen, along with Kelly Poelker, founder of the Academy for Virtual Professionals, co-authored Virtual Assistant-The Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought after VA, a staple in the VA Industry for those wishing to start a business or excel in their current business. Both agree that starting a Virtual Assistant business is “one of the best ways you can survive in this gloomy economy.”

Ennen and Poelker also agree that another reason why virtual assistants are excelling today is the fact that with so many businesses cutting back, the work still needs to be done. A virtual assistant is able to handle all those tasks from the convenience of their own office. The work gets done, often times even better because of the extensive qualifications and experience of the virtual assistant.

For more information on starting your own business stop by www.vatheseries.com or take a look at the Academy of Virtual Professionals’ website at http://www.academyvp.com. Times can be tough, but with the right virtual assistant, you can still survive and thrive.

When the Economy Gets Tough, Shoppers Get Going

2008-12-04T08:44:00.001-06:00

When the Economy Gets Tough, Shoppers Get Going….to the New Mompreneurs Marketplace

Scarsdale, New York—The predictions about this holiday retail season may be gloomy, but resourceful moms are banding together to buck the trend by selling their one-of-a kind gifts at the newly redesigned Mompreneurs Marketplace. This one-stop virtual mini-mall features an impressive array of mom-owned businesses, all offering unique products and services that will help spread the joy without ruining your budget.

Spearheaded by Ellen H. Parlapiano and Patricia Cobe, founders of the dynamic community at www.MompreneursOnline.com, the user-friendly e-commerce site provides a way for moms to cooperatively market their businesses while promoting the concept of work/family balance. And it offers consumers the opportunity to support mom-owned businesses, while shopping for unique and affordable gifts. Shoppers will find something special for everyone on their holiday list, from adorable baby and children’s gear to gourmet food treats, indulgent beauty gifts, artisanal jewelry and crafts, on-trend fashion accessories, inspirational books and CDs, and much, much more.

These are just a few of the treasures you’ll discover as you browse through the MompreneursÒ Marketplace.

• Give the gift of endless summer with colorful beach-inspired clothing and shell jewelry courtesy of Salty Chix. The items at this breezy boutique will warm your recipient all winter long.

• Personalized note cards and stationery bow pads from Good Thoughts Paper come in trendy colors with coordinated patterned ribbons—packaged and ready to go for all those teachers and co-workers on your list.

• Pamper a deserving friend or relative with Flower Peddler natural bath and beauty products. Fragrant oils, clays, salts and lotions derived from plants and herbs soothe and refresh.

•For that new mom celebrating baby’s first Christmas, check out Stickee-Buns—tiny onesies with a cute non-slip design on the seat to prevent an infant from slumping or sliding down in a car seat or swing. Parents will also love the duds at Modern Munchkin, Hippos Toes and Lilypad Baby.

•The gift of knowledge is always appreciated. Introduce young children to a second language with interactive DVDs, toys and games from The Bilingual Fun Company or Boca Beth.

•Tempt chocoholics with artisan chocolates from Red Thread Confections. The sweets are handcrafted in small batches using fair trade organic single origin cocoa beans.

The entrepreneurial women who make up the Marketplace not only provide a stress-free shopping experience, many offer special holiday services, such as discount coupons, complimentary gift wrap and free shipping. It all adds up to a friendly, fun-filled holiday shopping experience that won’t break the bank.

Mompreneurs is a trademark of Ellen Parlapiano and Patricia Cobe, founders of the Mompreneurs® Marketplace and co-authors of Mompreneurs: A Mother’s Practical Guide to Work-at-Home Success and Mompreneurs Online: Using the Internet to Build Work@Home Success; both published by Perigee. Visit the website and message boards at www.mompreneursonline.com.

Baby Clothing Company Receives Highest Safety Score

2008-11-02T09:48:00.001-06:00

Baby Clothing Company Receives Highest Safety Score –Keeping Holiday Shopping Safe

Long Island, NY (November 2008) - With the holidays rapidly approaching and more people using the convenience of online shopping, consumers want the reassurance that they are shopping at the most secure and trusted online merchants. They need to know that the purchases they make will not result in credit card fraud or identify theft. One company takes this issue very seriously and for the fifth year in a row has scored 100% for internet security and safety as rated by the Safe Shopping Network. That company is My Miracle Baby, Inc. http://www.mymiraclebaby.com.

Donna Bliss, President/CEO, states "Our 100% score for internet safety is critical as e-commerce grows on the web. It significantly increases customer confidence and that translates into increased sales. We have been tested and ranked as the safest baby clothing website, higher than the larger national chains. In fact, as a small company, we actually have more control over protecting our customer's information than the larger companies who store their information off site. We've never had a single incident where a customer was at risk.”

The Safe Shopping Network provides consumers with unbiased information, allowing the consumer to refine their search to find the best merchants on the Web. Cassi Hennessey, Safe Shopping Network, Inc. points out “High scores mean that the merchant provides a safe and secure environment for placing online orders.”

My Miracle Baby, Inc. currently ranks # 3 on Google for baby clothing and # 1 for newborn baby gifts with a very large selection of holiday and special occasion outfits, accessories, and personalized gifts for baby, toddler, and children. Stop by to see their spectacular holiday specials as well as unique selection of everyday baby and toddler apparel.

About My Miracle Baby.com, Inc. - In business since 2001, My Miracle Baby.com, Inc. began as a small home based business and is now one of the largest independent children’s clothing retailers on the Internet. My Miracle Baby specializes in discount children clothing and personalized baby gifts. http://www.mymiraclebaby.com
About Safe Shopping Network - Safe Shopping Network is a guide to the tested best shopping websites in the world. Its technologies have the ability to test many safety and reliability features of an online merchant.

The Great Online Networking Extravagenza

2008-10-31T11:13:00.006-05:00

The Great Online Networking Extravagaza http://cwahm.com/wordpress/holidaycontest/
has been a huge success! This event was sponsored by Jill Hart (cwahm.com) and Diana Ennen of (virtualwordpublishing.com). And there's still time to get involved. If you'd like to do a 5 minute podcast, email me at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. Also, we are still looking for contest donations.

We encourage you to listen to these dynamic guests. This week Samantha Ettus was featured in USA Weekend and Jill Boehler had an entire one page devoted to her products, Chilly Jilly in Woman's World. We have the best of the best.

Samantha Ettus - Click Here for Interview www.expertsmedia.comTopic: Experts' Guide to Doing Things Faster

Allison Babb - Click Here for Interview www.GreatSmallBusinessAdvice.comTopic: Marketing and building your small business.

Angie A. Swartz - Click Here for Interview www.SixFigureMomsClub.comTopic:Group of Moms who have left Corporate America to raise their kids.

Babs Bell Hajdusiewicz - Click Here for Interview www.ilikeme.comTopic:Children's books and writing.

Terence J. Noonan - Click Here for Interview http://starringyou.comTopic:How to get yourself and your business on TV.

Stacey Kannenberg - Click Here for Interview www.cedarvalleypublishing.comTopic:Running a publishing company, writing for children.

Joe Sturniolo - Click Here for Interview www.ROARawakenings.com Topic:Building your small business, ROAR strategies.

Michelle PrattLienhart - Click Here for Interview www.jbjustbe.com Topic: Starting a small business, creating a unique product.

Summer Bellessa - Click Here for Interviewelizamagazine.com Topic: Starting/running a magazine publishing business (Eliza is a Family Friendly Fashion Mag.

Vivian Eisenecher - Click Here for Interview www.recoveringme.com Topic: Recovering from alcoholism and finding joy in the Lord.

Lisa Gooder - Click Here for Interview www.associatedcontent.com Topic:Writing, publishing and getting paid on AC.

Stephanie White - Click Here for Interview www.BecomeBeauty.com Topic: Running a cosmetics company.

Krista Dunk - Click Here for Interview www.NWweddingplace.com, www.KBWomen.comTopic: Running a small business and finding other likeminded moms to connect with.

Dara Blaker - Click Here for Interview www.mightymiraclemist.comTopic: Starting a small business, creating a unique product.

Dena Dyer - Click Here for Interview www.denadyer.comTopic: Finding the time to write/work as a busy mom. Joseph Russo - Click Here for Interview www.AmericasBestAgent.com Topic: Selling a house in these scary times.

Jill Boehler - Click Here for Interview http://www.ChillyJilly.comTopic: Starting a small business, creating a unique product.

Debi Silber - Click Here for Interview http://www.lifestylefitnessinc.comTopic: Starting a small business, creating a unique service just for moms.

Bette Fetter - Click Here for Interview www.youngrembrandts.comTopic: Starting a small business from your kitchen table.

Larry Randolph - Click Here for Interview Topic: Founder of Rich Beginnings.

Doree Lewak - Click Here for Interview Topic: Being single, dealing with single friends.

The Great Online Networking Extravaganza

2008-10-25T21:41:00.003-05:00

The Great Online Networking Extravaganza Starts Soon

Omaha, Nebraska, (October, 2008) - This week on The CWAHM Network internet radio show, our special guest is Dan Poyntor, the legendary publishing giant. Poynter's books are what most self-publishers base their businesses on and his website continues to offer the latest and greatest tips for self-publishers and traditional publishers alike. This show also kicks off the Great Online Networking Extravaganza.What's the Great Online Radio & Networking Extravaganza? It's your opportunity to listen to over 25 of the best business experts and best selling authors on topics ranging from how to pitch to the major media and finally land that TV Interview to surviving the economy. Many of the guests are also offering free gifts for our newest contest.

This event will launch October 28th and run through Christmas. Each week contest winners will be drawn for great prizes such as books, cosmetics and other great items. There will also be downloadable goodies every day including free ebooks, reports, tips sheets, etc. Best yet, there is still time to get involved. Donations are still being accepted for the contest as well as requests for ebooks, tips, etc. What a great opportunity to get additional exposure for your business or book during this critical holiday season. Advertising opportunities are also available.

A collection of holiday recipes and coloring book pages will add to the holiday festivities. Winning recipes (chosen weekly), will get special prizes including free advertising on CWAHM and one hour of free press release submissions from Virtual Word Publishing. .The Great Online Networking Extravaganza is brought to you by Jill Hart, founder of Christian Work at Home Moms, (CWAHM.com) and Diana Ennen, author of Virtual Assistant the Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA and President of Virtual Word Publishing, Inc., http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com. Their weekly radio show has hosted some of the best authors and entrepreneurs including Mary Goulet of MomsTown.com, author Stan Toler and Internet Marketing Expert Scott Fox.Hart states, "We truly enjoy helping entrepreneurs build better businesses and our radio show has been a great way to share resources and expert advice. This contest is another great way to give back and spread awareness.”Tune in October 28th at 11am EST to listen to Dan Poyntor live at http://blogtalkradio.com/cwahm. Then check out the interviews and sign up for the contest for some great holiday fun and exposure at http://holiday.cwahm.com. For additional details, contact Diana Ennen at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com or Jill Hart at jill@cwahm.com.

MomsTown on Radio Show Today

2008-10-21T14:46:00.003-05:00

We had the pleasure of interviewing Mary from MomsTown.com. What a fabulous interview. It felt like talking with an old friend as I've seen MomsTown grow over the years. I could so recall being so proud to see them on Dr. Phil and then Montel and all the others. It sure is nice when you get to see someone you know on those shows.

What was especially nice was getting to talk to her about her new book, Live the Life You Crave - It's All About You! I love this book. It was guidelines and tips for all us moms and businesswoman. As I mentioned on the show today often times I would pick it up and I would be going through the same thing and feeling the same way (especially as my kids reached the teenage years.). It was great not to feel alone and also to hear some of their tips. It's available at Amazon if you haven't gotten it yet.

Also, we discussed the economy and how moms are surviving. She offered some great tips that I hope I can follow through on. For example, live in the day. Forget the past and don't fear for the future. Just live for today and you'll be so much more at ease.

She also shared all the new happenings at MomsTown. If you haven't been over there lately, GO!! You'll be so glad you did. www.momstown.com.

Thanks Mary for an awesome interview. http://blogtalkradio.com/cwahm

Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing.com

Children Learn More With One-On-One Tutoring

2008-10-16T13:08:00.001-05:00

Children Learn More With One-On-One Tutoring

After school tutoring is practically the norm today. Even in these economically challenging times, parents still put their children's educational needs first. They realize that the best gift they can give their child is a good education. That’s why so many choose private one-on-one tutoring.

Why one-on-one tutoring? As each child has a unique learning style, a tutor can embrace that style and teach in a way they fully understand, often unlocking previous learning challenges. The personalized touch enables children to feel confident and secure.

The challenge is often finding the right tutors to match your child’s needs and personality. Following are some tips and what to look for in a tutoring program:

Individualized Coaching – Matching Tutors with Students: Tutors can be so much more than just a weekly visit with your child. Matching the right tutor with the right student takes experience and dedication. Not only do you want to match your child with a tutor that can fill their educational needs, you also want to make sure that their personalities match as well.

Tutors can address special issues or challenges that a child might be experiencing. For example, tutors can stay in contact with the child’s teacher and find out first hand what is most needed.

Help with Homework and School Curriculum Worksheets: Children feel more relaxed about all school activities when they aren’t afraid of homework. Today’s students face a great deal more homework than in the past and with everyone’s busy lifestyle, homework often loses its priority. When hiring a tutor, find one that specializes in the area your child needs the most help.

Affordable Pricing: What do parents need the most of today? Affordable rates. The economy is such that even though parents might want a tutor, they might not be able to afford one. When looking for a tutoring company, keep this in mind. Ask yourself, what do they offer and can I afford it? Find a company that is within your budget so that the tutoring can be done on a consistent basis.

Parental Involvement: No one knows more about a child’s individual needs than their parents and when the parents provide that extra personal insight, it can help the tutor determine what might be hindering their educational goals. Find a tutoring company that acknowledges that unique partnership and embraces parental involvement.

Interactive Learning: Some tutoring companies have become interactive, whereby allowing students to log onto their website and stay involved. Some will also provide educational games and other educational challenges so that the children want to spend time there learning. Many even offer online tutoring. When looking for a good tutoring company, find one that offers these added bonuses.

Screened Tutors: It’s obvious today that safety comes first. Even though parents are normally required to be present during tutoring sessions, it’s important to know that the tutors are reliable, trustworthy, and professional. Make sure when hiring a tutoring company that you know that there have been background checks and qualifications done. Ask questions, lots of questions to make sure of the safety of your child. Most companies are happy to provide this information and well aware of its importance.

Most in-home tutoring companies make it their goal to make a difference in a child’s life. As Patricia Goodwin, Founder of Comfort Zone Tutoring, states, “Because of the overcrowding in schools and stress put on students throughout the day, we see an increase in children falling way behind in their studies with no hope to catch up. That’s where a tutor can come in and make a substantial difference. Take your time to secure one that is the perfect fit for your child. The whole family benefits when a child is able to excel at school and enjoy the journey.”

Give your child the gift of learning by using these tips to connect your child with a tutor that has their best interest in mind. Stop by Comfort Zone Tutoring at http://www.comfortzonetutoring.com for complete information on their tutoring programs.

Patricia Goodwyn, Founder of Comfort Zone Tutoring, http://www.ComfortZoneTutoring.com matches tutors to students in Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, specializing in K-12 and through college. Contact Patricia at info@comfortzonetutoring.com for additional information. Also stop by their site for their latest updates and educational games.
Summary

Saving money in your home-based business

2008-10-03T07:52:00.001-05:00

Here are some tips for saving money in starting and operating your home-based business

1. Any tips/advice for saving a services (e.g. Internet)? Are "unlimited" capabilities for things like long distance a good idea? How about "bundled" services (such as cable TV, Internet and long distance on one bill)?

Having unlimited capabilities is very beneficial for entrepreneurs. For example, with unlimited phone services, you can talk freely and don't have to worry about being on the phone too long with potential clients and even your regular clients. Plus when you have unlimited services you find you have more ways to use your services, such as offering coaching. Unlimited Internet is almost always a necessity. Not only do you need the Internet for connecting with clients, but you also do research, marketing, networking, etc. You want to be able to have access to this freely.

You can often save money by getting services bundled. For example check to see if you can get a lower rate on combining services such as long distance phone service, Internet service, etc. It's important though to check your bill monthly and make sure that you are getting what you signed up for and nothing additional. Also, if you are unsure if you have a package added, call and find out before you utilize the service to make sure you are covered. For example, if you aren't sure if your calls to Canada are covered, call and find out. Don't just assume they are and make a call. You don’t want one large unexpected phone bill to negate the savings you receive.

One point that Kelly Poelker, my co-author of VA the Series points out is when bundling have a back-up plan in place as one down side to bundled services is if one service goes down, typically they all do. Use caution in selecting a provider and get the most reliable one.

#2 – Any tips/advice for saving on regularly purchased office supplies, such as toner and paper? Are generic versions usually acceptable quality? Where can home business owners find wholesalers or suppliers at wholesale prices?

Always buy in bulk whenever you can and shop until you find the best prices. Also shopping at wholesale or non-office supply stores can save you money. Today, I purchase most of my office supplies, including toners, at Walmart. I also find places such as Costco or Sams Club can save a bundle. However, I will still look to the sale ads at places such as Office Depot to see their sales. Once in a while their sale price will be cheaper. Also, Office Depot and many places offer Rewards cards. By using your rewards card, at the end of the quarter you can get a gift card back that you can use for purchases. The amount is dependent on how much you spend. Shop online as well. Often you will then get email notices of sales.

Generic versions do work for some products, but I’ve found for toners, etc for quality I want to go with name brand. What you can do is try out one to see if it works for you. It’s worth the experiment if it works and you save monthly from then on. And it’s not a large investment if it doesn’t. But always keep in mind, professional image for entrepreneurs is the most important factor in determining price.

3. Any tips/advice for determine which services are necessary and which can be cut?

Focus on your particular business and what needs relate directly to that keeping in mind that your business is unique. Even though some businesses might need some services, you might not.
Now consider what services you used in the past year and how often you used that service.

4. Any tips/advice for comparison shopping and/or negotiating?

There are times of the year that certain items routinely go on sale. Take note of these times and plan accordingly. Also, be aggressive and ask sales personnel when they routinely have discounts. For example, when new computer models come out, you can get cheaper prices on the older models.

Buy bulk and go for volume discounts with vendors you purchase from routinely. Also check into a commercial accounts for contract pricing. Share the costs with your colleagues and save even more.

Any other tips/advice

Write out a budget for your business and prioritize what your needs are. This is invaluable. Many add this to their business plan when starting a business, but a separate budget can be a real asset. It helps to see things in black and white.

Also, stick with products that you trust and look for the best prices on them. For example, I normally purchase Hewlett Packard computers. I keep an eye on their products and always look for the best prices before I need to make a purchase.

Marketing Success Begins with a New Business Image

2008-09-28T10:42:00.001-05:00

Many of you are already established in business with your website in place, your business cards tucked away securely awaiting the next networking opportunity, and your promotional materials printed and filed away. You are set -- Or are you?

Think back, when was the last time you revisited this area? When was the last time you recreated your promotional materials and added a new image? Have you actually read your website lately from the prospective of a potential client? If so, did it portray you in the best light and did it convince you to utilize your services? Did it have all your latest PR successes and latest services? If not, it’s time to jumpstart your marketing. The results, more clients and a new and improved you.

Here are just a few ideas:

Your Web Site

When doing your website or reviewing your website, take your time. This isn’t a race to the finish. Take it a page at a time and give it your all. Ask yourself:

Would it hold their interest? You need to make sure they aren’t bored with long paragraphs or unnecessary long wordy descriptions. They want to find what they came for quickly.

Is it personalized? When people come to your site, do they get to know you and your business or do they hear the same ole’ same ole’ that’s on all the websites in your Industry. It’s important to have you in there.

Get to the point. Go back and cut out unnecessary words, paragraphs, graphics, anything that just isn’t essential to the bottom line of providing the benefits of what you provide.

Is it understandable? Sounds simple, right? Go back over your site and make sure that you’ve clearly spelled out what you do. You know you’re the best, but have you adequately described this to your potential clients?

Can you add a few new graphics or colors or something to jazz it up? A change of your website’s theme colors can make a big difference in adding to a fresh new look.

Press Releases & Articles

How often do you write a press release and submit it out? Or better yet, when was the last time you did send one out? Ouch-that long. If you want to fine tune and bump up your marketing, then you absolutely need to write a good press release and get it out there. The main point in that sentence is -- write a good one. How do you do that? Easy, make it something that informs and inspires. Make it newsworthy. Tie it into what is happening in today’s times and then connect your business to how you can make a difference. Did you remember the “call to action” paragraph, where you are telling them what you want them to do? And finally, just having a release isn’t enough. You need to actively submit it out and post it on your website, blogs, social networking sites, etc. Email us at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com for our free PR informational package for tips and places you can submit your press release for free.

Social Networking

You need to do this. Actually you will want to do this. Once you get started you’ll love it too. So go ahead and do it. Most businesses will tell you that doing this makes a considerable difference in their business. Don’t have time to, hire a virtual assistant to do it for you.

Now, find the sites that interest you and get active and involved. Remember to succeed you need to be committed. You can’t just show up once every few months and expect it to work.

Your Promotional Materials

Just think how impressed your clients or even more important, those potential new clients, will be when they receive a letter on your new letterhead, with your new business card, a matching brochure, and maybe even a matching magnet with your business information on it. It’s time to jazz it up a bit and recreate a new image. You have so many more years experience in your business, let it show with your new promotions.

How about changing your slogan? When you think about it, it goes out with every e-mail, it’s on your website, all your marketing, etc. My slogan has always been “Virtual Assisting At Its Best.” I recently changed it to, “Our Commitment to Excellence is Our Finest Achievement.” My clients noticed the difference right away.

Your clients have probably seen your slogan over and over and over—Give Them Something New.

You’ll see how great you’ll feel with your new marketing image. Make it a goal to do this often. You and your pocketbook will be glad you did.

***************************************
Diana Ennen specializes in publicity and marketing and helping businesses get the most out of their publicity efforts. She’s the President of Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com and author of numerous books including Virtual Assistant the Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA. Stop by for free information on starting a virtual assistant business and our free PR Informational package. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains intact.

Disaster Preparedness - Are our schools ready?

2008-09-12T09:44:00.003-05:00

We were recently quoted in an article in the Associated Press on Disaster Preparedness. It's a very interesting article on whether the schools are prepared in case of a disaster. It talks about how reports show that most people would run to pick up their kids from school if they were evacuated. As a mom, what would you do? Here's what I offered.

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5i6IPHHS-60qW_lML1GzjRZW7roMwD935307O0 Diana Ennen, of Margate, Fla., is the author of "The Home Office Recovery Plan: Disaster
Preparedness for Your Home-Based Business" and a mother of three. "As a mom, you wouldn't be able to keep me away from picking up my children," she said in an e-mail. "My first instinct would be to get them at all costs. I would literally run the entire distance to get them. I believe most parents would feel the same." Our prayers go to all in Texas! Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Thanks!

Diana Ennen

Moms and Fall Morning Stress

2008-09-12T08:35:00.001-05:00

Moms and Fall Morning Stress

Ever wonder where the morning went? From the second you wake up, your mind is ticking off an impossible to do list as you wander through your dark house to get that first load of laundry in, answer early morning emails, and maybe even log a work out. By the time your kids are up, you are way ahead of the game, calmly drinking coffee, fully dressed and making a healthy breakfast for all to enjoy with time to spare for a nice little chat.

Okay—rewind—whose life is that??? While it might be the goal, this is often not the case. So what's a busy mom to do now that the school year is underway and Fall is fast approaching? While it’s true breakfast is the most important meal of the day, for some families, including mine, it’s even more important to make sure we get out the door with the least amount of mayhem and the greatest amount of kindness and consideration. In order to do this, you have to put in a system for people to follow, even better when they are half asleep, including yourself. So use this short list of tools to start each day in neutral instead of overdrive and take note most anything you need to do gets done the night before. That single step is your secret weapon to a smoother day.

Family Calendar: Single most important tool to keep you all on track as to where you need to be and when, thus telling you what you need to do. Hang it on the wall in a highly visible place and consider choosing a family mantra, such as the popular Live, Laugh, Love to hang nearby to keep it all in perspective as you whip in and out the door each day. As kids grow, you will add school social events, projects, and test days too—keeping you all in the loop as a team effort for a balanced and fun childhood focused on the fun.

Clothes Organizer: Labeled by day to layout clothes for the entire week. Do it together on the weekend and worst case scenario if your child wants to mix things up, tomorrow's outfit is already there for the taking. Really helpful side effect of this tool is how it makes sure gym clothes or special clothing requests get laid out well ahead of time and sent in when needed. Better yet, it acts as a dirty laundry barometer letting you know exactly when you are in the final 24 hours for clean underwear options.

Nightly Homework: Left to the morning opens the door for a lifetime of procrastination. No matter how calm the morning might be, anything more than recreational reading isn't a fair expectation of either your child or yourself.Papers Packed: This includes agendas signed, books loaded, and backpacks ready to go. The best way to make this happen is to have a designated spot for coats/backpacks, etc. Near the door, but out of the main traffic path is best.Gear Bags: Specific to each activity for each family member, such as Ella Soccer, Ella Music, Ella Softball, making it a snap to grab the bag and go. Key to making it work is unpacking and restocking each time you come in and out from the event. Lunch is in the bag—and dinner is in the oven: If you've heard it once, you've heard it a thousand times to make those lunches the night before. In fact, just after you clean up the kitchen is a great time to knock it out. Mix up bagged lunch with school lunch favorites—show me a kid who won't eat the pizza! Dinner is all about the crock pot—use it often and use it well. This is the one thing I encourage you to assemble each morning because on the busiest days, its the only way I know how to make sure that a warm, healthy, balanced meal is waiting for me that doesn't involve tacos, spaghetti, or pizza.

House: Don't leave it like a twister hit without your knowledge. If your kids are old enough, share low maintenance tasks like walking the dog or simply loading up the lunches. But always load the dishwasher—run it if needed—clear the table, and use every quick cleaning tool on the market to make it a no excuses accepted when it comes to helping out. Think Swiffer Wet-Jets for floors, Clorox wipes for kitchen and bathroom counters alike, and leave the rest of your cleaning for another time during the week.

Car: Same as the house, don't let a bomb launch inside during afternoon car pool only to return the next morning to a pile of sticky trash. Make sure everyone takes their things as outlined above, and keep a stash of small trash bags, window wipes, and wet ones on hand to make keeping it clean a snap. Fill up on your way home from work at night to make sure you don't cut it too close and do your best to notice which service stations close to home are offering the best prices. If you are all over town, use your local news station websites to look for gas price updates—they are plentiful and useful if you don’t have to go out of your way to make the most of a great deal.

Family organization is a snap when you follow these simple guidelines. Give yourself eight days and with each one, tackle a new process one day at a time. You’ll have a complete morning madness makeover before you know it and your entire family enjoys the calm that comes with starting their days with your love and gentle direction.

********
GO MOM!® INC Founder, Molly Gold, is a 42-year-old mother of three and the creator of The GO MOM!® product line, http://www.gomominc.com. Gold is known for her keen insights into Family Scheduling and has been featured both in print and on air media alike. She is a Family Balance Contributor and Blogger at www.PreciousMoms.com as well as Family Scheduling Expert at www.BlueSuitMom.com.

Ready for a great read? Online Bookstore Offers the Best in Ebooks, Fiction and How-To Books

2008-09-08T13:39:00.001-05:00

Margate, FL, (September, 2008) Eager to read a great book, but no time to run to the bookstore? Then focus your sights on Virtual Word Publishing’s Online Bookstore at www.virtualwordpublishing.com. From sci-fi greats like Sledgehammer to business powerhouses like Virtual Assistant - The Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA, you’ll find exactly what you are looking for here and with a quick click of the mouse, you can be reading away. What did we ever do before ebooks?

Ebooks are growing in popularity today, primarily because of the easy access. Who doesn’t want to order a book and have it within minutes? But most online bookstores agree that it is best to offer customers a combination of ebooks and regular books to meet everyone preferences.
What will you find at Virtual Word Publishing? Well, our fiction category features the highly acclaimed Sledgehammer, a gripping medical fiction thriller. This book sets theme in a Los Angeles emergency room where a patient is discovered to have symptoms consistent with smallpox. It is soon discovered that this is just the icing on the cake as a terrorist plot unfolds and the ER must act fast to stop the deadly attack. An awesome plot and characters you grow to love, make you eagerly await every page. This book has received numerous five star reviews and begs to ask the question, “What if?”

Our Children’s book category features the beautifully illustrated Children’s book, Zip, Burp and Hula. This book is an inspiring story of a trio of friends who meet, learn the value of friendship, and also find that together anything is possible. Sure to become a bedtime favorite and the best part is that it is accompanied by a paint-by-number and coloring book so kids can enjoy the characters even more. Oh, speaking of characters, did we mention the characters consist of a Chameleon, a burping bullfrog, and a dancing dragonfly? What kid wouldn’t want to connect with that trio?

Words From Home: Start Run and Profit from a Home-Based Word Processing Business takes you step by step through the process of starting your own home-based word processing business or secretarial service, including typing, medical or legal transcription. Updated regularly, this book has assisted thousands in turning their administrative skills into a profitable home-based business.

The Book of the Month is Virtual Assistant the Series, Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA; a complete reference guide that will lead you on your journey to running a successful virtual assistant business. What is a virtual assistant? Virtual Assistants are highly skilled professionals, working as independent contractors, who provide publicity, administrative support and other specialized services to authors, businesses, entrepreneurs, executives and sales professionals to name a few. Virtual Assistant the Series is considered one of the leading books in the VA Industry.

All this and more can be found here. Just stop by the bookstore at http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com and start on your reading adventure. You are guaranteed to experience some entertaining and informative reading. Plus, check out the many free books available including a sample of a cookbook for busy moms.

About Virtual Word Publishing: Offering a complete online bookstore with a great selection of business and how-to books, children’s books and CDs, fiction books, etc. Virtual Word Publishing specializes in books on how to start a virtual assistant business. Also, Virtual Word Publishing offers marketing and publicity, and partners with clients to get the best results from their marketing campaigns. From writing press releases, to establishing a complete media campaign, Virtual Word Publishing gets the publicity your products/services deserve. http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Ready for a great read? Online Bookstore Offers the Best in Ebooks, Fiction and How-To Books

2008-09-08T13:30:00.004-05:00

Ready for a great read? Online Bookstore Offers the Best in Ebooks, Fiction and How-To Books

Margate, FL, (September, 2008) Eager to read a great book, but no time to run to the bookstore? Then focus your sights on Virtual Word Publishing’s Online Bookstore at www.virtualwordpublishing.com. From sci-fi greats like Sledgehammer to business powerhouses like Virtual Assistant - The Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA, you’ll find exactly what you are looking for here and with a quick click of the mouse, you can be reading away. What did we ever do before ebooks?

Ebooks are growing in popularity today, primarily because of the easy access. Who doesn’t want to order a book and have it within minutes? But most online bookstores agree that it is best to offer customers a combination of ebooks and regular books to meet everyone preferences.
What will you find at Virtual Word Publishing? Well, our fiction category features the highly acclaimed Sledgehammer, a gripping medical fiction thriller. This book sets theme in a Los Angeles emergency room where a patient is discovered to have symptoms consistent with smallpox. It is soon discovered that this is just the icing on the cake as a terrorist plot unfolds and the ER must act fast to stop the deadly attack. An awesome plot and characters you grow to love, make you eagerly await every page. This book has received numerous five star reviews and begs to ask the question, “What if?”

Our Children’s book category features the beautifully illustrated Children’s book, Zip, Burp and Hula. This book is an inspiring story of a trio of friends who meet, learn the value of friendship, and also find that together anything is possible. Sure to become a bedtime favorite and the best part is that it is accompanied by a paint-by-number and coloring book so kids can enjoy the characters even more. Oh, speaking of characters, did we mention the characters consist of a Chameleon, a burping bullfrog, and a dancing dragonfly? What kid wouldn’t want to connect with that trio?

Words From Home: Start Run and Profit from a Home-Based Word Processing Business takes you step by step through the process of starting your own home-based word processing business or secretarial service, including typing, medical or legal transcription. Updated regularly, this book has assisted thousands in turning their administrative skills into a profitable home-based business.

The Book of the Month is Virtual Assistant the Series, Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA; a complete reference guide that will lead you on your journey to running a successful virtual assistant business. What is a virtual assistant? Virtual Assistants are highly skilled professionals, working as independent contractors, who provide publicity, administrative support and other specialized services to authors, businesses, entrepreneurs, executives and sales professionals to name a few. Virtual Assistant the Series is considered one of the leading books in the VA Industry.

All this and more can be found here. Just stop by the bookstore at http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com and start on your reading adventure. You are guaranteed to experience some entertaining and informative reading. Plus, check out the many free books available including a sample of a cookbook for busy moms.

About Virtual Word Publishing: Offering a complete online bookstore with a great selection of business and how-to books, children’s books and CDs, fiction books, etc. Virtual Word Publishing specializes in books on how to start a virtual assistant business. Also, Virtual Word Publishing offers marketing and publicity, and partners with clients to get the best results from their marketing campaigns. From writing press releases, to establishing a complete media campaign, Virtual Word Publishing gets the publicity your products/services deserve. http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com

CBS4 News Explores Thriving Virtual Assistant Industry

2008-09-02T16:29:00.003-05:00

Finally, I got my press release writen for my CBS 4 Segment. I was thrilled to be interviewed and get a chance to talk about the Industry I am so passionate about.

Here it is!

CBS 4 News Explores Thriving Virtual Assistant Industry –The Solution to a Gloomy

Economy.Margate, FL (September, 2008) With the downturn in the economy and pink slips a way of life today, more and more are turning to working at home. In fact, CBS4 News recently did a segment entitled “Working From Home Can Rake in Big Bucks”
http://cbs4.com/consumer/economy.job.home.2.792216.html in which it features the thriving virtual assistant industry and how becoming a virtual assistant can be the solution so many are looking for today.

As the segment states, “It's one of the fastest growing home based businesses and getting even bigger. Virtual assistants or VAs, as they're known, are independent contractors who work from home and offer clerical support, administrative help, sales assistance or personal services to companies large and small. These can be anything from typing, medical or legal transcription, website creation or marketing.“

Diana Ennen of Margate, Florida was featured in the segment and states that after it aired she received a tremendous response from those who have been out of work and looking to supplement their income. Ennen states, “It has been fabulous to be able to help those in my community get back on their feet. One benefit of being a virtual assistant is that you can work globally so your local economy doesn’t affect you as much as you can secure clients from around the world. Also, in addition to the services CBS mentioned, you can also do publicity and marketing, bookkeeping, database management, etc. “

Ennen started her own company Virtual Word Publishing in 1985 offering her skills in publicity, online marketing and book promotions to clients. She has also co-authored a book Virtual Assistant - The Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA with the Founder of the Academy for Virtual Professionals, Kelly Poelker.

Both agree that starting a Virtual Assistant Business is truly one of the best ways you can survive in this gloomy economy. Virtual Assistants are independent contractors and their rates start at approximately $35 dollars an hour but can increase to $95 dollars an hour depending on the services you offer. Ennen says for those who want it, there's more work than you can handle.

Stop by Virtual Word Publishing at http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com for additional information on starting your own virtual assistant business or to find out more about the virtual assistant services we offer. Also, look to the Academy of Virtual Professionals at http://www.academyvp.com/ for their September classes.

Disaster Preparedness - Tips You Need to Know

2008-09-02T15:57:00.002-05:00

Hi

With Hurricane Hannah, Ike and Josephine looming and Gustav reaking havoc in The Gulf, I wanted to post my disaster preparedness article. As many know, I have a Sample Disaster Recovery Plan for anyone if they email me at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com.

Disaster Preparation For Your Home Based Business

Last week, the unthinkable happened. My inlaws came to town. Wait, that’s another story, let me start again. Last week, the unthinkable happened. My inlaws came to town AND the first day they arrived my Outlook program crashed. Now, I have your attention!

As a virtual assistant and publicist, I live via e-mail. I save all my client’s messages as they have the press releases, follow-up correspondence, media contacts, etc., attached. My whole life is there on Outlook and there it was - the error message of all messages - your Outlook has an error, fix it. So I went to work to fix it. However, it wasn’t long before I realized that my only solution was to reinstall Outlook. That meant that my e-mails would consist of whatever I had on back-ups, and nothing more. Gone! My business flashed before my eyes as I thought back on all those emails from clients, the press releases they had attached, the work they had sent me to do, etc., as you can imagine panic soon set in.

Fortunately, my story has a happy ending. I had done a manual back-up of my e-mail program three weeks earlier. Therefore, I knew that I would at least have that. And even better, I have my computer set up to do an automatic back-up of my entire system every few days. It had done a back-up 6 hours before my crash. Instead of losing all my e-mails, or at least three weeks worth, I lost only 6 hours. Life was good again.

I tell this story to emphasize the importance of disaster preparing your business. It can and will happen to you. We wish it would always happen to the other guy, but it just doesn’t. You need to do everything possible to make sure that the effects are minimal if you do have a computer crash, or any other disasters that can happen including theft, hospitalizations, natural disasters, and so forth.

Here are a few tips that I find very beneficial:

1. Back-up your system regularly. Set it for automatic, and hopefully during the night so that your computer isn’t slowed down while it backs up. Make this as much a part of running your business as answering e-mails to clients.
2. Test that back-up. Just as important as backing up your system is knowing how to retrieve that information. It does differ on the type of back-up you perform. Test this out, before you need it. Also, write out complete instructions on how to restore backed up data and include this in your Disaster Plan. When you are stressed during a crisis, you need things as step-by-step and easy as possible. If you’ve already written complete instructions, you’ll be amazed how easy this can be.
3. Save a back-up copy offsite. It’s as easy as having a family member take your back-up CDs to work, or having a flash drive. I just feel better knowing that my hard work is going to be there when I get back, even if the unthinkable happened while I was away.
4. Do regular virus scans. Many feel that because they have a virus program that will alert them if a virus comes in via e-mail, they are safe. That could well be. However, I feel so much better after doing a virus scan and it telling me I’m AOK. Also, set this for automatic as well.
5. For important e-mails, copy and paste them into your word processing program. It takes a little extra effort, but can be easily done. Also, download files as soon as they arrive.

It’s also important to have a disaster recovery plan. It’s easier than you think and should be done the same as your marketing and business plans.

Here are some tips for that:
1. Business Continuity Plan – Plan ahead for all aspects of your business. It’s important to write down all your client contact information, where back-ups are stored, who your subcontractors are, the work normally done, etc. When you think about it, if something were to happen tomorrow, how good would you feel if you knew your clients, subcontractors, and business operations would be taken care of. It just provides the peace of mind you need.
2. While you’re writing, include a breakdown of family members, phone contacts, close relatives with complete contact information. We recommend additionally putting this on a 3 x 5 card for your younger children. And honestly, this isn’t just for us Floridians who experience hurricanes. The unexpected weather over the past months should tell you of the importance of this.
3. Keep an inventory of all your business furnishings, business equipment, software programs, passwords, etc. Also, keep receipts and photos. You’ll be amazed how once you do this and have it set up, it’s automatic when you get something new. You simply add it to your recovery plan. I make copies of all receipts and simply add it to an envelope in my plan.
4. Insurance information. Write down all your policies and coverage. In addition to having this information if you did need to file a claim, it also helps to see if you have enough coverage.
5. Medical information. The well being of yourself and family is of utmost importance. You need to write down all of you and your families medicines, doctors, medical conditions, etc. This section can literally save your life. Don’t forget to include drug dosages. Now you’re wondering why this is part of a business disaster recovery plan. But when you think about it, aren’t you the most important part of your business. That’s why this is so critical.
6. Have someone you totally trust who will be in charge of a copy of your plan. Send them the updated version regularly. Also, let others know who this is. When something happens, they know immediately who to contact to retrieve your plan.

I hope you have found these tips helpful. If you want more, and I hope you do, I’ll be speaking about this topic at our OIVAC convention in May. Disaster preparation is not a topic that is discussed often, but the ease of mind you will feel when you know you’ve protected your business will definitely make it worth the while. I look forward to seeing you all then.

###
Diana Ennen is the President of Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com and Virtual Assistant Startups. http://www.virtualassistantstartups.com. Articles are free to be reprinted as long as the author’s bio remains intact.

Publicity and Marketing Seminar Today

2008-08-21T09:48:00.004-05:00

Today is the DAY ... Join me as I talk PR. As many of you know I got on the Channel 4 News last week. Also, recently in the last few months I've been in Publix's Fall Magazine (available at stores now), Miami Herald newspaper, Associated Press segment, Family Circle Magazine, etc. And I've gotten my clients in numerous magazines and newspapers as well. (Go to my site to see, www.virtualwordpublishing.com) Join me as I tell how I do it. 2 Amazing Speakers per day. http://tinyurl.com/6fmzcy Don't miss it!

August 21st – 5:00 P.M EST
Publicity and Marketing By: Diana Ennen
PR Made Easy - Sometimes businesses get so overwhelmed with the concept of having to do publicity and marketing, that they just don’t do it. They build exceptional businesses with top of line products and services, yet miss the magic because they leave out this one critical aspect. Not anymore. I’m going to show you the EASY, SIMPLE way to get PR. I’ll break it down into concise doable steps.

I’ll show you:
How to pitch
Where to pitch
Who to pitch
Why to pitch
What to pitch

Once you know these basics, simply apply them to all your publicity efforts.

I’ll outline how to create a Killer Press Release that gets results every time. I’ll also touch on the many mistakes businesses make that can jeopardize their entire PR campaign and tell you how to avoid them. I’ll also disclose some of my PR Secrets to success -- the ones that help to get me and my clients into major media magazines and newspapers.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level and beyond? Then join me. You’ll learn to love PR as much as I do. And better yet, your business will grow with every new step you take. That’s when the real fun begins.

Lesley Spencer, HBWM Founder Guest on show

2008-08-19T13:41:00.001-05:00

We were honored to have on our show today, Lesley Spencer Founder of HBWM.
The CWAHM Network - Talk Radio That Helps Moms Connect

http://blogtalkradio.com/cwahm

The show was incredible. She always offer so many advice and wisdom for those moms who are working at home, but today we got some additional tips that I feel will help even those struggling with the economy. Here are some of the highlights:

1) When asked do you have ideas or recommendations for HBWM to help them survive the summer months and also the slowing economy, Lesley gave the following tips: See what other services or products you can offer to your existing service. Also, contact your clients and let them know that you are available for additional work. They might refer others to you.

2) GREAT tip that I plan on implementing immediately came when asked about how she gets so much media: She mentioned that she connects with media and has developed relationships throughout the years. She also lists her cell phone on her website so she doesn’t miss important calls from the media. (That’s very important. I know I missed a media lead a few weeks ago because I did miss their call). Great advice!

3) Hire my Mom is one of the latest opportunites she offers. It connects businesses with those moms looking for work. She explained how she got this idea and also the types of businesses she sees the most of today. She stated that she sees a lot of entrepeneurs who know they need to have more help with their sites and look here to hire moms who can help. (This truly is a great way to find work. I know I recently got a client from this.)

There is so much more. I hope you listen to the archive. Lesley you rock!

Thanks!

Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Special Guest Today - Lesley Spencer - HBWM

2008-08-19T08:38:00.002-05:00

Jill Hart and I are thrilled to have on the show today, Lesley Spencer of HBWM.com and HireMyMom.com

I've been a member of HBWM practically since it began in 1996. I'm the motivational expert there. I've met some of the most amazing women there and am so excited to be a part of such a great group of work at home moms. Lesley has been one of the driving forces in the home-based Industry and I can't wait to hear all she has to share on where the industry has come.

Join us! http://blogtalkradio.com/cwahm live today at noon. If you have questions, email me in advance. The show is also archived.

Thanks!

Diana Ennen, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

South Florida Prepares

2008-08-16T07:46:00.004-05:00

Here in S. Florida, Hurricane Season is in bloom, with Tropical Storm Fay coming our way. Here are some tips to prepare .. Stop by our site for more. http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com/home_office_recovery.htm

Disaster Preparedness - Disaster Planning is Necessary for Everyone ... Prepare Now.

We make it easy. Disaster Preparedness is essential for disasters. A written plan of your insurance information, medical and personal information, as well as inventory of belongings and copies of your important papers will help you get back up and running after the disaster is over. Prepare now.

A complete plan of action of where you will go, what you will take, and who will be notified can save enormous stress and strain if you are evacuated.

A sample copy of the Home Office Recovery Plan is available. Contact diana@virtualwordpublishing.com.

For Businesses

Sample Forms:
Company Name: __________________________________________
Physical Address: ____________________________________________
City: _________________________________________________
State, Zip: _______________________________________________
Tax ID or EIN #: ______________________________________________
Mailing Address: ____________________________________________
City: _____________________________________________
State, Zip: _____________________________________________
Phone: ____________________ Cell:___________________
Fax: ____________________________________________
E-mail Address: _______________________________________________
Web Address: __________________________________________________
Designated Person: ______________________________________________
(This is a person outside of the business who has access to this information)
Designated Person Phone #:________________________________________

Insurance Company Name: (#1) ____________________________________
Kind of Insurance (i.e., Business/Home/Wind/Flood/etc.)_____________ _____
Insurance Address: ______________________________________________
Insurance Phone: ______________________________________________
Insurance Agent: ______________________________________________
Insurance Policy Number: ______________________________________
Group #: ___________________________________________________
Additional Numbers: (Riders, etc.) _______________________________

E.A. Banking Information

It will be very important to have your business account information handy in case your home is not accessible for a while.

Bank Name __________________________________________
Street Address: __________________________________________
City, State, Zip __________________________________________
Phone: __________________________________________
Business Checking Acct. #: __________________________________________
Name of Business on Account: __________________________________________
EIN # or SS #: __________________________________________
Business Savings Acct. #: ____________________________________
Safe Deposit Box #: __________________________________________

PIN #: __________________________________________

Additional Business Accounts
i.e. Money Market: __________________________________________Auto

Insurance Information

Often your company vehicle can be involved. However, this is important information to have regardless.

Auto #1
Type of Vehicle: _______________ Year _____________ Make _________________

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN#)________________________________________

Lease or Purchase? _____________________________________________________

Name of Finance Company: _________________________ Phone: _______________

Account #: ____________________________________________________________

Registration ______________________ License Plate #________________________

Is this used for Business Purposes? ________________________________________

Insurance Company Name: _______________________________________________

Insurance Address: _____________________________________________________

Insurance Phone: ______________________________________________________

Insurance Policy Number: _______________________________________________

Additional Information: __________________________________________________

Name #1: ________________________________________________________________

Doctor’s Name #1_________________________________Phone: _______________

Doctor’s Name #2 _________________________________Phone: _____________

Medical Conditions ___________________________________________

Medicines and Dosage instructions:______________________________________________

Allergies: _____________________________________________________

Blood Type: ___________________________________________________

Pharmacy Name:__________________________________Phone:__________

Additional Information: ________________________________________

****************

Essential Tips on Disaster Preparedness

If you haven’t prepared a disaster recovery plan, now is the time to do so.

Diana Ennen, co-author of Home Office Recovery Plan: The Disaster Preparedness Guide for Your Home Business witnessed eight hurricanes in Florida including a direct hit from Hurricane Wilma. Ennen advises, "Being prepared for a hurricane or any natural disaster takes away the stress and anxiety. When timing is critical, I want to focus on the safety of my family, not on taking an inventory of my business, or deciding where I need to go. I also need to know that my family members will know how to find me after the disaster.”

Here are some steps to take to prepare:

Step One --Identify a safe place for everyone to meet. This pre-determined place should be discussed with family members prior to an emergency. A second location should be discussed. Also, out-of-town relatives should be advised of this location. Additionally, each person should have a list of phone numbers for immediate neighbors and family members. 3X5 index cards work well.

Step Two – Take an inventory now. Write down insurance policies including insurance company and contact information, policy numbers, group numbers, date of births, coverage, etc. Write down an inventory of valuables. Take photos.

Step Three - Write down all your company information, insurance information, attorney and accountant information, personal and family information and have a designated person who knows where it is. Don't forget your web information and hosting company.

Step Four - Protect your data -- Back-up all your files and keep a copy off site. Pay special attention to client files.

Step Five-- Write down a complete family medical history. Include any medical conditions, medicines and dosages, doctors names and contact information, where medical records can be found, etc. Be specific. A life can truly depend on this one step alone.

Step Six – Get a copy of all important information, wills, trusts, mortgages, deeds, birth certificates, contracts, medical records, even household bills to help get things restored quickly, etc. Back-up your computer. Get extra cash. Often ATMs are down so cash is needed.
The time to prepare is now. Stop by our site at www.virtualwordpublishing.com for a free sample of the Home Office Recovery Plan today that has forms for all the above information. Diana Ennen is available for media interviews by contacting her via email

Get a copy of the Home Office Recovery Plan Now. 68 pages of valuable information and forms needed to protect your business, home, and family. Every family needs this, not just home-based businesses.

Virtual Assistants in the News

2008-08-11T10:14:00.004-05:00

We were featured on the CBS 4 News -- Working From Home Can Rake in Big Bucks

http://cbs4.com/consumer/economy.job.home.2.792216.html

Here's just some of the segment - but we hope you go to the CBS website and read the rest of the article and listen to the video as well.

"It's one of the fastest growing home based businesses and getting even bigger with the downturn in the economy and pink slips flying. We're talking about becoming a virtual assistant. Virtual assistant's or V-A's as they're known are independent contractors who work from home and offer clerical support, administrative help, sales assistance or personal services to companies large and small. These can be anything from typing, medical or legal transcription, website creation or marketing. "(etc.) http://cbs4.com/consumer/economy.job.home.2.792216.html (Read more on the CBS website and also watch the VIDEO)

BTW, that's one of my clients Cindy Doty, of Just Better Cleaning, www.justbettercleaning in the segment. I help with the marketing and another virtual assistant did their website, Nancy Brown of Virtual Gal Friday.

I think it's a great endorsement for the Virtual Assistant Industry! Would welcome your comments!

Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com, www.virtualassistantstartups.com

Back to School - We were featured in Local Paper

2008-08-01T19:05:00.003-05:00

Hi

I hope you get a chance to check out the article my girls and I were featured in for the Miami Herald.
http://momsmiami.com/?a=profile&u=2&t=blog&blog_id=686

It was on back-to-school savings. We had a blast taking the shot. Nothing like getting to throw up school supplies in the air. The photographer who came out to take it was totally awesome.

Plus I think the article has some excellent back-to-school tips.

Here's some of the article ..

Diana Ennen considers back-to-school shopping a contact sport, an activity that you train for year-round -- not just in the final weeks of summer before school starts. While others fret over these tough economic times, the Margate mother of three has discovered that "it's easier to find bargains now. There are more sales and deals. You just have to be on the lookout for them.''

SHARE YOUR TIPS

Tell us your secrets for saving money on back-to-school shopping. And let other moms know about any sales you come across -- around town and online. Anyone who posts in this forum by Aug. 13 goes into a drawing for a $250 Target giftcard. And join the discussion on "greening'' your supply list here.a buck.

Ennen, who is also president of Virtual Word Publishing, is an avid coupon clipper, clearance aisle browser and thrift shop fanatic. She has signed up for emails from her favorite stores so she can be ready for the best sales; she searches for coupons on the Web; and she buys in bulk -- but only when it is actually cheaper. Saving money, she adds, is all about the planning.

Press Release Writing and Article Marketing Teleseminar

2008-07-29T21:16:00.002-05:00

Please join me and Jill for this exciting teleseminar ...

Press Release Writing and Article Marketing Teleseminar

Want to get the most media attention and spotlight for your business? Then the first place to start is with a great press release. Not sure how to write that press release? Then join Diana Ennen and Jill Hart as they host the first in a series of teleseminars designed to help businesses achieve success through their marketing efforts.

This first in a series of teleseminars that Hart and Ennen will be presenting will detail the basics of writing an effective press release and effective article writing. The seminar will take you step by step through writing an effective press release and also detail article writing and submissions as well. The seminar will focus on the do's and don'ts of press release and article writing and what you can do to make sure your media gets the attention it deserves.

Ennen will also highlight the importance of keyword placement and where to distribute your press releases for best results. Learn from the experts how to do it right. Ennen specializes in media relations as President of Virtual Word Publishing, and the press releases she has written has resulted in her company and her clients featured in many of the major magazines and newspapers including Woman’s World, USA Today, Entrepreneur Magazine, etc.

Jill Hart of Christian Work at Home Moms will host the article writing portion of the teleseminar. Hart's articles have been featured on DrLaura.com, ClubMom.com and in Crown Financial's Money Matters Newsletter. Hart states, “I am so excited to be presenting this teleseminar. Diana and I have learned so much during our time as business owners and I can't wait to share what I've learned with others. This teleseminar will be chock-full of information on how to market your business using the most inexpensive means possible.”

Join us TODAY - Wednesday July 30th (http://teleseminar.cwahm.com) at 2:00 EST to learn how you too can be a PR Pro. The teleseminar will be archived so if by chance you miss it, it will be made available to download.

BONUS! Everyone that attends get a free PR Informational package.

Summer Speaker Series: Forty-Two Speakers in One Month!

2008-07-23T18:16:00.003-05:00

Summer Speaker Series: Forty-Two Speakers in One Month!

My colleague and dear friend, Erin Blaskie, is hosting the first annual Summer Speaker Series featuring an amazing line-up of speakers including James Roche, Christina Merkley, Sheri McConnell, Alexis Neely, Allana Pratt, Lou Bortone, Viki Viertel, Lynn Scheurell, Kathie Thomas, Debbie LaChusa, Wendy Weiss, Terri Z, Donna Gunter, Diana Ennen (THAT’S ME) and so, so, so many more.

Here’s the deal... She’s featuring TWO speakers PER DAY for the entire month of August (not including weekends because really, who likes working weekends?) The best part is that this amazing series of speakers is priced VERY affordably. It’s going to be one of the hottest events of the summer.

Simply click through this link http://tinyurl.com/6fmzcy and register today. You won’t be disappointed and I’ll be there to speak as well! I’ll be speaking on publicity and marketing … my favorite topics ever!

You can purchase a seat in one track, two tracks or get audio downloads included too (along with your live seat) so what are you waiting for! I’ve heard there is a cap of 200 people due to the bridge line and with the speakers involved, that won’t last long!

Visit http://tinyurl.com/6fmzcy and register now... ‘see’ you on the calls!

Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing, http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com

MomCast Live Interviews Dayna Steele Author - Rock to the Top

2008-07-22T12:15:00.004-05:00

We had an awesome show today on MomCast live. For those of you that didn't know, Jill Hart and I do a Blog Talk Radio Show at 12:00 EST on Tuesdays every week.

This week Dayna Steele was on. Dayna is the author of the best-selling business book Rock to the Top: What I Learned about Success from the World’s Greatest Rock Stars. With a forward from legendary rock star Gene Simmons, how can you lose? Here's the link to listen

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/stations/bc/momcast (And you can listen in anytime and also listen to back shows at your convenience.)

She tells us how being an entrepreneur is so much like her radio days of interviewing rock stars. Reach for the stars and never give up. You will be inspired and motivated to not only excel in your current business, but watch out you might end up doing like her and getting ideas about additional businesses as well at all hours of the night. You can't miss her story on how she finally got Gene to write her Foreward. After the show I was definitely left with the "never give up" and "I can do anything I set my mind to frame of mind." Need motivation for your home based business, then listen to the show! You'll get it.

Her book is comical and really informative too. --

Her book is available on Amazon. Rock To The Top - What I Learned About Success From The World's Greatest Rock Stars (Paperback)

http://www.amazon.com/Rock-Top-Learned-Success-Greatest/dp/1934812064/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1216747844&sr=8-1

On the show we also talked about my interview tomorrow with a local newspaper on saving money on School shopping. My family gets to get featured. Yeah and a photographer is coming out. How cool is that?

And we gave some GREAT PR tips on blogging, social networking, etc. We hope you listen in. You can at any time.

And Jill told about the spectacular contest on her site this month at www.cwahm.com. Prizes daily.

You can also stop by our site at www.momcastlive.com.

Thanks!

Diana Ennen, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Publicity Virtual Assistants Help Authors Achieve Book Marketing Success

2008-07-19T15:20:00.001-05:00

Here's my latest release:

Publicity Virtual Assistants Help Authors Achieve Book Marketing Success

Margate, FL – (July 2008) Self-publishers and published authors alike often need assistance with the most vital aspect of their book journey, marketing and publicity. Successful authors know that to sell books, you need to do PR. And even more importantly, you need to do a lot of PR. You can’t just put your book on Amazon and send out a press release or two and hope for the masses to come. You need do an aggressive marketing campaign and get out there and promote your hard work. Fortunately, with the help of a Publicity Virtual Assistant it’s never been easier.

Publicity Virtual Assistants are virtual assistants who specialize in publicity and marketing. Publicity Virtual Assistants utilize all their expert talents and superb writing abilities for book marketing and promotions, thereby helping authors achieve the success they deserve by providing extensive marketing solutions, innovative publicity campaigns, proofing and editing capabilities, extensive research, administrative support, and so much more.

Diana Ennen, author of Corel WordPerfect Office Ready Virtual Assistant Solution Pack and Virtual Assistant the Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA states, “Today’s Internet has opened the doors to successful book marketing by Publicity Virtual Assistants. Being able to send press releases and articles to a targeted group is priceless and knowing how to effectively research to find that group is even more beneficial. The virtual assistant is already well versed on the Internet and well aware of how to find the right connections. Plus, with the increase in social networking, the virtual assistant is able to make their client known in the right places. It’s a matter of knowing what to do and where to do it that sets us apart.”

Publicity virtual assistants are especially beneficial for those many first-time authors who are overwhelmed with the publishing process. By partnering with a Publicity Virtual Assistant, the stress of having to know it all is drastically reduced and the author can rely on their PVA to take over and implement much of the publicity campaign.

If you are in need of a Publicity Virtual Assistant, stop by today at http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com for additional information. Also, if you are interested in learning more about becoming a publicity virtual assistant, contact Ennen directly at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. Ennen is hosting a series of teleseminars starting Wednesday June 30th at 2:00 P.M. with Jill Hart, co-host of the highly popular MomCast Live Blog Talk Radio Show. The first teleseminar is on press release writing and article writing, just one area a Publicity Virtual Assistant can help you with.

I'm Proud to Say I'm a Virtual Assistant

2008-07-18T20:16:00.003-05:00

I’M PROUD TO SAY I’M A VIRTUAL ASSISTANT by Diana Ennen

Long, long ago in a land far away (sorry, got carried away), Virtual Assistants were faced with the dilemma of convincing their clients that they were professionals and could do the work at home just as well, OR BETTER, than what was being done at the office. The illusion of a person sitting on a kitchen table with a word processor, soda can, papers spread across the table, had to be smashed. That was then and this is now.

Home-based businesses are now considered a norm and are highly respected as well. We have achieved the recognition and respect among not only our peers, but the professional world that we have long deserved. Technology, the internet, and a lot of hard work and proving our abilities has earned us the reputation that we have today. The reputation of Professional Virtual Assistant. A reputation that we can be proud of. A reputation that we should continually work to achieve and improve upon.

Our home-based offices are often like executive suites at the some of the best business offices in town. We have the latest equipment and we keep it up and running in good working order because we don’t want downtime. We stay connected to other VAs and associations so when new technology or new advancements become available, we are aware of them and can act accordingly. We decorate our offices according to our likes and needs. We value our clients and always want to go above and beyond what is required of us. Therefore, when you come to our home-office you will feel not only the professionalism of a qualified VA, but the personal touch of someone who is there to help make your business succeed.

We are proud, yes. We are virtual assistants who know that we can make a difference. We love what we do. Now if you still wonder if someone from home can do your work, just ask us. We’ll gladly tell you how we can. But don’t be surprised if we continue to tell you a lot more about not only that, but how we can do so much more for you and your business.

Diana Ennen / http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com
....
What about you! Tell us some of your "proud moments in your virtual assistant business." Did you land a new client? Get one of your clients featured in a national magazine? WHAT ... go ahead. Share some of your finest moments.

PUBLICITY VA....blog: 7 Reasons I Love Being a Virtual Assistant

2008-07-15T19:53:00.000-05:00

PUBLICITY VA....blog: 7 Reasons I Love Being a Virtual Assistant

Thanks so much for posting! It's great to see you both. I so agree. I love the networking. I have met so many friends, it just rocks!

I sure do remember you. Thanks for linking to my series of CDs with Joan. I bet it is amazing working with Joan. She is absolutely brilliant. I read her newsletter and blogs and just soak all that knowledge in. You have got to love being on the inside there. She sure does speak highly of you too. I love hearing that. That is what is so nice about being a VA too. Good clients really appreciate us and that just feels so good.

I love you can stop by again.
Thanks
Diana Ennen

7 Reasons I Love Being a Virtual Assistant

2008-07-14T06:53:00.002-05:00

I added this to my newsletter and encouraged Virtual Assistants to share -- why they love being a Virtual Assistant. Post away!

Here's my reasons --

7 Reasons I Love Being a Virtual Assistant

Sometimes it seems you can't pick up a magazine or book today or even turn on the TV without someone talking about the Virtual Assistant Industry. I couldn't be happier. We deserve this. Virtual assistants have worked long and hard to gain the recognition they are getting today and I know it's only the beginning. I'd love to share 7 reasons why I love being a Virtual Assistant. I'm also posting it on my blog and would welcome you to post some of the reasons you enjoy being a VA too.

1- My clients: I get to work with some amazing clients and help them achieve success.

2- Control over my businesss: I love to know that I have the power to make it grow and am an active part of its success. I get to choose the clients I want to work with, the hours I want to work, and most importantly I get to say no as well if something isn't a good fit.

3- The ability to be part of the VA Industry: I've been blessed to be part of the VA Industry since its inception. Every year I get to see it reach more media and get more attention. It's wonderful to see and I'm proud to be a a part of it.

4- To have the opportunity to use my skills and talents every day: I love what I do and every day I get to wake up and do it again. If you talk to most entrepreneurs they will acknowledge passion is one of the most important aspects to success.

5- There is always something new. I'm an A Type Personality so I definitely need a challenge. I love the thrill of new clients, regular clients that have become good friends, new challenges, and also having the opportunity to make a difference in someone's business and success.

6- To get to coach others and help them achieve success: In addition to publicity and marketing, I also do virtual assistant coaching. I love to be able to take a VA with just a dream and turn it into a successful business.

7- I get to write and being a virtual assistant allows me to do just that. Whether it's writing a press release, a media kit, or a new book, my career choice has allowed me to write. And I love it!

Owning your own virtual assistant business is simply the BEST. Stop by my blog and tell me why you enjoy doing it. '

***
Diana Ennen of Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com
Author: Virtual Assistant The Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought after VA

Famous Ghost Whisper Appears on Heal Yourself Talk Radio

2008-07-11T11:13:00.003-05:00

Hi

Here's the latest release I wrote for a client, Rebbekah White. If you are interested in having me write your press release, email me at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com.
Also, don't forget to tune into her show!

Famous Ghost Whisperer & Consultant to Hit TV Show Talks Live on Heal Yourself Talk Radio

Sylvania, Ohio, (July 9, 2008) BlogTalkRadio explodes this week when the original Ghost Whisperer, Mary Ann Winkowski, paranormal investigator and consultant for the hit TV Series Ghost Whisperer, joins local talent Rebbekah White on air June 15th at 2 p.m. Listeners can join live and also phone in questions to 347-205-9641. For those who are fans of the hit TV show or just have a special interest in the paranormal, this is your opportunity to talk with a real ghost whisperer and get inside secrets to what truly goes on behind the scenes.

Winkowski, in addition to meeting Jennifer Love Hewitt personally, has also appeared on numerous TV and radio news programs. Her book, When Ghosts Speak: Understanding The World of Earthbound Spirits has offered solace to countless people, either by reuniting them with loved ones who have died or by removing unwanted spirits. Her website, http://www.maryannwinkowski.com/ provides an interactive community with message boards, videos, etc. Winkowski states her earliest memories include talking to spirits of the deceased as if they were living people and helping these entities cross over into the White Light.

Rebbekah White, Heal Yourself Talk Radio Show Host and founder states, "I am very excited and honored to have Mary Ann as a guest. I became interested in earth bound spirits when the CBS show The Ghost Whisperer first aired. It’s a thrill to have the opportunity to talk to her personally and give our regular listening audience the opportunity to ask questions and share her stories.”

White has been a believer in ghosts, earth bound spirits, etc. for several years but even more so over the past three years due to unexplained events in her home. After contacting Winkowski, a teenage boy ghost was discovered and cleared from White’s home. White contends, “Her uncanny ability to know things about my house floored me. For instance she told me the ghost was in a bedroom with a broken closet door. My husband's closet door in our bedroom has been broken for quite some time.”

Helping people to heal is one of the sole premises of the Heal Yourself Talk Radio Show with the show offering advice on how to nurture and heal your mind, body and soul. Prior guests have included James Twyman and Patch Adams as well as a numerologist to the stars and a well known Las Vegas talk show host. The good news is that more celebrities are on the horizon in the near future.

Fans of the TV show are sure to be pleased as well as regulars to the radio show. A chatroom at www.blogtalkradio.com/healyourselftalkradio is set up during the show, but you can also email your questions ahead of time to White to get them addressed on the air. If you can’t make that time, no problem, the show is archived at http://www.healyourselftalk.com/, which also allows you to hear the other great shows that have aired previously. Finally, reasonable radio sponsorship opportunities are available. White is also available for media interviews by contacting her at rebbekah@healyourselftalk.com.

Rebbekah Lynn White
rebbekah@healyourselftalk.com
http://www.healyourselftalk.com/
419-318-0895

Actress Gets Opportunity to Speak Out for Hospital Rights - Will They Listen

2008-06-19T17:32:00.003-05:00

Our Client, Alicia Cole, is getting the unique opportunity to speak next week against hospital infections and make a difference. We hope you support her!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:
Alicia Cole
www.AliciaCole.com
mizcole2@aol.com

Actress Gets Opportunity to Speak Out For Hospital Rights – Will They Listen?

Sherman Oaks, California (June, 2008) Actress and Patient Safety Advocate, Alicia Cole will be bringing her awareness campaign to Sacramento as two important hospital infection bills are making their way through the California legislature. Senate Bill 158 sponsored by Sen. Dean Florez and SB 1058 sponsored by Sen. Elaine Alquist.

Cole, who is the survivor of a near fatal case of hospital acquired Necrotizing Fasciitis and Sepsis following a routine procedure is slated to address the Assembly Health Committee during a June 24th hearing.

The CDC estimates that approximately 100,000 patients die each year from hospital infections they receive while being treated for something else. In the State of California, the Public Health department recorded 240,000 hospital acquired infections last year at a cost of over 3.1 billion dollars to the state. This is the awareness that Cole wants to bring to light.

Cole’s plight began on Aug. 15, 2006 after entering a top-rated San Francisco Valley hospital for a routine procedure. “I could never have dreamed that my two-day hospital stay would turn into two months and nearly cost me my life,” says Cole. Necrotizing Fasciitis (also known as flesh-eating disease) is a bacterial infection that rapidly breaks down soft tissue and fascia surrounding the muscles. It can cause death in as little as 12 to 24 hours. In order to contract the bacteria, it needs to be introduced into the body, which can often occur through complications from surgery or infections from hospitals.

Cole now advocates nationally for better infection prevention safety standards and requiring hospitals to make public their infection and death rates. “Consumers have a right to know if there is an infection problem at their hospital. When we choose a restaurant it is not just based on reputation, but by the letter grade for cleanliness in the window. We should be able to make the same informed decisions about our healthcare.”

Both SB158 and SB1058 would require public reporting of hospital acquired infection rates, as well as, screening for the ‘superbug’ MRSA and improved hospital cleaning practices. California currently lags behind 22 other states which have laws requiring public reporting.

Cole, who is still healing and undergoing daily hyperbaric oxygen treatments, is urging fellow survivors and family members of victims to contact their legislators and ask them to support these bills.

“We are so close to making a difference and saving lives,” says Cole. “We owe it to those who did not survive to do better.”

Go to www.aliciacole.com for more information. Alicia Cole can be contacted at mizcole2@aol.com. You can make a difference. Email Cole and she’ll show you how.

Tim Russert Tribute - A Job Well Done

2008-06-19T13:07:00.003-05:00

I believe I was touched more this week than most by the news events and losing my friend Tim Russert. No, he didn't know me. But I sure knew him. I respected his values for family, friends, and more important he was one of the "Good guys."

Yesterday's tribute was absolutely beautiful, remarkable. It gave me the peace I needed. They say that afterwards two rainbows could be seen there and I knew it was his final good bye. And it was perfect just like the day. I thank NBC for doing what they did.

My only hope is that I can be even somewhat of a parent as he was. Even half of a friend that he was. And in business, just to earn some of the respect that he did.

Tomorrow I get to see my college son who graduated. I hope to tell him again how proud I am. In seeing Luke, I realized that it's just as important the values you give your kids.

Anyway. Back to work. Thanks for listening to the more personal side of my blog.

Diana Ennen

My Blogs at Half-Staf/We bid you farewell Tim Russert

2008-06-13T17:39:00.002-05:00

A sad day indeed. We morn the loss of our beloved Tim Russert. One of the good guys. One of the journalist that you wanted to see because he didn't dig for the dirt and the bad in people, but just the opposite, he'd go out of his way to find the good. He was friendly and warm and the type of PR leader you strived to be.

Like most Americans I felt I knew him personally. I'm not sure how. It's probably because if I was switching through the stations and I saw him on, I'd stop and listen to what he'd have to say. He cared.

When my husband came home today his first words were, did you hear about your friend. I was almost taken back, because he realized the dept of how I felt. I did feel I lost a friend.

My son graduated college this year too. I felt that same pride.

As a publicist, I feel such a professional loss. It was great to have someone like him to look up to.

I just wish his family my best. -- Diana

Small Firms Stung By Late Payers

2008-06-12T11:53:00.001-05:00

The Buffalo News recently ran a story about how the economy and late payments are hurting small businesses. In the article, it states….

“Diana Ennen, owner of Virtual Word Publishing, a publicity firm based in Margate, Fla., said she first started seeing a slowdown in payments about six months ago.

“In the last four months, it’s gotten really bad, and almost at a critical point,” she said.

Ennen’s late payers tend to be people who work as independent contractors for companies which, because of the uncertain economy, suddenly decide to end the relationship. The independent contractor isn’t getting paid anymore, and in turn is having a hard time paying Ennen.

When clients are behind, Ennen said she’s careful about how much new work she’ll do for them.

“I try not to get too far in advance, and I have to see some payment,” she said. “You can’t do a lot of work now and hope the payment will be there.”

Click here to read the full article

Sell Real Estate Without Selling Your Soul

2008-06-06T12:37:00.002-05:00

For Immediate Release

Contact
Jennifer Allan
http://www.sellwithsoul.com
jennifer@jenniferallan.net
Phone 720-536-5908

Sell Real Estate Without Selling Your Soul - Newly Released Book Shows You How

Denver, Colorado (May, 2008) Even in so-called “boom” markets, rookie real estate agents almost always find their new careers to be harder than anticipated, but today, even experienced agents are failing in record numbers. Statistics quote figures ranging from 70% to 95% dropout rate for first‑year agents and it’s common knowledge in the industry that only a small percentage of the licensed agents are making enough money to live on.

Why is the failure rate so high? Is it a matter of unrealistic expectations? Maybe. A lack of enthusiasm? Probably. A lack of support and training? Definitely.

What agents need is good solid training on how to competently sell real estate and Jennifer Allan’s book Sell with Soul offers just that. The second edition of Sell with Soul (ISBN #978-0-9816727-0-0) will be released in early summer of 2008 and has been updated to reflect the realities of today’s more challenging real estate marketplace. The book takes on the tough issues of survival in a slowing housing market and provides a blueprint for success to help new agents navigate the critical first year and beyond. Sell with Soul comes complete with checklists to help agents keep on top of listings and contracts, step-by-step guidelines for building a thriving real estate practice as well as anecdotal examples of real world real estate dilemmas and solutions to them.

Yet the book is so much more than a rookie survival guide. The author, Jennifer Allan, discusses such touchy subjects as commission discounting (she’s all for it), buyer agency (don’t push it), prospecting at open houses (do so with caution) and generating bidding wars (it’s your duty). Practical advice is offered on everything from building a loyal client base to marketing listings to negotiating inspections and even handling pricing objections.

Allan writes regularly for Realty Times and other online newsletters, and is one of the industry’s most popular bloggers. She began her writing career after 10 years as a successful real estate agent in Denver, Colorado earning top producer status in her office from 1999 to 2003, among other honors. She founded her own real estate company in 2004 and currently divides her time between her two careers of real estate sales and writing, speaking and training.

Pre-order a numbered, autographed paperback copy of Sell with Soul and receive a special edition eBook version of the book upon receipt. Just visit Allan’s site at http://www.sellwithsoul.com for details and instructions. While there, sign up for one of Allan’s free newsletters for tips on successfully selling real estate -- without selling your soul.

Blog Talk Radio - Mompreneur Founder Interviewed & It Rocked

2008-06-04T17:55:00.004-05:00

Tuesday on our weekly radio show, MomCast Live, Jill Hart and I were honored to interview the founder of Mompreneursonline.com and author of numerous books on starting a home-based business, Ellen Parlapiano. It rocked!! For the first time too, we were on the front page of Blog Talk Radio. YES!!

I've known Ellen for years and am totally addicted to her site. It is truly my biggest guilty pleasure in working at home. I get to chat with others who are absolutely going places and we get down and dirty on how to survive and thrive in our home-based businesses. But listening to Ellen herself was beyond words. I hope you all take a few minutes and listen to the archives. It will be so beneficial for your business. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/stations/bc/momcast and don't forget to get her books if you haven't already! Mompreneurs Online: Using the Internet to Build Work at Home Success!

Here are just a few of the tips she gave:

1) Passion -- Find that business you are passionate about and learn all you can to succeed. Network with like-minded entrepreneurs.
2) Network locally and online. It pays to get dressed up and get out in your community to those networking events. Clients benefit from seeing your personality and that can not only mean more work, but a better understanding of the work you are doing.
3) Pitch magazines correctly. Ellen is a full-time freelance writer. She states when pitching national magazines know their time frames. Now is the time to be thinking Christmas. At Christmas be thinking Mother's Day. Pitch to the right editor. Take the time to know who to send to.
4) This was really good ... she states, it's okay to follow-up with reporters. However, be mindful of their time and their schedule and don't follow-up too much. She stated it was good to call. Her point was with emails, it's often so easy for them just to hit the "delete" key.

Some of the greatest parts of the show was the personal stories she gave in working at home. So many of us could relate to them. The red water balloon during an important interview is definitely the best. Go ahead and go to her forum www.mompreneursonline.com and see if you can get her to tell you that story. It's worth it! It will brighten any day.

There is so much more.

Thanks Ellen for a fabulous interview. If you'd like to be on our show, email me at Diana@virtualwordpublishing.com

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

God Bless America

2008-05-26T06:47:00.003-05:00

Happy Memorial Day!

As I sit here this morning, God Bless America is ringing in the background. We live across the street from a church and every day at 7:40, noon and 2:00 p.m., beautiful music plays. I almost use it as a timer, I've gotten so used to it. 7:40 time to walk Amber to school. Noon, I stop for lunch (I work at home). 2:00 pick up Amber.

But today it's different. Today, the songs are different. Now playing is "This is My Country, Land that I love!." Following by "...... And The Home of the Brave." And a song I know the music, but can't remember the words. These aren't the titles of the songs, but the parts of the songs that hit me the most as I post this.

What a great reminder. Sometimes I get so wrapped up in the economy and the things that are going "wrong." that I forget the things that are going "right." And there are a lot of things going "right."

Today, I hope we all stop for a moment and remember those "right" things and the joy of living in America. I also hope we stop and say a special prayer for all our military families. My husband goes out of town for three days and I'm lost. And many of these families go year after year like this. Some even face something so hard to even think about or write about the loss of a loved one or a loved one injured. Thank you!

I also hope that between the picnics and fun you share the meaning of the day with your children. Let them know the importance as then future generations will as well.

God Bless America My Home Sweet Home ... and I'm so grateful for that!

Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing

Work At Home Parents Many Benefits - Being There for Their Sick Children

2008-05-09T15:17:00.001-05:00

Margate, FL (May, 2008) Working parents everywhere are realizing the extra benefits of working from home including being there for their children when they are sick. In fact, Diana Ennen, president of Virtual Word Publishing was recently featured on CBS Channel 4 News in Miami, http://cbs4.com/video/?id=53473@wfor.dayport.com on a segment on working parents and handling sick children and states that one of the biggest advantages to being self employed is the ability to not send her kids to school sick.

Ennen states, “I’ve walked to school and seen the agony on a parent’s face when they have had to drop their children off at school ill, just because they couldn’t take time off from work. Not only is it sad for the parents, but also the other children in the classroom are now exposed to added germs as well. Changes need to be made.”

Apparently lawmakers think it’s a good idea too. Officials from 11 states are considering a bill that would make paid sick days a basic labor standard. Even Presidential candidates Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama are involved, coming out in support of mandatory paid sick days. Also Congress may vote on the Healthy Families Act, which would require businesses with fifteen or more employees to give workers at least seven paid sick days per year.

These are changes that all should support. However, businesses don’t need legislation to make a change. A simple change in company policy is all that is needed to protect the health and well being of their most valued assets, their employees and their families. If companies allowed sick days for employees when they kids were sick, we would see a dramatic drop in diseases, and also employees would be more satisfied at work.

Some might also find it beneficial to do as Ennen did and consider working from home. By staying at home, Ennen has been able to work while caring for three children including her 10- year-old daughter Amber. “My hours are my own and the flexibility is just great,” said Ennen. Amber appreciates the added attention she gets and has told me that one of the greatest things about me working from home is that I’m there for her when she is sick. For her to realize that is gratifying.” added Ennen.

Ennen has been working from her home since 1985 when she decided to quit her job and start her own business as a virtual assistant, writing press releases, marketing authors and their books and offering coaching. Ennen has written several books about starting a virtual assistant business including Virtual Assistant - The Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA and The Corel Word Perfect, Virtual Assistant Solution Pack.

To read more about Ennen or view the CBS video in more detail go to Ennen’s site at Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Rising Gas Prices Have You Down, Work at Home!

2008-04-25T21:09:00.001-05:00

Rising Gas Prices Have You Down? Work From Home and Save Money at the Pump

With soaring gas prices fueling the strong need to work from home, now is the perfect time to become the business owner you always dreamed about. Think how great that short commute to your home-based office would be for those of you who can no longer afford to travel. You not only save money, but you get to experience the thrill of being your own boss and earning the kind of money you know you are worth.

One of the top businesses to start at home today is virtual assisting. Virtual Assistants are highly skilled professionals who provide service from a home office to anywhere in the world. Through the use of high-speed Internet access, e-mails, fax machines, mail services, as well as many web-based applications Virtual Assistants handle such things as publicity, Internet research, word processing, event planning, real estate transactions, legal briefs, medical transcriptions, proofing, editing, publishing and so much more.

And just who is using a VA? Just about everyone from corporate professionals to doctors, accountants to writers, and even attorneys rely on these professional assistants to keep their businesses running smoothly. Not to mention the authors and online shops that use VAs for their marketing and publicity. Putting their many years of knowledge and advanced training to work for them, these Virtual Assistants can take over administrative duties while executives concentrate on increasing profits—it’s a perfect fit!

How do you get started? Easy. Diana Ennen and Kelly Poelker’s book, Virtual Assistant - The Series: Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA (Another 8 Hours Publishing) and the accompanying VA The Series Workbook Edition provides you with everything you need to get well on your way to a successful new career. This book has already helped thousands of administrative professionals start their business and with the help of the Workbook Edition, others are soon to follow.

Start today and experience the financial freedom you’ve always wanted. Visit www.va-theseries.com for additional tips on starting your own virtual assistant business, or visit Academy of Virtual Professionals at www.AcademyVP.com to learn about a 16-week training program.

###

Productivity Tips for Work-at-Home Parents

2008-04-25T21:05:00.002-05:00

This article was submitted by Heather Johnson. Thanks Heather. If you have articles you'd like included, please do email me at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. And with that ... our article!

Productivity Tips for Work-at-Home Parents

Many parents dream of being able to work from home so that they can be the primary caregivers for their children. Thanks to a recent increase in available telecommuting positions, such as being a virtual assistant, that dream can be a reality. However, working from home with the kids can be extremely challenging at times. It takes an industrious freelancer to balance both work and family at the same time. Below are five productivity tips for work-at-home parents.

Establish Work Hours – Not only do you need to commit to a certain amount of work each day, you also need to know when to "clock out." While working from home, you may be compelled to keep working, even after you put in a full day. Let your family know what your work hours are and make yourself stick to them.

Take Advantage of "Nap Time" – If your children are still young enough to take naps during the day, consider yourself lucky. You can use this time to devote to work that requires silence, such as phone calls or intense concentration.

Set Boundaries – You need an area that is designated as your workspace. While you don't want to be a tyrant about this, your family should know to ask before they move/use anything in your home office. This is the same courtesy you would receive from coworkers in a traditional office.

Keep Emergency Distractions Nearby – If you really need to commit to some mission-critical work and your kids have other plans, make sure you have some sort of toy or movie that can entertain them for a bit. While you don't want to park them in front of the television all day, sometimes you will need to distract them while you put your nose to the grindstone.

Remain Flexible – Sometimes, even the tips above won't work. There will be days when your kids are screaming, your work is due and you haven't had a good night's sleep in a week. Don't panic! Instead of trying to make your family fit your schedule, just go with the flow until you can get things back on track.

Even though working at home will afford you many creature comforts and perks, there are unique challenges involved with the lifestyle. The most important thing to do is relax and be diligent. With the above tips, your work life and home life will hopefully have a more peaceful coexistence.

**
Heather Johnson is a freelance business, finance and credit writer, as well as a regular contributor for Business Credit Cards, a site for comparing best business credit cards. She welcomes questions, comments, and freelancing job inquiries at her email address heatherjohnson2323@gmail.com .

Virtual Assistant in the News - CBS 4

2008-04-17T13:26:00.004-05:00

We are thrilled to have our segment on working at home air on CBS 4. That's Amber, my 10 year old, Amanda, my 14th old, and me! I'm thrilled that they mentioned virtual assistant, another great plug for our industry. And how cool about the new law being proposed. You will definitely be hearing more from me on that. Moms should be able to stay home with their kids when they are sick. I've seen moms drag their kids to work, with them almost crying they were so miserable, but the mom didn't have a choice. She had to work. I'd love your comments! And please do pass it on. Diana Ennen, Virtual Word Publishing, www.virtualwordpublishing.com

http://cbs4.com/local/Diana.Ennen.sick.2.701349.html

Virtual Assistants Top List of of Work at Home Jobs AGAIN!

2008-03-31T21:31:00.003-05:00

Once again, I was delighted to see our Industry mentioned in a List of Top Home-Based Businesses. This time it was on AOL -in an article -- 10 More Jobs You Can Have at Home.

http://jobs.aol.com/article/_a/10-more-jobs-you-can-have-at-home/20050808184809990053?ncid=AOLCOMMjobsDYNLprim0001

Here's what it said:

Administrative Assistant -- Also known as virtual assistants, home-based administrative assistants use office experience and computer skills as support personnel. Many skills easily transition into this position, which offers many part-time and temporary opportunities.

YES!!! I'm THRILLED!! I truly believe with the right skills, experience and passion that if you want to become a VA, and you do the right things to become a good VA, you absolutely can.

Here are some of the services that a VA can provide. I know for many regulars of my blog, you already know this, but fortunately, I'm having some new VAs and this is more for them. (This is from our Virtual Assistant The Series Book).

· Publicity, Marketing, Writing: Business, technical, academic, resume, and ghost writing. Includes formatting papers and manuscripts, as well as business plans and reports.
· Competitive Research: Research clients’ competitors and report findings.
· Editing/Proofreading: Editing and proofreading client documents.
· File Conversion: Convert files from one format to the other. Example: Word to PDF format.
· Digital Imaging: Digital photography, graphic design, scanning of documents, photographs, etc.
· Graphic Design: Designing images for use on the web or in print.
· Interpreting: Translate from one language to another.
· Web Design, Development and Maintenance: Design client websites. May include development of copy and ongoing maintenance.
· Word Processing: Many of the chapters in this book deal with this including Legal Transcription, Medical Transcription, Targeting Writers, etc.
· Desktop Publishing: Design and layout of business cards, newsletters, flyers, catalogs, brochures, menus.
· Transcription: Transcribing standard and micro-cassette tapes. Medical, legal and general transcription.
· General bookkeeping: Process and mail invoices and statements. Bill paying, checkbook balancing, collection calls, bookkeeping, etc.
· Meeting Planning: Organizing all or various aspects of a meeting. This might include arranging meeting space, A/V requirements, speakers, food and beverage, sleeping rooms, contract negotiations, and transportation.
· Event Planning: Organizing all or various aspects of an event. This might include arranging for a venue, food and beverage or catering, contract negotiations, special transportation, security, and entertainment.
· Presentations: Preparing slide presentations in a program such as Microsoft PowerPoint. Requires knowledge of the application, as well as presentation techniques. Might also include preparation of handouts and transparencies. Slides can show birthdays, business/marketing, graduations, weddings, etc.
· Realtor Support: Includes desktop publishing, bulk mailings, database management, letter writing, thank-you card writing, and making phone calls. See also, Transaction Coordinator.
· Information Processing: Combination of word processing, data processing, database management, spreadsheets, and resume preparation.
· Internet Research: Research and report findings on specific topics. You can do academic research, business and marketing research, locator services (alumni, family, military, etc.)
· Photocopying: Black and white or color copies, including transparencies.
· Association Management: Meeting minute transcription, meeting reminder cards or calls, database management, meeting agendas, meeting and convention planning, newsletters, mailing services, bookkeeping, and banking services.
· Concierge Services: Dinner recommendations and reservations, tickets, travel research and arrangements, transportation arrangements, directions, gift buying, car rentals, general errand running.
· Organizing Consultant: Rearrange office space, plan and pack for relocation, develop procedures, set up filing systems, time management, and office automation.
· Contact Management: Maintain client database of contacts using a variety of applications like ACT, Goldmine, Lotus Organizer, Outlook and Maximizer.
· Public Relations: Writing and submitting press releases. Arranging interviews with the media. Promote the general “image” of the company.
· Systems Management: Manage system network.
· Reminder Service: Remind clients of important dates and events.
· Executive Personal Assistant: Combination of duties with a high level of decision-making, coordination, purchase authority, on behalf of the company executive(s).
· Scheduling: Arrange and manage schedule for meetings, deadlines, appointments, and possibly personal activities.
· Technical Support: Hardware and software installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and tutoring.
· Internet Administration: Administration of chat rooms, message boards, and online groups.

If anyone would like information on starting a virtual assistant business, please do email me, at diana@virtualwordpublishing.com. I have a VA Informational Package and a PR informational Package that I'd be happy to send you. The VA Informational Package includes a sample of our book Virtual Assistant the Series.

Thanks!

Diana Ennen, President
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Brain Gym Program Offers Workable Solutions for the Ailing No Child Left Behind Act

2008-03-26T15:39:00.002-05:00

Here is our latest release for our client, Dr. Paul Dennison, Founder of the Brain Gym Program.

Brain Gym Program Offers Workable Solutions for the Ailing No Child Left Behind Act

Ventura, CA (March, 2008) Nearly 100 school districts in California, who recently failed to meet the NCLB act criteria, risk losing federal funding and are subject to rigorous "remediation" by outside personnel. This situation serves to highlight the necessity for a new paradigm in the support of students' academic progress. Programs such as Brain Gym, created by Paul Dennison, Ph.D., will help. The Brain Gym program is an innovative process that uses developmental movements to address the physical skills behind all academic learning. Benefits include increased concentration and attention, enhanced memory skills, improved organization, and better self-regulation/behavior.

Currently teachers in several thousand public and private schools throughout the U.S. and 80+ other countries utilize the Brain Gym process on a daily basis with outstanding results. Jan Littman, a Resource Specialist (K-6) working in the California public schools shares, "Brain Gym has improved my students' developmental skills (crossing the midline, eye-tracking, and balance) which has in turn improved their academic skills. Supported by current neuroscience, Brain Gym provides students, parents and educators alike easy-to-learn activities, which activate and then integrate all areas of the brain for easier focusing, listening and learning.”

How does it work? When students feel better physically, they perform better academically and enjoy learning more. The program uses easy-to-do developmental movements to "wake up" or "relax" the brain as appropriate. Students experience increased levels of attention, organization, communication, self-confidence and positive attitude towards learning resulting in 20 to 50% higher test scores. Parents and clinicians benefit as well, as it directly impacts readers’ motor, cognitive, behavioral, emotional, visual, and reading skills. Students will discover they can learn faster and more easily, be more focused and organized, start and finish projects with ease and reduced stress, and overcome behavior challenges.

The movement toward higher standards and accountability in our education system has intensified the search for new and innovative ways to support students' learning quotient. Brain Gym® offers a functional teaching model that addresses the underlying skills of learning in any discipline through the use of brain and body developmental principles.

Stop by http://www.braingym.com/ or www.braingym.org for additional information, or contact Publicist Diana Ennen at (954) 971-4025 or diana@virtualwordpublishing.com for media interviews.

Forecloser Crises - We need to make more money

2008-03-17T11:11:00.002-05:00

Hi

I just saw the CNN Video of a family living in their camper because of foreclosure. During the entire thing, all I could think of was "That could be me." How devastating to work your entire life and then end up in a camper, at 50. I believe it hit closer to home because I just turned 50 too.

What can we do? What can I do! I can't just keep sitting back not helping. She was an administrative professional who lost her job. Maybe she could work at home as a virtual assistant. That's global.

To that end, if anyone is facing forecloser or needs a helping hand now and would wants to start their own business or wants to supplement their existing income so they can forego foreclosure, email me and I'll send you my Words From Home Book and give you a free 1/2 hour coaching. This isn't a promotion. I send out press releases when I want to sell books. This is a true attempt to help those who need a helping hand. I don't know what else I can do, but if you do, let me know. Together we can make a difference.

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

Virtual Assistants Excel in the Publicity and Marketing Niche

2008-03-16T08:30:00.001-05:00

We all realize how Virtual Assistants have revolutionized the way we work today. Most businesses now count on their Virtual Assistant the same as they used to count on their secretaries, only so much more. VAs are a prized and respected part of their client’s team, and unlike secretaries, who often were taken for granted, Virtual Assistants are praised for their professionalism and skills. Most businesses today can’t imagine where they would be without their VA. And as the potential for success in a virtual assistant business continues to explode, so does the need for good Virtual Assistants.

Today’s Virtual Assistants need to take pride in their business and also to learn as much as they can about their niche, which is the specialty they have chosen to specialize in. One niche that I highly recommend is to offer publicity and marketing services to clients. This is an area that is growing in leaps and bounds as more and more authors, businesses, and other professionals realize the need to market their business to get good publicity. A business can expand tremendously when hiring a Virtual Assistant to help them spread the word about their products or services. Also, authors today aren’t aware that once they write a book, that’s when the real work begins. They need to get the word out about their book in order for it to be successful. That’s where a good Publicity Virtual Assistant comes in.

Publicity and marketing is thrilling to say the least. There’s such a great rush when your client gets recognized in national magazines, or a TV station wants to do a segment on them and you helped them achieve this success. Or better yet, when your efforts start resulting in substantial increased sales for them. Clients will not only keep using your services, but also tell others about this new positive addition they have to their business. And best yet, you too get to feel that satisfaction as you are helping them achieve their goals.

One of my most successful tips is learning how to effectively use any publicity that a client receives. When clients get national attention in a magazine, newspaper, or TV Segment, or even on a popular website, it’s important to make sure that everyone is aware of this. A press release should immediately go out to announce their accomplishment. This release should be added to their website and also should go to all their local papers, radio stations, and TV networks. Media loves to highlight a success story of their locals, so make sure you get this out there as soon as you can. And you don’t have to wait for the publicity to happen. If your client lands a major TV segment, you can start sending this press out beforehand in order to get more media for when the event happens. You just want to make sure that the client is fairly confident the segment will air. Also, don’t worry if the segment gets bumped back, that often happens as breaking news takes priority. This can almost be a blessing, as then you get to do more publicity before the airdate.

It’s also important to follow-up with the reporters and let them know how much you appreciate the acceptance of your quotes for an article. When you go the extra step to show them your appreciation, they remember you when the next article comes up and they need help with more expert advice. Many reporters work for multiple magazines so one good ally can lead to lots of media exposure. Always keep your PR hat on. Learn to take any situation and turn it into good press for your clients and your business as well. Stay on top of current events and see if you have anything to offer. Whenever a story hits the press that any of my clients would have a connection to, I’ll send it right away. Having press releases already prepared for clients on their business is always a great help. How do you know about these events? Sign up for Google Alerts under the topics of interest and then whenever a story is written, you can follow-up with your press release or article to the reporter. It works! I also use ProfNet from PRNewswire, which allows me to get daily leads from major news outlets. You can also consider PRLeads.

It’s also important to learn how to write a good press release and article and also where to send those. Make sure that your press releases and articles are newsworthy and also something that interests the readers. When I write a release, I always think would I read this release? Would it interest me? If not, I doubt your target audience would be reading it either. Plus, be careful to sound too promotional. You can easily get your message across without sounding like an ad.

Publicity is a great niche for Virtual Assistants. To learn more stop by my site at www.virtualwordpublishing.com or contact me for a free 10 minute call on PR tips or my free PR Informational Package.
**

Diana Ennen is the author of numerous books including Virtual Assistant - The Series, Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA and accompanying Workbook; Corel Word Perfect Office Ready, Virtual Assistant Solution Pack, and Words From Home, Start, Run and Profit from a Home-Based Word Processing Business. She specializes in publicity and book marketing and is president of Virtual Word Publishing http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com and http://www.virtualassistantstartups.com. Stop by our site for free booklets and reports on business startups.

Virtual Assistant Tops Today Show’s Work At Home Business List

2008-03-14T17:46:00.002-05:00

O’Fallon, IL – March, 2008 When a Kansas City woman sought advice from The Today Show on supplementing her household income with a part-time job, Today’s Money 911 reporter Jean Chatzky topped her recommended work at home list with Virtual Assistant. Who would have thought? Finally, Virtual Assistants are gaining the respect they deserve.

Virtual assistants around the globe who have repeatedly promoted the industry as individuals and as groups are beginning to see an impact on their efforts. Virtual assistants have been talked about, written about, interviewed by, and seen in the likes of Entrepreneur, USA Today, Time, The Wall Street Journal, Chicago Tribune, Reader’s Digest, CNN News, and more. “We’ve come a long way from the deer in the headlights, wrinkled forehead look once received when offering up ‘I’m a virtual assistant,’ after being asked our profession,” states Kelly Poelker, Director of Academy of Virtual Professionals and co-author of the Virtual Assistant – The Series books. “Each and every article and interview put us one step closer to educating as many people as we can on what a virtual assistant is, and how a business can benefit from our services.” It’s an exciting time to start a virtual assistant business, but there are still a number of people just discovering the profession as a result of the growing media coverage.

“I couldn’t tell you the number of people who comment they have been doing this for years and just didn’t know it had a name,” shares Diana Ennen, Poelker’s co-author. Poelker and Ennen would know, too. They have helped thousands of virtual assistants get a foothold in the industry with their Virtual Assistant – The Series books, mentoring, and coaching. Over the years they’ve seen a constant increase in the number of colleges adding a virtual assistant program or course to their curriculum. For example, Red Deer College in Canada has been utilizing the book for many years. The authors state they are seeing about a 5-10% growth in the number of U.S. colleges adding VA programs each year. Most recently, Poelker founded Academy of Virtual Professionals, an online training center dedicated to educating virtual professionals whose signature course is a 16-week program based on the publications.

Poelker and Ennen are available for media interviews. To learn more about how to add Virtual Assistant – The Series to your college curriculum, to obtain a review copy or free sample chapter send an email to authors@va-theseries.com. For more information on upcoming classes at Academy of Virtual Professionals, go to http://www/AcademyVP.com.

Today Show - Become a Virtual Assistant

2008-03-14T08:10:00.003-05:00

I hope you caught the Today Show this morning. In the Money 911 Segment, they discussed legitimate ways to learn extra money at home and topping the list was become a Virtual Assistant. The Virtual Assistant Industry is getting major press today, mainly because of the fact that it IS the perfect business to start today.

Our book Virtual Assistant The Series: Become a Highly Successful Sought After VA has been helping others start their business for the past several years. There's never been a better time. Email me for our free chapter. Also, email me for our free informational package. Also, stop by our forum at www.virtualassistantstartups.com. Also, CALL me if you'd like a free 10 minute coaching call to see if starting a VA business is right for you. (954) 971-4025. I want to see you succeed. Here's an article you might find beneficial as well.

VIRTUAL ASSISTANT TIPS TO SUCCESS

Virtual Assisting has become one of the most exciting and rewarding home-based businesses. What a privilege it is to be a part of such an evolutionary industry that continually grows and offers new opportunities and rewards for those coming into the business and those veteran pros as well. Marketing your Virtual Assistant business can be a rewarding adventure, providing you with permanent clientele and additional profits.

Here are some ideas you might want to explore:

Tip #1 - Fill a need. Be aware of what your clients need even before they tell you. What can you do that will make their business better? And don't limit yourself to just a few services, always be open for something new. For example, there are a lot of viruses going around the Internet these days Do you specialize in getting rid of these pesty things? That's really filling a need.

Tip #2 -- Find a mentor or a coach. (Shameless plug there). But I find when helping those I coach that even 1/2 hour a week can get them on the fast track to success. If you want to find out about our coaching, e-mail me.

Tip #3 - Market to Your Existing Clients: Your existing clients already know the caliber of work that you do so let them market for you. Always do your absolute best for them and they will keep you around for a long time and they will tell others.

Continually tell them of new services or features. Send out a newsletter or even a tip of the week to keep your name in front of them. And when was the last time you called or emailed them "Hey, how are you doing? How's business going?" A personal, "What's been happening" call can or email can make a very favorable impression

Tip #4 - List Tips on Your Website: One of the ways to prove your expertise is to list on your website the things you know. This shows your clients and potential clients that you know what you are talking about. If you check out my site at www.virtualassistantstartups.com you can see some tips there. Also, check out the forum! We'd love to have you.

Tip #5 -- Add a P.S. to your Signature Line: We all know how important that signature line is for your business success. Here's a simple way to make it even more profitable--Add a P.S. to your e-mail messages. You can offer your clients additional discounts or let them know about a new service. Did you just get a new VA certificate? Tell them! This can be a perfect opportunity to perhaps toot your horn a little.

Market your way to success in your business! And lastly, enjoy your marketing. When clients see that you enjoy what you're doing, they want to do business with you.

Diana Ennen, Author of numerous books on starting a Virtual Assistant Business. http://www.virtualwordpublishing.com. Article is free to be reprinted as long as bio remains intact.

Enhance Learning . Enbrace Technology

2008-03-11T10:09:00.004-05:00

Some exciting things happening with my co-author Kelly Poelker ... Read on ..

Enhance Learning... Embrace Technology!
Thinking Out of the Cube and Into the Tube

O’Fallon, IL — March 2008 — Business professionals around the globe are increasingly turning in their cubes for their tubes… tubes being their computers, of course, and other such technology. Why do in an office what you can do at home or from a more convenient satellite office? But how do you get started, what programs and software do you need? How do you communicate with your office staff, your support team, and even your assistant—who all want to be virtual, mind you?

Academy of Virtual Professionals (AVP), a new online training center, has put together a two-part teleseminar to help aspiring virtual professionals transition into the world of technology. This high-level overview course is designed to help those who are secure with the technology used in the office, but aren’t quite sure how to take it on the road, work collaboratively, share calendars, access computers remotely, and so on. A teleseminar for a technology course? "I know it seems odd, but you have to walk before you can run," states AVP Director Kelly Poelker. AVP’s goal is to educate you on the tools that are available, not provide a how-to workshop—that’s a series of other courses planned at AVP. "Most anyone can pick up a phone and punch a few numbers without feeling intimidated," says Poelker.

Nora Rubinoff, At Your Service Cincinnati, is a veteran technology specialist and a regular speaker on the topic to the virtual assistant industry, as well as technologies in the corporate and private sectors. Nora is the epitome of an out of the cube thinker and has embraced the technology of the tube. She is the first to offer a course at AVP. Her Get a Grip on Technology two-part teleclass will be held March 18th and March 20th at 2:00pm EST. Registration is now open at www.AcademyVP.com,

For more information or for a media interview, contact Kelly Poelker, Academy of Virtual Professionals, at 888.256.6188 or email admin@academyvp.com.

Contact: Kelly Poelker, Director
http://www.AcademyVP.com
admin@academyvp.com
Tel: 888.256.6188 Ext. 2

Trace Adkins - True Magic

2008-03-09T08:31:00.004-05:00

Last night I went to the most amazing concert with my 14 year old daughter. We went to see County singer Trace Adkins. It was magical. I hope I never forget the feeling of looking over and seeing her rocking to "Ladies Love Country Boys" & Well All of Them. He was so 'real" and down to earth and it was just absolutely a night to remember.

When he sang "Arlington," I along with 1/4 of the crowd sobbed. You see him on GAC, but when you hear it live it moves you beyond words. Our soldiers are over their fighting for us. I especially was touched as my son is 22. I could be one of those military moms. Trace said, I hope my song helps those families that give so much. It does!

It was then I knew I needed to do more. I always give my books away free to military families if they write me, but what else can I do. Right now I don't know, but I hope this concert stays with me and I can report back soon that I am doing more too.

What a concert! What a night. What a way to spend some quality time with my daughter. I knew it meant a lot to her too when after we got home she said to me, "hey mom, wanna go shopping tomorrow." Clear the schedule, I'm there!

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing

The Great Florida Blackout -- Are You Prepared

2008-02-27T07:34:00.003-06:00

The Great Florida Blackout should be a reminder to everyone that it doesn't take a hurricane or tornado to disrupt our business. Are we prepared? Here are some tips to help!

****

The Florida Blackout is just one reminder of what can happen in an instant. It doesn't take a natural disaster such as a hurricane or tornado to disrupt your business. Are you prepared?

Diana Ennen, co-author of Home Office Recovery Plan: The Disaster Preparedness Guide for Your Home Business witnessed eight hurricanes in Florida including a direct hit from Hurricane Wilma. Ennen advises, "Being prepared for a hurricane or any natural disaster takes away the stress and anxiety. When timing is critical, I want to focus on the safety of my family, not on taking an inventory of my business, or deciding where I need to go. I also need to know that my family members will know how to find me after the disaster.”

Here are some steps to take to prepare:

Step One --Identify a safe place for everyone to meet. This pre-determined place should be discussed with family members prior to an emergency. A second location should be discussed. Also, out-of-town relatives should be advised of this location. Additionally, each person should have a list of phone numbers for immediate neighbors and family members. 3X5 index cards work well.

Step Two – Take an inventory now. Write down insurance policies including insurance company and contact information, policy numbers, group numbers, date of births, coverage, etc. Write down an inventory of valuables. Take photos.

Step Three -- Write down a complete family medical history. Include any medical conditions, medicines and dosages, doctors names and contact information, where medical records can be found, etc. Be specific. A life can truly depend on this one step alone.

Step Four – Get a copy of all important information, wills, trusts, mortgages, deeds, birth certificates, contracts, medical records, even household bills to help get things restored quickly, etc. Back-up your computer. Get extra cash. Often ATMs are down so cash is needed.

Stop by our site for a free sample of the Home Office Recovery Plan at ww.virtualwordpublishing.com. Prepare Now. Relax Later

Actress Joins Others in Fight Against Hospital Mishaps

2008-02-16T09:25:00.002-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Alicia Cole
www.aliciacole.com
mizcole2@aol.com
818-379-9679

Actress Joins Others in Fight Against Hospital Mishaps

Sherman Oaks, California (February, 2008) Actress Alicia Cole, a working member of the Screen Actors Guild for 14 years, is known for the many portraits of doctors and nurses, including roles on General Hospital, Young and the Restless, and more. But a year ago, Cole switched from playing a doctor to becoming a real-life patient after contracting Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF), ‘Man-eating Flesh Disease’. This lead to six additional surgeries and countless close calls. This also lead Cole to stage a fight to bring awareness of this disease and to the rise in preventable hospital acquired infections.

John Ritter’s untimely death and Dennis Quaid’s family tragedy are just two prime examples of the increase in hospital mishaps today. It is estimated that staph infections alone kill approximately 100,000 Americans in hospitals annually. Someone has to speak out. And Cole is doing just that.

Cole’s plight began on Aug. 15, 2006 upon entering the same top-rated San Fernando Valley hospital that treated fan favorite John Ritter. Following a minor procedure, Cole was scheduled to be home in two days, in time for the start of the new television season. That never took place. On Aug. 20 during a routine dressing check, a small black dot was noticed near the surgery incision. This soon developed into a quarter-sized pustule that would lead to the traumatizing diagnosis of Necrotizing Fasciitis.

The events that transpired next for Cole are not for the squeamish. The graphic and painful depiction of flesh-eating disease cannot and should not be detailed in a news release. However, the topic must be discussed in order for change to be made and lives to be saved. To view the ravaging effects of this disease go to Cole’s site at http://www.aliciacole.com.

Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF) is a bacterial infection that attacks the soft tissue and fascia. In order to contact the bacteria, it needs to be introduced into the body. Thereby, NF often occurs through complications from surgery or infections from hospitals. Unfortunately for Cole not even the most powerful antibiotics used to fight the SuperBug MRSA or Vancomycin were able to help her.

After Cole’s official diagnosis was confirmed, a nurse later shared that Cole was the third patient with NF disease and the only one to survive. What is even more frightening is that during much of Cole’s hospitalization, Cole was never placed in strict contact isolation; no gloves, masks or gowns were worn by the nurses and doctors in the ICU.

“I vowed, if I am able to survive this, I will dedicate myself to insuring that no other family has to endure the trauma and burdens inflicted by a preventable hospital infection.” Cole now advocates nationally for safer healthcare and public reporting of hospital infection and death rates. Cole was the first member of the public to share her story and address Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Committee on Hospital Associated Infections created by Senate Bill 739.

Cole recently founded the Alliance for Safety Awareness for Patients (ASAP) to educate and protect patients. ASAP works with established advocacy groups, healthcare providers and legislators to strive to reduce the spread of preventable hospital-acquired infections by empowering the public to make informed decisions about healthcare issues.

In Cole’s case, mistakes were made. Lives were changed. And Alicia Cole will not see the inside of a TV studio for quite some time. However, Cole’s star status could bring the much-needed publicity for hospital and government officials to take note and pass important legislation for patient protection. Stop the disease. Make a Difference. Go to www.aliciacole.com for more details. Alicia Cole is available for media interviews by contacting Alicia Cole at mizcole2@aol.com.

Deal or No Deal You Tube Video

2008-02-13T14:17:00.004-06:00

Hi

I'm trying to learn You Tube and posted my very first video. (I know the world already knows this). But it's so fun.

This is Christmas Day. I got the Deal or No Deal Video Game and on the very first attempt I had the million dollars in my case. It was so fun. You can tell from the background we were having a fabulous family time. They are trying so hard to give away that million dollars. Pick me!!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=9UDJJSjbcFE

Diana Ennen