Thank You

In the last few months I have been immersed in circumstances beyond my control – and I focused on what is really important in life "family".

My mom passed away in November and as anyone who has lost a mother knows it has thrown me off kilter (to say the least). I recently lost my Dad in July so it was a double whammy this year.

The reason I am letting you know, I really appreciate each and everyone of you who take the time to read my articles. It is especially important to let you know I didn’t fall off the face of the earth (even if I may feel like it some days).

I will be posting articles to my blog soon – if not this month then at the first of the year.

Once again, thank you so much – and I hope you all have a great holiday season.

Pamela – Artista Design

Exerpt From A Fantastic Book

Very seldom do I put articles in my Blog that other people have written - however today I make an exception. I have been told I can take excepts from this amazing book and post it on "Promotional Designer" - because I love this book - I am willing to make an exception!

Conscious Entrepreneurs Use the Gift of their Intuition

“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift ~Albert Einstein~

Conscious entrepreneurs are raising their awareness and consciousness - by coming into alignment and embodying the gift of their intuition in their life and in their business.

They know that authentic success is from the inside out.

As they discover exactly how to consciously tap into their inner wisdom, they can make crystal-clear decisions in their business, reduce stress, feel more ease and vitality, and create a life and business in sync.

Are you one of these conscious entrepreneurs?

Or would you like to be one of them? It is actually very simple.

You already use your intuition every day in your business whether you realize it or not. From snap decisions to hunches, you are now being guided by this inner wisdom.

So here are the first 7 steps:

1. Say yes to your intuition!

Some of the messages you are already getting are unconscious … so when you open to your intuition by saying yes, you create conscious awareness.

So take time now to feel the yes in your heart.

2. Come into a state of being.

A simple way to do this is to tune into your breath.

(This will help you to quiet your analytical mind and become fully present in the moment.)

Here is one of the techniques I discovered (many years of acupuncture study). It is very simple, yet very subtle, so have patience with yourself.

This will relax your body, expand your breath and bring you into your heart. This allows you to feel your connection in your heart with your source. It’s also very grounding.

Rub your palms together. Allow your fingers to soften. Now face your palms towards your body. Place your right thumb between your left ring finger and pinky finger and gently slide your right thumb into your left palm. Your right thumb nail will face you. Now gently wrap the fingers of your right hand around your left pinky finger. Feel that you are embracing your left pinky finger. Relax your arms onto a table, desk or your lap. And breathe. Feel your body … feel what happens with your breath. Do this now with your eyes closed.

3. Ask a simple question where the answer is yes or no.*

4. Allow the answer to come to you. Key: If you try to grab it, it will certainly disappear!;)

5. Appreciate and thank your intuition!

6. Act immediately from inspiration on the message you receive. The sooner the better.

7. Witness any outcome … and then celebrate!;)

*For yes-no awareness techniques, see our e-Book "Create a Conscious Business", page 26.

Make a daily date with your intuition, like tea time with a friend. Remember my four P’s: presence, practice (daily), patience, and most importantly … play with it!

When you decide to take time to come into alignment and tap into your intuition, you will create expansion that brings a life of freedom, fun and joy - authentic success from the inside out.

Mary Denaro is a contributing author to Align, Expand and Succeed; Shifting the Paradigm of Entrepreneurial Success. This “just released” book is based on the premise that the world is changing at a very rapid pace. We are starting to see that cooperation brings better results than old style competition. It’s a new era and we need to work together to create success for everyone, not just for a few.

This book features dozens of conscious entrepreneurs who share their wisdom, expertise, stories, lessons and insights about the new and exciting shifts that are happening for entrepreneurs worldwide.

This book is designed to raise the vibration of the planet like never before. Get your copy of Align, Expand and Succeed and enjoy an abundance of gifts with your purchase. http://www.aesbook.com

The power of Google Analytics

Google Analytics is such a powerful tool to use - it actually allows you to decide what you want to measure on your website. You can literally put this tool to work for you and personalize it as well. You can define your ideal objective, goals as well as specifics.

If all you want to know is who visited your website and how they got there - that is simple enough and you can do that. However, the power of Google Analytics lay in the ability to define goals and put on filters that will allow you to do in-depth analysis of your website.

What do I mean?

Let me break it down for you so you know how to use Google Analytics and have the biggest advantage. First of all, Google works with objectives, goals, and specifics, these allow you to really hone in on what you are trying to accomplish when managing your website.

Objectives: An objective is the big picture – what do you want your website to do? What is the purpose for your website what do you want visitors to do once they are there.

If you are an e-commerce site your objective is to sell products and make a profit. Using Google Analytics, you can actually see the products that are selling and what products are not - helping you to pull the product that is not selling or market it in a different way. This of course will translate into big profits for your business.

Goals: If objectives are the result you ultimately want to achieve with your website, a goal is a short term aim.

What has to happen for you to learn which products sell and which don't? Or perhaps your goal is to sell 30 more widgets within 6 months. You can do this using Google analytics as the tool and setting goals within the application.

Specifics: Now that you have outlined your objectives and goals you are ready to use Google to your advantage. Specifics are the “how” the action steps you will take to reach what you really want.

Example: You would set up the sales page and a funnel (using Google Analytics) to measure how traffic comes in to your sales page. Google can tell you where visitors are entering as well as what page your visitors are exiting from. Knowing how your visitors are responding to your website allows you to go to these pages and tweak them so you can get the results you want.

Google has made it easy to place the code in your web pages, they do the initial metrics for you and the best thing is it is free.If you are not particularly savvy on html or how to apply the code have your web developer apply it to every page. You can even generate .pdf to analyze the month by month statistics.

Once the code is embedded in your web pages, Google will start collecting data and within a few days you will see countless stats related to your site. Then it is time for you to become familiar with the dashboard that Google provides - you will be able to set up the goals and specifics of your website.

You access all the data through the Internet so you can login and set parameters right then and there.

Another great function of Google Analytics is that you can set up different profiles for one website. You can put different code on different websites of course, but you can also break down one website into different profiles and monitor them independently, or you can use the different profiles to see which sections of your website are effective and which are not.

AdWords and Analytics Google

AdWords is a pay-per-click advertising program. Essentially you would buy keywords and then pay them for every time a potential client (website visitor) clicks on an ad you put up through Google. You also have the option to pay for impressions - that means everytime your ad loads on a page.

If you are thinking about using AdWords as part of your marketing campaign or are using them already Google works seamlessly in providing you with the answer to that all important questions, Is this ad working, am I making more money then I am spending? You can see if the visitor who clicked on the ad (you just paid for) bought something, or they clicked away from your website without purchasing the product you are selling.

You will be able to see where your visitors entered the site and where they leave it. When you sign up for Google and AdWords us the same account number (Google uses Gmail as the login and password) you can link both accounts together. AdWords will be imported into your Google Analytics Account. This provides you with a safety net so you can watch the behavior or you visitors and change what isn't working.

The development team at Google has a way of making their tools very usable and Google Analytics is just one of many tools that live up to these high standards.

I am amazed that everyone doesn't use this tool, if you need help in placing analytics on your pages email me or give me a call.

Pamela Jacob - Artista Design 801-910-4825

Providing Creative Solutions & Amazing Results

Should You Take the Lowest Bidder When Hiring a Professional?

When we hire someone it is important to realize – we are paying for their expertise just as much as their time. All businesses live with a budget and in this time of economic uncertainty – it is more important than ever to make the right decision when hiring someone. Shopping around is essential when making that decision.

Even so, remember this piece of advice:

"The highest bid may not be the best – The lowest bid could be the worst."

Why do I say that?

I have been in this business a long time, so I have seen it all… Some people think if it is expensive it must be superior – so they go with a website/marketing firm instead of a small business.

Did you know nine times out of 10 when you choose a big company, you will not be dealing with the actual designer – but a sales person. Big mistake – it really makes more sense to deal with the person who is actually designing and building your website. On top of that I have had clients who once they signed on the dotted line couldn’t even get the sales person – to call them back, or they called back when it was convenient for them.

Some clients have paid an arm and a leg for a website and when their website was finished – and needed updates or changes. They were charged sky high prices. Or their web site was built with a scripting (programming) language that wasn’t needed and twice as expensive to have anyone update it.

A lot of very successful business owners are not internet savvy – and put their trust in the business/professional building the website. It is important that you find someone you can trust to act as a partner in your business – wanting what is best for you, someone who genuinely cares about your success.

Remember just like in all professions you will find some unscrupulous business’s that are dishonest and will sell you things even when you really do not need them.

What is the extreme opposite of the above scenario?

The business person who wants to find a bargain and will go with the lowest bidder. If you are given a very low price then chances are this web developer is new and cannot really give you good advice on what is needed to build a marketing website. Or will not take the necessary amount of time with you to really give you good customer service.

Inexperience really is a detriment when trying to build a successful online business. I have heard numerous times of web developers that actually abandon the project – and have left the client hanging – so unprofessional is an understatement.

How do you determine if you have the right professional to build your website?

A good web designer will:

• Take the time to talk with a perspective client before they write a proposal – really get to know what their business goals and needs are.
• Take the time to explain internet jargon in a way the client can understand.
• Have good communications skills.
• Have some experience under their belt – and know the ropes when it comes to what is needed on a website.
• Understand and know; HTML – XHTML and a bit about programming languages.
• Be creative and has an eye for design – web pages can be a lot like art.
• Help’s their client achieve business goals by giving them good advice and great references.
• Knows how to optimize a website so that it can be properly indexed on search engines, and tell you what needs to be done to make that happen.
• Give excellent customer service and be an ongoing help when you have questions or don’t understand something pertaining to the website.
• Be honest when they do not know something and find the answers you are looking for.
• Have a network of professional connections who can help with things they don’t do like action scripting, data-base set up, etc.

Remember you need to be a partner in the building of your website; after all it is “your” website. Having a rapport and knowing that you will not be guided in the wrong direction is imperative.

In a nutshell; hire a web designer that is honest with integrity – and you cannot go wrong.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me for a free consultation – no strings attached.

Pamela Jacob – Artista Design

Providing Creative Solutions & Amazing Results

Blogging Tips and Tricks

I am amazed at how many business owners do not have a blog. When I work with my clients I always try and convince them to start a blog. It gives their business credibility and shows them as an expert in their given field. What better way to market your business?

A blog also helps your website get better positioning on search engines. Search Engines love blogs – the fresh content that is placed in the pages will cause the search engines to pay attention, and it will allow you to gain more exposure for you website. Every business knows the best kind of traffic is targeted visitors – that is exactly what you will get from people who visit your blog.

A blog can be as easy or difficult as you want it to be, you can host your own blog or access a free one from Wordpress or Blogger. For a monthly fee you can also use services like Typepad.com The biggest fear I find business owners have is, first they are intimidated by writing articles, second, and they don’t feel they have the time. So how do you overcome these fears?

Find resources that make it easy for you to post appropriate articles to your blog. One of the most obvious ways is to hire someone to write original articles – a good writer can always do research, as well as get information from you about what you want to convey. If you prefer to have you name on the article posted hire a ghost writer (someone who doesn’t take credit for the article) you will own the exclusive rights to the writing, but it will obviously cost you more to do this.

If you just don’t have the budget to hire someone, no problem that is why free article sites are so popular. You would be amazed at the quality of some of these articles – the only catch is you must publish the resource box at the end of the article. These resource boxes usually have the name of the writer and a link back to a website or an affiliate page. Because of this you want to find writers that are not in direct competition with you but complement your business, this make it a win-win situation and will not effect your business in any negative way.

Please remember to check out the links in the resource box – this is just double insurance that it leads to a page you feel good about.

The “cream de la cream” of article marketing resources’ (in my opinion) is called Ezine Articles – You can also Google your niche market (article resources), and it will come up with article sites that are directed towards your business.

Another great way to get content driven articles is by having guest blogger's. A lot of businesses love the free marketing that the resource box will provide them when you use one of their articles.

Top 10 Article Resource Sites

1. Ezine Articles

2. Article Alley

3. Go Articles

4. Article Dash board

5. Search Warp

6. Buzzle

7. Article Base

8. Article City

9. Idea Marketers

10. Web Source

The best way to manage your time is by accessing some of these article websites – finding articles you want to use, copying and pasting the article in a word doc – to save time and stay organized you may want to set out a block of time to collect eight articles or more.

Then twice a week put an article up. Make sure and comment on the article you are posting. In addition, people love to read short blogs with links to information they care about, simply add your comment, and a link to the site or article you are referencing. Another great way to create a blog article is commenting on things that are in the news that pertain to you business – then linking back to the resource.

I have found a great tool called Post Later - I can write several articles and schedule each one to be posted on future-dates of my choosing. It is such a time saver - and since I post for some of my clients’ blogs it really saves me time.

If you are worried about setting up a blog – and having an attractive interface, contact your web designer, they should be able to set it up with all the bells and whistles you need.

Please feel free to contact me if you need help, for a small fee, I will set up your blog and make sure you have the elements needed to market your blog and reference your website. I will also teach you how to simply and efficiently add articles and pictures. I know the internet can be overwhelming, but remember step by step you will gain the knowledge and the systems you need to be in command of your online success!

Pamela Jacob – Artista Design

Providing Creative Solutions & Amazing Results

7 Steps That Will Make Your Business Sizzle…

“It doesn’t matter whether your product is information or a flyswatter. If you understand marketing, you can make serious income.” Robert G. Allan, Author Multiple Streams of Internet Income

A lot of business owners don’t realize it is the little things that one does that will make a BIG difference in their success.

We all look at the big picture – the all important professional website, blog and of course optimizing with keywords and page titles. But what will really make a difference between you and your competitor?

Read on….

1. What makes you different from your competitors?

You need to focus on what makes your business unique. Why should people come to you over your competition? Then you take that idea and run with it, really make sure you “promote” that on your website and marketing material.

2. Over coming worries and objections.

What are your potential clients most worried about when it comes to your service or product.

How can you reassure them – or at least answer their most prevalent concerns. This may take some market research – but most of us, who have been in business for any length of time, have a good idea what that is. If you get the same questions over and over – or concern’s that is something you want to put to answer up front.

How do you remedy this? In the copy on your marketing materials/website (right up front) you need to address this and give the answer.

Example:

“Is your website just sitting there doing nothing?” Well we have the answer you are looking for! We design/redesign websites that are made for marketing.

You get my drift...

3. Be Genuine

Being genuine is very attractive to all consumers – are you just being a pitch man or are you sincere when you connect with your potential clients.

People know when someone is out for the money or genuinely interested in solving a problem for them. Think about it – when I get someone who I think is pressuring me or just out for the sale they are off my list. I will not do business with them.

4. Be Honest

Don’t over sell your service – don’t promise things that you are not willing to follow through on. Don’t act like you know something when you don’t – it is OK to say let me get back with you on that.

Don’t stretch the truth – even a little. Absolutely STAND BEHIND your word.

5. Don’t under estimate the power of testimonials.

Endorsements and testimonials are effective ways to dramatize facts and back up the benefits of your product, but don't use ones that look or feel transparent.Any testimonials you use must be true.

I cannot tell you how many times I have landed a job because people read my testimonials – and it help cement my credibility.

6. Be generous with your knowledge.

It is important that you give of your knowledge generously. You don’t have to give away the farm to be helpful. If not you are giving the impression that you are just out for the money – or perhaps you are not a real expert.

I am always happy to give my clients or potential client’s tips or refer them to other businesses that I believe in. I will give information away for free – and even when I find an article that I think will help one of my clients I will send the link.

I am a true believer in helping people succeed – and giving information that will help. I guarantee it will come back to you ten fold. It also helps with your credibility – and shows you as an expert in your field.

7. Promptly answer any emails, and return phone calls.

How many times have you contacted a representative of a business- or a business owner because you were truly interested in what they were offering – and they don’t call you back, they don’t email you, in fact it looks like they fell off the face of the earth. I have more times then you could ever imagine…

When you get a lead – contact them. When someone calls or emails you should respond as soon as you get the lead. Follow through and follow up, it is that simple.

Even if you don’t have the answer right away or you may not even be the right person for the job - let them know you have received the message, if you cannot or do not offer the service/product they need do not hesitate to refer them to someone who can.

Be cheerful and expedient in returning a phone calls and email. Let them know that you sincerely appreciate their business and not to hesitate in contacting you, if there is any way you can be of further assistance.

One more morsel of truth: Always aim for satisfaction, great customer service, and genuine interest in your client and their needs. It is a lot easier to keep a customer then to get one so treat your customers as if they were gold and you will find customer come back again and again…

Pamela Jacob - Artista Design

Call or Email now for a free consultation - pamela@artistadesign.com or 801.910.4825

Providing Creative Solutions & Amazing Results

Graphic Design, Website Development, Website Re-Design, Social Media, Consulting, Project management, Branding, Marketing, Blog Design

Why Every Business Needs a Blog

It seems every day as I do my work for clients, I run into things to talk about on my blog. I recall a time when I though how can I possibly blog – I only have enough time in the day to do work for my clients and get them on the fast track.

Well think again!

I am now realizing that a blog really is an enjoyable way to get to connect with your clientele – to help those that possibly have lost their way and just need a little swift kick in the pants (only kidding)!.

Part of what makes my job so enjoyable is gladly sharing what I have learned through all my years in this business and seeing it make such a big difference to others. So this is a perfect venue for me!! And it should be for all of you who are serious about customer services and assisting with whatever is needed in your particular field.

So for those of you who tell me “I just can’t blog I don't have the time” strongly consider again - what better marketing tool is there?

I will bet you dollars to donuts that you will find that little extra time (when possibly a thought pops into your head, or a frustration takes hold) that you will post it on your blog, feeling great about it because you realize you are helping so many others…

Blogging is a really great way to let people know you are the expert in your field, or that you know your product – as well as care about helping them with a problem, they may have pertaining to your expertise.

I have actually gotten clients from all around the world through my blogs – they read the articles, comment and communicate with me about a problem they may be having and bam – we have a connection. They know I am not joking – I do know my stuff. And when they need my services, they hire me.

It is really amazing – I have had clients from Australia, England, Africa and they more than likely would not have hired me without knowing me through my blogs.

I find the biggest fear that my clients have expressed about blogging is they do not knowing what to write about – or they feel intimidated about their writing skills.

There are many ways to overcome that – I personally write my articles in a word document, and then I can edit them and spell check. This allows me to save the articles as well as to go back at a later date and proof read, to double check and make sure it reads well. It is like anything else the more you do it the easier it gets.

So next time you say – blogging is not for me, think again. You are missing a tremendous opportunity to connect with consumers who want what you have to offer.

Pamela Jacob – Artista Design

801-910-4825

Providing Creative Solutions & Amazing Results

Is That Your Landing Page? No Thanks!

Are you as sick as I am seeing plain boring, frankly cookie cutter pages??

The ones that say get this for free! Then once you sign up, they open up another page and go on and on forever and ever until you get to your free item, trying to sell you everything but the kitchen sink?

So now you don’t know if you even want to get it free because they are just trying to trap you into oblivion…

Another thing, have you ever noticed that 99% of all landing pages look alike? They all look like cheap bill boards…

I have even gotten to the point, when I open them up (because I love the subject line) – and see the same old, same old, I close them – I may initially want what the person has to offer – but I am just annoyed.

Landing pages work – but let's put a little thought and design into them give us something that looks great and flows gently without all the yelling and screaming…

A page that doesn't have exaggerated headlines and obnoxious neon colors… With clip art and pixilated pictures…

I know that they say if it is not broken don't fix it, but please – it is an assault to the senses to have to deal with all the garbage looking squeeze pages and advertising that comes.

You can tell these pages have been put together by a page generator or a cookie cutter formula.

I have picked up some great little tools and bargains from some of these offers that I found attractive in look and copy, I am sure I have passed up many more that I could have used due to the obnoxious nature of the pages…

It may be because I am (extremely) right brained, and I am very visual – I guarantee there are a lot of people like me out there. I know we all have different priorities, but if you have an amazing product – with an attractive look you will appeal to everyone that wants what you have to offer.

Just remember, great copy, great look, and amazing product – will get you the results you are looking for.

No more boring, bland, obnoxious, ugly squeeze pages – please!!

For help with your landing or squeeze page contact me!

Pamela Jacob - Artista Design

Providing Creative Solutions and Valuable Results

Things You Should Avoid When Designing a Website

Being a web designer/developer for over a decade, I have seen everything when it comes to website design “The good, bad and ugly”. Designing a website that produces results takes a lot more than just a good looking site. It is the combination of visual appeal and all the things going on behind the scene that make the difference between success – and failure.

11 tops mistakes made – when designing a website.

Think about your target market – who are you building this website for – you or your clientele. Make sure you target market will be drawn to the design of your website, not be repelled by it. If they don’t like what they see – they will be gone before they read the copy.

1. Are you designing your website when you don’t have a clue? If you are not a “designer type”. Hire someone to design a really good looking site – do not throw up something that looks amateurish.

Leave it to the experts – at least the initial design and implementation. Looking professional is one of the most important things you can do. It doesn’t have to cost you, an arm and a leg – this is your business. Always remember, first impressions are lasting impressions.

2. Optimize your images so they load fast and look good. If a web page takes more than 15 seconds to load – the visitor will be gone. In fact, Google (just this year) is ranking websites on how fast they load, so be aware. Another tip, do not compress your graphics to much – it will cause them to look pixilated and unprofessional.

3. Make sure your navigation is direct and straight forward. It should take no more than 3 clicks for your visitors to be able to get to anywhere they want to go on your web pages. Make sure your navigation is direct so people know what pages they are accessing.

4. If it takes longer than 4 seconds for a visitor to understand what your business is – then you are in trouble. A visitor does not really care how wonderful you are in the beginning. They are usually looking for an answer to a problem or concern. You need your home page to be direct and to the point – providing your visitors with “what is in it for them”.

5. Use a font that is universal. Did you realize if you use a font that is unusual in the body of your website – it will not show up on a computer that does not have that font? It is replaced with another font that may not look the same as yours? This will cause you website to look a lot different than you think it does, this can be a major problem. Tip: Verdana is an excellent choice when putting in your page text – it was developed for easy reading on the internet.

6. Do you have color derangement syndrome? Don’t let it happen to you! If you do not have a clear color pallet, you have multi-colored text and mismatched shades of color on your website – your website looks terrible. A good rule of thumb is to stick with 3 complimentary colors, unless you are building a tribute to the 60’s psychedelic generation! Make sure you have the proper “RGB” colors. There are so many websites that can show you complimentary colors and different color pallet you shouldn’t have to stress, you are not on your own.Not all colors look the same on all computer monitors so be careful.
7. Make sure your website designer knows how to SEO your website. What is SEO? It is search engine optimization, not all web designers are created equal – find one that will optimize your website so that search engines can find your website and place it on the top of their directory. Not everyone has tons of money to advertise – and this is one thing all good websites should have – proper optimization.

8. Have a way to collect your visitor’s information (often called an auto-responder). You need to capture the names of people who come to you website – how are you going to contact them otherwise? Most people who go to a website do not buy the first or even second time they visit. If you offer them something of value for just an email and name, they are motivated to sign-up for the free information or gift. You then have permission to contact them when you have new information – a special or something of value to tell them about.

9. Do not develop you website using the latest and greatest programming language (unless you need it). A simple. .html web page is perfect for 90% of businesses. You can add other programming language elements right in the web page – you do not need to spend a fortune (and it does cost a lot more) to get a web site developed. Make sure the person you are working with isn’t pulling your leg when they suggest you need a fancy, smancy website – that in the long run, will not give you what you are looking for, but will drain your bank account.

10. Splash pages may look cool but are they practical? I am a designer and love the look and feel of a beautiful flash page. I like the movement in the design – but a flash interface or splash page is not picked up or indexed by search engines. Getting exposure everywhere you can on the internet should be one of your top priorities. Tip: Placing elements of flash in your website gives you the same beautiful look and feel without compromising your valuable marketing opportunities.
11. Have a good analytics program to monitor your website. My favorite is Google analytics the code is free and all you have to do is register and place it on your pages (or your webmaster does). Once the code is placed properly you will be able to see who accesses your site, how long they stay, what pages they go to and much much more. One of my favorite things to see is from what parts of the world my visitors come from - it is fabulous!

If you have any questions or I can be of service don't hesitate to email or call! (801) 910-4825

Pamela Jacob - Artista Design

Providing Creative Solutions and Valuable Results

Squeeze Page or Landing Page, What is the Difference?

It can be very confusing – you hear about landing pages and how effective they are – then it is squeeze pages, and what they can do for your business.

The terms are used interchangeably but are they really the same?

The answer is NO - there is a difference.

Squeeze pages and landing pages have some similarities but the goals are different for each one. Once you know the differences you will be able to decide, which will help you achieve your goals the fastest.

Squeeze pages – usually consists of one web page. Its primary purpose is to collect information (usually email addresses and names) of people that are interested in a product or service that the business is offering.

A squeeze page is only effective if you are giving away an item that is of value to your target market. This can be an e-book, a report on a specialized “niche” market, video or a combination of these things. Once the form is filled out, the names are put in a data-base for future use.

Using an online auto-responder is extremely valuable, such as Get Response or Kick Start Cart (for affiliate account cannot be beat). This prevents emails you send out as being seen as spam. Once you get a name in the system, you have permission to send them additional information, you can automate your marketing campaigns as well as send out “email blasts”.

These leads are your target market and once they sign-up you know they are interested in what you have to offer. Your database is gold, and you do not want to share it with anyone. You will need to reassure your recipients that you will not sell or give away the information without express permission.

Once the person signs up for your free product – you will then be required to get them the “Free Product” the 2 different ways to pass on the information are:

First you could have an automatic message (thank you letter) go out with a link, so they can download the freebie from an email.

Second choice, they can be redirected to the download page – at the same time a letter is sent out thanking them – and giving them some more valuable information about your business (through use of an auto-responder).

Landing pages – are sales pages, you are offering a product or service that the person will pay for. A landing page will generally consist of not only sales copy, but testimonials of satisfied customers. It is best to have pictures to go with the testimonial’s, this lends credibility to your claim.

It helps to have bonuses to go along with the purchase of your item.

A successful landing page has a sign-up so you can capture the name and email of the person purchasing the product (using an autoresponder).

Once the person signs – they can then be redirected to the order page where you can use a free service such as Paypal to take credit card information. Once this is triggered you will then have an email that goes out to the person with the free downloads.

A landing page can have many levels, you can have a page redirect to up-sale more products or if they try and click off the page you may have a pop-up that offers a smaller package for sale at a bargain price.

Another technique is selling a small priced item and when people click on the link you offer them more items for a few dollars more.

There are many variations to the theme and if you start looking at links that are trying to give away things or sale items you will be able to really see the dynamics that goes into each of these items (landing pages and squeeze pages).

These types of pages are extremely successful but really depend on you. What you are offering, how you are marketing and the quality of your offer. The copy has to be customer centric (meaning: what will it do for them). To be effective in the long term you must be sincere in believing in the value of your merchandise and advice.

Success is really just a matter of hard work, learning and perseverance! So follow you dreams, never give up and don’t ever stop learning….

Pamela Jacob – Artista Design

Providing Creative Solutions and Valuable Results…

Still Don’t Blog? You Have Got to Be Kidding!

Initially I was resistant to doing a blog – after all what would I say and how would I be received. Would people be interested in reading about experiences – really? And how would it help my business grow…

This was clear back in 2007 – and it was in the midst of blogs taking over the internet – social media sites were barely in their infancy.

I had plenty of work but I wanted to reach a larger audience – and I really love helping people succeed so – I jumped in.

In the beginning I envisioned my blog to be a series of articles about what you need to design an attractive website, market it, optimize it etc. It has become so much more than that. A client or potential client will email me and ask me a question, or I read something that sparks a view/reaction in my mind and I write about it.

This information is something that has proven to be invaluable to my readers – this type of pertinent information you may not be able to find so easily in a structured article. This type of information gives you the nuances that make a business successful… I am telling you this because so many times people don't start blogs because they genuinely assume they have nothing to say – well if you have nothing to say then I suggest you don't even start your business until you understand it fully. And once you understand your product/service then you will have tons to say on the matter.

On top of that – if you have been in business for a number of years you will have experiences that will prove to be important for all business owners regardless of what they are providing to there clientele.

Blog's are powerful connections for your business.

In developing this blog I truly found out why blogs are so powerful when promoting business. It gives you credibility – it allows people to see you are who you say you are. It is true that you need more than a blog to be successful. You need to ping your blog – you need to submit to blog directories, and most of all you need to know what you are blogging about!! Search engines love blogs because it gives them new fresh material all the time and that is so important when trying to stay on the top of search engine listings.

You would not believe the customers that I have acquired because of my blog.

I have people contact me from all areas of the world, literally! They have read my articles – and sent me emails. Hired me to do websites and consulting contracts for them. Simply because they became familiar with whom I was – and respected me as a professional. They would probably have never contacted me or hired me – with out knowing my essence and knowledge.

As I always say there is so much to know and then so much more…

That is the one thing, I love about my business – I am here to help businesses de-tangle and understand what they need to do to have a successful online business.

Website being so important is the foundation of your business – blogs are essential in marketing your expertise and creditability…

Don’t be timid – jump in and start blogging. What better way to make a name for yourself and your business.

Pamela Jacob - Artista Design

"Creating the Image You Need, To Attract the Customers You Want!"

Providing Creative Solutions with Valuable Results...

Don’t leave it to chance analyze your website NOW!

If you have been on the internet for any length of time I am sure you have heard of Google analytics – and if you haven’t then there is no time like the present to learn how to use it.

This amazing tool will do everything from telling you where your visitors are coming from, what nation, what search engine, what web page. How long they stayed on your site, if they are a new/unique visitor and so much more.

One of the best things about this tool, You can use it for free – you can access it from the internet and even run reports that can be emailed to you or your client (it will come as a .pdf document).

It has graphs and even a global map, when you go over your particular map you will be amazed to see where people are accessing your website from.

I have people in Africa – Europe and everywhere in between accessing my site.

The benefits I have outlined are just a few of the statistics you can get when using Google analytics – I am scratching the surface, – you can set goals and look at many more details.

You do have to sign-up with Google to be able to apply it to your web pages, if you have a web person who has built your site you will need to have them apply the Google analytics code to the back end of each web page you want indexed.

If you are one that does your own design then follow the instructions that Google gives you – but once again you do have to register to be able to use it. No one, but the person who has your login and password can sign into your account, or access any of your analytical data.

If you don't have it on your website already you are crazy not to get it. Once the code is properly place, it will take 24 hours to start collecting data. Then just access it through your login and start tweaking your pages accordingly to get amazing results!

To register for this free service go to: http://www.google.com/analytics

If you are serious about your business don’t wait a second longer, get it, apply it, use it!

If you have any questions or your web person has gone missing. This sadly seems to be a phenomenon these days – contact me. I will help you succeed in this awesome online world!

Pamela Jacob – Artista Design

pamela@artistadesign.com

Providing Creative Solutions & Valuable Results

The Value of Social Media – In Business, In Life…

It’s a funny thing, when I first started hearing about web 2.0 it seem like a foreign language, and now that I have stuck my toe into the river – I absolutely love it.

I have (finally!) figured out what social media sites work best for my business and I am still discovering great new ways to connect online.

Now don’t get me wrong, I am still learning and am yet to add some social bookmarking sites to my “tool box” when you are working with the internet you will be learning forever – nobody knows everything “Guaranteed”!

I have found that there is so much value in the connections you make with these networks, when you do it the “right way”.

I like to think of social media sites as “networking on steroids”.

If any of you have been in business for very long you know the value of networking – it is the life blood of any business. Building relationships is what business is all about – the give and take of information. Connecting with people who could use what you have to give, as well as making suggestions to others about businesses that could help them grow.

Social media is no different – when you are genuinely interested in following people, becoming part of their inner circle and networking. It is important that you nurture these relationships by personally reaching out and interacting with them as people. You also need to go out in the “neighborhood” and find people who you would enjoy networking with, giving value to and learning from.

You need to be a giver – but if you are a taker heed my warning….

Those that are the “takers” or the snake oil salesmen will surely be disappointed in what social media has to offer. Those individuals that are only out for the sell – and don’t want to connect as a giver are not going to have any satisfying, lasting connections to those of us who value quality above quantity and integrity above dishonesty.

I am a very good judge of character and I believe if you have been in business any length of time – you can tell the takers and the givers.

Those that are only out for themselves – and could care less about anything or anyone else.

The one thing I want you to take away from this article? Always remember, it is not always about you.

Learn to ask, “What is in it for them”.

If you do these things – when connecting on Facebook, Twitter, FriendFeed or any other social marketing site you will find a very rich, rewarding experience , in business and in every other personal connections you may make. Would you like to work out an online marketing plan? Contact me!

Pamela Jacob – Artista Design

Providing Creative Solutions & Valuable Results

Think You Don't Need A Logo? Think Again!

One of the most basic things you need for your company is a logo.

A logo is an image that represents your company. It can be an illustration, a symbol, a name, or a combination of these. A proper logo works to project your desired company image.

You may be one of those people who think a logo is not a big deal, I beg to differ.

I run into people all the time that think having a logo designed is a “waste of money” but nothing can be farther from the truth.

Why is a logo important in the grand scheme of things?

The human brain recalls an image much easier than just words. Logos are about instant recognition. At a glance, your customer has found you. The brain triggers the relevant information about your company instantly. Symbols are much better and faster for recognition than words.

This is especially effective when branding a product. The logo becomes the product in the consumers' mind. Your logo can represent everything positive [or negative] about your company.

People really do judge businesses by that first visual impression.

A good logo is the anchor to which a great website, business cards and all other visual marketing materials are design around.

If you are starting your business and need a good logo, or if you think you could use a new logo to project your success, here are some things to think about.

Your Logo Must Be Original…

The design should be unique, with no potential of copyright infringement. You want the design to attract those you know would be your target demographic. You don’t want your logo to be confused with somebody else’s. The cost of a confused customer is way too high.

Keep You Logo Simple…

The best logos are those that will look good in black and white as well as color. You are going to want to use your logo on every document your company produces - all the marketing materials, e-mails, letters, etc.

In order to accurately and clearly reproduce your logo in so many different places and in so many different sizes, you want to keep it simple.

A simpler logo can be reduced, re-colored, enlarged, appear on the Internet, or be printed on your business card as needed.

Text Logos

Specialized fonts can be used in text logos.

Examples: A slanted font can represent movement and speed. A script font represents elegance and sophistication. A reversed font can represent modern art. A comic font is good for representing children. A thicker font shows power.

Words really are images, and presented in the right way, the written name of your company can give the same instant recognition, as an illustration or symbol can.

Symbolic Logos

Purely symbolic (abstract) logos can represent your company. A symbol is not as clear as text and it may take many more client impressions to get them to remember your logo. However, if you are good at marketing it can cause an indelible impression on the public (once it sticks). Think about it, when you see that Nike swish do you have to see the company name at all? I rest my case…

Before people could commonly read, businesses used pictures instead of words to advertise their services. If such an image is appropriate, you might consider it.

Text and Symbols Combined

Combining the benefits of both text and symbols may be the most powerful way to use a logo. You get the instant recognition of your name, and what you do.

Lean toward clarity of a message in your logo. If the common person can glance at it and know what business you are in, and what kind of company you are, then you are on the right track.

What Colors Should You Use?

Different colors represent different things in different industries. People react to color, and you want to make sure it’s the reaction you want. The right colors will add strength and clarity to your logo. The wrong color will turn customers away.

For more information on the psychology of color click here

All Images are Logo's of Actual Clients

Need some professional help? If so please contact me Pamela@artistadesign.com – together we can design an unbeatable visual concept for you or your company!

http://artistadesign.com/portfolio.html

Get more followers – on Facebook, Twitter and More

Social media is not the wave of the future anymore, it is here to stay. To be really successful with your online business it is important to know how to take advantage of the “marketing tools” that are known as “social media sites”.

It doesn’t matter what you are using – Facebook, Twitter, FriendFeed, Digg, Bloglog, Stumble (and the list goes on and on).

I am going to teach you some basic rules that will boost your online exposure – but first I feel the need to remind you of a really big no-no’s, that will stop you from successfully using social media sites.

So what is the biggest mistake of all?

The biggest mistake anyone can make is being superficial, only caring about the bottom line. If you are only out for yourself, you will find you will not make many truly great connections, and you will not get many followers.

It is blatantly obvious when people are selfish, and it is a big turn off.

That does not mean, you don’t post links and have a call for action once in a while. It does mean you need to connect by giving away great information and links. Genuinely engaging in conversations with others – and basically participating in giving and sharing. It is the key to attracting followers and maintaining them.

The saying – Give and yea shall receive, is alive and well – and most definitely TRUE.

8 Guidelines for Social Media Success

BLOGGING Did you know that most blogs can be fed (through an RSS feed) to the social media sites?

Example: Whenever I post to my blog it automatically goes to my Facebook page and twitter. This keeps my Facebook and twitter page active as well as establishing my expertise.

One of the fastest ways to raise your online profile is to start blogging. It helps if the subject matter is something related to your expertise and/or business. Becoming an active participant in online forums helps as well. If you have a service that is in demand, post pictures and advice – in fact a great way to get exposure is go to ask.com and be an active contributor.

DON’T BE BORING BETTY OR BOB… Boring people do not get a lot of followers. "Don't just ramble on and on about yourself all day long”. Read what other people are posting and respond to them. Ask questions, answer questions. Truly interacting with people will help build your followers.

QUALITY INFORMATION Building trust takes time and work. You can increase you followers by good content, and consistency. It will take a bit of time but it will be worth every minute.

Posting great articles, giving links of websites you find of interest and following back is important. Promoting others will make an impact, and networking is the name of the game.

BECOME PART OF THE ACTIVE COMMUNITY "Post and tweet frequently "This will increase your relevancy and authoritativeness which in turn will boost your following." I personally take about an hour or two out of my day to research. I find relevant links I can post or ideas to write articles about. I try to tweet every day, at the minimum to build your exposure you should post 2 to 3 times a week.

ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING No matter what perspective you are coming from, if you're branded a "complainer" then that can be a turn-off. Projecting positive emotions and feed back is the way to attract others. Being in it for all the right reasons is one way of building your online credibility.

SPEAK UP A great way to attract followers is to start discussion(s) that will intrigue and engage people, causing them to interact with you. Giving a hint or a tip is also an excellent idea and will create a following of people who like the information you are disclosing.

MAKE IT EASY FOR PEOPLE TO FIND YOU

Do you know what your potential client is interested in? When you know your customer (like you should) you will know what they enjoy, where they go for information and recreation. This knowledge is invaluable – it will give you a powerful tool. Keywords... Using the right keywords and phrases in your posts and tweets will help people who are interested in what you have to offer find you through use of the search tools.

Make it easy for people who are interested in you!

MAKE A PERSONAL CONNECTION

People tend to follow those they can relate to. Social media users trust people they can identify with personally. Often, it's as simple as posting a picture and a brief biography on your profile.

People are more likely to read what you have to say when they feel they know you. Furthermore, posting a picture of yourself can actually make people feel they can trust you more.

If you are following these 8 guidelines you are on the right track! Succeeding in the internet world is not for the timid.

One more thing…

You are always hearing about the size of the list but what about the quality? I personally prefer a smaller list that has people I can converse with (quality) than a giant list of followers that are non-responsive.

With these basic rules in hand you can now successfully start building your followers – and remember to enjoy what you are doing, smile and relax – my motto?

Follow Your Passion and Everything Else Will Fall Into Place!

Pamela Jacob - Artista Design Providing Practicle Solutions & Valuable Results