We are days away from spring.

Can you believe it? How is your year going? Are you reaching your goals, resolutions, and dreams? Have you been getting those projects done?

Or… Do you need a friend to help you troubleshoot, problem- solve, organize, and get out of your rut? Could it be time to Spring Clean and get some real help so you can make this year really count? Is it time to get a plan that will help you set and reach your goals…get things done…make those resolutions a reality…and live your dream? I can help!

I am so excited to announce our next coaching program which begins next Monday afternoon. This program is just perfect for wherever you are…

–> With an idea and absolutely nothing ready to have a business?

–> No idea where to begin?

–> Got everything ready to go, but just cannot find time to get it done?

–> Struggling with getting your family on board (Or at least busy so you can snag time to work)?

–> Been working, but just not getting response on the internet and have NO idea why?

Yep! If any of this is YOU, then this program is JUST FOR YOU. Instead of me writing any more, let me take you to the site so you can learn more about this coaching program. You will LOVE it! Learn more here….

>>>> http://www.Writers-Nook.com/SpringClean.html

See ya there!

With much love,
Cindy
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

Time to Spring Clean Your Business!
Join us! This is the year to go for your dreams!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com/SpringClean.html

Practicing good Christian business principles is essential to having a business that honors God.  As a Christian business owner, don’t you want God to be pleased with how you do business?  After all, your business is a gift from God, and it is only right that you run it in a way that gives Him honor.

As you look around today at businesses, especially those on the internet, I think you will find many that do not adhere to Christian business principles.  They may not even know what they are.  You will see businesses that make false claims or are run in way that is totally self-serving.  Not to mention all the scams that take people’s money and promise them things that they cannot follow through with.  It’s very sad.

However, we have a chance to be different and to stand out from the rest in our business dealings.  Don’t ever think that your business is separate from the rest of your life and doesn’t need to follow Christian principles.  This is not so.

We need to be honest and fair when we are dealing with others in our business, whether it be customers or employees.  We should treat them with kindness and respect and go the extra mile to help them.  Offering excellent customer service is a basic Christian business practice that you should consider.  Don’t be surprised if you see your business take off as a result.

Other business principles that we, as Christians, should be exhibiting are looking out for others’ needs, even at the expense of making a sale.  If we cannot give a customer what they really need, we should be happy to recommend another product or solution. “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4

Giving is another area where we can please God with our business.  God wants us to share and help each other when there is a need.  Giving part of the income from your business is one way you can be obedient and help others in the process.  However, don’t let people take advantage of you.  Some people believe that, as Christians, we should give everything away and not make money on it.  I do not believe this is Biblical.

Adopting good Christian business principles will not only honor God, but will also bless your business.

Want more insight into Christian business ethics?

Laurie has created a 34-page eBook that gives Scriptures and insight into running your business in a way that honors and pleases God.  You can pick it up at http://www.christianhomebusinessconnection.com/christian-business-ethics.html at a discount until Feb. 3 – only $9.95! Don’t miss it!

Staying positive, even in the face of adversity, can help you conquer challenges.  When you think positively, you are envisioning your success.  Failure will not be an option; you will move past the obstacles in your way.  When a person thinks positively, they will attract positive people and positive outcomes in their life.

When you find yourself facing a roadblock, try to find a way around it.  It can be easy to give up.  Giving up will not bring you any closer to accomplishing your goals.  In fact, giving up can make you feel even worse and cause more stress.

Finding a way to forge ahead and reach your goal or accomplish your task will help you grow as a person.  You will feel more confident and able to take on new, more difficult challenges.

It can be difficult to take on a new positive personality.  It is not realistic to expect anyone to change completely overnight.  Taking small steps toward positive thinking will create big changes.

When you wake up in the morning, envision a few positive thoughts.  Imagine yourself having a great day.  Think about all of the wonderful things that will be happening to you.  Think about what you would like to see happening–attracting new clients or being contacted by a reporter who wants to feature you in a magazine story.

You may want to consider creating a “dream board” or a “dream book”.  Write out all the things you would like to accomplish.  Look through magazines and find pictures that correspond with those goals.  When you find a picture you like, cut it out and pin it to a bulletin board or paste it into a scrapbook.

Don’t be afraid to reach for the stars with this project.  If you see a picture of a house you would love to live in, put it on your dream board.  Find a picture of a car you’ve always wanted or a picture of a place you would love to travel to.

Take a moment each day to look at your dream board or flip through your dream book.  Think positive thoughts such as “one day, I will own that car” or “one day, I will take a vacation here”.  This can inspire you and motivate you to work hard and achieve success.  Your dream book is giving you a glimpse of your rewards.  Now, it is up to you to take action.

How do you decide if coaching can benefit you? Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

#1 – Could I use an impartial person to run my ideas by?

Your friends and family may be great to turn to for help, but remember they are slightly biased. You have heard it said that they will tell you what you want to hear–this is not the time for that! Even if they gave great ideas, it doesn’t help if they don’t specifically understand the inner dealings or your business or market.

Having an impartial person dissect your ideas and plans can be very beneficial, particularly if that person is in your field and has already achieved the success you hope to achieve.

#2 – Could I use help with the smaller picture and details of my business?

For many entrepreneurs the “big” picture is easy to see but it’s the smaller details that can tie them up in knots. What shopping cart to use? What pages to include on your website? How to start a PPC campaign? How to begin an online teaching ministry?

In this instance an online coach can offer help and guidance – from helping you choose the right software to actually helping you plan your first pay-per-click marketing campaign to helping you plan and present your first online class.

#3 – Could I use motivation and guidance?

For many of us, this is the part of business that’s the most difficult. It’s easy to write down a to-do list and business plan, but much harder to actually do it, much less make it a success. A good online business coach can help you overcome these hurdles. If you have someone that you’re accountable to, then you’re more likely to follow through and get things done.

This isn’t a situation that should make you feel bad or shameful; many, many people struggle with accountability and find that having a person they are accountable to or a deadline is the best way to achieve their tasks. Once I hired my first coach, I saw so many differences in such a short time that I made the commitment to always have a coach to work with me along the way. I have one helping me right now. Coaching will take you further than you can imagine. They will help you will take your business uplevel.

These three questions should help you decide whether coaching is right for you. If you do decide it’s something you’d like to try, it’s important to find the right coach – as not all are created equal.

Here’s what to look out for:

* Find someone that has already achieved what you aspire to. Make sure the person has a proven track record and can back up their talk with references, testimonials and REAL results. You should be able to easily “SEE” their success–look at their website… their products. Look them up on Google. See how much they have out there for themselves. Tune into their webinars. You should be able to see real results or keep on looking!

* Find someone you can relate to. A coach with a harsh style or “bootcamp” mentality may or may not be right for you. Only you can determine that. Perhaps you’d respond more to someone that approaches things from a gentler approach. Or maybe you really respond well to tight deadlines and someone who pushes you through the phases. Whatever the choice, it has to be right for YOU. Taking the time to find the right coach FOR YOU is really important.

* Ask any potential coach specific questions and read their answers carefully. This will help you choose the right person for your needs.

* Find someone who wants to see you succeed. It’s unfortunate, but there are some coaches who keep their students in a certain place. This ensures that the person doesn’t outgrow them and continues to use their services. This is not the right coach for you.  A good coach will push their students to succeed beyond their wildest dreams. A good coach accepts that at some point their student may outgrow them and need to move on. It’s important to look for this in a coach, as this way you can be sure that they will always advise you on what is ultimately best for you and your business.

Ready for a business coach? This is the year to take your business uplevel. If you need that boost, a business coach just might make the difference in getting where you need to go.

Announcing! We are on the countdown for our first online group coaching session! YEP! We will be sharing details early this week. This session just might be the perfect topic for you. If you are not on our mailing list, scroll back up to the top of the page and sign in. Our subscribers will be sent a very special offer early next week–it only last for one week, so don’t miss it! Sign up for our mailing list TODAY!

1. Get a vision. First things first. Who are you? What are YOU all about? What is YOUR message? When others come to you, what do they ask you? Take some time to really think this one out.  Your blog will only be a success when you find YOUR voice. Pull apart and get a vision. Keep your blog simple, clear, uncluttered, and focused. Stick to who you are. Don’t change up every day. Don’t add in content that does not go along with your message. Get a vision for what you are to be all about and be ONLY that.

2. Set it up right. Don’t take short-cuts. If you want to build a successful business, invest in your “home on the web.” This is not an area to skimp by or put off. Grab your own domain and host your site yourself. The reasons are more than I can cover in an entire article, but the biggest reason is that you are building a business. Build your business with a solid foundation. If you are a writer, invest in your own name TODAY as a domain. If you are setting up a site for a particular business venture, grab your domain for it. My favorite hosting service is Mom Webs: http://www.writers-nook.com/MomWebs.html You can grab your domain and set up your hosting account in just a few minutes. Also, ask them to install Wordpress for you. They will even install an adorable theme for you for around $10. If you have a blog that is hosted by a free service, they can even help you to pull your RSS Feed (all of your past posts) into your new site–PRICELESS! They are super! Wordpress is another big MUST that will help you get started on the right track. I love that you can set up your site and add a good theme in just a few steps. Again, set it up right. A good design will take you along the path to success. It will make a huge difference in YOU and your audience. Don’t skimp on this step. Set up your site for success. Invest in a good, solid home on the web.

3. Keep growing and learning. A great site takes time to build. Keep it growing. Commit to add fresh new content to your site every day–articles, audios, videos, tip sheets, downloadables, printables, etc. Keep it growing and expanding. Stay on the cutting edge! The best way to do that is to keep on learning. Right now, I am studying through a new set on blogging. I can’t believe all of the new ideas for plug-ins, social networking options, etc that are new THIS YEAR. I set aside time each day to learn new things either through reading or listening to shows/seminars. Talk about a great way to make my site all it can be. You won’t be there immediately, but you will get there. Commit today to grow and learn. Never stop. Stay creative. Stay on the cutting edge.

4. Make sure that your site reflects YOU. Make sure that your site helps others get to know you and your heartbeat. Include your pictures, your audios, your videos, your writing, and what you love. Let them get to know YOU–your heart, your interests, your knowledge, your life, your expertise. Let your site help to build your brand. Instill in peoploe who you are and what you have to offer. Be the Google-the place people go to search–for your market. Be the place they go when they need help.

5. Don’t be shy about what you have to offer. Now, first, be mindful that some things are annoying–banners/blocks all over the page, apps all over the page, flashing letters, crazy fonts, etc. BUT, some things really work to make your site profitable–

–>  Offer Q/A–have a spot/category just for answering questions. As you answer questions, don’t shy away from linking to resources that you recommend. Hyperlink words or resources to pages with more information. Watch the responses.

–>  Post articles–not only can you link to any recommended resources/products within the article, but you can also have a nice pitch for products in your resource box at the bottom of the article. ALWAYS pitch something–one of your products, your mailing list, your radio show, etc. Give them access to other things that will help them with that topic.

–>  Link to your store–make it easy for people to find what you have to offer. Keep it neat. Keep it simple. Keep it prominent.

6. Bring others in to help you. Feel overwhelmed? Let others help you. There are so many ways that you can get help as you build your site. You can bring in guest bloggers–those who love the same topics and can share their articles, audios, and videos on your site. I have many friends who are always ready to share fun freebies–they help my site to be a great spot on the web, but they also promote what they have going on. It is win-win-win! You can even get the visitors to the site to join in and share great content. I began offering what I call “Mommy Homework” years ago. “Mommy Homework” is a weekly topic of discussion on my blog. Those who participate earn credit toward our products. Of all of the things I read each week, “Mommy Homework” is my most favorite. Imagine how awesome it is for those who visit my site. Before I go on, you can also use affiliate tools/resources on your site. Many affiliate programs offer great articles, audios, and downloads to help you promote their products. If they are complimentary to your site, use them! A good example of resources that are ready-to-go is found in my affiliate program. Join me at: http://www.CindysAffiliates.com.  You don’t have to be a lone-ranger. There are lots of options for content to use on your site.

7. Build a great site. Remember that your site will grow for years to come. Keep building! Keep your content fresh and alive. The best way is to take time in solitude to brainstorm, develop your message, and pour your heart out into your writing, audios, and videos. Take that time! Pour your heart out! Make your site a place of ministry. You won’t be there immediately, but I promise that in 6 months you will look back and be so proud of your hard work.

Happy blogging!

Need more help?

Check out these great shows (and others!!) on blogging that have been featured on my Writer’s Radio Show:

Blogging and Podcasting

Mailbag: Websites, Blogs, and MORE!

Let’s Talk about Blogging

Let’s begin by looking at the basic or ordinary places you can place your logo:

- Your website. This is kind of a no brainer. If you don’t have your logo on your website then where to you use it?  Your website is quite often the first place people become aware of your business – it’s their first memory and your first opportunity to brand your business.

- Your blog. Again, this is a chance to link your blog brand with your website brand.

- Your business cards. Business cards are becoming less and less common however you still don’t know when you’re going to run into your next great customer.  Keep a few up to date business cards in your wallet and make sure they have your logo on them.

- Your product packaging. If you ship any products then include your logo on the packaging.  This doesn’t have to be elaborate; it can simply be included in your return address.

- Your letterhead. Okay if you have an online business chances are you’re not communicating via snail mail too often however even if you’re emailing an agreement or a proposal it can have your logo in the header.

- Your invoices too can have a header with your company logo.

- Direct mail pieces. If you utilize direct mail like postcards or even long sales letters, there are many opportunities to include your logo.

- Your company newsletter. Your logo can be used in your newsletter’s graphic header to unify your brand.

- Promotional giveaways like Frisbees or pens.

Now let’s explore some of the not so ordinary locations to place your business logo:

- On your car. Many business owners have taken to painting their car as a rolling advertisement.  While you don’t have to go so far as to make your car look like a rolling billboard you can have a magnet created to stick to your car when you feel like doing a bit of drive by advertising.

- Twitter, Facebook and other social media often allow users to upload avatars or images to represent their business or themselves. You can use your logo as your avatar or image.

- Email signature. A little creativity and you can include your logo in your email signature.  This way each communication helps increase brand awareness.

- Sponsor a team or organization locally and place your logo on promotional tools like t-shirts or hats.

Have your logo travel with you.  If your business is represented anywhere your logo can tag along.  It doesn’t matter if it’s something as simple as a business card or more advanced like your social marketing avatar.  Just don’t paint it on your dog!

Novelist Holly Lisle walks you live through the creation of your own characters in this 2-hour workshop: at the end of the workshop, you’ll have a deep, fascinating protagonist, an exciting antagonist, a secondary character or two…and maybe even a plot. Bring a notebook and a pen, write while you listen, and participate in the workshop discussion. Get to know Holly better online: http://HollyLisle.com and http://HowtoThinkSideways.com/

Download by Mp3

Want MORE Help Get Started (OR RE-Started) Writing On the Right Track? Join Our Ultimate Writer’s Expo!
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Content is king. It gets to wear the crown. And sit on the throne. And rule the world. When it comes to establishing credibility, gaining trust and producing sales, content is royalty.

While I would never suggest abandoning the concept of delivering high quality content to your subscribers, there is another type of list composed of subscribers who couldn’t care less about content.

“What is this type of list?” you ask.

- > The “announcement list.”

I’ve been teaching about the “announcement” list since at least 2002 (on record at an event). And, yet, it’s a widely untapped asset in most email marketing circles.

The main reason is: nobody’s teaching it. And so, nobody knows anything about it, let alone how to effectively create one of these lists.

So, we’re going to revisit it.

————————————————————————–
What Is An “Announcement” List?
————————————————————————–

DEFINED: An announcement list is a list whose sole purpose is to “announce” (I.E. Inform, notify) when something new is available for review, consumption or purchase.

In other words, it unapologetically says, “Hey, I just released XYZ. Come check it out!”

Now, at first glance you may be thinking, “Who would join a list that offers no content and only sales pitch?”

If you say it that way, it doesn’t sound too good to me either! That’s why you don’t say it that way. Let’s take a look at HOW to “say it”…

————————————————————————–
How About An Example “Announcement” List?
————————————————————————–

If you go to this site:
http://Writers-Nook.com/PLRSO.html
you’ll find a textbook example of this concept. PLRSO stands for “Private Label Rights Special Offers” I established this list for the sole purpose of informing people anytime I have a new PLR offer available for them to buy.

That’s it.

I don’t send out ezine articles to them. No newsletters. They don’t get blog posts. There aren’t any special reports. No content of any kind. What they get, in essence, are sales messages.

And there are already 2,822 subscribers, many of which have already purchased some of the PLR special offers that have been “announced” to the list.

Why does it work? Let me give you plenty of reasons…

1. I took something that was “in-demand” (PLR) and I allow people to get a head-start on the world by knowing about new releases FIRST by joining this list.

2. It’s not billed as an “announcement list,” but rather a “Free PLR Club”. Big, big difference in perception.

3. It has it’s own domain name, further adding to the perceived value and importance to those who join.

4. There is no requirement to buy once you join. Buy the offers that you want, pass on the ones you don’t want.

5. A cost example is provided to show what you can buy immediately, further illustrating the value of the complimentary “membership”.

And here’s the big twist that makes this idea of creating an “announcement” list a complete no-brainer…

I allow my affiliates to “give away” complimentary memberships to the PLRSO club!

When someone they refer buys one of the offers, they earn a commission. And I get other people to promote and build my list for me. We all win.

So, you may be thinking…

————————————————————————–
What Kind Of “Announcement” List can I Build?
————————————————————————–

There are a wide variety of “announcement” lists that you can build. Let’s briefly look at ten of them…

* PLR List. You can swipe my idea and create a list of private label rights buyers.

* New Offers List. Build a list of people who love your work and want to be notified any time you have a new offer available.

* Pre-Launch List. Create buzz and anticipation for an upcoming new product release by building a pre-launch list several weeks (even months) in advance.

* Ezine Publishers List. Build a list of publishers who want to know any time you have a new ezine article that is available for reprint in their ezines.

* Bloggers List. Another idea is to allow bloggers who are looking for ready-made content to post to their blogs.

* Industry News List. How about becoming the “go to” guy or gal to share breaking news about your industry?

* Joint Venture List. Develop a list of partners and affiliates who are ready to promote anytime you have a new offer.

* Incentives List. Here’s a great idea – create a list of people who you offer “incentives” to when they purchase someone else’s new product through YOUR affiliate link.

* Freebie List. Regularly give away rebrandable content (reports, articles, videos, etc.) to these subscribers to earn commissions.

While all ten of these lists aren’t necessarily “buyers” up front, they each can certainly lead to buyers and revenue for you if you implement them.

Content is king. But let’s not forget that there are alot of queens, princes, dukes and earls out there too.

————————————————————————–

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Jimmy D. Brown, one of the most respected marketing teachers online, has been fine-tuning what and how he teaches when it comes to Internet Marketing since 1999. Now you can benefit from those years of experience and also get full PLR rights to many of his best-selling products – at ridiculously LOW prices (I’m talking Ten Bucks). Run, don’t walk to this website ->

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Graphic design is defined as any discipline which focuses on visual communication and presentation.  It can be the creation of an original font that is used to create a logo, a pictograph used on a road sign, or a cartoon character used in promotional materials.  Even the arrangement of shapes and use of complementing colors on a package of cookies is considered graphic design.

The History of Graphic Design

Although graphic design today is commonly associated with computers, it existed long before they did.  Cave drawings could be considered graphic design by its strictest definition.  But graphic design did not become a discipline until some time after the invention of printing.

In the 1800s, graphic design began to be viewed separately from fine art.  This was also the time when Piet Mondrian, known as the father of graphic design, began using grids similar to those used in graphic design today.  Graphic design was also showcased at the Great Exhibition in 1851.

The term graphic design came into use in the early 1900s.  Its commercial use became more widespread, and lots of new techniques and tools were introduced.  The industry continued to evolve, but took on a whole new face as computers were introduced and improved.

Graphic Design Today

Today, a great deal of graphic design is done using a computer.  Designers can create illustrations, utilize fonts, and create layouts without having to pick up a pen or pencil.  This has made graphic design quicker and more uniform, but it requires the designer to learn software programs.  While some prefer to use old-fashioned techniques, the teaching of software applications at design tools has helped their use become the norm.

Graphic design has become an integral part of branding for businesses and their products.  The use of logos, illustrated mascots, and even certain color combinations helps companies create their identities and cement themselves in the minds of consumers.  Distinctive web graphics and layouts set certain websites apart, and even personal and hobby sites are increasingly having custom graphics done.

Few businesses are completely without a need for graphic design.  Whether you want to print professional-looking business cards or put your mark on your product packaging, you will at least need a logo.  And depending on your marketing methods, you may need much more.  Graphics can be bought cheaply, but in most cases, you get what you pay for.  Having quality graphics done is good for your company’s image, and it helps you make the best possible first impression.

Have you tuned into our NEW Writer’s Radio Show? We are rolling now! Join us at Blog Talk Radio each and every week for our new shows. You will be fired, inspired, encouraged, and equipped. Tune in live OR download our shows to listen at your convenience. Tune in here!

Businesses are like relationships:  commitment is an absolute must if they are to succeed.  Here are some tips for staying focused and pulling through the hard times.

* Write a mission statement if you haven’t done so already. It should concisely detail the purpose of your business and its key philosophies.  Many entrepreneurs neglect to do this unless it is required to obtain funding.  But a mission statement can help you remember why you wanted to start a business in the first place.

* Set goals. If you don’t have something specific to work toward, it’s hard to stay motivated.  By setting challenging yet attainable and measurable goals, you increase your chances of succeeding whether you meet them or not.

* Don’t overwork yourself. Starting and running a business is hard work, and it’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of endless 16-hour days.  It’s rather ironic that this commitment to your business can result in burnout, which can leave you without the energy you need to keep going.  While it may not be feasible to take a vacation when your business is just getting off the ground, it doesn’t hurt to take a day off every now and then.  Taking a breather will give you time to regroup and remember why you chose the path you’re on.

* Outsource the tasks that bore or frustrate you. Small business owners often fall into the trap of thinking they must do everything themselves.  Sometimes they are on tight budgets and don’t feel they can afford to hire help, whilst others are unwilling to let go of the total control they have.  But if you’re suffering from a lack of motivation, outsourcing can get you back on track by allowing you to focus on the things you love about your business.

* Evaluate the state of your business. If you’ve hit a rough spot, perhaps a change of plans is in order.  You may need to focus your offerings more tightly, rethink your marketing methods, or invest in better equipment.  By isolating and solving the problem, you can get back to business as usual.

Sometimes it’s hard to maintain the level of commitment that we have in the initial phases of a business venture.  By doing what it takes to remain focused and remembering why we chose this path in the first place, we can keep ourselves motivated.  When we reach our goals, we will realize that it was all worthwhile.

“Search engine optimization copywriting” or SEO, is a method of writing viewable or easily scanned text on your web page which is very acceptable and readable for the internet user as well as targets certain or exact search terms, having the purpose of ranking high in search engines.

“SEO Copywriting” generally optimizes and enhances other on-page components for search terms being targeted, namely the title, the description and likewise keywords tags, alt text and headings.

Search engines require and look for authentic content pages, rather than additional pages which are designed solely for attaining high rankings; this then, is the concept of “SEO copywriting”.  And for this reason, search engines may not likely consider SEO pages with undesirable copywriting content.

Simply put, your site’s content must follow good marketing standards, having great interaction with your visitors because excellent “SEO copywriting” acknowledges the fact that humans make the purchasing decisions and not “spiders”.

It is recommended that your content comprises of about 250 words that are viewable per page, having a maximum of two targeted keywords or search terms located strategically inside the text as well as in other on-page components.

A good quality and informative copywriting content indeed is the very foundation for a website to be successful. A good content and excellent website setup will direct your visitors to what exactly they desire while collecting or inquiring for information in your website. A well developed and constructed content page really is important for powerful website content and can take a huge bound in your keyword ranking approach.

Always remember that internet surfers do not “read” all the time your content, but rather, their tendency is just to scan through the page, searching for prominent and attractive sentences and words. Meaning that for you to magnetize your visitors, you need to write not only convincing and captivating content, but also scannable.

When a prospect visits your site searching for a service or product, it can be due to fact that they find your information educational and helpful; thus it actually depends on the quality of your content and what type of information that you supply your visitors that determines whether they stay or leave your website. A content rich in keywords will leave an enduring impression for your SEO campaign.

Here are a few guidelines on writing good quality SEO content:

1.  Understand and determine your “key phrases” before you begin writing. Returning and then editing an already existing copy so to reach higher keyword concentration can be a difficult task which often results in fragmented sentences, complicated statements and a copy that is stiff sounding. If you already know the “key phrases”, then you are able to construct a complete and flowing stream of ideas.

2.  Know who your target audiences are. You need to determine your target clients before writing your content, so that you can address them properly. You can not write a good quality, informative and persuading content without knowing your visitors requirements, problems and needs.

Your content should offer a solution to their problems and you need to first identify that problem before you can determine a solution.

3.  Incorporate your “key phrases” in the headlines. Almost all search engines believe that a headline is a significant part of your copy which means that the text that comprises the headlines bears additional effect.

When you make headlines, be certain to construct them so that they also carry the keyword that you have used in your content. Also take note of the “HTML encryption for your title. When you make bold headlines and incorporating them in “<H1>” or “<H2>” tags, they will catch the search engine’s attention.

4.  Scatter or distribute properly your “key phrases” all throughout the body of your article. To do this effectively, focus on just a maximum of three primary keywords and let them naturally flow in your article.

There is what is called a “3 percent guideline” which states that 3 percent of the words in your article must be “keywords”. You should take note however, that this is only a guideline; do not ruin a good article just so to achieve the three percent guideline by insisting on the keywords in sentences where it does not fit just so to achieve the “3 percent guideline.”

Just remember that a literature form of writing is not what is required in SEO copywriting; it just makes a poor web content. SEO copywriting demands that you specifically need to write for the internet, something that is very much different from a literature or storybook style of writing.

There is more to web copywriting than merely writing well. Keep this in mind:  Effective web copywriting and keywords “search engine optimization” mean the same thing.

There are lots of ways to get them there, but the question is – how do you keep them returning? If a reader isn’t impressed by your blog at all, then they’ll leave your blog, never to return again.

With them goes their blog’s traffic that you could’ve benefited from if they’d linked to you. Here are some tips to make your blog appealing enough to keep the traffic there to earn you some money.

Evaluate Your Design!

The most common mistake some bloggers make is in their blog’s design. Blog readers not only look for interesting and informative content – they also want to come to an inviting space to read it.

The blog’s design needs to be inviting to them and comforting. It’s crucial not to have anything that would annoy them to the point of leaving because they can’t stand it. Make sure you’re not annoying them with colored font that’s hard to read or a bunch of graphics that are too distracting.

A few animated graphics are fine, but don’t have flashing ads and glittering graphics detracting from your blog’s message – or your strategically-placed advertisements. It’s fine to use colored font for your posts, but make sure it’s easy to read.

A pale yellow font color against a pure white background may be too difficult for the visitors to read. They shouldn’t clash with the background color either. Clashing colors can give visitors headaches, so they’ll leave your site without bookmarking it for a later visit.
Content! Content! Content!

The other common mistake bloggers tend to make is with their content. Some bloggers don’t update very often. If you only post once a month, your readers will forget you’re there and won’t return to your site. Post to your blog at least three times a week to keep human visitors and search engine spiders coming back.

Some bloggers also make the mistake of only providing text content to their blogs. Text posts are great, but mix it up a little every once in awhile with multi-media formats. Provide some interesting pictures, audio files and videos. Offer a little variety and your visitors will come back to check and see what else you’ve been up to.

Stay Focused!

It’s also important to stick to your blog’s niche topic. If you’re blogging about homeschooling, then stick to that topic. Providing information about a celebrity’s latest excursion will turn off your readers unless it somehow relates to homeschooling.

To make your blog successful in bringing you money, make sure you make the blog appealing to your readers. If your readers keep coming back, your chances of making money from your ads and offers will increase.

Oh! Don’t feel bad if your answer is “NO” right now. (at least until the end of this post!)

I just got the most AMAZING journal as a gift. A friend of mine sent my entire family a journal each. Not just ANY journal either! Designer journals! It was such a treat. Not just because they were special designer journals. Rather, it was more because of what was going on in MY HEART right before she sent them. Well, you may need a bit of background!

I have always kept notebooks, journals, and idea books. But, I have not been journaling. GASP!?

No, something deep within has hindered me from journaling. Was it reading Anne Frank’s diary in school? Ugh…well, probably…I remember thinking that IF we were being required to read her diary…then…ugh…I might not ever want to journal MY THOUGHTS…they could be at risk! Insane huh? ha!

It might be more than that!

There is something else just a bit deeper that has kept me from journaling. Actually a few things!

First, valuing my own thoughts! For real! Journaling is an investment. It is an investment of time and money. Something deep within me has held me back from preserving those thoughts. They are so rambly (is that a possible word???)…they say things that I am not sure I want in print…they have no specific focus…they lack any refinement. With all of that said, see my dilemma with investing my time to journal them down? See my dilemma with placing THOSE thoughts into a beautiful journal?

Second, fearing my thoughts! Scare you yet? No, I am just like you! I get SOOOooo mad at my in-laws. I get so frustrated parenting. I get PMS. I battle fears (obviously!). And…that is not all! I also get TOTALLY hyped up over things that God blesses me with. Truth here? Yep! I get afraid that journaling my thoughts just might make me “sound” manic! hehe! Oh, yet another dilemma that hinders me from journaling!

And…ugh…TOO BUSY! Enough said? Well…this one just wasn’t a good enough reason, but it was probably one of the largest hindrances to journaling! Getting so busy with so many things–many of which are very insignificant compared to the riches of journaling. Yet, the very things that get done!

Excuses. Excuses. Excuses!

Can you believe I write ANY books and articles? These are the same things that hinder some of you from writing!

Yep! I battle with the same things that YOU battle against!

BUT! ONE THING is needful!

We all NEED to journal!

Journaling is especially necessary for the very reasons that I have not been journaling! I need to journal! YOU need to journal! Why?

Journaling processes our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. It pulls them out of the deep recesses of our mind. Once it is on paper, we can literally disect our thoughts and see the hidden jewels in there! Totally necessary for the Christian writer! Actually, journaling is one of the most essential disciplines for the Christian writer. In a journal, a writer can brainstorm…outline…collect ideas…and work out a manuscript. Humm…only our enemy of our soul would want to discourage such a discipline!

Which brings me back to this amazing gift!

Just the day before the journal arrived, I was sitting with my family in a bookstore just pondering a million and one thoughts. I saw the cutest little journals just within eye-range. I sat there thinking, “WOW! It would be a great time of my life to begin journaling! There is SOOOo much going on in my mind. I really need to put these thoughts on paper.” Then, my brain kept racing…”Maybe I can invest in a journal JUST for these thoughts…BUT (you know where this is going!)…they cost soooo much…I would mess those pretty journals up with my crazy thoughts….” FOR REAL! And…I discounted the whole idea away.

The mail came the next day with all of the every day stuff–except a very precious box. As I opened it up, all I could do was cry. God had moved in my friend’s heart to have a journal sent to me. BUT, not just ANY journal! A designer journal! YEP! FOR REAL! It is one of the most beautiful journals I have ever seen!

Heather invested IN ME!

Words truly are so insufficient to capture what has gone on in my heart every since!

My first reactions were…”NOW THIS ONE *REALLY* IS TOO PRETTY TO USE!” (it is!) But, God moved on my heart immediately to say, “Cindy, Heather wanted to bless you and you can do nothing less than pour into this journal your heart!”

So, there it is! The beginning of MY journal!

My first entry included this (no worries to MY mind–I am not typing in EVERYTHING!),

“…Another thing that this gift does is convict me about journaling. Do you think Heather knew that there is so much on my heart and I just needed to pour it into a good friend? My first response was so wrong–”Oh! It’s too pretty to use with what *I* think and feel!” HELLO! Yep! I am a writer–80+ books–100’s of articles–and yet can it be that I do not value my own heart cries? My own exhilaration? My own walk with you? My own wisdom? Well this journal is too beautiful and too dear to NOT write in! To not record these precious days! Goodness my life is pivoting on the edge right now–I am walking into a Great Big Place! You, beloved journal, get to be my friend and host of all that desperately needs to be poured forth! Ready? Meet ya soon! Cindy”

So…all of this “ado” to bring me to a question for you….

Journaling?

Beloved, are you journaling? Are you clinging to your excuses?

Today is the day! Invest in your new friend today! Nurture your heart! Nurture your creativity! Nurture your brain! You will never be the same!

Ohhhh!

Journaling! Do it TODAY!

Writing to See Writers Reach Their Dreams…
Check out my NEW site just for writers!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

So…You Want to be a Writer???
Check out our NEW Audio Seminar and Membership Site!
Sign up and get STEP-BY-STEP Help through Setting Up Your Own Wordpress Website!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com/onlineseminars.html

* Decide on your topic/theme/book subject.

* Brainstorm all that could be included in your book—try creating a mind-map, making a list of what you want to cover, or jotting down chapters or sections of your book. If other thoughts come to mind, write them down as fast as possible. Keep jotting down ideas as they come. Do not censor your thoughts. That is for later!

* Look back over your ideas. Choose your subtopics (your chapters/sections of your book). These should support your main topic/theme.

* Under each subtopic, go back and fit in any points to be covered (in each chapter/section). The more ideas under each section, the better your details (although that is not necessary) Your details will become your paragraphs and sentences in your chapters.

* You are ready to write!

Writing to See Writers Reach Their Dreams…
Check out my NEW site just for writers!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com

So…You Want to be a Writer???
Check out our NEW Audio Seminar and Membership Site!
Sign up and get STEP-BY-STEP Help through Setting Up Your Own Wordpress Website!
http://www.Writers-Nook.com/onlineseminars.html

* Carry a notebook with you just for brainstorming/mindmapping.
* Draw a circle in the middle of a piece of paper. Inside of that circle, write down your topic.
* Without censoring yourself, quickly jot down related ideas and thoughts that come to mind. Enclose each in a circle, and draw a line to the original topic. If those trigger ideas, jot those down attached to the idea that triggers those extra ideas.
* Go back through deciding what you will use in your story/outline. Use ideas to generate your subtopics and details covered in your books.
* Keep your mind-map. You may need extra ideas later!