Finance Advices

posted by admin on Dec 24

The Sales Business Cycle - Part 2

By: Daryl Cowie

In part 1 we talked about the importance of getting leads to a successful sales cycle. But a lead that never reaches a decision to buy is ultimately just a liability. It’s not enough to find a lot of interested people. At some point you need to get those people to decide to purchase something from you if you want to stay in business.

Conversion - Convincing People We Have What They Need

Conversion is the process of getting the customer, or lead, to a state of mind where they have decided they are going to get what you are offering. Let’s be very clear on this because it’s important. It is not the process of actually getting the customer to buy. It is the process of getting them to decide in their minds that they are going to buy; to get them to say “okay let’s do it” in their minds and begin to picture themselves already owning it rather than continuing to debate with themselves about whether or not they really want it.

We are going to consider two critical aspects of conversion:

1. identifying the best solution for the customer, and

2. the fact that people buy from people

Remember that business is about helping ourselves by helping others. The best sales person (or conversion expert) is someone who is always genuinely trying to get the best for their customers. They do this by taking the time to understand what their customers want and then helping them identify ways to meet their needs and wants. As with all problem solving it is important to understand the question before offering solutions. Conversion through identifying the best solution for the customer follows these steps:

1. Identify the Initial Want or Need

2. Identify the Customer Motivation (refer back to the section on Why People Buy)

3. Isolate the Key Requirements

4. Offer Solutions (Focus on the Key Requirements and Customer Motivation)

5. Discuss the Benefits (Focus on the Key Requirements and Customer Motivation)

6. Overcome the Objections (Focus on the Key Requirements and Customer Motivation)

7. Reach a Commitment to Buy

Conversion is the process of getting through all these stages. It may happen in few minutes or over several months depending on the nature of the sale.

People buy from People. There are many sales courses out there that focus on the “Identify the problem, offer the solution” approach to sales. They cover the items listed above in one way or another and give valuable instruction on how to progress through each stage.

The Sales Business Cycle - Part 1
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The Sales Business Cycle - Part 2
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The Sales Business Cycle - Part 2
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The Sales Business Cycle - Part 3
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The Sales Business Cycle - Part 3
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People buy from people.

Remember the last time you went to the mall looking for something? You browsed through three stores. In one store the sales person was more interested in going on their break than helping you. In another you got no help at all. In the last store you were greeted with a smile and “Hi, what brings you in today?” Who did you buy from? The company you liked the best? The store with the best products based on your personal research? No, you bought from the nice person. We all do it. Unless there is some other very compelling differentiator we buy from the people that we like. This is true in consumer and business to business transactions.

In the people-buy-from-people school of sales conversion there are three steps:

1. Sell yourself

2. Sell your company

3. Sell your product or service

Establishing a personal relationship whether it is just learning a name, or spending months getting to know someone, is the first step to creating successful long-term sales relationships. If people don’t like you it usually doesn’t matter about your product or your company. If they don’t trust the company, they won?t believe what you tell them about the product or service. Sell yourself, sell your company, and then sell your product or service.

The most effective sales people use these two approaches together to convince you to reach a decision to buy something you want, from someone you like and trust.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9622.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 23

Unsecured Loans Â? Borrow As Per Individual Circumstances

By: Simon Tauffel

Although you will borrow only a smaller amount as unsecured loans, the very loan can become a source of burdensome debts, if you do not take out the loan carefully. People often opt for these loans in the hope that they will get the approval with ease. They should first consider some fine points of availing the loan in a suitable manner.

Both tenants and homeowners can have access to these loans. There is no clause of collateral associated with the loan, making it fully risk free for the borrowers. The only risk is that your credit rating will go down in the event of not making the timely payments.

In the absence of collateral, your repayment ability is the sole basis of the loan approval. You should make an assuring repayment plan, keeping your earnings and month outgoings in mind. Your employment record and bank statements are also essential in taking the loan.

Check your credit report for making sure that it has recorded all of your timely payments of the past correctly. The lenders will go through the report for judging the risks you carry. Ensure that you apply for these loans with an improved FICO score, for relaxed terms-condition and comparatively lower rate of interest.

You can borrow from £1000 to £25000, as unsecured loans. However, there is a high cost attached, as the lenders tend to charge interest at higher rate for covering the risks. The borrowed amount carries shorter repayment duration of few months to 15 years.

Unsecured Loans ? Borrow As Per Individual Circumstances
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Unsecured Loans ? Borrow As Per Individual Circumstances
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Unsecured Loans ? Borrow As Per Individual Circumstances
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Unsecured Loans: Makes Your Money Availing Without Pledging
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Secured loans ? smart borrowing for homeowners
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Borrow a smaller amount. Be prepared for paying the interest at enhanced rate.

For a suitable deal, make efforts to avail unsecured loans at competitive interest rate. Apply for the rates and compare them. Compare the additional fees as well. To build up a good credit history, ensure that the loan repayment is on regular basis.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9789.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 22

Commercial Bridging Loan: Commercial Set Up Made Easy

By: Eva Baldwyn

Businessmen who are in need of money to provide a boost to their business may be thinking that getting the finance may be difficult. But if they look around well, they can get the opportunity easily and get the money through a commercial bridging loan. This will help them make their business run well again with the necessary changes made.

With this loan, the borrowers can fulfill all the requirements that happen and occur in their business. The money may be used for the payment of the labor force, buying raw material, setting up new machines, packaging costs, marketing etc. the borrowers may use up this loan for the already running business or even in a new business.

The borrowers are suggested to prepare a report about the business which states its aims and objectives, the expected revenue, costs, labor force, partnerships and ownerships etc. this is an important step so that the borrower can convince the lenders about the viability of the business and thereby get a lower rate deal for the money.

The secured and the unsecured form of this loan can be borrowed by the businessman according to his needs. For the former, an asset has to be pledged with the lender to get a bigger amount. The term of repayment for these loans is 5-25 years. For the unsecured form however, the borrowers will be able to get money but in a smaller amount and without pledging any assets with the lender.

Commercial Bridging Loan: Commercial Set Up Made Easy
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Commercial Bridging Loan: Commercial Set Up Made Easy
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Bridging loan: best option for property transaction
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Bridging Loan: Best Option For Property Transaction
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Use Short Term Bridging Loan to Bridge the Cash Gap
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The borrower is suggested to research well for taking up these loans. This is because the borrower would not want any problem to arise in the future for his business so only those borrowers who have a good reputation should be considered for taking up these loans.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9698.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 21

Personal loans Â? a smart way to finance your needs

By: David Lynes - Loans4

There are times when most of us need to take out some form of finance to help us to get the things we want in life, and there are many different forms of finance available to help us do this. If you are looking to by a home you can enjoy a choice of mortgage loans, for the purchase of a vehicle there are car loans, for every day needs there are credit cards, and for paying off expensive debts you can get consolidation loans.

Another form of finance is a personal loan, and these loans can be used for pretty much any purpose, so whatever you are thinking of purchasing or doing with the money a personal loan could be a smart and effective way to finance your needs. You will find that there are a number of competitive personal loans available from a variety of lenders, and you should therefore be able to find a personal loan that suits you in terms of interest rate and repayment terms.

You can use your personal loan for all sorts of purposes, such as buying a vehicle, treating yourself to a holiday, funding a wedding, purchasing items for your home, and just about any other purpose. You will be able to look forward to affordable repayments with your personal loan, making your purchase more affordable, and by comparing a range of different personal loans you can find the one that suits your needs and your pocket.

You need to bear in mind that eligibility requirements for personal loans can vary from one lender to another, and other areas such as interest rates and repayment terms can also vary, which is why it is important that you take the time to compare a range of loans from different lenders. You can use the Internet to compare different personal loan deals in order to find the best one for you.

Browsing and comparing personal loans from different lenders can be a time consuming process, and you need to also remember that getting a personal loan may prove more difficult now than in the past because of the effects of the global credit crunch. With these factors in mind you may find that the best way to find an affordable and suitable personal loan is through a specialist broker, who can search the market on your behalf and find a loan that fits in with your needs and your budget.

Personal loans ? a smart way to finance your needs
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The Car Loan Calculator - A Smart Tool For Financial Clarity
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Secured loans ? smart borrowing for homeowners
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Credit Card Debt: How to Become Credit Smart
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An Insight into Personal Loans
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Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9663.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 20

Secured loans Â? using your asset as security

By: David Lynes - Loans4

If you are a homeowner in the UK and you are looking to borrow money for one of a wide range of purposes, then you can enjoy an added advantage compared to non-homeowners, and this is the ability to use your home as security. Your home can act as a valuable asset in many ways, and in addition to providing you and your loved ones with a valuable investment that could benefit you in the future, as well as providing you with a home, it can also be used to provide you increased financial leverage.

Over recent years more and more people have started to take advantage of the rising levels of equity in their homes by using their asset to borrow money. Borrowing money against your home means that you can enjoy a range of benefits that you would not get with secured loans, such as longer repayment periods, lower monthly repayments, greater borrowing power, and more. For many homeowners borrowing money by using the home as security has become an effective and affordable way to borrow.

Another benefit of using your asset as security in order to borrow money is that you have a far better chance of getting the finance that you need if you have poor credit. Those with damaged credit may find it difficult of even impossible to get a loan in the current financial climate, but the chances of getting a loan that is secured against the home are far greater because of the additional security provided to the lender.

In order to use your home as security in order to get a loan you first need to determine the value of the property, which you can do by getting several estate agent valuations as well as checking out the cost of similar homes in the same area. You then need to work out how much you owe on the property by way of mortgage or secured loans ? you will normally have to contact the lenders in order to get accurate figures.

You should then deduct the total amount that you owe on the home from the market value of the property, and this will give you your equity figure. You can then get an idea of how much you may be able to borrow by way of a secured loan, although the lender will also have to take other factors into consideration in addition to your equity levels when deciding this.

Great Value Secured Loans
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What Is A Secured Loan
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Secured Personal Loans: Incur The Least Burden
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Unsecured Loans - Who Asks You to Put Up a Security?
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Bad Credit Loans: Money For Bad Times To Help You
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The first is that you could risk losing your home if you are unable to keep up with repayments on a secured loan. The second is that you could fall into negative equity where you owe more on the property than the value of the property in the event that house prices fall.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9636.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 19

Bridging Loan: Best Option For Property Transaction

By: Eva Baldwyn

Selling an existing property in order to raise money for buying a new one usually creates a financial gap. A bridging loan particularly caters to this kind of cash gap that arises during a real estate transaction. Bridging loan also fills up temporary shortfall while buying property at an auction.

A bridging loan is a secured loan where a significant property has to be placed as collateral. It includes

? residential properties

? auction properties

? commercial and semi commercial properties

? development sites

? retail shops

In a bridging loan, heavy machinery and inventory can also function as security.

The loan amount approved in a bridging loan ranges between £25,000 and £500,000. The loan is offered on the value of the collateral and not on the purchase price. A method called loan to value ratio is used for calculating the loan amount. Generally up to 80% of the total value of the property is approved in bridging loan.

Bridging loan can be obtained in two types - closed bridging loan and open bridging loan depending upon the status of the property deal. If the deal has already been finalized, then the loan will be a closed one. But if the borrower is yet to find a buyer for the property, then it will be an open loan which is slightly risky for the lender in case the sale does not materialize.

The repayment term of bridging loan is very short stretching from 1 to 12 months. During this period the borrower has to sell the existing property to repay the loan.

Bridging loan: best option for property transaction
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Residential Bridging Loan: Avails A New Home Instantly
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Residential Bridging Loan: Avails A New Home Instantly
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Bridging Loan Advice: To Know Your Loan In And Out
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Bridging Loan Advice: To Know Your Loan In And Out
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While looking for a bridging loan, a borrower should compare the quotes offered by different lenders to choose the lowest possible rate. Due to stiff competition, lenders offer loans at differentiated rates. This is thus a way of countering the high interest rate charged on this loan. An online research can further help him to get better rates.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9692.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 18

Superior Leader - Warren Buffet

By: Michael J. Spindler

Superior business leader and American investor Warren Buffett is often called ?Oracle of Omaha? or the ?Sage of Omaha? and philanthropist. (Wikipedia, 2007) Buffett is the CEO, and the biggest shareholder of the Berkshire Hathaway Company. Buffett?s has an estimated current net worth of approximately $52 billion in US funds. Forbes Magazine ranks Buffett the third richest person in the world in September 2007 behind Carlos Slim and Bill Gates.

Warren Buffett is known for his economical and plain lifestyle. Buffett still lives in the same Omaha, Nebraska house that he purchased in 1958 for $31,500 with a current value of $700,000. In 1989, Buffett spent $9.7 million of the Berkshire?s funds on a corporate jet. He jokingly named it ?The Indefensible? because of his past criticisms of such purchases by other CEOs. (Wikipedia, 2007)

Warren Buffett decided to make a commitment to give his fortune to charity back in June 2006. Buffett?s charity donation is approximately $30 billion, which is the largest donation in the history of the United States. The donation was enough to more than double the size of the foundation with 83% of it going to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Buffett believed that his family had enough money to get started in life so Buffett decided to give his fortune to charity. Buffett?s annual salary in 2006 was only $100,000. In 2007, Buffett was listed among Time Magazine?s 100 Most Influential People in the World. (Wikipedia, 2007)

What makes Warren Buffett a good business leader? This is what everyone wants to know because Warren buffet is so successful. It all starts with leadership. Warren buffet is a true leader where his leadership makes a difference in the world. Leadership is very much related to change and Warren Buffett has the capabilities of leadership change to fit the changing world. Warren Buffett has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to map read in the irregular waters of change. Is Warren Buffett born a leader? The authors of this paper believe not. Experience and research has shown little evidence that an individual who comes to power is a ?born leader.? Warren Buffett took the falls that any other leader has to take. Warren Buffett learned from his mistakes and turned his mistakes into a positive thing. Warren Buffett shares his leadership at all organizational levels and Buffett is empowered to share leadership responsibilities. In the world of business, many titles related to leadership roles are actively used in business and Warren Buffett wears those titles to make him effective in multiple leadership positions in business. Distinction between good leadership and good management is made often. Managers are made to be organizational, controllers and budgeters. Warren Buffett has leadership in all three departments and one must have these traits to be a good business leader.

Another important trait in Today?s business leadership is communication. Warren Buffet is a skilled communicator in all aspects of life. Communication is the real key of leadership. Skilled communicators have an appreciation for positioning in the business world. Warren Buffet is experienced at positioning himself at the right place at the right time. Warren Buffet has the understanding of the people he is trying to reach and what he can and cannot hear from the people. Knowledge of audiences? needs and wants gives the orator the ability to listen. Warren Buffett is an excellent listener with the ability to convey his understanding.

When Warren Buffett talks, people listen. Warren Buffett can send a message through an open door and does not have to push the message through a wall.

Leadership is crucial to any successful business and good leadership is what Warren Buffett is all about. This is what makes Warren buffet a good business leader.

Mr. Warren Buffett?s investment strategies and course of leadership are shining examples of characteristics shared by cognitive theorists. Cognitive theory is an approach of explaining behavior through perception, anticipation, and thinking. Mr. Buffett?s continual approach of analyzing both possible investment choices, market trends, and the ability to place management resources of the right caliber in the right position has consistently brought this investor to the forefront amongst peers and the marketplace. At the core of every sound investor is a creative innovator.

Innovation demands creativity. Creativity in turn draws on our cognitive faculties, across the full amplitude from emotion to reason. In the number-heavy world of global investing, innovative thinking is critical. Innovative investors decipher future trends, spot likely winners by combining science (financials) with art (acuity and perception) and continuously mitigate risk. They assess user needs, product features, the proper deployment of money, professional organizational structures and risk management. (Kore Kalibre, 2006)

Mr. Buffett?s instinct and ability to interpret market trends is also held by tight reigns. Despite over 50 years of growth, Mr. Buffett always adheres to one of the most basic business principles: ??only compete where you have a competitive advantage. Warren Buffett refers to staying within your circle of competence. Social psychologists tell us, though, that we are prone to overconfidence when it comes to assessing our abilities?? (Arthridge, 2006) A man of Warren Buffett?s position and track record could easily be derailed to a sense of over confidence. The principle of only competing within your range of competitive advantage is a principle that can be applied to many other areas in life, and Mr. Buffett?s ability to work and live by this idea has allowed him to continue forward with minimal bruising.

By establishing the previous examples, the authors can reinforce the principles of cognitive theory in that Mr. Buffett behavior patterns are clearly dictated by thought processes, which include interpretation, analysis, and foresight. ?As experiences and events gain meaning and value, the process becomes increasingly top down as the mind in (a) attempt at an orderly process influences perception though beliefs, goals and external process? (Gardener, 2007)

Warren Buffett?s is a self empowered leader, because he is loyal, sets goals, plans a strategy for achievement, and stays committed until he accomplishes his purpose. Up to date, he is the greatest stockbroker of all-time.

Mastering Your Mind For Stock Market Profit
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Mastering Your Mind For Stock Market Profit
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Mastering Your Mind For Stock Market Profit
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Ben Graham And Mr. Market
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For example, Coca-Cola, Gillette Razors, See?s Candy, Gulfstream Jet, and GEICO are the major companies he invested in. In the nineties his assets quadrupled in less than five years. He is a smart investor that usually does not take big investment risks. For example, he will not invest in internet stock, because the return is unpredictable. He likes to invest in companies that he is sure will be successful 20 years later. He buys the company with the intentions of keeping it forever. Usually, the management team of each company is the same staff that sold it Warren Buffett from the beginning. He stays loyal to his partners, and the team workstheir best to keep him happy.

After Warren Buffett?s wife died, he decided to donate 85% of his money to charity. However, ?he wants his money to be used the same year he donates it?.(Harris, 2006) The requirement will accelerate the process to help the world. According to Fortune magazine, five-sixths of his money will go to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This foundation which focus on finding cures for diseases that are common in poor nations. The rest of the money will be split among four other charities, that are each run by his three children and one that is in his late wife?s name.

Warren Buffett is not a huge spender. In fact, he still lives in the same house he bought 40 years ago. Warren ?told ABC News ?Nightline? that being born into wealth did not entitle his children?(Harris, 2006). In addition, he told Fortune magazine that, ?A very rich person would leave his kids enough to do anything, but not enough to do nothing.?(Harris, 2006) In other words, he wants his children to work earn their money and value hard work and smart choices.

In the year 2006, Warren?s first annual donation to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation was $1.5 billion and the rest was divided among the four charities. He was the first person to make a donation better than Bill Gates, the richest man in the world. It seems as if Bill Gates and Warren Buffett set a good example and lead others to be more generous, because now the Barron Hilton has committed to donating half of his fortune to charity also. Barron Hilton is the founder of the Hilton Hotels and is worth $2.3 billion. Hopefully, a trend started among the fortunate to give to the less fortunate.

The personality of Warren Buffett ties to the Social Cognitive Level, because he tries to understand and make sense of other people. He observes the differences in social knowledge when dealing with people. Social cognition refers to making sense of ourselves, others, and how the information is used. In the sixties and seventies Albert Bandura and Walter Mischel were psychologists, studying personality development. They found that social learning and cognitive principles improve ones abilities to self-regulate and to follow goals. Warren investment choices were successful, because he conditioned his the way he processed information, choices, and expectations.

References - DO Not Strip References!

Gardener, J. (2007). Cognitive Behavior Theory. Retrieved December 26, 2007, from http://www.cognitivebehavior.com/theory/index.html

Harris, D. (2006, June 26,). Warren Buffett’s Unprecedented Generosity. Retrieved December 31, 2007, from http://abcnews.go.com/print?id=2118501

Kore Kalibre (2006, March-April 2006). Warren Buffett?s Innovation: Staying away from Rapid Product Innovation. Retrieved December 26, 2007, from http://www.korekalibre.com/index.php?option=com_magazine&task=show_magazine_article&magazine_id=26

Legg Mason Value Trust (2006, October 26). Legg Mason Value Trust (LMVTX) Letter to Shareholders. Retrieved December 26, 2007, from http://markets.kiplinger.com/kiplinger?GUID=323448&Page=MediaViewer&Ticker=LMVTX

Wikipedia (2007, December 25). Warren Buffett. Retrieved December 18, 2007, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warren_Buffett

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9808.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 17

Streamline your finances with a homeowner loan

By: David Lynes - Loans4

Juggling a range of different debts and dealing with a variety of different creditors can really mess up some people’s finances. When you have all sorts of payments going out on different dates, for differing amounts, and to different creditors, things can get confusing and frustrating, and before you know it you’ve lost track of your accounts altogether. It can therefore prove extremely beneficial to arrange your finances so that you are making fewer repayments and dealing with fewer creditors.

Many people decide to try and ease their financial problems by streamlining their finances, and there are a number of ways in which you can do this. One way is to go through your finances with a fine tooth comb and get rid of any wasted payments. It is surprising how many people continue to make payments each month on things like memberships and subscriptions that they no longer use ? by getting rid of these you can streamline your finances and enjoy reducing your monthly outgoings.

Another way of streamlining your finances is by consolidating all of your debts, and as a homeowner you can do this with a low rate homeowner loan. Using a homeowner loan to streamline your finances can prove very effective, as it means that you can reduce your outgoings as well as making financial management far easier. By using a homeowner loan to streamline your finances you can use one low rate homeowner loan to pay off a range of higher interest debts, such as store cards, credit cards, and high interest loans.

You will find that many reputable secured lenders are able to offer competitive homeowner loans, and this means that you can tap into your equity in the home in order to make your finances more manageable and your debts more affordable. In order to gain maximum benefit it is important to find a loan that offers low rates of interest, suitable repayment periods, and low monthly repayments.

Streamline your finances with a homeowner loan
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Homeowner loan ? an ideal way to consolidate your debts
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Homeowner loan ? an ideal way to consolidate your debts
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Homeowner loan ? an ideal way to consolidate your debts
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Once you have paid off your existing debts with a homeowner loan you will also have fewer repayments to make each month and fewer creditors to deal with, so sorting out your finances will prove to be less stressful and more manageable.

If you want to get a good deal on a homeowner loan to streamline your finances you can use a specialist broker, who will be able to take some details from you and use these to find the most affordable homeowner loan for your needs and circumstances.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9676.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 16

Making Money Share Trading Â? The Reality

By: Daniel Kertcher

Australians own more shares per capita then any other nation on the planet, with more than 54% of our population owning shares.

Until recently, most share investors bought shares and let them sit in the bottom drawer. With improvements in technology and an increased awareness and responsibility for financial planning, thousands of people are becoming share traders, buying and selling shares on a regular basis. And you can see why!

Over the past couple of years, certain company share prices have risen well over a 1000%, some over 5000%! So the temptation is extremely strong to start trading shares, rather then just sitting on them, especially when most of our blue chip companies have recently fallen in value.

Well, what goes up, must come down and most of those companies that skyrocketed over the past 18 months have not only run out of steam, but have come screaming back down, producing staggering losses for investors who have held on.

Now, I?m sure I?m not telling you something you don?t already know. However, it is amazing the number of people who still view the market as a free lunch, and do not practice safe trading strategies. They expect every share trade they do to provide excellent returns and then panic when their trades go against them.

Successful share traders all around the world have different trading strategies and systems, however they all agree on one basic principle, keep your losses small and let your profits run!

Throwing darts at a dart board as a share selection technique might sound a ridiculous way to choose share investments, but highlights the fact that choosing shares to buy is not as important as managing each trade once you?ve entered the market. Most traders enter trades based on rumours, tips and chat lines, which are really no better than using the dart board. However you choose to enter the market, be sure to adopt a strict STOP-LOSS strategy.

STOP-LOSS

A stop-loss is a predetermined point at which you will exit the trade, even if you are in a losing position. Many traders place a stop-loss 5% below the value of the shares when they purchase them. This means that they should not lose anymore than 5% (excluding slippage and volatile market movements) of the value of their share trade.

As the share price rises, ratchet up the stop-loss so that it is always 5% below the value of the shares. The 5% level is indicative only. You must determine your own level of risk for each share trade you make.

The best traders in the world know the power of a disciplined trading approach that incorporates stop-losses into every trade. For example, if you made 20 trades, and out of those 20 trades, 10 were losses, you can still make money. How can you make any money when 50% of your trades are losses? Well consider this. Let?s say, as an example:

10 trades lose the maximum of 5%

3 trades make a profit of 5%

2 trades make a profit of 10%

2 trades make a profit of 15%

2 trades make a profit of 20%

1 trade makes a profit of 30%

Overall, our portfolio would rise 4.

Making Money Share Trading ? The Reality
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How Are Share Prices Measured And Why Do They Change?
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What Is Short Selling?
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How To Plan For Success In The Share Market
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This is the reality of trading. Accepting losses AND wins, but keeping the losses small, and letting the profits run.

The other aspect to successful share trading is excepting reasonable returns. As most share trades last between two weeks and two months, our 4-5% return is pretty good. It certainly beats bank interest rates, when considered over a yearly period. However, many novice traders try to make every trade the BIG score. In fact, one popular technique is to place all the available investment capital onto one or two different shares.

This is gambling. In this case, you?re much better off at the casino, as you won?t pay tax on any winnings. This is not a sensible or recommended trading approach. Successful traders spread their capital over 10-20 separate trades to minimise the risk and allow for losing trades.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9615.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 15

Top 5 reasons to use online banking

By: David Lynes - Loans4

In recent years online banking has become increasingly popular, and many consumers have benefited from being able to conduct all of their banking transactions online without having to resort to queuing in the local bank or spending time trying to get through automated switchboard in order to speak to someone on the phone.

Online banking allows you to run your day to day finances, and manage your bank account, with ease and convenience, and with this method of banking you are always in control. With online banking you get to enjoy convenience, ease, speed, and increased control, which is why so many people now decide to conduct their banking transactions online rather than at a branch. The main reasons many people opt to use online banking are:

1. The ultimate in convenience: When you use online banking you can conduct your transactions from the comfort and privacy of your own home, so you won’t have to worry about going out to your local branch, spending time queuing up, and trying to fit your banking commitments into your busy day, which can be particularly difficult for those that work full time.

2. No time constraints: With regular banking you are restricted in terms of when you can contact or call in to the bank in order to conduct transactions, and this can prove difficult for those with busy lifestyles and full time jobs. However, when you opt for online banking you can conduct transactions at any time of the day or night, which means that you can effectively manage your account around the clock.

3. Do everything you need to online: You will find that you are able to conduct pretty much any banking transaction that you can perform by phone or visit to your branch by going online, other than withdrawing and depositing cash. This means that you can effectively control your finances from the privacy of your own home.

4. Increased security: Banks now use very secure software to ensure the safety and security of customers, making it safer than ever to bank online. Just remember never to link to your bank account from an email link, as this could be a false link, and do not save your banking passwords and security details on a shared computer that could give others access.

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Online banking ? is it safe to do all your banking online?
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Online banking ? is it safe to do all your banking online?
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24 hour access to your account: With online banking you can access your account 24 hours a day, conducting transactions such as making bill payments, checking your balance and statements, setting up or cancelling direct debits and standing orders, and more.

Gone are the days when you could only gain access to you bank between the hours of 9.30am and 3.30pm.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9672.shtml
.

posted by admin on Dec 14

The 7 Deadly Sins Of Voice Mail To Watch Out For

By: Jefferson Steelflex

Today, it seems more important than ever that we make the most of our business communication. And when we’re selling, using voice mail is one of our most important tools.

By avoiding these 7-Deadly Sins of Voice Mail, you’re giving yourself a much better chance of having your phone call returned by your customer.

SIN #1:

Your name isn’t clear

This is perhaps the most common mistake made. After all - people are extremely familiar with their own names. But you should never make the assumption that your customer or prospect is. The most common problem is that people say their names too quickly and subsequently their first and last names tend to run together.

The Solution:

Slow down when you say your name. Experts advise you to put an audible pause between your first and last name. At first, this can feel strange and foreign to you - but with a little practice, the pause won’t seem so bad. The key is to make 100% certain that the person on the other end of the phone knows both your first and last name.

Now your customer knows who you are.

SIN #2:

Your company name isn’t descriptive enough

This one has become more of an issue since the age of the Internet. Unless you’re working for a globally branded company, the chances are that most people won’t know who your company is, or what it does. This is especially the case if you use an acronym for your company name.

The Solution:

Like your own name, say your company’s name slowly and clearly. If your company’s name is an acronym, consider saying the whole name. Or, at the very least, let people know what it is you do. For example, “I work for ABC Building Supplies, with the widest selection of building supplies in the northwest”.

Now your customer knows who your company is and what your company does.

SIN #3:

No reason why you are calling

I see a lot of “old school” sales types who have a (wrong) belief that you should always try and keep your customers and prospects hidden in a cloud of mystery. The reality is - “mystery” might have worked 30 or 40 years ago, but today’s savvy customer wants none of that. They are generally incredibly well informed and don’t have the time or patience to play games.

The Solution:

Simply tell the person why you are calling. If you want to add more punch, then create a benefit statement that’s compelling to the customer. Remember, it needs to be put in the form of a benefit to your customer - not you - for it to be compelling.

Now your customer knows why you are calling.

SIN #4:

No reference to another person or event

A lot of times when we’re calling someone for the first time, simply saying your name and company generally won’t mean a thing to them.

The Solution:

Chances are, if you’re not calling someone “cold”, then you have a person or a point of reference to use to jog that person’s memory and further “soften” the call. Remember people are much more receptive when there is a common thread. It creates a personal connection. And creating that personal connection is the first step to building trust.

Now your customer personally connects with you.

SIN #5:

No time to call back

Often times, when we’re making out-bound sales calls, we do them one-after-another.

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Which is both time consuming and frustrating for all involved.

The Solution:

Leave your customers with a couple of options when you’ll be available. While it won’t eliminate “phone tag”, it will considerably reduce the odds of it starting in the first place.

Now your customer the best time to call you back.

Sin #6:

Only leaving your name and number once

This sin is very common and very important. As strange as it may seem, when you leave a voice message, the chances of your customer forgetting your name by the end of the message are actually quite high. Most of the time people spend so much time and energy listening to the body of the message, that by the end of it, they’ve already forgotten your name. Making matters worse, people tend to rush through their phone number - again, like their name, because of their familiarity with it - and they generally say it once. This means that your customer often has to rewind and listen to your entire message multiple times to try and decipher what your name and number.

The Solution: Clearly re-state your name in the same way you did at the beginning of the message, thus reminding your customer who you are. Also, state your phone number clearly, two times. Saying your phone number twice will give your customer a chance to correctly write it down without having to rewind the message. If possible say it at the same speed that you would if someone was writing it down in front of you.

Now your customer knows who you are and how to contact you.

Sin #7: There is no warmth in the voice

A rushed voice mail lacking in personal warmth will not be received as well as one that has it. Remember, people want a personal connection - and having warmth in your voice is so much more appealing to your customers.

The Solution:

Smile. It really is that simple. Smile as you leave your voice mails. It’s amazing and true - studies have shown that people can hear your smile. A smile conveys warmth and puts people at ease. So even though it may feel a little strange to smile at a phone while you’re leaving a message on a machine - smile anyway. And if it helps, have a picture of a friend or loved one in front of you to help make it easier.

You may not be able to avoid these 7-Deadly Sins of Voice Mail all the time, but with a little practice, you’ll be leaving a far better voice mail message.

Now it’s time to get back to those phones!

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9732.shtml
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posted by admin on Dec 13

Homeowner loans Â? how to value your home

By: David Lynes - Loans4

If you are a homeowner and are looking to raise finance for one of a wide range of purposes you may find that a homeowner loan offers the perfect solution for your needs, enabling you to enjoy getting the finance that you need as well as enjoying affordability and greater flexibility. A homeowner loan is a loan that is secured against your property, which is why you must be a homeowner to be considered for this type of finance.

There are a number of benefits to opting for a homeowner loan when looking to raise finance. Firstly, you will find that the repayment periods offered are much longer, which means that you can spread the amount that you borrow over a far longer term thus keeping monthly repayments down. Secondly you can get some very competitive rates of interest, so you won?t have to compromise on affordability. Thirdly, secured lenders will often look at those with poor credit as well as those with good credit, so bad credit consumers have a far greater chance of being accepted for a homeowner loan. And finally these homeowner loans offer far greater borrowing power than unsecured loans.

The exact amount that you can borrow in the form of a homeowner loan will depend on a number of factors, and one of the primary factors will be the level of equity that you have in your home. To work out your equity you need to deduct any outstanding mortgage or secured finance from the market value of your property, and the figure that you are left with is your equity level. In order to be accurate about the level of equity that you have in your home you need to make sure that you get an accurate valuable on your home.

House prices at present can change rapidly, and many people were surprised to see that over the last couple of year the value of their homes was way higher than the last time they had them valued, perhaps four or five years ago. Therefore do not base your valuation on a price you may have been given several years ago, and do not attempt to guess.

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Also, do bear in mind that the valuation may differ from one estate agent to another, even if it is only by a small amount, and therefore it is well worth getting quotes from at least three local estate agents in order to get a more accurate idea of the property value. Once you have obtained the value of the property you will have this information to hand ready for when you make your homeowner loan application.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9666.shtml
.

posted by admin on Dec 12

Debt Consolidation Services: Proper Way To Take Care Of Debts

By: Gracie Bishop

Most of the time, individuals do not take any precautionary measures while availing loans. Once they realize, it becomes quite unmanageable to handle. The pressure of debts is such that it takes a Herculean effort from the debtor?s side to get out of it. You may also face similar situation which will very much effect your financial position. If it occurs, then you can take the assistance of debt consolidation services which tries to offer solutions based on your prevailing circumstances.

The services under these programs are provided by lot of companies who specialize in handling this sort of crisis. These services programs provide a financial expert who will contact you. The expert takes a look in to your financial condition and will provide you a plan. The plan will provide you details on how to control your expenses as well as paying off the existing debts. Since the debts are of high interest rate, the financial expert will negotiate with the lender to lower the interest rate. In most cases, the amount paid towards the debts is always lower than what you were supposes to pay.

Moreover one advantage of availing these services is its accessibility. Even if you are tainted with a bad credit history such as CCJs, IVA, arrears, defaults etc can take the assistance of debt consolidation. Lenders knowing the financial condition, offers loans that too at very low interest rate and flexible repayment options. By resorting to this application, you get a chance to improve the credit score.

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Instead of making multiple payments, all you are required is to make a single payment which assists you to save a lot of money.

Because of its beneficial feature and easy accessibility, these services programs are very much popular in the market at present. These services are also very much available and in fact can be obtained from the internet too. To get the best of the deals, you can look for online lenders who offer these services at the best terms and conditions.

Debt consolidation services help you to get out of debts and further assists in arranging the finances without any complexities.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9715.shtml
.

posted by admin on Dec 11

Mortgage Protection Cover Still Complicated When It Comes To Buying

By: Simon Burgess

When it comes to buying mortgage protection cover it can still be hard to understand the exact nature of the cover, depending on where you buy your policy. Despite guidelines being set out by the Financial Services Authority many providers are still not giving adequate information at the time of selling the product. This is leaving many consumers unaware of the exclusions that exist in their cover, which can stop them from being eligible to claim.

Some of the most frequently seen exclusions include if you only work part time, suffer from a pre-existing medical condition, are self-employed or have retired. However, these exclusions are not cut and dry. For example, if the individual has not had a re-occurrence of the illness within the last two years it could be worthwhile talking out a policy. With these exclusions in mind it is essential that you go over the terms and conditions of any cover you are thinking of taking.

When taken out with your circumstances in mind mortgage insurance can give a monthly tax-free income. This money would allow you to continue meeting the repayments of the mortgage without having to worry about where to find the money. If you should become unable to work due to suffering an accident or illness this means you could concentrate on regaining your health and getting back to work. If you should be unfortunate enough to become unemployed, such as through redundancy, then you would have the time you need to search for a new job.

The safest way to make sure you get access to the vital information needed to make sure a policy is suitable is to go with a specialist provider. Such a provider sells cover independently as opposed to alongside the mortgage. They know the products they sell and never put huge profits ahead of the consumer. Not only can you benefit from the knowledge they have, but the premiums for mortgage protection with a standalone provider will save you around 40% in comparison to some high street lenders.

Policies do vary but usually they last for between 12 to 24 months once a claim is made, if you should remain unfit for work. There is a waiting period during which you have to be unable to work and this is anywhere from day 30 to 90. Premiums for the cover are based on how much your monthly mortgage is and your age when applying.

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Some homeowners are under the impression that they would automatically be entitled to receive help from the state, but this is not the case. Individuals have to qualify to receive any benefit from the state. Those who have a partner who works in a full-time position or who have savings in the bank of more than £8,000 would not be entitled to receive state support. And those who do manage to qualify could have a long wait on their hands if they took their mortgage out after 1995. In fact, they would have to wait nine months and then they would only be able to claim for the interest part of their mortgage for up to £100,000.

Having a back-up plan in case you should find yourself unable to keep up the repayments should be given some very serious consideration. If you get behind on your mortgage then you face repossession, which means you could lose your home. Mortgage protection cover is worthwhile considering as a safety net. You just have to make sure you understand what your policy can and cannot deliver, and determine if this meets your needs.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9749.shtml
.

posted by admin on Dec 10

Top 5 ways to ease the strain on household finances

By: David Lynes - Loans4

The onset of the global credit crunch across the UK last year, combined with the after effects of a series of interest rate rises, and rising living costs all contributed towards the difficulties that many households have had to face over recent months. For many the strain on household finances has become increasingly pronounced, and industry officials have expressed concern that many people may be pushed into insolvency as a result of these financial strains.

If you find that your budget is being overstretched each month and you want to try and ease the strain on your household finances there are a number of steps that you can take, which could help to improve your financial situation. This includes:

1. Consolidate your debts. If you have a range of higher interest debt such as credit cards, store cards, and high interest loans, you could save a small fortune by paying off these debts with one lower rate consolidation loan, which can ease financial management as well as reduce your monthly outgoings.

2. Look for cheaper services. The cost of certain household expenses, such as energy bills, have risen over recent weeks, and you could find that taking the time to compare prices and switching your providers can save you some money. The difference may not be great but with every bit adding up it is well worth checking what sort of savings you can make.

3. Remortgaging: With interest rates having come down twice in the last few months it is possible that you can get a cheaper mortgage deal that will save you money on your monthly repayments if you take the time to compare. Make sure you look out for any hidden costs or arrangement fees though.

4.

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If you have a number of high interest credit cards it may be worth switching to a 0% balance transfer or low rate balance transfer card in order to save money on interest and reduce your monthly repayments. Make sure you check the transfer fees on 0% cards and the interest rate on life of balance transfer cards.

5. Make cutbacks. Most people will find places where they can make cutbacks when going through their outgoings, and if you can make cutbacks on things such as spending on clothes and entertainment, subscriptions and memberships, and other non-essential costs then this could save you some money each month.

Article Source:
http://www.articlecity.com/articles/business_and_finance/article_9671.shtml
.