In this issue...
The Rule of 5
5 Ways to Save $
5 Cool Tech Tips


carriefreelance.com
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"Clear Communications in a
Chaotic World"
  • writing
  • editing
  • coaching
  • social media
  • business blogs
  • e-news
  • scripts
  • publications management
  • integrated content
  • public relations





CarrieFreelance
Newsletter 
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January  2009
carrieatdesk To Do Lists
The Rule of Five

Dear 
Welcome to 2009. If you're like me, you're probably excited about new goals and plans you've established for the new year. But many of us can get overwhelmed rather quickly, even when we make lists and get as organized as humanly possible, using whatever tricks and tools we have to stay on top of things. One tool I use is to break projects down to a manageable number within a given timeframe. For example, I like to think in fives. Five tasks a day, five new projects a month, that kind of thing. In this way, I don't get overwhelmed and I can check tasks off my list in good conscience.

So my gift to you for the new year is a few short articles highlighting my "TOP 5"  list and suggestions for you. Good luck, and a "High 5" to you!
 
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I missed Eloise, who we met on a farm back east. So I am bringing back the "Pet of the Month" feature. Send in your cute animal photos  for future publication to [email protected] and you will be entered into a contest to win a special surprise. See the February issue for details.





  Top 5 Ways to Save $ in
Your  Communications


We all know that traditional printing costs can be expensive, and the great news is that with today's new media communications tools, you can communicate even more effectively with your audience then ever before, while saving money. How?
  1. Blogs: Business blogs are easy to set up and do a lot to provide you with enhanced online visibility and branding. They also add dimension to your web site by allowing you to show off your great personality and expertise. I started my blog, focusing on communication issues and web 2.0,  3 years ago and have learned so much since then about formatting, subscriptions, and...my favorite...widgets! (Please feel free to subscribe...the more the merrier.)
  2. E-News: E-newsletters like this one are a great way to build your brand and maintain a relationship with past, current, and future customers, and they have minimal monthly costs. They save you money because they can help you cut down or eliminate altogether the need for print newsletters, plus you can include links to great resources and web sites. They can also get you more clients because they are easy to forward and pass along.
  3. Video: There is no better way to introduce yourself to your online audience or show examples of the kind of work you do, than through video. Not only that, but online viewers today expect to see this kind of interactivity on your home page or through a convenient link. The days of a "flat" bulletin board style web site are gone.
  4. Social Networks: How many articles have you read about Twitter in the last few months? At least 5, I'll bet. What about Facebook and Linked In? These are all great, free ways to highlight your online presence, but they do require that you keep up with them.
  5. Public Relations: I have heard many times in the last year: "I really like PR but I have no idea how to make it work for me." Good PR is basically good "buzz" about you and your business. It doesn't come easily, but when it does, it can really boost awareness about whatever it is that you do. And the great thing is ---it's free!
Do you like how all this sounds but don't have time to integrate it into your business? Contact me at [email protected] and I will help you get your projects off the ground, including a free 1/2 hour consultation!
 
computer woman 5 Cool Tech Tips
and Resources
(if I say so myself)

1. Gravatars:
No, it's not a new kind of exercise machine. Sign up for free, and you can upload your favorite headshot of yourself that will automatically appear when you comment on enabled blog sites. I tried it out today and it worked like a charm.
2. 7 Ways to be Worth Following on Twitter:
Great article from Twi-tip, a blog totally devoted to Twitter.
3. ZD Soft:
A nifty program that records anything directly from your computer screen. Helpful for how-to videos, and the like.
4. Google Calendar:
After searching high and low through cyberland for an easy to use online calendar program, I found one, and it was staring me in the face the whole time! It's easy to add events, move activities around, and all your to do's pop up in your e-mail so there  is no way to forget them.
5. Obamicon:
Yes you can!
A neat-o Web app that lets you put your image (or that of your pet, purse, whatever) in the style of the famed Shepard Fairey Obama poster. Just upload a photo or use your webcam to snap a pic, then choose a zippy word to go with it.







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