 New Image Codes | | Bar Code |
I'm sure you recognize this image as the ubiquitous bar code. It's been around now for many years and makes quick work of checking out at the grocery store and other check-out counters. These days, you can even scan the barcode yourself with the right application on your smartphone so you can learn the price of the item before you take it up to checkout.
 | | QR Code |
Have you been noticing the increasing
prevalence of this image? Do you know what it is and what it's used for? My recent blog post describes why this image is gaining traction in more and more diverse contexts. In fact, if you scan this image with your smartphone, you will be taken to the mobile version of my website without having to type in sunstonesolutions.mobi. Just one of many handy applications for this new-fangled image code.
|
|
Important !!
If you have a Facebook business page (formerly known as a "fan page"), the next article is a must read.
|
New Facebook Pages Format  Be aware that your Facebook business page is going to get a new look by March 30. The new "timeline" format will be automatically applied to your business page if you have not already converted it. (The timeline format is not mandatory for your personal Facebook page; you can voluntarily convert your personal page any time you wish.) The intent is that: now more than ever Facebook is designed for brands and businesses to engage with their consumers and fans. While you can find a slew of information online by searching with "facebook timeline for business," this is one of the most comprehensive, step-by-step articles on converting your business page to the new look that I've found. It includes image sizes and placement and discussion about some of Facebook's new "rules" that come with the layout. You can also download this brief guide from Facebook. Click here to open the file and save it to your system. Unfortunately, this is a change you can't avoid if you have a Facebook business page -- myself included! I need to get busy! |
Changes in Attitude  Are you thinking positively about your business? No doubt things have been tough for all of us in small business. But we're still standing! It's much harder to remain optimistic when things are tough. But often, our most difficult moments turn out to be blessings in disguise. Plus, a positive attitude will reduce your stress, keep you healthier, and enhance your productivity - all important for business success. - Choose to be positive. Find a way to put a positive spin on disappointments or negative situations. Did you learn something from it? Did it result in providing you with more time to do something else? Does it lead to trying a different approach?
- Put it in perspective. "No one died so it could be worse." Ok, maybe that's a bit extreme, but really, in the big scheme of things, where does it rank?
- Move quickly to action. Recognize when things are out of your control and don't dwell on it. Pick up where you can, make any necessary adjustments, and keep going. Remember: You can't change yesterday, but you can create the future.
- Get rid of the toxic people. If you've surrounded yourself with people who thrive on drama and trauma, extract them from your business. They can suck the life out of you and your business.
- Celebrate your successes. Remind yourself of all the good things in your business and your life. Some of the most successful people in the world have faced tremendous adversity and bounced back stronger than ever.
I know it's easier said than done to keep a positive attitude, but try it and you may find a real impact on your business. |
|
Seems Appropriate...  "Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." -- William Penn Adair "Will" Rogers
November 4, 1879 - August 15, 1935
American cowboy, vaudeville performer, humorist, social commentator and motion picture actor |
Sincerely,
