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Grammar Corner
Using Who, Which & That
Which word to use depends on what the word refers to. If you are talking about a human or an animal with a name, 'who' is the word to use. If you are talking about an unnamed animal or a thing, you must use that or which.
Mark Twain, who is famous for his book, Tom Sawyer, had talent, wit, and insight.
My cat, Gusto, who knows he is king of the castle, will be eight years old this June.
The white homing pigeon that roosts in the right corner is a fine, strong male.
Homing pigeons, which have excellent navigation abilities, are raised by hobbyists throughout the world.
Whether large or small, offices that make the writer comfortable are the key to meeting deadlines.
Also, keep in mind the word 'that' is used in restrictive clauses (clauses necessary to the meaning and not set off by commas); the word 'which' is used in nonrestrictive clauses (clauses not essential to the meaning and always set off by commas).
2 TIPPS:
You should be able to take out the clause with 'which' and the sentence should still make sense.
To remember which word gets the commas just remember 'which' has more letters than 'that' and requires more punctuation.
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My Birds--Chickens, Guineas, and Homing Pigeons
Here's a picture of two of my four guineas (I apologize that the picture is not better quality). I'm not sure yet, how many male or female, but I know I have both because they make different cries. These guys are great for reducing tick, mosquito, and fly populations. They also have a very loud cry that neighbors may not appreciate (my neighbors don't mind).
So many of their features make me think of the days of dinosaurs, especially the way the walk. They have light blue faces, big dangling waddles, and skin-covered knots on the top of their heads. My hope for this season is that they will make little guineas and that all will remain safe from predators.
When I need help I go to www.guineafowl.com/fritsfarm/. If you'd like to hear the male and female cries, click here.
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Greetings!
This month's newsletter touches on the humanity of business. No matter what the endeavor, we are always human beings first. I strongly believe that the more we care about others and extend ourselves in sincere, open communication and sharing, the more we benefit ourselves (as if by accident). I believe a good newsletter must connect on that deeper, unselfish level, demonstrating more than interest in business or profits, but rather interest in people. May you find happiness and success in your business and personal life.
As always, I welcome your feedback. Email me with your comments, questions, or requests for help or service.
I am growing my business and need your help. Please take a moment to forward this newsletter to those who may benefit. Just click here to forward it.
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 Develop Relationships Using Your Newsletter
Did you ever pay a higher price for a product or service because you knew the person providing it? Ever try a new concept because you trusted the judgment or experience of the person who recommended it? Did you ever switch professionals because you clicked with them more than the former professional you were working with?
Having a relationship or connection makes a difference. When you feel as though you are on the same page concerning, for example, business goals, standard of integrity, view toward going green, or attitude toward time or family, you are more willing to give them your business.
This same principle applies to your newsletter. One of the great keys to marketing today is to build a relationship with your readers. Cited as one of the biggest advantages to a company newsletter, the ability to build a relationship with your readers is invaluable.
But, if you are sending dry information-announcements, birthdays and anniversaries, or canned articles-don't expect to build strong relationships. Your newsletter, whether internal or external, should connect to your audience. Two areas where you can improve your relationship with readers are:
1) Reveal to them who you are. Show them what you, your values, and your business are all about.
Does your newsletter have heart? Does it demonstrate to your readers what is important to you? Can they see your stand on quality work, dependable service, and policies relating to your area of expertise? Have you revealed what you do to benefit the community? Does it demonstrate that you care about your reader and your reader's success? Do they know your mission, and see examples of ways you are actively involved in living that mission? The more you can show your subscribers the real you, the better your relationships will be.
And, 2) give them something they can use without demanding anything back.
It's not so much that your readers want something for nothing. But, they do want to see that you care about them, you want them to succeed. Are you willing to help them with information, encouragement, promotions, and other such things that will help them to do their job better or improve the quality of their life? If you become that person or company they rely on for valuable information and assistance, guess who they will turn to when they need to hire a professional.
Bottom line: Remember what motivates you to buy a product, try a new concept, or hire a certain professional, and in that light, ask yourself if you are really taking advantage of your newsletter's full potential. If you want your readers to buy your product, use your service, accept the mission, or join the team, you must make a connection by including a human side and serving your readers' wants and needs. Use your newsletter fully-as a great asset toward cultivating relationships with those people who are important to you
[Do you know of a newsletter that demonstrates relationship building? Send us an email and share your example.]
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| Making a Difference
Filling a Need in Kenya
The Fall-Winter 2007 issue of G.O.A.L.'s newsletter mentions an enthusiastic group of young girls who call themselves "The Dreamers." They are active G.O.A.L. volunteers, working to make a difference.
Among other things, they are working on a pen pal program where they will write to young women in Kenya.
After taking in a presentation by Grace Kizzie, Executive Director of G.O.A.L., they decided to do more outreach with Kenya. When they learned that girls in Kenya are being assaulted, in part, because they do not have undergarments to wear, the girls in Aliquippa decided to raise funds to provide panties for their counterparts. The girls learned about the 200 packs of new undergarments Kizzie took with her when she went to Kenya in October 2007, and pledged to match that donation when Kizzie returns in July 2008.
The Dreamers are collecting for this cause with one difference. To make the travel a bit simpler on the next trip, Kizzie will take money collected and buy the panties when she arrives in Africa.
It's great to know that this group of girls is making a huge difference for the young women in Kenya who are receiving their gift.
G.O.A.L. (The Global Outreach for Addiction Leadership & Learning) is a faith-based coalition of Christian professionals and volunteers promoting 12-step recovery from the disease of addiction. G.O.A.L. also works toward lessening addition-related problems, including HIV/AIDS., domestic violence, and human trafficking. Their website is www.goalproject.org.
[The experiences related in this column are focusing on "Making a Difference," with the goal of inspiring each of us to create and notice ways that have a positive effect on those we touch. Being featured in this column does not indicate one way or another, my opinion of the person or group featured. If the business or organization sparks your interest, go to their website and form your own opinion.]
[Do you have an experience where a newsletter has made a difference for you or your business? Please email or call me to share your story.]
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Workstation Tips
Watch Your Circulation
We often are made aware of how our workstation habits can affect our back, neck, and wrists, but have you considered its effect on circulation? Ergonomics@work, through the University of California at Berkeley shares information that reveals the connection:
Sitting with your feet flat on the floor (or supported by a footrest) will help support your spine. Having your thighs parallel to the seat with knees bent at approximately a 90 degree angle, and having adequate clearance behind your knees, will keep the chair from interfering with the circulation to your legs. Sit with your feet in front of your knees.
They recommend if your workstation does not allow for these adjustments, that you should consider making "ergonomic modifications."
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