A BIGGER Salary is not always a good thing

Everyone always thinks a bigger salary equals a better life, more security, and that one will just be all around happier. Unfortunately this might not be true anymore. According to a recent article on CareerBuilder.com this is an idea that one should think about a little more closely. The article gives four clear points to back up this theory. First off, if after some negotiation you actually get a raise, in the case of downsizing you could be the first one to be laid off because your pay might not match your talent or skill level. Secondly, you will lose more money at a higher salary when you get placed in a higher tax bracket. In addition, your salary could price you out of the market. Eventually at your next job, your salary could definitely outweigh your skill set and when you move jobs no one is going to pay you as much as you were earning before. Lastly, many people say that if they earned more they would be that much happier, but truthfully the time when you will be happier will be when you don’t care anymore about how much you are earning. So the next time you don’t think you earn enough sit back and enjoy the life you currently lead, it’s not so bad after all.

Posted August 25th, 2008 by Jessica Spinks - Posted in Wages | | 0 Comments

Tips for Trade Shows: You might not know everything

As the new marketing coordinator here at CBR, one of my initiatives or goals has been trying to think of new and creative ways to make us stand out at trade shows. Aside from my own ideas, I came across a very interesting article in the Phoenix Business Journal about how to do just this. Although these were good tips, some might be a little too obvious and in the end not work out to your benefit.  In business ROI is very important, so to make sure you get a return on investing your time and money into a trade show, don’t be lazy and do your homework when it comes to preparing for trade shows. Do what is best for you and your company’s overall goals. Take a second the think about these five questions.

Should you follow up immediately? Whether it’s someone that requested a full blown proposal or just gave you their business card, the natural thing to do would be to follow up right away. This is so you don’t forget the context of the conversation and so they don’t forget you. Although this is true, don’t come across as pushy. If the client is not a right fit for you and your company you should recognize that and move on. You want to be honest with them and yourself.

Should you have a give away or prize? At first look, this idea might seem like it would add a fun element to your trade show experience, and may make you more memorable against your competitors. Aside from this fact, you may get bombarded with inadequate leads and unreliable sources of business. This move might be pointless in the end.

Is knowing who is attending a good thing?  One can actually purchase a list of vendors and participants so you know who you are up against, and who you might want to visit. On this one I don’t see much harm unless you feel like it is cheating a bit. The element of surprise might be more fun!

How do you know that your message is clear and succinct?  Your company’s message should clearly communicate what you want them to believe about your company. Your messaging should be legible and obvious to everyone walking by. This is definitely true and necessary, but if you and the people in your company are the only ones to have seen this messaging their view might be jaded. Have someone from the outside of your company walk by your booth/messaging and have them give you their first impression.

How do you know if your sales team is ready for the masses? Although I am sure your sales staff is just as great as ours, double check that your staff knows what your goals are as a business owner, and that they are not slacking off and looking unprofessional at the event. Make sure you do a run through with them, so they know how to deal with all possible situations.

In conclusion, just have fun and treat the whole experience as a great way to network, market yourself, and bring in more business.

Posted August 11th, 2008 by Jessica Spinks - Posted in Human Resources | | 0 Comments