Apr
27
We all know what a railroad tie looks like and those little spikes they use too. But you know that technology is really old and it maybe something we need to change as trains get heavier and larger and increase in speed.
Actually that does make a lot of sense and as I have talked to railway workers, often they discuss the derailment issues during times of adverse weather as the ground moves around, liquefaction [on a small level] and just normal settling. Indeed as Amtrak [fast mover] had issues with the rails cracking. It seems that issues with the speed of trains can be overcome by a better clamping system.
Historically it is amazing we are even using the same system that we have been all along. It is not such a good system. But a complete overhaul is nearly impossible considering the usage as some major rail lines have 80 trains per day with some 100 cars per train.
Many people say if trucks stopped, America starves in a week with rioting in the streets, well indeed with all the piggy backing going on, one could say that about the railways too, we cannot just shut them down for repairs and thus a better clamping system makes the ultimate sense, and now that I re-consider this issue. Recently in an online think tank one think tanker admitted to designing an “H-clamp system” and I think I favor that clamp idea over mine which was an “X-clamp” concept, however if you had both ever 10-yards the other you could solve the lateral issues and the wave issues with the trains getting heavier and heavier and such.
Sometimes it becomes time to redesign something, which is working fine, as it makes sense because the only real constant keeps rolling along; change. I hope you will consider all this in 2006.
Lance Winslow - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/
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Apr
26
First, I find that too many design professionals display a lack of confidence. Notice I said “display” a lack of confidence. You may feel that you ARE confident and, in fact, you very well may be. However, you may not realize how your body language, facial expression, the tone of your voice, etc. is “coming off” to prospective clients. Remember: a person’s perception is that person’s reality. Put another way, if someone perceives your actions, speech and mannerisms as lacking confidence, that is what they will think of you - regardless of whether their perception of you is true or not. Their perception of you IS true for THEM.
Before you get out of your car to go into your next consultation, take a moment to reflect on ALL your past successes. Recall that big project you completed on time and within budget. Recall your client’s reaction of joy upon seeing the new space you created. Revel in a job well done..and EXPECT that the same will happen for you again!
Earlier this week, I happened to come upon a saying. I don’t know who said it, but it makes my point perfectly:
Winners expect to win in advance. Life is a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Take this advice to heart. Expect to WIN! Expressing confidence is a HUGE part of converting a consultation into new business.
Second, when the issue of budget or fees comes up, many design professionals look like a deer caught in a headlight. Your eyes may start to glaze over as your mind races, thinking “What should I say? How can I answer that? I don’t want to scare them [the prospective clients] away.” Does that sound familiar?
Before you go into a consultation, you should have a clear understanding of your pricing strategies, your fee structure, etc. I often recommend that my clients charge on an hourly basis. That way, if the scope of the project changes or the client needs to go on several unexpected shopping trips, you are being properly compensated for your time. The point here is: know in your mind what you charge and be confident that your fee offers good value to the prospective client.
One other thing to keep in mind: EXPECT a prospective client to ask you about your fees. They’ve expressed interest in your services by asking you into their home to talk about a project. Expect to wow them such that, after getting to know you during the consultation, they will want to hire you. Well, before they can make an intelligent decision as to whether to hire you, they need to know what you will charge for your services.
Now I’m not talking about giving them an estimate of your fees (I would NEVER suggest that). Rather, be upfront and unapologetic when you announce your hourly rate. If pressed, you may offer a range - and, I would suggest, you make the range rather broad - of the number of hours you would expect to spend on their project. When I say “range”, I mean range. So you might say something like: “As I’ve said, no two projects are alike, so I don’t know how much time will ultimately be spent on your project. However, I would expect somewhere in the range of X - Y hours.” Again, be sure to make the range wide and, if anything OVER-estimate your time, leaving some wiggle room for extra time. Doing this will not only answer the prospective client’s question as to your fees, but it will also help you to get a good idea of where your prospective client’s head is. When presented with your estimated range of hours and your hourly rate, was her reaction: “Oh my goodness. That’s a LOT!” or was her reaction simply: “OK. That sounds fine.”
If her reaction was the former, you can ask a few clarifying questions to find out what she expected to pay for your services. With that information, you can then educate the prospective client on what her expected budget would cover (for example, you might say: “I understand your budget is about $500. For $500, I could come up with 3 different layouts and offer ideas on paint colors.”). Whatever you do, do NOT discount your fees. Instead, try to educate the prospective client on a realistic estimate of time to accomplish the project and, if the estimated fee amount is too high, offer to work within her budget by suggesting tackling a PORTION of the work. In this way, you send the message that you value your time and that you are a professional.
Bottom line: be confident in yourself as an expert and be ready to talk money. As I’ve indicated, a little preparation can go a long way toward converting a mere consultation to your next project. Good luck!
Judy May is the President of Show House Marketing, a business development and marketing firm catering exclusively to design industry professionals. She can be reached at 610.324.5240 or judy@ShowHouseMarketing.com. For FREE Resources, including the Weekly $uccess Secrets Newsletter and the New! 14-day Jump Start your Design Business E-Course, visit them online at: http://www.ShowHouseMarketing.com.
Ms. May also is the founder of the DesignPreneur FORUM, an informative and inspiring community where design professionals learn to become super-successful DesignPreneurs. 3 Membership Levels available to fit every budget. To find out more about the FORUM, visit them online at: http://www.DesignPreneurFORUM.com.
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Apr
25
Diaper bags today are not what they used to be! Years ago, many new moms had the standard black vinyl or juvenile print diaper bag complete with all of the handy compartments. This does not seem to be the case anymore. Moms today demand function and style when it comes to their diaper bag.
As a mom of two young daughters, ages 2 years and 8 months, I too have sought after the perfect trendy diaper bag. Before I had kids, I would change my purse as often as I changed my outfit. As you can imagine, I found it very difficult to carry around the same diaper bag day after day. So my internet search for trendy diaper bags began. This was no easy task.
However, many trend setting designers have made it easier by adding diaper bags to their collections. My favorite designer diaper bag is the Juicy Couture Velour Tote. It includes a “Couture Angel” bib, “Juicy Couture” burp cloth, and “Love Juicy” with crown print changing pad; so I did not have to search for coordinating accessories. I absolutely love it! It is a tad pricey at $275, but I am definitely getting my money’s worth. It is just big enough to fit diapers, wipes, two bottles, snacks, and a change of clothes. All without overflowing! Even the shoulder straps are just the right length. The perfect tote for an outing. The Juicy Couture Velour Tote can be found at JuicyCouture.com
I have a weakness for original and unique handbags. That is why I fell in love with my Bagolitas diaper bag. Bagolitas by Janice are spunky handmade diaper bags and purses. Each bag is custom made to fit you and your baby’s unique personality. You can choose from a variety of fabrics and colors to create your own look. What fun! My favorite design to date is Tropical Punch, a lively pink stripe diaper bag with gorgeous pink floral trim. When it comes to these truly fun and unique bags, you just can’t own only one! Plus, you can order an identical mini version for your daughter. The best part is that no one even has to know its a diaper bag. Each bag measures 15.5″ x 11.5″ x 5.5″ and is priced right at around $105. You can find your Bagolitas diaper bag by visiting BabysInStyle.com.
I also like a bargain, especially now that I am a mom. This summer, I toted a pink and orange Limited Too backpack style bag to the pool, grocery store, post office, etc. You get the idea. The price was perfect at only $16.95. You can sling the bag over one shoulder or if it is packed to the top, over both shoulders. It features a drawstring closure which is extremely quick to open and close, while keeping items from falling out. A pocket in front snaps close and has a zipper pouch on the inside and out. I found it on LimitedToo.com
Trendy Diaper Bags come in all shapes and sizes. When evaluating which diaper bags are right for you, it helps to consider your individual lifestyle and unique personality.
Jennifer Franklin is founder of BabysInStyle.com providing convenient online shopping for busy moms who want trendy diaper bags and more.
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