The Ladies Room

Keep your Content fresh- automatically.... and make money doing it.

2006-08-01T13:37:00.000-07:00

What if there was a free way to keep your web site’s content fresh without having to worry about changing and publishing articles regularly? Better yet…what if we paid you to do it?

Now there is and it's free to join...
Sign up for ADFUSION

Pros: Automatic, makes your site more attractive, and professionally-written articles.
Cons: Take a slight bit of thinking to get it up and running. However, the staff will help walk you through it. :)

Let me know if you try it!
Nicole

PS. Here's an example where it is used...
http://www.freequickrecipes.com/recipes/hot-taco-salad.php

Need Content?

2006-08-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

I am very pleased to tell you about a brand new site where you can get articles that you can edit and change at will and put them on your blogs, websites or send them in your newsletters. The only think you can't do with them is submit the articles to article directories.

The price is ridiculously cheap and the articles are very well written. You'll see my shiny face smack dab in the middle of the page with my testimonial.

Check out MOM CONTENT here.

Nicole

Christine Steendahl of Dine without Whine

2006-07-29T15:38:00.000-07:00

Hi Christine, I'm so excited to chat with you. :)

1. Tell us about your business.

I am the owner of www.dinewithoutwhine.com/offer that launched in March 2005. We provide family friendly, easy to prepare weekly menus with categorized grocery shopping lists. These are delivered to our clients e-mail boxes each week. This allows our customers to print out their menu and grocery list, make a quick trip to the grocery store, and then easily enjoy home cooked family meals each evening.

2. Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

- I just launched www.partnerupdates.com with Susanne Myers who is my business partner for www.recipes.healthymenumailer.com . This is a special site for our awesome Dine Without Whine and Healthy Menu Mailer Affiliates; to provide training, and resources that will help our affiliates be successful. I also will be raising the Dine Without Whine Affiliate Commission August 1st. I also have some exciting things coming in the near future but I am not quite ready to announce those yet. If you want to keep up to date on those feel free to join my free newsletter, become a subscriber to DWW, or become an affiliate.

3. What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

- Mom Masterminds. It is honestly the best money I have ever spent on my business. I did not know much at all about running an online business until I joined.

- My Virtual Assistant, Online Business Partners, and my Affiliates

- The basics I need to run my business –Web Hosting, Microsoft FrontPage, Amember ( www.amember.com ) and of course my E-mail.

4. What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

- Choose Something You Love and do some research to make sure there is a market for it. Then think about a way that you can stand out from everyone else.

- Stay focused. It is easy to get one thing started and before it is really running smoothly jump into something else – be it another web-site or just another project for your current web-site. I was a Scrapbooking Consultant, I sold on e-bay and I started Dine Without Whine. It came to the point where I didn’t have enough time to do any of them well, yet I was terrified to give up the income from any of them up. I finally through faith gave up both the Scrapbooking and E-bay. Those two business’ were making me much more than Dine Without Whine was at the time, but after I gave them up I was able to focus and now Dine Without Whine is making much more than all three combined were in the past. It is also less stressful to focus on one thing.

- Accept that gaining traffic is a slow and steady thing. Focus on things that will pay off in the long run such as Search Engine Optimization and Article Marketing.

- If you have a product, start an affiliate program. It is the best way to quickly get your name out there, you are helping others make money as well, and you meet some great friends!

- Finally Dare To Dream Big and Don’t be Afraid To Ask. If there are people you need to network with to reach your dreams, just ask. If you think it through and present it well, you might be surprised who will say yes.

Free Reprint "Back to School" articles...

2006-07-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

Down here in Florida, we start school soon. I know for many of you the though of school is far from your minds, but here, teachers head back next week already. Yikes.

So, to get myself back into the spirit of things, here are some free reprint articles all about "Back to School". Grab one or grab them all for your website, blog, or newsletter.

Back To School Preparation For All Ages

Back To School

Are You Too Old To Go Back To School?

10 Simple Ways To Create Your First Back-to-school Fund

Enjoy!
Nicole

Free Work at Home Mom Magazine (plus writing opportunities)

2006-07-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to quickly remind you to sign up for the free WAHM magazine I told you about earlier this month.

Just to be clear, this is a REAL magazine that will arrive in your home mailbox each month -- on paper -- with a stamp, even!

Grab your free subscription here

Talk with you soon.
Nicole

PS. There are opportunities to get your articles IN this publication if they have not been submitted elsewhere. Be sure to check out the writer's guidelines after you get your free subscription.

Summer Free Reprint Articles

2006-06-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of our latest Summer Article submissions. All are free to reprint on your websites, blogs, printed publications or ezines with author bio intact (as always). :)

Summer eating articles...
Let’s Eat Outside – Great Kid-Friendly Picnic Ideas

Summer savings articles...
10 Steps To Save On Your Summer Energy Bill
Cheap Summer Fun for Kids

Summer parenting articles...
Will Your Teen Make Money This Summer?
Summer Children
Keeping Kids Active This Summer
6 Ways you Can Get the Kids Outdoors This Summer

Got Health Articles?

2006-06-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

Have you written any Health Articles?

If so, submit them to The-Best-You - a Free Reprint Article Directory for a Healthy Lifestyle.

They are accepting articles on everything pertaining to living well. (Parenting, Relationships, Stress management, etc.)

Have a great day!
Nicole

Free Writing Opportunity and Free Magazine for WAHMs

2006-06-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

My good friend, Kelly McCausey, announced that she is GIVING AWAY subscriptions for her magazine for WAHMs. I've been a writer AND a paying subsciber since September so I'm really excited that it'll be free.

Grab your free subscription here -http://www.showmomthemoney.com/wc.htm
AND, be sure to look at the writer's guidelines while you're there. You can get YOUR articles in front of more than 1000 work at home moms.

Enjoy!
Nicole

KC Gagne of Connecting Rainbows

2006-05-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hey KC. I've known you for years, so I'm excited to share you with everyone here. Tell us about yourself.

I started Connecting Rainbows in March 2005 as a way to group all of my direct sales businesses and affiliate marketing programs into one place. As time went on, I gave up on the direct sales and my website became more focused on the life balance issues that work at home moms face. I'm still trying to figure that one out myself. LOL! My goal is to give women the time management skills and the resources to work their business and still have time for themselves and their families.

While I worked on my own website, I began assisting other work at home moms with their website needs. I started designing personal Ryze pages, creating banners and helping with business web sites. One thing led to another and the Website Solutions subdivision of Connecting Rainbows was born. I offer my technical skills to other work at home moms who want to utilize the internet for their business, but don't know how. Since most work at home moms are on a budget, I offer free consultations, affordable rates and payment plans.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.
My two most recent launches are the WAHMshop featuring W.A.H.M. apparel and the Connecting Rainbows Bookshelf. The bookshelf only contains five star weight loss books right now, but will be expanding to other subjects.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?
If it weren't for the awesome women at the showmomthemoney network on Ryze, I would probably still be banging my head against the wall waiting for a direct sales miracle. My peers on this network helped me to realize my goals and also gave me the confidence and support I needed to get things moving in the right direction.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?
Don't try to buy a mansion when all you need is an apartment. I get very frustrated when I hear about people spending a fortune on web hosting and other resources when they don't need to. A little time spent on education can save a lot of money!

What is your number one question about online business, getting traffic, networking, affiliate programs or article marketing?
I don't have any right now. Any question I have is always quickly answered by searching for articles on LadyPens.com or by posting on the showmomthemoney network! :)

Find articles by KC at LadyPens: http://www.ladypens.com/profile/K-c--Gagne/43

I need more Lady Pens Featured Writers. :)

2006-05-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

I've published all but two of the interviews I've received (and those will be published in the next few days.)

Would you like to have your interview and articles featured here, too?

Here's the scoop -
I am Featuring LadyPens Writers in the Lady Pens blog.To be included and get free exposure for yourself and your business, please answer the interview questions and instructions HERE

I hope that you will take me up on this offer to brag about yourself.(Of course, as many men as I get signing up -- this offer is for Ladies only.)

Nicole

Sue Seward of eCommerceHomeBiz.com

2006-05-20T04:57:00.000-07:00

Hi Sue! Tell us about your business.

I'm a home business developer and have been earning an income from home online since 1996.
I have several companies that I refer people to depending on their individual needs and interest.
http://www.eCommerceHomeBiz.com

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

My most recent news is that I reached the 20K level in XanGo.
http://www.WeTeachCashFlow.com

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business?

The most valuable resource of course has been the Internet. I have built relationships with people I meet online and have built my business up to a high four figure a month residual income and growing every month. I work when I want, choose who I work with, take off when I want and even make money while I'm sleeping because I have a team of over a 100 people in Australia and when they are working I'm sleeping!

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

Networking is the #1 key. Building relationships with people you meet online. That means getting on the telephone with them and starting the relationship. I've met many of my team members online and in person at events and have build some long term relationships
with people all over the US, Canada and the world all from the comfort of my home!

Grab some of Sue's articles here -
Free Reprint Article by Sue Seward

Grab your Mother's Day Articles

2006-05-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is this Sunday. :)

I just wanted to send a quick reminder to grab some Mother's Day articles for your blog or your newsletter here - Mother's Day Articles

Happy Mother's Day to all the Mothers and Mother-figures out there.
Nicole

Mila Sidman of AskTheMT.com

2006-05-07T07:56:00.000-07:00

Tell us about your business. What do you offer?

Ask The MT offers resources for those who want to learn how to become a medical transcriptionists and MTs who want to build their business. http://www.askthemt.com

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc..

We offer a free “MT How To” tutorial, free newsletter and free MT starter pack.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Being part of Mom Masterminds mentoring community has been invaluable for my business. And for promoting my business through article marketing has been a huge help.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online
business?

I would say find a good mentor or mentoring community, not only to cut the learning curve but also for making great partnerships and friendships. Don’t give up, and keep adding content and articles to your site as much as possible, and don’t forget to distribute those articles!

Find more articles by Mila at -
http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Mila-Sidman/237

Congrats to Susie Aga

2006-05-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Susie Aga - She posted the 2250th article at LadyPens and won -

1 month membership to Healthy Menu Mailer - Healthy Eating
(EVERY 500th article accepted will win.)1250, 1750, 2250, 2750... and so on.

Check out Susie's articles at -
http://www.ladypens.com/myarticles/Susie-Aga/28

Susie - watch for an email from Susanne, the owner of Healthy Menuy Mailer. :)
Nicole

Regina Pickett Garson of Magic Stream

2006-05-04T11:52:00.000-07:00

1. Tell us about your business. What do you offer? When did you start?

I publish Magic Stream - http://www.magicstream.org/ - which I started in `94. It is a self-help holistic wellness resource and literary journal – with a bent toward the arts and healing. The site includes an extensive directory of self-help, holistic wellness and mental health resources. It is utilized by students, professionals, mental health consumers and the general public.

2. Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I recently moved my site to a host that will allow me a lot more developmental freedom. I’m really excited about the possibilities and have already made a number of upgrades with more to come.

I’m particularly proud of the new Poetry Gallery - http://www.magicstream.org/gallery-poetry.html From the start, I published art and poetry both at Magic Stream. This new gallery highlights them both to advantage. I display original art and high quality prints along with the poetry. I occasionally feature individual artists as well. I’m really happy with the results, response has been positive and I look forward to expanding in this area.

Another new addition is “The Store,” http://www.thestore.magicstream.org/ an online mall. You’ll find all the favorites you’d expect in a top notch mall, including some really great specialty shops, boutiques, International selections, designer clothes, fine Italian crafts and exclusive gallery offerings. Online shopping is changing the way we go to market. Location is not an issue, and neither are store hours. Really great shopping is literally just a click away, and that is especially important for people who can’t get out and about for whatever reason, whether work schedules or physical disability. Even people who live in the most remote areas now have easy access to world class shopping.

3. What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

With the work that I do online, a decent computer is an absolute necessity and I certainly can’t live without a good Internet connection.

4. What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

I really thought about waxing philosophical, but when you get down to it there are a whole lot of nuts and bolts, you have to keep in order if you are going to work with computers, online or off. Firstly, you have to make sure you have good equipment and you have to keep it up and running. Sometimes that is a lot easier said than done. Viruses, hackers, slow connections, aging systems or a computer with a bug can all wreak havoc with your productivity.

Viruses have cost me dearly. You always hear what viruses do to big businesses, but us gals working from home offices get hit pretty hard too – maybe even harder when you get down to actual impact. One of the worst I dealt with, my system was never actually infected, but it had so many viruses go through it, I had to change the way I handled my email.

It doesn’t stop with good virus protection. With any technology related business; you have to spend time and money just to stay in the game. There is not a lot of choice on that either. You have to keep your hacker protection up and going, ditto on your spy ware, pop-up stoppers, and whatever else comes out that you have to protect yourself from. It is constant, it never ends and there is always a new threat with which to contend. You also have to keep your system maintained and up to date.

Additionally, you have to keep up with the trends and how they affect your particular niche. Take time out to blink your eyes in a high tech field and you are behind already. Lady Pens is a good example of a resource you might use to help keep up with the trends, online women networking with other online women sharing information, articles and know how in their own special areas of expertise. The list goes on and on, but I’ll leave it there.

Link to your articles at LadyPens.
http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Regina-Pickett-Garson/152

Be an Internet Talk Radio Star!

2006-05-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of promoting your website on Internet TalkRadio?

I have something pretty cool for you today. I grabbed my goodfriend, Kelly McCausey, pioneer in the world of Internet Talk Radio, and hostess of www.WAHMTalkRadio.com.

I asked her all my top questions about how to get an interview, what to do and most importantly what NOT to do.

I've added the interview to the WebTrafficBasics.com course here where you can get a sneak peek - http://www.webtrafficbasics.com/onlineradio.htm

If you're already in love with Talk Radio, Kelly has a course she teaches to start your own talk radio show. It walks you through the steps for starting an Internet Talk Radio show on a shoestring budget. Check it out - Shoestring Internet Talk Radio

Terri Seymour of Seymour Products

2006-04-29T07:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Terri. Tell us about your business. What do you offer? When did you start?
My name is Terri Seymour and I have been online for several years trying to find my niche. I have started several online businesses, each one doing better than the last as I learned more and gained more confidence. My story proves that if you are persistent and keep on trying, you can succeed.

My first online venture was a craft/gift site called Nature's Touch. I was very inexperienced then and thought all I had to do was put up a website to make money. I have since learned of course, that this is very far from the truth. With my present business, I do see that many beginners still make this mistake.

This site did not seem to fill my need so I joined with a reputable company and tried my hand at MLM. I loved the products, but soon found this was definitely not what I was looking for, so I started my own site, called Web Success Central, an internet marketing site that provided resources, advertising, etc. I did quite well but then because of circumstances in my life, I had to sell.

As soon as I was able, I started another business called My Own Ezine. "MOE" was very successful and I was rolling along fairly well. I wrote and submitted articles, networked on groups and boards, got listed in every directory I could find and published a very successful ezine. I loved "MOE", but it felt like there was still something lacking. I wanted to be able to do more than just internet marketing.

So my husband and I started another business called Seymour Products. We found a couple of good suppliers, and got started. We offer business and home resources. I was able to expand into home decorating, and other areas I have always been interested in. With Seymour Products, we offer others a chance to become a success as well. I love working closely with our distributors and feel totally fulfilled with the personal contact and commitment that goes along with Seymour Products.

I think one of the things that has been a huge help in our success is our personal closeness and commitment to our customers, distributors, visitors. I deal with each one as if they were one of my closest friends (and a lot of them are) I find that the internet opens so many possibilities, it is mind boggling.

Seymour Products is definitely my last stop on the internet because it fulfills everything I have always wanted in a business. http://www.seymourproducts.com

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.
We recently made available our new ebook - How to Market Your Home Business - Offline vs. Online. This ebook has hundreds of resources, ideas, tips and more to help you build your home business online and offline. We are continually adding new ebooks in our ebook store as well, where ebooks are only $1.00 and come with resell rights.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?
I have used many products, resources and such through the years but none of them really stick out. I know Yahoo has been an invaluable tool for me both now and when I first started out. I don't use a lot of programs so most of my work is done manually. If I could find a good article submitter, that would be great!

Note from Nicole: Check out this service, Terri. :)

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

Remember this: You can do it if you do not give up! When I first started, I did not even know how to turn the computer on. This was over 10 years ago but I did not give up. If one business did not fulfill all my dreams, I tried another. Do not think if you fail in one business that you will fail in all. A business has to be like a spouse - it can only be a complete success with the right one!

Find more articles by Terri at LadyPens.
http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Terri-Seymour/21

Free Article Marketing Distribution Tips

2006-04-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

I also wanted to let you know about two services that will absolutely speed up your article distribution process. If you're like me, the process of submitting articles to bunches of article directories can be ... well, a huge PAIN.

I currently use this distribution service to distribute my articles. They send my article out to over 20,000 publishers and I don't have to lift a finger to do it. I've been using them for about a year, and really have enjoyed the results.

However, I'm planning to test the results of this new article distribution service as well - Article Marketer It's even less expensive, and they really seem to have their act together, so I'll let you know how my little experiment goes.

Best wishes, and have a great week!
Nicole

Free Reprint Easter Articles

2006-04-12T07:45:00.000-07:00

Tip of the day:

Holiday articles are HOT HOT HOT!

Grab some of these free reprint Easter articles for your website or blog, or submit yours today.

You'll get exposure this Easter -- and Easters for years to come.

Nicole

Nicole MacKenzie of MacKenzie Responsive Parenting Method

2006-04-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Nicole. Tell us about your business. What do you offer? When did you start?

I am a mother of six and have been leading parenting seminars for over 15 years. My passion is developing methods to help parents bring out the brilliance in their children - to maintain curiosity and vitality, plus have fun and satisfaction while raising their children. I developed a system called the MacKenzie Responsive Parenting Method based on my years of research in the field of human potential plus my experiences with raising my own children.

My method is based on the universal principles of teamwork, mutual respect, honest communication, non-judgmental awareness and curiosity. It emphasizes consistent discipline without punishment which children actually love and thrive under.

Another thing I insist upon is that Mom and Dad have fun in the parenting process. I believe it is an essential ingredient in effective parenting.

As a side effect of my method, children develop a strong emotional intelligence (often called EQ or EI). Studies in the last decade have shown that EQ is by far the single strongest predictor of future adult success in all aspects of life – far more important than traditional IQ!

In 2002 I wrote a parenting book describing my method, "Parenting Rule #1: Mom Has Fun!" I also offer a parenting audio CD and video. I've had a website for many years although it never generated any sales until recently. In March, 2005 we gave our website http://www.rulenumberone.com a much needed "face-lift" and gradually ventured into the world of internet marketing...

We started by sending an eblast to a friends list. That worked well, so we created an e-book version of our hard-copy book and built a second mini-site http://www.morefunlessworkparenting.com that was devoted only to promoting and selling the e-book version. Next we created a multi-part e-Class to offer people as a free gift, got an autoresponder to manage the emails (Note: LadyPens recommends the autoresponder at www.moms.aweber.com) , and started building our first email address list. For advertising we dipped our toes into the world of Google pay-per-click with a whopping budget of $1 a day! Everything was hooked up to PayPal to collect the payments and then we set up an auto-delivery system to send out the e-book and free bonuses. This was launched in late June 2005.

I must admit it was quite a thrill to sell that very first e-book. To have a customer order, pay, and take delivery without having to "do" anything is totally addicting! Since then we've expanded pay-per-click advertising, started sending out regular monthly newsletters, enrolled in ClickBank to get affiliates, traded bonuses with joint venture partners, set up reciprical links with sites we love, and submitted articles to several article banks (including LadyPens of course!).

Our internet business is now growing steadily, but that's not really the best part. The most exciting thing is knowing that my parenting method is helping parents all around the world raise responsible cooperative kids and have fun in the process. I have affiliates and link partners in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa; I send e-newsletters to Egypt, Sri Lanka, India and Finland just to name a few. Being able to reach so many people in such far-away places was totally inconceivable to me before starting internet marketing. I truly appreciate every single person that is part of my new internet community and am deeply gratified by the opportunity to assist them.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

We have a free newsletter plus a free e-Class that helps parents set rules and consequences for their kids. Using MacKenzie Responsive Parenting to establish discipline without punishment quickly reduces stressful parent-child power struggles, whining, and tantrums. Visit http://www.morefunlessworkparenting.com to enroll.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

A sequential autoresponder (like aweber) for our newsletters and mailings, pay-per-click advertising (like Google and Yahoo) for traffic, an affiliate program (like ClickBank) for helping others sell our ebook, and Skype for talking free (or very cheaply) over the internet to our friends and associates all around the world.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

Create a service for people that has real value and is something you personally are totally passionate about. If you don't love it and would do it regardless of the money, you won't have the energy and comittment to see you through. Don't be discouraged if you're not an overnight internet success story. Take small steps, go at your own pace and just keep steadily building your online business.

Remember that quality content is more important than worrying about making things pretty. People will quickly tire of fluff and hype, but will become your loyal raving fans if you can really assist them in reaching their goals.

And don't be shy about 'tooting your own horn' and getting the word out about what you have to offer. But get started right away - do something!

Check out Nicole's awesome articles at LadyPens.

http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Nicole-Mackenzie/202

Betty Lynch of My Country Kitchen

2006-04-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

Tell us about your business. What do you offer? When did you start?

My Country Kitchen is a menu planning service for the busy person. We prepare 7 main dishes, 7 side dishes, snacks and a dessert and deliver the menu, recipes and grocery list to your email box every Thursday evening. I started My Country Kitchen in August, 2005

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

My Country Kitchen has free articles, Watkins products, recipes, pet recipes just waiting for you. We add new recipes often, so keep checking back.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

My online friends who are so knowledgably about online business. I've learn so much just reading people's posts.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

My advice would be to network with others, write articles, give away freebies. People do business with people they know.

Grab some of Betty's articles at http://www.ladypens.com/myarticles/Betty-Lynch/232

Free Article Marketing Call

2006-04-05T18:07:00.000-07:00

Kelly McCausey of WAHMTalkRadio and I held a live call on Monday and answered 10 of your Top Article Marketing questions. We had a great time, shared lots of information, and we recorded it so you can listen in.

The call recording is available online for a limited time and we've included our notes, as well.

Grab the free call recording and our notes here:
http://www.easyarticlemarketing.com/QandASession.htm

Let me know if you have any questions!

How do you Create an e-Book?

2006-03-31T14:55:00.000-08:00

I get this question quite regularly. Since this blog is read primarily by writers and internet marketers, I thought I'd pop in and share this.

Write a Viral e-Book Easily

Every time I release a free e-book to my subscribers, I get great feedback about how awesome I am and how they could NEVER create anything so cool.

((sigh))

I have a confession to make. You see ... it is really really simple to make a short, viral e-book. It's not rocket science, I promise.

If you know how to use Word for Windows, you can create an e-book. Now, as far as doing market research to find out if anyone will *buy* your e-book -- that's a whole 'nother ball game. But, if you want to make a nice little giveaway for some viral marketing, it's easy as pie!

Step 1:
Write your e-book in Word for Windows.

As you write it, keep the following in mind:

* This e-book should serve a purpose, either to generate traffic to your website or to make affiliate sales. However, it should also be informative and useful to the reader. This e-book will represent your company. Make it quality.

* Double check that all links are active before you save your final copy in Word.

* Keep your images and pictures small, because you don't want the final product to have a large file size. When you're saving your images, test the file types. I find that saving an image in .jpg is smaller than saving it in some other file sizes. Test yours, too.

Step 2:
Go to my favorite tool, http://convert.neevia.com/

See where it says "Select the file"?
Browse to your Word for Windows file and click Upload and Convert

That's all there is. Like I said, EASY EASY EASY.

Now, it's your job to get your e-book into the hands of people.

1. Send it to your mailing list or newsletter.
2. Allow your friends to give it away.
3. Submit it to free e-book directories.
4. Use it as an enticement for people to sign up for your mailing list (You can say "Sign up and receive this cool e-book - free!")
5. You can even give it away as a free gift to people who win your auctions on eBay to make your auction stand out from others.

So, if you'd like to have viral marketing working for you, too, get started today on your giveaway!

Nicole Dean invites you to take her free tutorial for more simple ways to get more traffic. Sign up for Web Traffic School at http://www.WebTrafficBasics.com And, for many examples of free ebooks, stop by http://www.free-ebooksonline.com

This article is available for reprint. :)

April Fool's Articles ...

2006-03-31T09:41:00.000-08:00

Here are perfect articles for you to submit or post tomorrow -

http://www.ladypens.com/Category/April-Fools/136

Hope they make you smile!
Nicole

Niki Jackson of Cinnamon Creations

2006-03-31T07:54:00.000-08:00

Tell us about your business. What do you offer?

Hi ! My name is Niki Jackson and I am the owner of Cinnamon Creations - Country & Primitive Art & Crafts.

Cinnamon Creations is a country & primitive home decor online store specializing in hand-made decor and crafts. Each product is created for different rooms in the home such as my hand-stitched pillows which look great on a chair in your bedroom!

As well as offering home decor products I also invite you to learn about how to decorate your own home in the country or primitive style. There are photo galleries of ideas for each room in your home as well as articles on how to achieve the rustic look and other decorating guides: http://www.cinnamoncreations.co.uk/ideas.php

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.
I've just re-launched my blog where I discuss country and primitive home decorating and surviving a home-based business. I would love you to stop by and leave me a comment: http://www.nikijackson.net/blog/

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?
I would say my favourite all time resource has to be Mom Masterminds. I came across the site in August 2005 when I was struggling to learn about internet marketing and how I could expand my business.

Mom Masterminds has been such a huge blessing to me, I am learning all the time and the support there is amazing, I am very grateful to be a part of this wonderful resource.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?
I would say the no. 1 important thing is getting support, it is so tough doing it alone, having someone or a group of people to keep you going through the tough times is so valuable.

The second thing has to be learning, learn all you can about internet business and action what you learn.

Stop by Niki's site here:

Link to your articles at LadyPens.
http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Niki-Jackson/38

Kristie Tamsevicius, is the author of "I Love My Life: A Mom's Guide to Working from Home"!

2006-03-28T07:43:00.000-08:00

Here's our next featured writer:
Kristie Tamsevicius, is the author of
"I Love My Life: A Mom's Guide to Working from Home"!

Tell us about your business. What do you offer? When did you start?

Kristie Tamsevicius left corporate America so she could stay home with her children. Some say that it was a bold move, but she says that it was not only the right move; it has turned out to be far better than she could have possibly imagined. Since then she gone on to start several successful home businesses, founded WebMomz.com, a national support organization for work at home parents.

She's a marketing phenomenon whose brand of business advice has been featured on every national television network, CNN, Crains Chicago Business, Dr. Laura, and radio shows around the country. She is also a featured panelist on the USA Today panel of small business experts.
She is author of the bestselling book, I Love My Life: A Mom’s Guide to Working from Home and co-contributor to the soon to be released book Build it Big 2: 101 Direct Selling Secrets from Top Direct Selling Experts (Dearborn Publishing).

She’s a featured work at home mom expert at ClubMom.com, a premier online community for moms by Meredith Vieira, the host of ABC’s The View and daytime’s Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.

A sought after speaker, Kristie teaches workshops around the country on how anyone can turn their passion into profits on the Internet. She is a member of both the National Speakers Association and Toastmasters as well as a featured speaker for the Direct Selling Women’s Alliance.

She is a member of the advisory panel for TickleU.com, Cartoon Network’s new programming for preschool children.

She is a member of the Maven Moms panel for Disney who gets to preview and review family oriented Disney movie releases and products.

Additionally, she acts as a corporate spokesperson to help companies reach the $1.6 trillion dollar mom market.

She developed a strong background in marketing in her more than 14 years of experience in business-to-business and business-to-consumer based marketing communications. Her company, BrandingontheNet.com, helps authors and speakers become the #1 expert in their field through branded web site development.

Kristie says that her greatest happiness is spending time with her husband and two children. Kristie and Joe, her husband of 11 years, live in their home in suburban Gurnee, IL.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

In my newest book project, I am a contributing author in the bestselling book More Build it Big: 101 Insider Secrets from Top Direct Sellers (Dearborn Publishing April 2006).

I am a featured mom expert at ClubMom.com

I have a great freebie Extreme Home Office Makeover: The Secrets to Creating and Inspiring Home Office You Love here: http://www.kristiet.com/lovelife/homeoffice.htm

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

My business coach, Rich Fettke (http://www.fettke.com/), has truly made a difference in my business. He keeps me on track, motivated, and supports me 100% of the way!

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

As soon as your website is up, start writing articles. Over the past 8 years, article writing has brought me more business than any other marketing method hands down. And best of all, it’s absolutely free!
Krisite recommends EasyArticleMarketing.com here - http://www.webmomz.com/blog/easy-article-marketing-it-really-works/ (Thanks, Kristie!) :)

Also, I highly recommend learning the basics of Search Engine Optimization. With just a few simple tweaks, you can dramatically boost your search engine ranking for various pages on your website.

And finally, learn about copywriting. It doesn’t matter if you send a million visitors to your website, if you don’t have good copywriting, you won’t convert them, and all your efforts will have been in vain!

What is your number one question about online business, getting traffic, networking, affiliate programs or article marketing?
The #1 question people ask me is how to find the money to start their business. While there are grants, they are few and far between. You can find funds to start your business by starting a savings account, doing a home equity loan, borrowing from the 401K account, or even using a low interest credit card. The point is start small, don’t get carried away spending too much too quickly with your business. Keep your expenditures in check with your income and you should be able to start pocketing some income in a few months.

I started my business while I was still at my day job. We tucked away extra money in savings while I got the business going. After a few months when the business was rolling and income was coming in, I quit my day job and went full time with my home business. Wherever you are, you can take some small step today to make your dream of owning a home business a reality!

Believe in yourself!

Find Kristie's free reprint articles here -
http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Kristie-Tamsevicius/177

And, the Funniest Article of the Day is...

2006-03-20T12:10:00.000-08:00

As we were going through and approving awesome articles and declining the spammy ones, we ran into this submission. Constance, you win the funniest article of the day! :) LadyPens Staff

You're Not On Mute, You Know
By: Constance Weygandt

I am a multitasker. That is why I love the mute button when on a conference call in my home. It allows me to get a few small tasks done, let my dog in and out of the house and keep a running commentary going with the host, with no one the wiser.

I say things like;

“I agree.”
“I’m with you.”
“You’re right.”

Sometimes I say things like:

“That can’t be right.”
“Well, I wouldn’t put it that way.”
“I don’t agree with you.”

Such was the case the other night, while on a conference call. However, I started to notice something different about this call. As always, I said a few words when I got on and immediately put myself on mute. Then it seemed as if there were technical difficulties. The host sounded as if he was speaking in a tunnel. I thought that strange but things happen. The call became stranger. In my running commentary, to myself, I would ask questions that it seemed the host anticipated. I thought, “ Wow. This guy is really great. He anticipates any question someone could ask.”

Finally, in trying to drive home his point, he made an analogy involving a first car. He said, “Imagine your first car. It’s a stick shift with a clutch and you drive it to the top of a hill and then what happens?”

I answered, on mute, “Well, obviously, you start to slide back down the hill.”

The host laughed,“ You could do that but no, you would floor the gas.”

Then I knew. The most horrible sensation washed over me.

“I am not on mute, am I?”

“No, you are not on mute.”

This whole time, on the conference call, as my unfiltered thoughts are spouting out of my mouth, people from all across the nation are listening to me. Mute had betrayed me. What was once my conference call ally was now just a nightmare. I instinctively disconnected the call.

What I found to be very, very odd was that not one person mentioned that they could hear me. It would have been nice of someone had said, “ You’re not on mute, you know.” Or “ I can hear you.” So, I wondered, even if I am in the privacy of my home and on mute where no one can hear me, is it ever a good idea to let thoughts flow out of your mind unfiltered and say them aloud?

I have learned my lesson. From now on, I will mute both the phone and myself when on a conference call. And, in the future, do me a favor? If you come across someone who appears to be chattering for no apparent reason other than to hear themselves talk, will you gently remind them, “ You’re not on mute, you know.” I know I will.

Article by:
Constance Weygandt is an author, speaker and balance mentor. For more information on balance and wellness or to receive her newsletter, visit her at http://www.balancedwellnessonline.com/

Grab this article for your website here -
http://www.ladypens.com/Article/You-re-Not-On-Mute--You-Know/2254

Diana Walker, Sunrider Group Director

2006-03-16T15:17:00.000-08:00

1. Tell us about your business. What do you offer? When did you start?

My business is Sunrider Chinese Herbal Foods and educating people on natural, vibrant healthy lifestyles. My websites are http://www.diana2.com and http://opp.sunrider.com/vitalityplus

I started in 1996, just using and enjoying the Sunrider products. I started sharing with others, and within months it grew to a large income, just from sharing in the evening and on weekends. In 2003 I was able to leave my full-time government job to be home with my son, and continue my business from home. This was a dream come true. In 2003 I started to really bring my business online, rather than in-person, home parties. My favorite ways to connect with people are over the internet and by telephone.

I also have my blog at http://www.wahmhealthwealth.blogspot.com where I love to share about my family and my adventures in being a Work At Home Mom.

2. Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I am privileged to have earned an all-expense-paid Carribbean Cruise to Jamaica, Cancun and Cayman Islands in February 2006, with 350 other top North American Sunrider Leaders and Drs. Tei Fu and Oi Lin Chen, founders of Sunrider International. Photos are at http://diana2.powerfulintentions.com/album/784

3. What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

#1 MomMasterminds - I felt totally lost and overwhelmed on the internet before I found the wonderful mentoring of Alice Seba and Kelly McCausey, founders of Mom Masterminds. The mentoring and the community spirit that is provided within this online group is beyond description. The door has been temporarily closed to new members, but you can put yourself on a waiting list. I’d highly recommend that you do so, if you are looking for success online.

#2 Easy Article Marketing I set myself the goal of writing articles months ago, but I kept procrastinating. It was only after I purchased the Easy Article Marketing course with Nicole Dean and Kelly McCausey, that I finally got the confidence to write my first article. It is so wonderful to have Nicole as my coach and mentor. The suggestions she made were so clear and crisp, and made my article much more professional. Also, I found that the templates that Kelly provides in the course are remarkably helpful, and work wonders in helping me to put my thoughts down on paper, instead of keeping them all in my head!

4. What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

My best advice is to network with and learn from like-minded people. My journey has taken me from not even knowing what html or SEO meant 2 years ago, to becoming pretty knowledgeable today.

I am always willing to learn, and I feel I have been so privileged to find MomMasterminds . I think that membership in Mom Masterminds, with the powerful mentoring available, has been the single most important key to my online business success. I am still learning, but the encouragement of the other members is what keeps me going.

Find article by Diana here -
http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Diana-Walker/278

Free Web Traffic School for Moms in Business

2006-03-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

Recently, I collected questions from my subscribers, and the most common question asked was "How can I get more Traffic?"

Here's a full tutorial I created just for you.

It's a "scheme-free" and "hype-free" zone. Just the facts, ma'am.

http://www.webtrafficbasics.com/

Please let me know if you have questions!

Nicole

Tricia Kvidt - Cozy 4 Candles

2006-03-10T08:19:00.000-08:00

Hi Tricia! Tell us about your businesses.

I am a candle distributor. I sell Mia Bella Candles and other gourmet products. This includes 16 oz pillars, votives, 16oz jar candles, natural soaps, body wash and car freshner. I started late sept 05.

http://www.cozy4candles.net/ and http://www.cozy4candles.scent-team.com/ is where my business information can be found.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

Our newest launch is the 16 oz pillars. There are 4 different scents. These soy pillars are incredible and smell outstanding. All our candles are soy/veg natural wax. triple scented so the scent is smelled from beginning to end.

My free offer the first 10 purchases of 16 oz soy pillar or 16 oz candle will receive a free Mia Bella natural soap bar. I have replaced my store soap with the natural soap. This soap is awesome and once you have tried it, you will not go back to store soap again.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

If anyone is looking to start a business online, I would suggest be very patient. It can start up really slow. But once you start advertising getting your URL out for people to surf - the hits will start coming in. Most people are just interested in seeing what you are selling.

My experience getting that 1st customer is the hardest. But once you get someone to try your product and they like it - the word of mouth can be better than any advertising. People trust their friends and family, even when they don't know you they will buy from you. For the holidays I gave candles and soap products to my friends and family. They love them so much. I have had repeat customers just from doing this.

Read Tricia Kvidt's free reprint articles on LadyPens

Kelly Nault - Ultimate Parent

2006-03-02T08:30:00.000-08:00

Meet Kelly Nault, another one of my favorite women in business.

Kelly, tell us about your businesses.

How my business Ultimate Parent Found Me:

Like thousands of moms, I found myself quite literally in the “parenting deep end” with two boys who when they weren’t bouncing off the walls they were literally pounding on them! On top of it all, they were also blind. It was out of sheer desperation that I began my master’s in counseling psychology and started working with the best parenting experts in the world.

Half a decade later, I became the “go to” person for children that other professionals had given up on. What I discovered was the kids weren’t the problem—the parenting methods were. Armed with effective parenting tools I have now helped thousands of families with common struggles like bedtime tantrums, homework blues and sibling rivalry that allow parents to put fun back into their household and give them the peace of mind.

There are three things I now offer moms who want to quit struggling:

Ultimate Parent – We take the guess work out of child discipline and inspire moms to solve their individual family challenges (from toddler tantrums to teenage attitude) that get in the way of enjoying a happy, peaceful and supportive home life. The Ultimate Parent approach guides moms to shed stress and to instead adopt effective parenting development tools that bring out your best and your family’s best without adding more to your to do list. What we are most committed to doing is motivating moms to put their self care needs first, so they have a “self” to give their children. Moms love the fact that our child discipline approach works quickly to get you what you want and gives your children what they most need.

MommyMoments – A complimentary parenting course online for moms that renews her joy for parenting, helps her avoid mom burnout and guides her to thrive in motherhood—not merely survive.

Kelly, you know SO much about publicity. How would you describe yourself to the media?

Parenting motivational speaker Kelly Nault M.A., is the award-winning author of the book, "When You're About To Go Off The Deep End, Don't Take Your Kids With You." As a speaker, she offers entertaining workshops and keynotes to parents in schools to the corporate boardroom. Kelly is a popular and entertaining guest on radio and television stations across North America. Her contagious sparkle for life, and effective communication strategies have helped thousands of families and they keep coming back for more. The inspiring approach to parenting Kelly shares is time-tested, child-proofed and effective in radically decreasing common family struggles while accelerating the ability for each family member to reach and fulfill their maximum potential in life.

Tell us about some of your hot news and offers.

Freebies - Complimentary free online parenting course for moms

Recent News of Parenting Book Award - “When You’re About To Go Off The Deep End, Don’t Take Your Kids With” was the iparenting recipient of the 2005 best product award.

Recent News of Speaker Award - The Canadian Association of Professional Speakers honored Kelly Nault last month with the 2005 Quantum Leap Award for her outstanding 40+ radio and television parenting interviews.

What are some products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

1. Bath salts and lavender oil to soak and unwind in after a long day.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)

Four things are essential to women just starting an online business:

1. Find a way to make money doing what you love to do by making certain there are people who will pay for what you have.

2. Learn how to market yourself and your product by discovering what your target market truly wants.

3. Only use benefit driven language (i.e. what’s in it for your customer, rather than what’s in it for you) when writing any sales copy.

4. Before spending a dime on marketing ask yourself will I get at least 10X my return on investment. If you won’t, look elsewhere. When hiring consultants pay on results rather than by tasks.

Find free reprint articles by Kelly Nault here.

Automating the Article Submission Process

2006-02-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

A question I get often is "How can I speed up the article submission process?"

Here are some options to automate and outsource your article submissions.

Online Article Submission Service:
There are several online services that you can pay to automaticallysubmit your articles to publishers and directories in seconds.These services offer options where you can pay by the article or bythe month. There is a huge range in prices, varying from $1 perarticle to over $100 per article, so shop around.

After shopping around much, I found isnare last year and absolutely love it!
Click here to see how you can get your article in front of 20,000 publishers

Article Submission Software:
If you'd prefer to submit and manage all your articles on your own computer, there are a few pieces of software that you can purchase to assist you in speeding up your article submissions. These software options range in price and quality as well, so definitely research your options before committing to a large investment.

For reviews of the Article Submission Options, click here.

I hope this information helps. Please keep the questions coming.
Nicole

Darlene Hull - Mom Defrazzler

2006-02-21T20:02:00.000-08:00

Hi Darlene! Tell us about more about your business.

Hello, Nicole! What a wonderful idea this is!

On Mother's Day in 2005 I launched the "Mom-Defrazzler". This is a site to help moms look after themselves, deal with stress, and learn to enjoy their mothering role even when it gets hectic. There is also a FREE downloadable "Mom Defrazzler Tool" that pops up once a week with a tip and idea to help you get "from chaos to calm in 52 weeks".

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

Just this week I am releasing my brand new FREE e-book entitled, "A Mother's 5-Step Guide to Success in Building a Home Business". The E-book goes over the 5 most important things to have in place if you are going to succeed online as a mom. The book also offers a free course that helps you first learn how to build an automated, self-funding business, and then apply that information to the business of your choice. It's set up for newbies who need a boost, or the "burned out moms" to give them a proper start.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

First, learn the skills of business building on the Internet, and then jump into your passion once you know what you're doing. You don't need to go into debt or spend hours and hours on the computer "making it happen". After all, didn't you get into this for the time and financial freedom benefits in the first place?

Read Darlene Hull's free reprint articles on LadyPens

Thank you to our Prize Sponsors

2006-02-21T06:07:00.000-08:00

I wanted to send a quick thank you to all the sponsors of the LadyPens Article Contest. Because of your generosity, we are able to award our writers these amazing products...

1 month membership to Healthy Menu Mailer - Healthy Eating

EasyArticleMarketing.com - The Easy Article Marketing Course is a Full Article Marketing Tool Kit! (prize awarded)

The Power of a Focused Business - When you Laser Target your business - you'll race past your competition!

The Confidence to Act - Fear has to be dealt with before you can step out and DO what you believe you're called to do in business and in life!

Two 3 month memberships to http://www.webmomzvip.com/ $35.50 value each

2 winners will each receive -
10 article submission credits to blast your articles to 24,000 publishers (Value $18 each)

Press Release Profits - Learn how to quickly crank out a steady stream of press releases; who to send them to and how to get yourself together when somebody wants to interview you.

Win one hour of help from an awesome Virtual Assistant.
Jen's donated 3 gifts of 1 hour of her time. She can do article submitting, keyword research, press release distribution, contest submitting and more! BlueRidgeVirtualAssistance.com

2 lavender scented eye pillows and 2 scented “peace” candles -- because every Woman needs some rest and relaxation - from http://www.abcgiftsandbaskets.com/

6 months of advertising at Business-Moms-Expo.com

2 winners will each receive -
Living In A Locker Room: A Mom's Tale Of Survival In A Houseful Of Boys By Paula Schmitt, The All Sports Mom

Think and Be Successful - A self help e-course that helps you banish your limiting beliefs and make positive changes in your life. (prize awarded)

Real Living Nutrition Online Mini Diet Makeover and Assessment - Get a complete diet and lifestyle assessment with expert advice on how to make small changes to reach your weight loss goals. Receive a custom plan from your own personal dietitian.

3 Lucky Winners will each receive - Gift certificates worth $10 each!

4 lucky winners will receive this awesome ebook -
If you're one of the many who thinks all marketing is expensive, think again! Inside this 50 page eBook are 101 FREE and Inexpensive Marketing Ideas, with real life scenarios proven to take your business to the next level.

3 month membership to Auction Strategists

LadyPens Tee * LadyPens Mug * LadyPens Apron * LadyPens Journal
*(Click here to set up a free store like this selling your own logo gear.)

16oz Gourmet Veggie Candle Scent of the Month to burn to help your creative juices flow! http://www.burn2prosper.com/

Lisa Akers - Be Still and Knit

2006-02-15T13:04:00.000-08:00

Hi Lisa! Tell us about your businesses.

Hi! I'm the owner of Be Still & Knit, a learning program for women who do to much! I teach knitting and crochet using a method that emphasizes the peace and stillness you can get from doing hand-work. My approach is definitely focused on the process of creating something beautiful rather than on the final product. I teach my classes in the Denver metro area, but I'm getting started on publishing them as video downloads through my website. I began my company in June 2005 and have loved every minute of it!

I also offer beautiful hand-knit items through craft fairs and through my website at http://www.bestillandknit.com

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I'm very excited about my upcoming podcast! Starting March 1, I'll be launching "Musings of a Peaceful Knitter" that will include some wonderful things to think about while you knit and feature messages from fellow knitters on how they use knitting and crochet to develop that sense of inner peace and stillness that we all crave. Watch my website to learn more!

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

I am a huge fan of Macromedia Dreamweaver for building sites. I love to program and test things out, and Dreamweaver offers that capability. I wouldn't recommend it for someone who doesn't do much with web programming, but I think it's great for anyone who is familiar with HTML.

I also love VerticalResponse.com for handing my mailings. They just charge per email, not per month, which means you can get professional mailing list handling without the huge cost of many of the other sites out there.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

I think the most important thing to realize is that most online businesses can get started for free. You don't have to pay a bunch of money for advertising or getting listed in a directory. Take advantage of programs like LadyPens and MomMasterminds to get you all the resources you need, and then pick what works for you. There's no sense doing it all at once. Try something and see how it works. Then try something else.

Read Lisa Akers' free reprint articles on LadyPens

Heather Jacobson - Valley VA

2006-02-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

Hi Heather! Tell us about your businesses.

My primary business is a virtual assistant offering marketing and web services to small business owners. Valley Virtual Assistants just celebrated its first birthday on January 14, 2006 and in this past year, I’ve also started coaching aspiring VAs with VATraining.com , co-created The Blog Mavens, and introduced my first eBook --

Making Dollars out of Cents: 101 Tips for the Frugal Marketer.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I’ve just launched a site called the Marketing Geeks which features marketing articles covering a wide array of topics. We’re launching the “I’m a Geek Program” on February 1st where you can list your articles before I find them in the article banks and get your own page complete with bio, picture and link to your “Geeky” articles.

I’ve also added an affiliate tools section to the eBook site to provide my wonderful affiliates with more resources to help promote the book. The book relaunch is scheduled for January 22nd and will feature additional bonuses.

I also added a Featured Business Owner section to my bi-weekly newsletter, Marketing Made Simple and am looking for business owners to submit their picture, logo and 150 word bio to info@valleyva.net

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

There are so many! Aweber was definitely the wisest investment I made over the past year. I’ve been able to manage my various lists, track who is interested in what and really expand in the email marketing arena.

BYOAudio.com is another wise investment. At first, I was unsure of exactly how I was able to use it to its full potential, but that didn’t last long. I’ve used it with my tele-classes, on my blog, in my newsletter and a slew of other places. It’s been great for testimonials as well.

Jimmy D. Brown’s List and Traffic Video Newsletter was a total shock to me. It was recommended by Alice Seba which was the only reason I subscribed. I was blown away with the content inside and it’s produced a flurry of excitement between a lot of us at Mom Masterminds…

Oh! Mom Masterminds! I wasted a lot of time joining, for various reasons…all of them stupid in hindsight. I’ve made so many new friends, learned so many new things -- I know 2006 is going to be my year.

My webhost – Dreamhost. I was a religious DayanaHost user, and still love them. But when I added my 10th site and my VA site continued to grow, I realized that making the move to Dreamhost was a more economical option.

And the last thing is my coach, Dale Noles, with VA Training.com. In addition to the great things I learn with Mom Masterminds, Dale really helps me focus on my business. When I get excited about new things that I’m learning at MM, I’m able to work things out and really nail down exactly what I want to do. He took me from an insecure woman trying to start my own gig to a very confident, but not over confident business owner.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

Before getting traffic, article marketing and networking, really take the time to define your target market. Without that you’re pretty much just going at it blind.

The other piece of advice I have is to stay focused. Don’t start on another project until you get one up and running. It’s something that I really struggled with and still struggle with if I’m not careful. For the first time in my life I’m doing what I love and getting paid to do what I love and I’m excited. The ideas keep coming, but so do the laundry and the dishes.

Read Heather Jacobson's free reprint articles on LadyPens

Jeanette Fisher of Joy to the Home

2006-02-14T10:25:00.000-08:00

Hi Jeanette! Tell us about your businesses.

Our Queen Anne Victorian home taught me more about interior design than I cared to learn at the time. I studied interior design in college and thought I knew it all until we redesigned our 1878 home pictured at www.joytothehome.com. When we remodeled our kitchen in 1986, it felt terrible!

Since the kitchen disater, I've researched how our interior design detail choices affect our emotions, I now create homes for glorious living and top-dollar sales. My business, Joy to the Home, includes teaching others about Design Psychology for happiness and well being plus how to use redesign and home staging. Besides presenting teleseminars and seminars, and selling books, I speak for the Learning Annex and teach college courses.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

Sell Your Home for Top Dollar-FAST! Design Psychology for Redesign and Home Staging sold out twice. The book just got a facelift and updated materials for the second edition. You can get a free ebook "Design Psychology for Selling Houses" at http://sellfast.info.

Other freebies: "What IS Design Psychology?" http://designpsych.com
"Turn Your Credit Burdens into Wealth Building Tools" helps real estate investors finance multiple properties and first-time home buyers get a mortgage. http://worryfreecredit.com

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

The one program I miss the absolute most when I use another computer: ShortKeys. I don't know how I ever lived without it! Too bad they don't have an affiliate program, I'd spend a lot of time marketing this time saver!

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

Ask for help. I constantly help beginning authors so they avoid the mistakes I made. Get referrals for great teleclasses before you sign up through a high-pitched sales letter. I have wasted over ten grand on bogus book marketing schemes, seminars, and teleclasses. On the other hand, some of the teleclasses I took were gems! Don't sign up to 1shoppingcart though an affiliate that won't walk you through the program!

Read Jeanette Fisher's free reprint articles on LadyPens

A Quick Note

2006-02-13T06:17:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. I wanted to mention a few things.

First of all, if you haven't gotten your profile in, please click here to submit your interview. I'm looking forward to learning more about all our wonderful LadyPens writers.

Secondly, I've had a tremendous response to this promotion. My assistant and I are working through the list of submissions. If you don't see your interview for a few weeks, it's just because I'm working through them in order, NOT because your interview was not accepted. ;)

Thirdly, you may have noticed a slight change on the article pages at LadyPens. I've removed all google ads from the articles and have replaced them with a billboard where I'll be featuring special freebies and offers and products that I personally recommend. This is not paid advertising (where random people can promote their stuff), just where I'll be listing "Hot Stuff" that is personally helping me with my business. I hope you like the change.

That's it for today! Happy Monday.
Nicole

Kelly Korbonsi of Atea Kids

2006-02-13T06:04:00.000-08:00

Hi Kelly! Tell us about your businesses.

Atea Kids started in September 2005. I started Atea Kids to venture into the children's products industry. We currently offer two products: Toddler Timeout Mat and the Drop Stop. The Toddler Timeout is a discipline mat used for children ages 2-8 years old. The benefit of the mat is the portability and it provides consistency, both are key in making the time out method
successful. The mat also comes with a digital timer that can clip onto the mat.

The Drop Stop is a strap that attaches to sippy cups, bottles, soft toys, etc. It can be used when the child is in a high chair, stroller, anything with a seat belt. So, when the child "launches" their bottle, for example, it does not fall to the ground.

We have also started to sell product from qualified vendors such as educational books and musical storybook dolls.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

We have been featured in several newspapers lately which is exciting. We have new products being announced summer 2006. We will begin a monthly drawing for free product.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Networking, networking, networking. I have met so many other mom-inventors who are either starting out or have broken down the doors and found success.

Without talking to them, I wouldn't be as far as I am.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

I just picked up the phone and called other people in my industry and asked to interview them. I found talking to people who have experience and learning through them is priceless information.

Read Kelly Korbonsi's free reprint articles on LadyPens

Nicole Bandes of Nature Made EZ

2006-02-09T17:01:00.000-08:00

Hi Nicole! Tell us about your businesses.

My Name is Nicole Bandes. I am a natural health coach. I work with individuals to educate them on how to choose the right nutritional supplements and alternative therapies to meet their own unique needs.

Specifically, I work with Nature’s Sunshine products, a network marketing company that has been in business for almost 35 years and has over 500 products so there is something for everyone. I started working with Nature’s Sunshine about 6 years ago when I was tired of feeling sick and tired and poor. While I am not getting “rich”, I have been able to establish a solid income that allows me to stay at home with my 2 boys and husband.
http://www.naturemadeez.com/ is my website. At my site you can stay updated on the latest health tips and natural supplement research. You can also learn about my consultation services and purchase Nature’s Sunshine Products.

I also have a couple of squidoo lenses that allow me to focus in on a health topic and provide ongoing updates.
Uncovering the Truth about Natural Health Supplements keeps viewers up to date on natural supplement research.
Benefits of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids focuses specifically on articles and research related to this critical supplement.
Natural Health for Women provides links to relevant research and articles as well as books related to women’s natural health.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

At this time, I am offering a free 20 minute health consultation by phone for anyone that signs up with a free Nature’s Sunshine membership. Check out my consultations page for more information.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

I can’t live without Vistaprint business cards! They are so inexpensive and offer very high quality. This company allows you to get a premium full color card at the cost of a black on white card from your office supply store.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

My best advice for a newbie getting started in the internet world would be to have patience and find a unique way to market. Once a specific advertising method has been used too much, it loses its effectiveness. Of course, if you have the ability to write, and your business topic lends itself well, then write, write, write!

Read Nicole Bandes free reprint articles on LadyPens

Rose DesRochers - Todays-Woman.net

2006-02-09T13:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Rose! Tell us about your businesses.

Thank you Nicole for featuring me. I'm Rose DesRochers and I'm the founder and administrator of Todays-Woman.net. Todays-Woman Writing Community first opened its doors to web surfers in 2002, at this time it was a woman's network. Since then it has become a writing community for both men and women, connecting writers from around the world in one virtual space.

Today's Woman is administrated by Rose DesRochers, Shawn DesRochers, SteveReichard and moderated by a team of four. The community is made up of those looking to be published, hobby writers, published authors, and publishers themselves. Todays-Woman.net has a full online forum with over 56 communities built inside of it. We have writing lessons, a full directory of links to literacy resources, famous poets, online book store, book reviews, and over 150 calls for submissions to help writers get published, plus many more features.Though the main focus of our community at one time was a poetry community, todays-woman.net is now the online community for creative writing, fiction writing, story writing, poetry writing, writing contests, freelance writing, song writing and all other genes of writing. More can be read about us on our company about page.
http://www.todays-woman.net/tos-about.html

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

The newest addition to the Today's Woman Writing Community is our new classified section, which allows writers to easily browse current contests, freelance jobs, and calls for submission. We've also added a section, to assist writers in getting the word out about their new book by requesting book reviews. The e-Classified software allows me to easily add, modify, or remove categories through the online control panel. In addition ads are listed in our weekly newsletter at no extra charge. Those interested in listing a job opportunity may contact me through the Todays-Woman.net contact form. Browse Today's Woman Writers classifieds
http://www.todays-woman.net/writer-classifieds.html

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Three things I can't live without are Mentors/ members, a great webmaster and a content managing system. If it were not for my husband and webmaster Shawn DesRochers, owner of
invision-graphics.com I would not be online. Therefore I owe him a great deal of gratitude. One of the benefits that have helped me the most is having wonderful mentors and loyal members. This is a group of individuals - far too many names to list. These caring people have no alternative motives, but to offer their experience in the writing industry. This group of mentors which consist of editors, copywriters, publishers, webmasters, writers, and authors assist me in learning as much as I can about the writing industry.

I also think one of the most beneficial features of todays-woman is the divix Content management system designed by invision-graphics.com. Maintaining a website takes a lot of time and man work- in this case woman work and the content management system provides writers with an ability to submit articles, press releases, author interviews and more. I just need to authorize them. A must have for an online business like mine.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

Starting a new online business can be time consuming. I think that you need to find a "balance" between your commitment to your new online business and family commitment. Also new business owners should take advantage of the resources available to them. There are a great number of useful articles on the net from experts in their field. I think that establishing a friendly relationship between customer and owner is important too. I'm on a first name bases with my community members and they tend to like that. There are a number of ways to drive traffic to your website.

Exchange links - Link exchanging is a great way to drive traffic
Write free articles- I quickly learned that writing articles and submitting them to online publications was a great way to attract new readers and drive traffic to your website.
Google and other search engines love content - Update your content on a regular bases.

Read Rose DesRochers free reprint articles on LadyPens

Michelle Dunn

2006-02-08T09:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Michelle! Tell us about your businesses.

I am a writer of business books on how to make money collecting money. Ihave 5 books published on this topic, including "Starting a CollectionAgency" and "Become the Squeaky Wheel". I offer consulting and speaking aswell. I started writing in 2000 and have been writing full time for oneyear. Prior to writing full time, I was a bill collector for 17 years andstarted and ran my own collection agency for 8 years. I have just finisheda second edition to "Starting a Collection Agency" and also just finished"The Ultimate Book of Credit & Collections" for Entrepreneur Press to bereleased in 2006. My website is http://www.michelledunn.com/ and I also have a 9year old community that I created called Credit & Collections http://www.credit-and-collections.com/ for business and credit professionals tonetwork and learn from each other. I now have over 800 members and it isgrowing every day!

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I have just released "Become the Squeaky Wheel" which is a great guide for business owners who want to have good paying customers, and want to collectthe money their customers owe them. It is available on my site and onamazon.com. I will be releasing the Second Edition of "Starting aCollection Agency" and Entrepreneur Press will be releasing "The Ultimate book of Credit & Collections" in 2006. I am very excited about both books.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Self publishing books by Dan Poynter and marketing books by Jay Conrad Levinson. Coffee, and inspiring stories of successful women.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

Learn all you can about websites, blogs, and online marketing before you start. Read Entrepreneur magazines, books and talk to others who have experience online. Then, create a plan and write it down, and follow it!

Find Free Reprint articles by Michelle Dunn here

Ginger Marks - DocUmeant

2006-02-08T09:35:00.000-08:00

Hi Ginger! Tell us about your businesses.

DocUmeant was founded by Ginger Marks in September 1998. It is a Web Design/Copy Editing business. The two venues work together synergistically seeing that the person needing web design work often needs help with their copy as well. This is what makes DocUmeant unique. When time is of the essence and care must be taken to ensure the message you intend is related effectively and professionally DocUmeant is there to assist you. Whether you need to compile an employee manual or a mass mailing we have the skill and experience to complete the task efficiently and correctly.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

We are proud to announce the redesign of our online presence. In conjunction with this unveiling we will be offering a free PDF completely designed and written by Ginger Marks entitled “How To Create Success”.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

The tool that is of the most benefit to my unique business is the The Chicago Manual of Style. It is the writer's bible. Second to that I would have to select the Ryze Online Networking group as the best resource for online advice and encouragement.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

The initial design of your business website should not be taken lightly. Your online presence is your potential customer’s first impression. Therefore it should be designed in a manner that will present your business as a need resource. With the help of a skilled professional you can successfully create an online presence that will rate well in the search engines and thus draw new customers to your website.

Find Free Reprint articles by Ginger Marks here

Corrie Petersen

2006-01-31T15:29:00.000-08:00

Hi Corrie! Tell us about your businesses.
I have 2 home businesses. I market safe, non-toxic products with the Health Freedom Team at http://works.healthfreedomteam.com/. I have been with them for 5 years. My favorite product is all of our cleaners. They protect my children from the toxic chemicals that can harm them.

My husband and I own Heavenly Crosses. We make and sell Disciple's Cross necklaces, keychains, andzipper pulls. We also do fundraisers for many organizations. Our website is http://www.heavenlycrosses.com/ We opened shop 2 years ago. My favorite product with is the pink necklace. It's so beautiful and they are unique and great.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.
Heavenly Crosses is offering 3 cross necklaces for $20.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?
If you are just getting started with an online business, don't give up.

It can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to get it off the ground. You really need to do a lot of advertising and networking. A great place to do that is Ryze

You can network there and you can learn so much. Writing articles and blogging is another great way to get your name out.

Find Free Reprint articles by Corrie Petersen here

Sherry Frewerd - Family CrockPot Recipes

2006-01-31T13:52:00.000-08:00

Hi Sherry! Tell us about your businesses.
I publish info websites, mostly focused on recipes and family/parenting. I offer a wide variety of recipes, cooking tips, toddler/preschool learning activities, ebooks.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.
My 'Family Crock Pot Recipes' newsletter has lots of free ebooks for subscribers at http://familycrockpotrecipes.com/

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?
Mom Masterminds; Ryze Network; Homestead.com

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?
Learn as much as you possibly can from trusted, time proven resources and don't expect too much too soon. Be patient. Work consistently.

Find Free Reprint articles by Sherry Frewerd here

Aurelia Williams - Real Life Coaching

2006-01-22T14:03:00.000-08:00

Hi Aurelia! Tell us about your businesses.

Hi there - I'm Aurelia Williams and I am the owner of Real Life Solutions http://www.reallifesolutions.net/ which is a Family Life Resource site created to help you and others lead an emotionally & physically healthier, more productive and less stressful life.
Real Life Coaching: www.reallifecoaching.net is myPersonal Life Coaching Site. I am dedicated to helping women live a life that is: less stressed and more organized, filled with more self confidence and a life that also follows the direction of their goals.
I am also one the Resident experts on the great WAHMTalkRadio show.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I am offering women a 10% off of their coaching package. I also have a wonderful eBook: Journey To Joy http://www.reallifecoaching.net/ebook.shtml

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

There are many resources that have been invaluable to me. The ones that top my list are Internetbasedmoms.com, Mom Masterminds and networking with other WAHMS such as yourself Nicole. Also watching awesome wahms make it truly inspires me. Also my VA's - I can't forget them. They are awesome!

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

Don't give up!! Start with your passion and grow from there. Find a great mentor and ask for help when needed. Never, ever be afraid to ask questions.

Find Free Reprint articles by Aurelia Williams

Dionna Sanchez - Emphasis on Moms

2006-01-22T13:49:00.000-08:00

Hi Dionna! Tell us about your businesses.

I am the Founder of the Emphasis On Moms Ministry at http://www.emphasisonmoms.com/ Emphasis offers a monthly newsletter to encourage the hearts of moms, ideas to instill character qualities in your kids, a mom mentoring program, discussion groups, ideas for family traditions and more. I started Emphasis On Moms out of my home in October 1997 and went online with it in July 1999.I can also be found weekly at MomWritersTalkRadio.com doing a "Mom Minute" and my personal blog at http://www.emphasisonmoms.blogspot.com

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

The newest addition to the Emphasis On Moms Ministry is our mom mentoring program. It is where ladies who are going through different circumstances in life can be mentored via email by another lady who navigated that same challenge. It really fills a niche that can't be found anywhere else on the web to allow ladies to minister and advise fellow moms who are hurting.

What is your biggest advice for someone new to online business?

I would advise them to do a lot of research. Find out what your competition is, plan out a strategy, and write down your ideas. Then test the waters a little bit. Don't lose sight of the people you are reaching in lieu of money you want to make. You first and foremost need to care about the people you are dealing with and be honest with them. Always be professional and build a good reputation.

Find Free Reprint articles by Dionna Sanchez here

Shannon Miller - Asthma Info

2006-01-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

Hi Shannon! Tell us about your businesses.

I have an Asthma site, I offer free information and advice on asthma
www.asthmainfosite.com

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I do have a drawing going on right now until Feb. 1

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Article marketing really helped my asthma site.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

Networking and article marketing have been two of the best things for me. Another major thing is SEO.

Read Shannon Miller's free reprint articles on LadyPens

Julie Jordan Scott - Life Purpose with a Spiritual Approach

2006-01-17T09:09:00.000-08:00

Hi Julie! Tell us about your businesses.
I own a life coaching and personal development company which focuses on creativity and life purpose with a spiritual approach.

I have several life changing programs which are free to participants, notably one which is starting again tomorrow, 42 Days of Writing Passionately.
http://www.5passions.com/42daysofwritingpassionately.html

I also offer a 42 Days of Passionate ProsperityProgram which is very transformative.
http://www.5passions.com/42days.html

In February I am launching a renewed Dream Activation program, which was pivotal in manifesting the dream of "Go Gratitude" a program that is literally changing the world... all because its founder was a member of the premier Dream Activation Program.
http://www.5passions.com/dreamactivationnew.html

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

My best advice is to take passionate action now. Not fear based, frenetic action - simply create something ANYTHING that excites you and then start talking about it in a variety of ways. Reach out naturally - not "hype-y" and your passion for your product will create a natural vacuum for you.

Find more articles by Julie Jordan Scott here.

Stacie Mahoe - All About Fastpitch

2006-01-17T08:54:00.000-08:00

Hi Stacie! Tell us about your businesses.

My main business is http://www.allaboutfastpitch.com/. Basically it is a website providing a number of fastpitch softball tips, drills, and resources. I started this website about 2 years ago.

I also built http://www.my-custom-silicone-bracelet.com/ to provide information about this hot trend! Get ideas for your own custom silicone bracelet, get general information about silicone bracelets, and also find out how to order one of your own!

A new project of mine is http://www.the-personalized-baby.com/. Babies are so precious and surely something to be celebrated. The Personalized Baby features great personalized baby gifts to welcome any new life into this world. Find a extra special gift for the newborn in your life at The Personalized Baby.

808 Blue Pitbull (http://www.808bluepitbull.com/) is one more project of mine. This is more of a hobby than anything though. Basically it’s an avenue to post pictures of our dogs online. It’s also an easy way for people to find our contact information. We often get asked about puppies when people see our dogs, but of course, we don’t have an endless supply of puppies. This website was built so that people we meet can easily find our information later and stay up to date on any new puppies that may become available. It’s also a way for us to show people that these dogs are not always terrible creatures. We want to share the positive experience we have with these dogs.

I also have a WAHM Blog (http://websitewahm.blogspot.com/) where other women can read about my WAHM adventures and learn about things that have worked for me so that they can possibly apply it to their business as well.

Do you have any recent news, products, a new launch, freebies, etc.

I offer a free membership as AllAboutFastPitch.com which entitles members to receive additional fastpitch softball tips on an ongoing basis via e-mail. Members also get to read all Fastpitch Interviews I do before they’re even posted to the website.

I’m also working on a new section for AllAboutFastPitch.com that will feature different fastpitch products and links to buy these products. Right now it’s a work in progress, but it should be up and ready to view next month.

What are your absolute favorite products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

The two things that come to mind immediately are Mom Masterminds and http://www.moms.Aweber.com ! Mom Masterminds has been absolutely crucial to my online business development. There is no way I’d be where I am now if it wasn’t for MM. Aweber has also been absolutely key in being able to offer the free fastpitch membership that I have at AllAboutFastPitch.com ~ I’m so glad that I’m not using a freebie auto responder service. But again, I would have never known about Aweber if it weren’t for MM ~ so props to Mom Masterminds once again.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)?

Learn about SEO BEFORE building your webpages, otherwise you’ll find yourself re-doing everything. I know this probably sounds like overkill, but if you’re just starting out, that is the BEST time to join Mom Masterminds. I really truly think MM is the best resource for making your online business a success.

Find Free Reprint articles by Stacie-Mahoe here

Nell Taliercio - Telecommuting Expert & Affiliate Marketer

2006-01-16T16:49:00.000-08:00

Nell is a great friend of mine and I'm excited to brag about her. :)
Tell us about your businesses.

I’m an affiliate marketer and currently have several information websites. A couple of them are:

www.TelecommutingMoms.com – which is a website for all your telecommuting needs for moms. It takes you through resumes and cover letters, interviews, job leads, networking and much more. Plus it has a very active message board and blog.

www.NellNews.com – this is the newest website in which I report on affiliate marketing for moms. I offer tips for the beginner, adsense tips, promoting your businesses and much more. In the future I’ll be offering free ecourses and reports and hopefully will be using some audio on the website too. I’ve found a lot of success with affiliate marketing and wanted to share my tips with other moms. There is nothing quite like passive income streams – such as affiliate
marketing!

Nell, tell us about any freebies and special offers you have available.

The newest goodies can be found at NellTaliercio.com. I have business freebies and telecommuting freebies there as well as product reviews and other goodies. You can also find my telecommuting tips for free by signing up for www.TelecommmutingAnswerLady.com and my affiliate marketing tips at www.NellNews.com . I always have things in the works so if you want to keep up to date with that check out my blog at NellTaliercio.com/blog

What are two products or resources you can't live without in your business

Mom Masterminds – Mom Masterminds is a business coaching program for moms in business. I’ve been a member since August of 2004. I would be no where CLOSE to where I am right now had it not been for Mom Masterminds. I’m so thankful I joined when I did.

xSitepro – I’m an affiliate marketer and being so I have quite a few websites. Most affiliate marketers eventually have a nice handful of websites for promoting products. That being said it isn’t always easy to build and maintain many sites and I was feeling overwhelmed with it all. That was until I started using xsitepro! I now love building my websites and find it even easier to maintain them too! I could not live without my xsitepro now ;) It’s an affiliate marketers dream!

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

Join Mom Masterminds ;) They are closed for now, but will reopen their doors at some point. You can join the free ecourse and be updated as soon as they open their doors.

If you aren’t interested in a coaching group my advice is as follows:

Stay focused on one business until it’s successful. Only then should you add another business into the mix.

Build a newsletter list RIGHT AWAY. As soon as you start your website or business, you should add a newsletter to the mix.

Write articles and do it now! Don’t sit on an article for weeks because you just cant get it perfect. It doesn’t need to be perfect. I have some tips for writing articles here: Easy Article Writing Tips

Outsource and Automate your business. Even when starting out you need to do these things. Even if you only outsource an hour a month that will be very worth it. My advice is to get rid of the projects you HATE or just aren’t very good at. If you’re dreading a project for your business, then why suffer through it when you can get someone who is good at it and loves to do it? And you can automate your blog posts and newsletters…I’m having a lot of fun with automation now! It frees up so much time!

You can learn more about my business tips and advice for affiliate marketing at: www.NellNews.com

And, check out Free Reprint Articles by Nell Taliercio

Affiliate Articles?

2006-01-16T16:47:00.000-08:00

Do you have your own affiliate program AND allow your affiliates to use your articles to promote their affiliate links? If so, give me a yell. You can be added to
FreeAffiliateArticles.com

Nicole

Use Article Marketing to Build your List

2006-01-16T16:46:00.000-08:00

One of the best ways to utilize Article Marketing is to grow your newsletter list.

Here is a free ebook that will give you ways to grow your list.
Make Money from Your List (pdf)

My favorite resource for list building is hands-down
Jimmy D. Brown's List & Traffic Profits

If you can sign up -- do it. You'll be glad you did. Start by watching or listening to the first 4 lessons. They'll blow you away.

After you sign up, let me know if you have questions. I won't leave you hanging. OR if you sign up and are not completely blown away, contact me immediately so I can show you all the features. I promise you this is worth looking into.

Nicole

Would you like to be a Featured Writer?

2006-01-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

I am Featuring LadyPens Writers in the Lady Pens blog.

To be included and get free exposure for yourself and your business, please answer the interview questions and instructions HERE

I hope that you will take me up on this offer to brag about yourself.
(Of course, as many men as I get signing up -- this offer is for Ladies only.)

Nicole

Kelly McCausey - WAHM Talk Radio

2006-01-13T17:35:00.000-08:00

Meet Kelly McCausey, another one of my favorite Work at Home Moms.

Kelly, tell us about your businesses.

I host Work at Home Moms Talk Radio which launched in November 2003.

In addition to the show, I also

* mentor Work at Home Moms in building successful online businesses
* publish a print mini mag for WAHMs
* host teleseminars
* create information products.

Tell us about your products. I'm familiar with all of them (since I'm one of your biggest cheerleaders, but let's tell everyone else about them).

Mom Masterminds!
Shoestring Radio is my audio course for those interested in starting their own internet radio show.
Easy Article Marketing (you know!) - (Kelly and I did this project together!)
The Confidence to Act is an audio product of interviews with women who have exemplified confidence and will inspire women to find the courage to act on their business ideas.

What are some products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Alice Seba, Aweber & my web host! LOL!

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)

Start doing something - don't wait for perfection. You will learn by doing more than anything else.

What is your number one question about online business, getting traffic, networking, affiliate programs or article marketing?

My number one question? Shoot - that's easy. Why is it so hard to please BOTH Google and Yahoo? ROFL!

Don't I know it, Kelly! lol.

Grab Kelly's wonderful articles for your website or blog here -
Free Reprint Articles by Kelly McCausey

Carrie Lauth - Natural Mom

2006-01-12T19:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Carrie, tell us about your business.

Hi Nicole and thanks for featuring me :) My name is Carrie Lauth and I started dabbling in online marketing about two years ago when I was doing a direct sales business. After months and months of solid effort I was getting nowhere except into debt with that business model! I hated the phone calls and sales aspect of it. Meanwhile I had built a website and started monetizing it with affiliate and pay per click programs, and incidentally that income started to surpass the direct sales income...and it was nearly passive as well as very inexpensive to produce! No buying product and no phone calls. I was sold. I stopped doing direct sales entirely and focused totally on affiliate marketing. I now have 14 websites and I absolutely love building them.

http://www.Business-Moms-Expo.com - This was my first site and it's a resource for Moms who are investigating their work at home options. It features an ecourse for Moms who need some direction in starting their online business.

http://www.Natural-Moms.com - I love to talk about birth, babies and breastfeeding.

http://www.InsteadofTv.com Features a newsletter with tons of tips to help parents limit the impact of tv in their kid's lives.

http://www.Lemony-Snicket-Stuff.com - For fans of the popular series.

Carrie, do you offer any great freebies?

My business card site, http://www.CarrieLauth.com features several valuable (no junk!) freebies for work at home Moms.

What are two products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Mom Masterminds, the mentoring and coaching program, and XSitePro - I absolutely love it for building new sites.

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business?

Find a mentor and study what she does! I latched on to Alice Seba after discovering her IBMoms site and I try to apply her marketing wisdom to my own sites. I buy (as much as possible) the products she recommends and generally do what Alice says. LOL! I believe in shortening the learning curve as much as possible. As busy Moms, we don't have forever. We need to learn how to make money now and without taking too much time away from our families.

Check out Carrie's articles at - http://www.ladypens.com/myarticles/Carrie-Lauth/11

Annette Yen - Direct Sales Success Story

2006-01-12T18:50:00.000-08:00

Meet Annette Yen, our Featured Author of the Day!

Visit Annette's sites -
Noah's Ark
FunEvents4Girls.com
SailingtoSuccess.com

Annette, what are two products or resources you can't live without in your business (or have helped you the most)?

Aweber autoresponder Easy Article Marketing (and I'm not just trying to suck up!)

What's your best advice for someone just starting out in online business (getting traffic, article marketing, networking, etc.)

Start right away with baby steps...write an article, set up a simple website for gathering leads through your autoresponder.

Check out Annette's Articles at -
http://www.ladypens.com/profile/Annette-Yen/94

The Lady Pens Blog

2006-01-08T09:52:00.000-08:00

Here we will feature our awesome women authors and share the latest innovations in article marketing.

I look forward to your comments and suggestions.
Nicole