Friday, December 28, 2012

Bullying on Social Networking Sites

Bullying is no longer something that happens out in the real world. So many more children and teenagers are now being bullied online through social networking sites. Here is some advice on how to prevent this form of bullying.

Your Online Friends

If you do find yourself being bullied or harassed by someone in social network you can block them or delete. You can always become friends again with them later. This will stop them being able to add rude comments to any pictures or videos you have uploaded and prevents them from be able to post abusive messages on your profile wall.

Bullying on Social Networking Sites

Identity Theft

Identity theft can happen on sites such as Bebo, MySpace or Facebook. This happens when someone either hacks into your account or pretends to be you when they set up a new account.

Try to pick an unusual password and use letters and numbers. Do not use any part of your name or email address and do not use your birth date either because that's easy for people who know you to guess. Do not let anyone see you signing in and if they do, change the password as soon as you can.

If you do see that someone has created a fake account in your name report it to the customer service department of that particular site.

Rumours and gossip

The worst thing about social networking websites is that anything spiteful, malicious and/or cruel posted about you can be seen by lots of people because it's so public and because the bullies make sure they tell everyone where to find the abuse.

Often these vicious rumours and gossip is spread by people who were once your best friends so it is best to keep secrets to yourself.

Only tell people things if it would not embarrass you if other people found out about them. Posting false and malicious things about people on the internet can be harassment.

Privacy

The great majority of social networking sites allow you to control who can see profile and how much of your profile they can see. You may want to consider only letting family members and closest friends see your photo albums. You could also think about making your entire profile private so that it does not appear in search results.

Threats

Anyone who makes threats to you on the internet could be committing a criminal offence. It is against the law in the UK to use the phone system - which includes the internet - to cause alarm or distress.

It could also be against the 1997 Harassment Act. If threats are made against you then it is essential you tell your parents so that they can alert your school and make a complaint to the police.

If you cannot print out the threats use the "print screen" button to take a snapshot of the computer screen and then save that in a word processing package or in your draft email folder.

Bullying on Social Networking Sites
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Mark Dixon is a senior instructor at www.practicalselfprotection.com specialising in self defense training. For more information on Self Defense for Kids please visit the website.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Networking for Success - The Top 5 Tips to Becoming a Great Networker

Meeting new people is never easy. But humans, by nature, are social beings that depend on other people to survive. We are taught, nurtured, and supported by others. Studies have even shown that individuals who lead solitary, non-social lives end up having shorter life spans than those who surround themselves with friends, colleagues, family and other acquaintances.

Building a large network may seem like a daunting and time-consuming task, but with the right attitude and mindset it can be very rewarding and a lot of fun! These 5 tips are some helpful ideas to get you started on your road to networking success.

1. Expand your definition of "networking event"

Networking for Success - The Top 5 Tips to Becoming a Great Networker

The first step to becoming a great networker is understanding that every single time you find yourself surrounded by people you don't know, you are at a networking event. From Chamber of Commerce meetings to a neighbor's child's birthday party, every time you meet someone new you are building your network.

It is always important to be on your best behavior (look your best, feel your best, send out positive signals to others) because you never know who you are going to meet.

Plenty of people mix work with pleasure, and the best networkers always do. Remember, people like doing business with people they like. What better way to connect with a potential client than socially? That's when you really get to call your clients friends!

2. Ooze positivity and friendliness

You walk into a party where you know no one. You take a look around the crowded room. Not knowing where else to begin, you go to the buffet - more to look like you're doing something than because you're actually hungry. There's a man getting food right next to you, but he doesn't even look your way. He must know you're there. Across the buffet is a woman who looks up at you, makes eye contact, smiles and beams, "Doesn't the food look fantastic?"

Who would you like to speak with? Of course, the woman! She's friendly, positive and has put you at ease by starting the conversation off with a simple statement about something you have in common - the food. You continue chatting with her while you nibble on appetizers and the man beside you quietly disappears into the wallpaper. He missed a very simple opportunity to connect with others.

The moral of the story: ooze positivity and friendliness from every pore. Everyone is just as nervous and insecure as you are. Make others feel at ease with a smile and positive comment and you'll be surprised how easy small talk can be!

3. Be yourself

It's amazing how much we can read into other people. Have you ever had a "bad feeling" about someone you just met? I sure have. And when I sit down and try to figure out what it is that bothers me about this person I don't even know, I usually end up with the same conclusion: the person is hiding something. I feel like the person isn't entirely sincere or honest, or that he/she is putting on some kind of show to impress people. The irony of it all is that these people will be much less successful in their networking attempts than those who let their true, less than brilliant colors show.

How can you really "connect" with someone if you aren't giving your authentic self to the other person? Even if you manage to slip by during the first encounter and make a good impression, eventually your façade will begin to chip and crumble and the other person will end up losing respect for you - not because they don't like who you really are, but because they feel deceived by your attempts to be someone you're not.

4. Show a sincere interest in others

Fact: people like to talk about themselves and things that interest them. If you want to be a good communicator, let people do just that.

It may be surprising to hear that to be a good networker you actually don't have to talk very much! In fact, the best networkers talk very little. Instead, they listen actively to the other person, nodding in approval, opening their mouths only to add a reassuring, "Oh, I see," or "How wonderful!" They also ask open-ended questions and encourage the speaker to continue.

The person could be talking about their new puppy or latest fishing trip - it really doesn't matter what the topic is. If you let them share their passion openly they will walk away excited about your encounter and feeling good about you because you showed a true interest in them.

Notice I said true interest. This is important. Simply saying, "Uh-huh," over and over again while you skim the room for someone else to talk to is not going to get you far in the networking scene. Give the speaker 100% of your attention and focus on what is being shared. Ask yourself how you can help this person instead of always thinking about what the other person can do for you.

5. Just go!

It doesn't matter how busy, tired or hungry you are (those little appetizers will never hold you over)! I've heard all the excuses. In fact, I've used them all myself! But remember, every time you skip an event where you have the opportunity to network, you are potentially missing a unique opportunity to meet someone who could change your life forever - personally, professionally or both.

That may sound like a far-reaching statement, but it's true. Think of the people who have helped you the most in your life. Think of the people who you have had the opportunity to help and how helping them made you feel. Where did you meet these people? Most are likely to be family members. You were lucky to be born into that support group. But what about the others?

You never know when you will meet someone new and interesting that not only can help you in some way, but will also give you the opportunity to help. That is really what networking is all about. As you give to others, you also gain.

The gains might be financial in the form of a connection to a new job. They could be mental in the form of a really interesting conversation where you learn something new that changes the way you see the world. Or the gains could simply be the emotional high of meeting someone new and "connecting" with them on some basic human level.

You will never know until you go!

Networking for Success - The Top 5 Tips to Becoming a Great Networker
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Heather Hansen, founder of Singapore-based Hansen Speech & Language Training, is an executive speech and language coach, writer and trainer. If you want to boost your linguistic abilities and become a powerful speaker, visit her website http://www.hansenslt.com now for free information on how to speak clearly, correctly and confidently! Join her mailing list to receive your free special report, Speak Clearly! and as a special bonus you'll also receive her monthly newsletter, Speak like a Star!

Sunday, December 16, 2012

Networking: Strangers, Friendship, and Business Growth

You already know that uncomfortable feeling, that knot in your stomach that forms, when you enter a room, a bus, or any other location where only you and a total stranger occupy the formerly quiet space. What do you say? Do you say anything? Do you even dare make eye contact? Do you locate a point exactly 180° away from the other person and make that spot your own?

Why is it that we are so uncomfortable with strangers, after all, aren't they just people like ourselves? They simply have the unfortunate luck of also being alone in a confined space with a stranger. To the other person, you are the stranger. You already have something in common with them don't you? If you want to expand your network and grow your business, you must stretch from your comfort zone and embrace these strangers..

Who makes the first move? Why is it so difficult for some people to reach out their hand in friendship to another human being? Fear is the reason. Fear may be the reason but it is usually not rational or justified. After all, many times, fear is simply "felse evidence that appears real." Justified or not, it feels the same. It may be uncomfortable, but it does not have to be that way.

Networking: Strangers, Friendship, and Business Growth

I recall an incident where I attended a seminar at a Charleston, SC convention center. My wife had purchased my ticket as a birthday gift. I was to be front row and center to experience Zig Ziglar, Brian Tracy and a host of others over the span of an entire day. Having stayed at a local motel the night before, I had arrived at 6:00am the next morning for my planned intimate breakfast presentation with Zig at 7:00am. I arrived at the particular meeting room which featured just four large round tables and a single lectern at the front. A lone individual was seated at the foremost table and he looked terrified when I entered the doorway alone. It was just he and I in that room and you could cut the tension with a knife. What to do?

Decidedly, after briefly surveying the room, I smiled and slowly began to walk towards him in a friendly manner. My smile warmed him as he returned mine and gestured with a gentle nod of his head. At a distance of approximately 15 feet, I said "Good morning" with a bigger, even more genuine smile and waited for his response. He repeated my greeting and looked a little more at ease. While still walking towards him, I introduced myself and asked if he was native to the area. Just then, I arrived in front of him to shake his hand. He presented his name as well as his hand. I repeated his name and asked if anyone was sitting at the table with him or occupying the chair next to his. He indicated its availability and I removed my topcoat to sit down. He was relieved and I had made a new friend and valuable networking contact from out-of-state.

I casually mentioned in a deliberate, relieved tone, "Boy I am sure glad that I met you Dave. The thought of being here all alone until 7:00am was not a pleasant one." He took a big breath, exhaled and agreed. Leading the conversation with sincere questions, we talked on and on about many different items of common interest. I repeated this scenario with each of the next several "strays" that entered the room and made certain to introduce them to each other. Soon, everyone in attendance at that point, including Dave, felt right at home. We had a table of friends waiting to experience breakfast together. Each was now in position to network more effectively.

Some people will never make the first move. Fear overtakes them and prevents further movement or speech. No one likes to be alone, but, many people still will not take the first step towards new friendship. Their fear immobilizes them, paralyzing them into quiet inactivity. For others like myself, the first move is far easier and I almost always will make the first gesture of acquaintance. Someone has to. There must be activity and contact to expand your network

I am reminded of this story and others like it each time that I pass the high school bus stop at the end of our street. Most of the kids stand apart from the others and there is little interaction. Why? They don't know each other and generally feel uncomfortable with strangers. They fear making the first move and as a result, each stands alone. It's so foolish. Are we not all the same, created by the same God, endowed with the same similar general attributes and characteristics of human nature? Sure, we look different, but we are not at all different. We are closer to the same than most will admit.

I will often tell my children, "If you want to have a friend or make a new friend, then be a friend." That means to make the first move. Make an effort to make that new neighbor or new co-worker more comfortable by becoming his/her friend and making their transition into their new world a smoother, less frightful one. Offer to show the new student around and introduce her to some fellow students and possibly a teacher that you feel close to. Smile and help the other person feel welcome.

If the first move is easy for you, then make it and make it often, because for most of us, striking up casual conversation with a total stranger is a terrifying proposition. Smile. A genuine smile warms the heart and people will generally respond in kind. Genuinely say something complimentary or comment on something that might be of common interest based upon your surroundings. Be sincere. The other person will sense it and loosen up a bit. It's not so difficult to do and the rewards are great. Making the first move actually gets easier with practice. You'll see. People will be happy to be part of your network and help you once they are comfortable with you. Be a giver. Offer to do something for the other person. You will have ample opportunity to receive as your relationship grows.

Remember what Zig Ziglar always says, "You can have everything in life that you want, if you'll just help enough other people get what they want."

Networking: Strangers, Friendship, and Business Growth
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Friday, December 7, 2012

The Importance of Social Networking in Our Society

Time flies quickly, a few years ago people tend to communicate using wired gadgets such as telephones or ham radios. Today, the internet has reshaped our world beyond our imagination. People now uses desktop or laptop computers not just for work but also for entertainment and communication as well.

Part of the ever growing popularity of the world wide web as a new means of communication is the advent of social networking sites. These are proprietary websites that can be used by common people to post personal profiles, pictures, videos, music and messages. Users of social networking sites can invite other "friends" to join their network to be able to view and share personal information on one another.

There are several social networking sites today, among the popular ones are Facebook, MySpace and Twitter. Most members of these sites are teenagers who just love the company of friends and other people. However, did you know how important social networking sites are?

The Importance of Social Networking in Our Society

1. Keeping in touch

By maintaining a profile on these sites, your loved ones, friends and distant relatives don't have to call you every time just to stay in touch with one another. One can take advantage of posting messages, images and personal videos of themselves for their loved ones to see over and over again. It's cheap, fast and real time technology available to everyone.

2. Job hunting

Several companies in the US and Europe are taking advantage of social networking sites to get competent employees. On the other hand, job applicants take advantage of these sites to post their resume and credentials. It's a great tool one can use in order to make a good impression to a company. If you're applying for a computer related job, it would be great to maintain a personal profile.

3. Emergency

Have you heard of several thousands of individuals saved using social networking sites? Twitter has been a great tool for many to relay messages to thousands of concerned citizens in a snap in times of tragedy and natural calamities. People who seek fund raising and donation can use Facebook or MySpace sites to call unto generous individuals.

Many people consider these sites as a work of the devil. It could be. However, one must realize that anything can become good or bad depending on the person's intentions. Social networking sites has shaped our world whether we like it or not and it will become an indispensable tool if it's used for good purposes.

The Importance of Social Networking in Our Society
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Tuesday, December 4, 2012

The Advantages of Social Networking

It's great to have friends but you have to admit that there are certain interests you or they have, which neither is not interested in. When this happens, it is time to expand our circle and that is just one of the advantages of social networking.

Social networking enables people who share the same interests to hang out together and this simply means that you are able to make new friends. If for example you are interested in basketball, no one there will get tired of talking about the players or the game which occurred last night or several years ago.

Since most social networking is done over the web, you get to meet individuals from other countries and learn about their culture. How many people do you know keep in touch with someone across the Atlantic or the Pacific? Given that you share something in common, you get to communicate with that person regularly that is very similar to hooking up with your friends after work or school.

The Advantages of Social Networking

From a business point of view, the first two advantages of social networking enable you to meet new clients and expand your business because most of these sites allow you to customize your webpage and provide links to your personal website.

Just to give you a few examples, there is Multiply, MySpace, Friendster, Facebook and Classmates. With so many around, you won't have a hard time looking for a social network that you like. You can even post ads here so you can inform other members of an event that you are hosting.

The best part about becoming a member of a social network is that majority of these is free. This means that you don't have to pay any fees. All you have to do is sign up by filling up the form and then activating the link when this is sent to you via email. Now that you are a member, you can invite other friends to join and look at other profiles.

The advantages of social networking will allow you to make new friends, promote your business and best of all, won't cost you a thing. But there are some social networking sites that will require you to pay a fee. Before you sign up, consider if this value for your money.

Will social networking sites ever replace meeting people in social events and other gatherings? Of course not because all this medium does is give you more exposure. It allows you to put your best qualities out there especially when first impressions last.

When you join a social networking site, never post any private information about yourself unless you are ready to have people get in touch with you. You shouldn't also put anything embarrassing about yourself because some people have been denied employment because of the information posted.

If there are "privacy" settings in your social networking site, you are advised to use it so you can control who has access to your personal information.

A lot of experts say that social networking is here to stay so we have to take advantage of it. When you do join a social networking site, keep an open and see if this is exactly what you wanted. If not, cancel your account until you find the one that you like.

The Advantages of Social Networking
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Saturday, December 1, 2012

Definition of Marketing Mix - Product, Price, Place and Promotion

Getting the marketing mix right for your product or service means you are covering all of the important bases in your marketing campaign. Here is a definition of marketing mix and a description of its main components.

The term marketing mix refers to the primary elements that must be attended to in order to properly market a product. Also known as The 4 Ps of Marketing, the marketing mix is a very useful, if a bit general, guideline for understanding the fundamentals of what makes a good marketing campaign. Here is a brief description of each component of the 4 Ps of the marketing mix.

Product: The marketing mix concept has its roots in the 1950s U.S. corporate marketing world, and the practice of marketing has obviously evolved tremendously since this term was invented. One of the changes is that there are a lot more services available nowadays, such as those available online. Also, the distinction between product and service has become more blurry (e.g., is a Web-based software application a product or a service?). Either way, product here refers to products or services. The product you offer needs to be able to meet a specific, existing market demand. Or, you need to be able to create a market niche through building a strong brand.

Definition of Marketing Mix - Product, Price, Place and Promotion

Price: The price you set for your offering plays a large role in its marketability. Pricing for offerings that are more commonly available in the market is more elastic, meaning that unit sales will go up or down more responsively in response to price changes. By contrast, those products that have a generally more limited availability in the market (but with strong demand) are more inelastic, meaning that price changes will not affect unit sales very much. The price elasticity of your offering can be determined through various market testing techniques.

Place: This term really refers to any way that the customer can obtain a product. Provision of a product can occur via any number of distribution channels, such as in a retail store, through the mail, via downloadable files, on a cruise ship, in a hair salon, etc. The ease and options through which you can make your product available to your customers will have an effect on your sales volume.

Promotion: Promotion is concerned with any vehicle you employ for getting people to know more about your offering. Advertising, public relations, point-of-sale displays, and word-of-mouth promotion are all traditional ways for promotion. Promotion can be seen as a way of closing the information gap between would-be sellers and would-be buyers. Your choice of a promotional strategy will be dependent upon your budget, the type of offering you are selling, and availability of said promotional vehicle.

Marketing has come a long way from the 4 Ps of yesteryear, and yet understanding this marketing mix is for your product remains very relevant today. The marketing mix serves as an excellent touchstone for continually checking that you are covering all of the bases in your marketing campaign.

Definition of Marketing Mix - Product, Price, Place and Promotion
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