Infographic: 3 Color Tests Every Logo Should Pass

The Secret to Creating Powerful Headlines that Get Customer’s Attention, Increase Your Sales and Make Your Life Easier!

YOUR GOAL – Capture more potential client attention with your marketing!

Take a look at the following formulas and create a DYNAMIC headline - for your business, website, social media post, advertising, etc. - that solves a problem, grabs attention and imprints your business name in the readers’ mind.

The examples in each formula make it easy to place your service or product in the headline to see what will be the best fit for you.

Headline Formula #1 - Who Else Wants…?

Starting a headline with “Who Else Wants…” is a classic ‘social proof’ strategy that connects with an existing desire or implied need. Universal needs – like more money and better health are powerful messages that people pay attention to but can get overused in the Internet marketing arena. Make your headline powerful but also specific to someone who would be interested in what you offer.
Examples:
• Who Else Wants the speed of a sportscar and the safety of an SUV?
• Who Else Wants a Higher Paying Job?
• Who Else Wants More Fun and Less Stress When on Vacation?

Headline Formula #2 - The Secret of/to…

This is an attention grabbing line that is popular with marketers because it works. As a general rule, people dislike the feeling that they are doing something wrong or missing out on something. When you plaster the word “secret” into what you’re offering – you are telling potential customers that you are sharing insider knowledge that they might not be able to get anywhere else.
Examples:
• The Secret of Creating Viral Videos on YouTube
• The Secret to Getting More Fans on Facebook
• The Secret of Getting Rich Doing What You Love!

Headline Formula #3 - Here is a Method that is Helping…

When it comes down to the basics of selling you must go beyond the features of your product or service and answer the question that EVERY customer wants to know…”What’s in it for me?” This formula focuses on how what you’re offering to your target audience will benefit them directly.
Examples:
• Here is a Method That is Helping Homeowners Save Hundreds on Insurance
• Here is a Method That is Helping Children Learn to Read Faster
• Here is a Method That is Helping New Writers Sell MORE Books.

Headline Formula #4 - Little Known Ways to…

This headline is a more intriguing (and less common) way to accomplish the same goals of headline formula #2 - “The Secret of…” headline. Again this is all about creating a desire to know the information being provided and exclusivity that you are the only one offering it.
Examples:
• Little Known Ways to Save Money When Shopping at the Grocery Store
• Little Known Ways to Hack Google’s Gmail the Legal Way
• Little Known Ways to Lose Weight Like the Movie Stars do (& it’s safe!)

Headline Formula #5 - Get Rid of [insert problem] Once and For All

This is a classic formula that identifies either a painful problem or an unfulfilled desire that the reader wants to remedy. The more intense and specific you are here – the more your customer can relate.
Examples:
• Get Rid of the Foods that are Killing You Once and For All
• Get Rid of That Stubborn Carpet Stain Once and For All
• Get Rid of That Lame Mullet Hairdo Once and For All

Headline Formula #6 - Here’s a Quick Way to…

People love easy answers when it comes to solving a nagging problem but knowing that it’s not going to take them a lot of time to achieve the end result adds further benefit.
Examples:
• Here’s a Quick Way to Lose 5 Pounds for Your Reunion
• Here’s a Quick Way to Potty Train Your Little Boy
• Here’s a Quick Way to Backup Your Hard Drive at Home

Headline Formula #7 - Now You Can Have…

This is the classic “have your cake and eat it too” headline — and who doesn't want that?
Examples:
• Now You Can Quit Your Job and Make Even More Money
• Now You Can Meet Sexy Singles Online Without Spending a Dime
• Now You Can Own a Cool Mac Computer and Still Run Windows

Headline Formula #8 - Do something like…

Gatorade milked this one fully with the “Be Like Mike” campaign featuring Michael Jordan in the early 1990s. You can use it successfully too!
Examples:
• Speak Spanish Like a Diplomat
• Invest Your Money Like Warren Buffet
• Blog Like an A-Lister

Headline Formula #9 - Have/Build a ….You Can Be Proud Of

This headline appeals to vanity, dissatisfaction, or shame. No need to say more.
Examples:
• Build a Lean Body You Can Be Proud Of
• Have a White Smile You Can Be Proud Of
• Build a Facebook Page You Can Be Proud Of

Headline Formula #10 - What Everybody Ought to Know About…

This headline creates a big curiosity draw and it acts almost as a challenge to the reader to go ahead and see if they are missing something.
Examples:
• What Everybody Ought to Know About Owning a Handgun
• What Everybody Ought to Know About Adjustable Rate Mortgages
• What Everybody Ought to Know About Unclogging Your Sink

Where to use your headlines?

Once you have your headline created (and it’s quite possible you have a few good ones) – you need to make sure these are prominent in your marketing. Don’t hide your headline at the bottom of your website – place it right at the top. Make sure it’s the first thing people read in your ad. Headlines attract the potential client to your service or product. An effective headline helps communicate what you offer by demonstrating how it fulfills a need or by peaking their curiosity to read on.

As many marketers point out – the goal of a headline is to get people to read more, learn more and eventually buy. Choose wisely, my friend and the world can be yours!

Need help creating your unique headline? Call us at 800-596-6218 or
visit us at QLIXITE.com (Click.Site).

Want to Maximize Your Internet Marketing Dollar and get RESULTS? – Qlixite is Your Solution!

Yahoo is Currently Recycling Inactive Email Accounts

Starting back on July 15th and going through August 15, Yahoo is engaging in a deactivation process of email accounts that have received no activity for the last 12 months.

Why is this good?
This is good news because Yahoo will soon make those inactive ID's available to new users.

Why this complicates things?

In a statment made to Wired, Yahoo is taking precautions to securely close these accounts. The actions include:

• Sending bounce back emails to alert senders that the account has been deactivated and no longer exists.
• Automatically unsubscribing deactivated accounts from commercial email databases including newsletters and email alerts.
• Once deactivation is complete, they will send notification of these recycled accounts to merchants, financial institution, email providers, social networks and e-commerce sites.

5 Mistakes Businesses Make in Social Media

Who wants to make the same mistake twice? No one. Wise entrepreneurs learn from their mistakes and the mistakes of others...including the wild and crazy world of social media. The following are 5 mistakes that can set your social media campaign back. We don't want that to happen to you so take a moment to "learn" from these tips (we sure wish someone would have mentioned these in the beginning).

Mistake #1 - No Plan
Imagine if you started a business without a mission or business plan. Imagine you didn't know who your potential customer was or what products you were going to sell. Do you think it could be a recipe for disaster? The same goes for your social media. Take the time to plan your strategy BEFORE you dive in to posts and status updates. It will keep you focused in the long run and allow you more success.

Mistake #2 - Picking the Wrong Platforms
You can drive yourself crazy trying to manage twenty different social media sites and the odds are - unless you have a whole social media team - you won't excel at any of them because you are spread too thin. The idea is quality vs. quantity. Part of your Plan (stated above) is to consider where do your potential customers hang out. Is it Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, Pinterest, YouTube? Ask your clients  and narrow your focus down to one or two sites.

Facebook Increases Security on Inappropriate Ads

Facebook has been modifying their security and enhancements over the last few months. Now they have updated their advertising guidelines in response to some concerns over the placements of ads.

Facebook posted the following statement - “Beginning [today], we will implement a new review process for determining which pages and groups should feature ads alongside their content. This process will expand the scope of Pages and Groups that should be ad-restricted. By the end of the week, we will remove ads from all Pages and Groups that fall into this new, more expansive restricted list.”

This review in process was made in response to some concerns from larger companies who advertise on Facebook who noticed that their ads were appearing alongside other ads containing inappropriate content. This kind of placement makes users doubt the validity of the company or ads and are less likely to click-through. Facebook will now evaluate and restrict ads that contain sexual, graphic or violent content. They have posted their community guidelines for business' reference which all advertisers are asked to comply.

Every Entrepreneur Can Learn from George Zimmer (and how he was fired!)

"You're going to like the way you look. I guarantee it." ~ George Zimmer

Over the last four decades, the founder of Men's Wearhouse has shined in the spotlight with his well priced men's fine clothing and deep bravado signature phrase...until last week when the Board of Directors fired him.

It can be emotional and disheartening to watch an icon of an industry dispelled by his own company. How could something like this happen? How can a brand built by a man who regularly embraces his image (Zimmer was forefront in most of the company's advertising) decide to fire their shining star.

This is where we - as fellow business owners - must take note. We are all striving for growth in our own endeavors. We want our company to be successful and earn recognition. Often one of the biggest struggles for start-ups is financial capital and so many of us are more than thrilled when the opportunity to gain investors appears. But just as there is reward...there is risk when you give away the control of your company. George Zimmer is feeling the pains of those risks now.

Examples of Good, Bad and Ugly Coupons

In followup to our post "Make a Good Coupon to Increase Profits" - we wanted to give you our take on coupons that perform well (and not so well). To keep up good spirits we are just putting the promotions below without naming the company offering the coupon.


Good Coupons are 'Good' because they accomplish a Goal & Increase Sales

• Spend $20 and get a $10 Gift Card - (Gift Shop) Granted ten dollars isn't huge but the amount I have to spend isn't too large either...plus guess what - I have to come back in a second time to spend my ten dollar gift card. Two visits for the price of one.
• Everything Ships for $2.99 - (Online Box Store) This might not be such a big discount if I'm buying jewelry or a scarf but the company also sells furniture and appliances. Granted I'm sure they have built in shipping costs in their prices but the point is - it catches your attention that you could have a couch shipped for under three dollars.
• 25% Off - No Exclusions - (Department Store) This is a big eye catcher for me because it says there is no fine print. It's a coupon they only offer twice a year but you can bet I am looking for it every time and ready to shop when it hits.
• Free Regular Maintenance Included for 2 Years - (Car Dealer) If I do an estimation that regular car check ups and oil changes usually runs from $300 to $500 depending on the brand, this is enticing especially because I know that I will be comfortable getting the car looked at regularly which increases re-sale value.
• Family Plan - Flat Rate for Up to 5 People - (Chiropractor) I included this because if you are the type of business that can give group discounts - go for it! Its a great incentive to get the whole family to shop with you which will only instill more buyer loyalty.

Increase Sales With Video on Your Business Website

As a business owner, new leads are valuable assets that drive your bottom line in the right direction.  Every lead in your pipeline (or store) arrived as a result of a variety of marketing avenues used to get them to your door.

Using video on your website effectively can  maximize your business marketing and followup process for new leads so you can make more $$$.

According to Business.com, there are 8 steps to earning and converting a sale:

1. Prospecting
2. Planning
3. Approach
4. Need Assessment
5. Presentation
6. Meeting Objections
7. Gaining Commitment
8. Follow-Up

How to Include Social Icons & Links in Email Signatures

The process of adding social badges and links to your email signature will vary depending on your email provider. This will cover the basic steps but feel free to call us if you have questions.

Step 1 - Gather your social links
You will need to know the URL of the social media pages or website you would like to link to. (hint: URL's start with http:// or https://) Have these handy in a text document so you can copy and paste.

6 MUST READ Tax Tips to Save You Money

Have you filed your taxes yet? The deadline is just around the corner so odds are - the stress is building. Whether you use a popular tax software, file by mail or online or hire a professional tax service - these 6 tips will help save you time and money.

1. Planning Ahead Saves Money - Many business owners put off filing their taxes until the last minute, but procrastinating can cost you extra. As the deadline approaches you may start to notice that tax preparation costs increase. Late filers are often disorganized which can result in extra late fees and missed deductions. Know your standard and corporate tax deadlines so you can plan ahead and be confident with your preparations.

Why Do Customers Lie? How to Get Them to Buy Instead

[click to join our Free Email Series]

Customers....we love 'em right? We're in business to deal with customers and clients (no customers = no business) but sometimes it can be frustrating figuring out exactly what they want. And just when we think we have our customers nailed down...they still don't buy! What's the deal?

Problem: Customers...Lie!
Without sounding too harsh, ask a customer about pricing, competition, satisfaction and what they tell you...is probably not true. Why? As humans, we don't like confrontation and your customer is no different. Put someone on the spot and they are likely to give you the answer you want to hear. Most customers don't want to admit that your product is too expensive or that they like your competitor better or that your specials are on the products they don't need.  They won't say a word but they also won't buy or renew or upgrade. So what do we do?

Facebook Giveaway: 4 Winners Get $50

www.Facebook.com/Qlixite

We wanted to let you know that we are running a contest on Facebook - Our Spring into Green Giveaway! We're giving away four $50 Gift Cards - winners choose their favorite retailer (like Macy's, Target, Cabelas etc.) All you have to do is 'Like' us on Facebook and enter your email to win (winners will be notified by email).

Click Here or Visit us at Facebook.com/Qlixite Click the 'Like' Button and then click on the purple tab that says "Win a $50 Gif Card" - If using a mobile device click here

Get Leads from Your Website with Effective Calls to Action

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I recently visited a website for a potential client who was taking advantage of our website review. She's a dentist who wants to get leads from her site but has not had one call over the last 5 years. It took me less than 5 minutes to figure out her main problem...no call to action.

Problem: Want More Leads from Your Website?
Many websites do not make it easy to do anything more than read. There's usually plenty of text and maybe some pictures but then what? Why should I stick around? How do I get started? Ask yourself these questions when looking at your business' website (specifically your home page) and then think about what kind of elements would make your customer "click." You don't want people to just "hang out" and look at your site. You want people to engage with your business which requires an effective call to action.

Joke: The Odds and Ends of Naming Your Business

This is a joke we thought we'd share. We thought it fully illustrated the difficulties that can come with naming your business...not to mention it's pretty funny too. Not sure who wrote it. Rated PG13

Subject: The Psychiatrist and the Proctologist

Best friends graduating from medical school at the same time decided that in spite of two different specialties, they would open a practice together to share office space and personnel.

Dr. Smith was the psychiatrist and Dr. Jones was the proctologist; they put up a sign reading: Dr. Smith and Dr. Jones: Hysterias and Posteriors.

Will My Personal Credit Score Hurt My Business?

Entrepreneurs aren't born overnight - one day you have an idea and it builds until you launch your 'dream job.' Your very own start-up small business can be exciting and scary. Figuring out how to fund your business usually falls into the 'scary' category.

A successful small business requires money to sustain it and investment to grow it. Of course, securing investors is difficult so small business owners usually rely on a business loan or line of credit to supplement initial business growth.

This means a bank is going to look at YOU and your Credit to determine if you business is viable. Your credit does not have to be perfect to get a loan or line of credit to start a business but obviously - the better your history the higher your chances are to obtain financing.

Facebook Page Size Guide (for non-techie users)

Find this infographic at www.Pinterest.com/Qlixite

A Word about Pixels...
A pixel is a unit of measurement used in digital imaging. It is the smallest controllable element of a picture represented on a digital screen. Facebook uses pixels to specify image sizes however they will automatically scale an image down to fit. We have given you image sizes in inches as well that are the proper ratio for easy use.

• Cover Photo 851 x 315 pixels
(you could use an image 6.75” x 2.5”)

How to Think Outside the Box as a Small Business

See the Infographic @ http://Pinterest.com/Qlixite

The expression "Think outside the box," is synonymous with creativity, innovation and ideas. Everyone is looking for the next 'big idea' that could take a company from one among the crowd to leading the way to a whole new adventure. But as small business owners - we tend to think that in order to think outside the box - we have to have lots of...everything! We need more employees, more clients, more products and definately more money! Not true! Thinking outside the box is about fresh ideas and branching out from [your] normal mode of operation. You are perfectly primed to get your creative hat on BECAUSE you're a small business.

But here are some steps to get you out of the box.

Step 1 - Identify Opportunites
Opportunities lie everywhere you look in your business. Maybe it's your system of advertising, your style of customer service or the way you display your services. Start paying attention to your business flow and identify areas that are stale or where the 'same old, same old' isn't working like it used to.

5 Ways to Recession-Proof Your Holidays

Photo Credit: shutterstock.com

Worried about funding your holidays because of the recession? Thinking about cutting back? While saving for the rainy day might be smart in a tough economy, it definitely doesn't make for a fun holiday season. Therefore, it's important to take action now and learn how to recession proof your holidays so you can enjoy them.

Tip #1 Potluck your holiday meals
When getting together with family, friends or co-workers for holiday meals and parties, don't take on the burden of paying for the entire meal. Let your guests bring their favorite holiday dish. Make it fun by having a contest or making it a recipe swap.

Tip #2 Raid the Local Dollar Store or Goodwill
You will be surprised by the kinds of holiday items they sell including wrapping paper, wreaths, ornaments, table runners and stocking stuffers. These small items can really add up at major retailers so saving here can allow you to spend more on bigger presents for your loved ones.

Big Name Companies Opt for Simple Logo Designs: Should You Follow the Trend?

EBay recently joined other big names like Microsoft and Apple not for a new release of a mini tablet or operating system but for remodeling their iconic logo. This has many business owners looking at their own brand and wondering if there is merit to this trend.

Deven Wenig, president of eBay, had this to say about the logo:

Our refreshed logo is rooted in our proud history and reflects a dynamic future. It’s eBay today: a global online marketplace that offers a cleaner, more contemporary and consistent experience, with innovation that makes buying and selling easier and more enjoyable. We retained core elements of our logo, including our iconic color palette. Our vibrant eBay colors and touching letters represent our connected and diverse eBay community – more than 100 million active users and 25 million sellers globally and growing.
 

Obviously when a business decides to change their logo - risk is involved as well as re-branding numerous products including everything from websites to sales materials to the sign on the building. However, as most small businesses look to the big names as examples, it's hard to miss the current trend.

Simple...is in!

Learn from the World Series and Super Bowl to Motivate Your Small Business to Win!

Millions of people tune in by radio, television and streaming feed to watch SPORTS. The 'big game' draws more attention than other events such as a politial debate, breaking international news or even a natural disaster. As a country, we're probably not ashamed to say it - we're sports obesessed. We applaud and celebrate the shot, the stop, the drive...the winning play that made history. Some even experience agony when their beloved team does the unthinkable...they lose.

There are critics who argue that sports pay hommage to inflated salaries and offer a distraction from real life but when it comes to business - sports might have a few points worth taking notice.

Goal Oriented Excellence

Every year, thirty-two NFL teams compete for the chance to be in the Super Bowl (one of the most watched televised events ever). Thirty MLB teams take aim at a shot of playing in the World Series. For Basketball, it's all about the Finals and for Hockey, the Stanley Cup reigns supreme. The winners receive praise, parades, record book titles, tons of confetti and possibly a shower from a cooler full of gatorade.