Credit Card Blog Canadian Financial Blog
Canadian Credit Blog

Apr 24 2009
Chrysler is not having as much time now- Bankruptcy
Chrysler is not having as much time now- BankruptcyNEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) I saw this article and hoped that Chrysler will do well.. They've got the spot light on them for sure. - Chrysler LLC is facing the most difficult and important of the

Apr 24 2009
take advantage of the lowest interest credit cards
Take advantage of the lowest interest credit cardsAre you looking for the lowest interest credit cards in the market? Are you searching for the right type of credit card that offers the lowest interest rate? Does your credit level qualify you for a c

Apr 23 2009
Subject Re Low Interest Credit Cards
Subject: Re: Low Interest Credit Cards? David, I do not have a listing of low cost credit cards but you may be able to get one low interest credit card, instantly, online at my site. Go to http://members.spree.com/taylor1 then, click on my Nextc

Mar 03 2009
Upgrades to the express-marketing.com
Upgrades to the express-marketing.comI am pleased that we are doing some upgrades to this site. It will include a new look, and a nice navigation system to help our visitors find things more easily. This should be good. With the onset of the c

Dec 10 2007
SPONSOR POST: Gasoline credit cards - Discover Open Road
SPONSOR POST: Gasoline credit cards - Discover Open Road In the variety of gasoline credit cards (banks insist they help saving in the times of high gas prices) it takes long to choose a really beneficial bank product. A lucky result of the long s

Nov 19 2007
Paydayloanquotes.com Review
Paydayloanquotes.com Review Paydayloanquotes.com is a secure Payday Loans site that will get you in touch with a payday loan lender in the U.S. only. This is a convenient service as you can take care of all of the loan application details over th

Nov 08 2007
PaydayFans.com is THE place to find a quick payday loan
payday loans no faxing is THE place to find a quick payday loan PaydayFans offers payday loans in the U.S. and UK. They have information about payday loans and an easy to use sign up form. They offer an overnight loan of up to $1500 with out

Oct 24 2007
Virtual Prepaid Credit Card - World Wide Wallet Card
Virtual Prepaid Credit Card?? - See www-card.com! www-card.com ( World Wide Wallet card ) is a virtual prepaid credit card which is safe and secure, and flexible and convenient. This card is an especially good idea for the upcoming christmas seas

Aug 20 2007
Airline Rewards Credit Cards
Airline Rewards Credit Cards Flying has become an increasingly common and convenient way to travel. Whether you frequently travel by air or want to fly to your next vacation destination, airline rewards credit cards can help you out. Read on to le

Aug 20 2007
The Topic on Student Credit Cards and What Weighs Most
The Topic on Student Credit Cards and What Weighs Most Due to the large population of students, big credit card organizations are now setting their eyes on students as a target market. These credit cards are perceived to support students to be pre

Blog by Topic (Tags)

Credit Card Blog & Article Area




Link Back to This Post

Chrysler is not having as much time now- Bankruptcy

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com)

I saw this article and hoped that Chrysler will do well.. They've got the spot light on them for sure.

- Chrysler LLC is facing the most difficult and important of the week in its 84 years of history as the automaker tries hard to close three deals in order to avoid bankruptcy.

Do you need a credit card?

The automaker has until Thursday, April 30, to reach an agreement on an alliance with Italian automaker Fiat, convincing banks of $ 7 billion insurance holding its debt to accept U.S. dollars and cents make more concessions on wages and pensions for their unions.

The challenge is that the three parties negotiating with Chrysler want to see the terms of other offers before they agree to their own business. This is because Fiat, banks and unions will end all possibilities that have a stake in the troubled automaker. The value of shares received will depend on how much each side of capital, which Chrysler and the chances are of avoiding bankruptcy.

Should you use credit cards to buy cars?

If no agreement is reached it is likely that the company places on the road to closure and sale of its assets. The Treasury Department of the automotive industry working group has stated that Chrysler is no longer viable as an independent company and gave him only a month to reach a final agreement with Fiat, which gives the government sufficient confidence to extend $ 6 mil Chrysler million more in loans.
0:00 / 03:12 Driving a Peapod

Chrysler does not comment directly on their negotiations and their ability to avoid bankruptcy. The company only said in a statement that is "committed to working closely with all constituents, government, U.S. Treasury and the Working Group to reach a successful conclusion."

But if you try to Fiat, the banks and the unions are not in place before the end of the month, the chances of getting another live federal Chrysler away, leaving the company little choice but to initiate a shutdown process.

Chrysler needs a really big credit card to get out of this mess!!

"We do not see it turns out the first day," said Robert Schulz, senior analyst with Credit Auto Standard & Poor's. "But if you go to the bankruptcy, reorganization and expected emergence from bankruptcy. We hope to break with some sold, some private parties."

Other industry experts say that cars are becoming increasingly pessimistic about the possibility of Chrysler to achieve the necessary agreements and avoid bankruptcy.

Mike Jackson, CEO of AutoNation (AN, Fortune 500), the largest car dealer, told CNNMoney.com Thursday that no longer rely on the possibility of Chrysler to survive.

In the past, Jackson was concerned about a catastrophic blow to the economy if a major car manufacturer went bankrupt, but he said that his talks with the automotive industry team has convinced him that the plans are now in place of a closure orderly Chrysler. (Chrysler rival General Motors (GM, Fortune 500) still faces a May 30 government deadline to restructure or be forced into bankruptcy.)

Independent auto consultant Erich Merkle said that when President Obama and Treasury announced the deadline for Chrysler back on March 30, thought it was a little better than a 50-50 chance of avoiding bankruptcy. Now is the possibility of no more than 25%, and may not be good.

"Then I found an alliance with Fiat was imminent," he said. "But I do not think the alliance is there any longer."

Fiat executives said on Thursday morning to continue talks with Chrysler and Treasury Department in the U.S., and reiterated that even if there is an agreement, Fiat will not make a cash investment or to engage in Chrysler Chrysler cover future anticipated losses. Fiat reported its quarterly loss on Thursday.

The New York Times reported Thursday that an agreement has been reached between the Treasury and the United Auto Workers union that would give the company cost reduction, while the rest of protecting the pay and benefits in the U.S. . Autoworkers. That could pave the way for the filing of a bankruptcy.

The UAW had no immediate comment on the report.


Fax broadcasting
Fax broadcasting service - fax lists for you and your company to generate more leads.


Articles from April 2009
More articles from Year 2009


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Take advantage of the lowest interest credit cards

Are you looking for the lowest interest credit cards in the market? Are you searching for the right type of credit card that offers the lowest interest rate? Does your credit level qualify you for a credit card with the lowest interest? Have you decided which type of credit card you need the most that has the lowest rate of interest? With the different types of credit cards floating around, it is difficult to decide on the right one. There are credit cards with airline rewards then you get the lowest rate business cards, regular credit cards, travel cards, charge cards, cash reward cards, business cards, charge cards and any amount of credit cards offering the lowest interest.
With most people choosing what is right for their needs, the important point to consider is whether the credit card that you have chosen has the lowest interest rate. If you are a person who is conscientious about clearing your balance on a regular basis, you could choose a low interest credit card. This would mean that the APR or the Annual Percentage Rate would incur the lowest interest on your credit card. But of course, this is not enough. You should compare various types of credit cards if you are looking for the lowest interest credit card. These days with massive competition, credit card companies are tumbling over each other to offer the lowest rates of interest on credit cards. But, the fact remains that you have to be able to qualify for a credit card with an impeccable repayment record or good credit levels.

Comparing the Highs and Lows

If you want a credit card with the lowest rate of interest, you should look at the bigger picture. As one of the most important factors, the APR or the Annual Percentage Rate is what people look for. But the points that should be compared are low introductory APRs, balance transfer fees, incentives special offers, APR, penalty fees and yearly fees. Once you consider these issues then go in for the lowest interest credit card. This will be a good choice and you can easily pay the amount due every month or stipulated time if you have a good credit record. You should also look at the advertised rate of interest even on the lowest interest credit card and set aside the amount with margin for late payment. However tempting the offer is, make sure you use a sensible approach to acquiring the lowest interest credit card.
It is imperative that when getting a credit card or the lowest interest credit card, a person's credit history features as the axis on which acquiring a credit card revolves. With online access to getting and the facility of comparing credit cards is at your fingertips, one can compare and chose the lowest interest credit card. But it all depends on your credit score. If your credit level is high, you can easily get a low interest credit card, but if do not then chances are that you will get a higher interest card if you have not paid up on time. You can still get a low interest credit card though your credit score is not desirable, but you should make it comfortable for yourself to be able to repay. The terms and conditions involved may vary and it will be better to get an annual percentage rate on your credit card so you can shop round well but wisely.

Lowest Interest Credit Cards help you to Spend Wisely and well


Articles from April 2009
More articles from Year 2009


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Subject Re Low Interest Credit Cards

Blog Post Date: Apr 23 2009

Subject: Re: Low Interest Credit Cards?


David, I do not have a listing of low cost credit cards but you may be
able to get one low interest credit card, instantly, online at my site.
Go to
http://members.spree.com/taylor1 then, click on my Nextcard image near
the top of the page. The rest is simple. Art

INTERNET ASSOCIATE, THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION MAY BE OF IMPORTANCE TO
YOU. THE BEST FREE STUFF, CHRISTIAN SEARCH ENGINES , DISCOUNT SHOPPING
WITH MILLIONS OF PRODUCTS, AND FREE BUSINESS OFFERS ARE LOCATED AT
http://members.tripod.com/~ALTAYR/Free00.html OR,
http://www.freeyellow.com/members/altayr/page5.html IF YOU ARE LOOKING
FOR FAST CHRISTIAN STRESS RELIEF TRY
http://members.tripod.com/~ALTAYR/4.html HAVE A HEAVENLY DAY!

Subject: Re: Low Interest Credit Cards?
Reply to author | Forward | Print | Individual message | Show original | Report this message | Find messages by this author
Can you please explain to us what a "CHRISTIAN SEARCH ENGINE" is? Is this a
search engine that believes in the divinity of Christ? Is it a search engine
that goes to church on Sunday and then does whatever it likes the rest of
the week? Does it pass moral judgement on the web sites it finds? Is it a
Catholic? Baptist? Please, enquiring minds want to know.

Y'know, I am even more curious about "CHRISTIAN STRESS RELIEF!"

Peter G. Aitken

Art Taylor wrote in message

<11519-366E0ABE...@newsd-112.bryant.webtv.net>...
David, I do not have a listing of low cost credit cards but you may be
able to get one low interest credit card, instantly, online at my site.
Go to
http://members.spree.com/taylor1 then, click on my Nextcard image

INTERNET ASSOCIATE, THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION MAY BE OF IMPORTANCE TO
YOU. THE BEST FREE STUFF, CHRISTIAN SEARCH ENGINES , DISCOUNT SHOPPING
WITH MILLIONS OF PRODUCTS, AND FREE BUSINESS OFFERS ARE LOCATED AT
http://members.tripod.com/~ALTAYR/Free00.html OR,
http://www.freeyellow.com/members/altayr/page5.html IF YOU ARE LOOKING
FOR FAST CHRISTIAN STRESS RELIEF TRY
http://members.tripod.com/~ALTAYR/4.html HAVE A HEAVENLY DAY!


You must Sign in before you can post messages.
To post a message you must first join this group.
Please update your nickname on the subscription settings page before posting.
You do not have the permission required to post.


Date: 1998/12/09
Subject: Re: Low Interest Credit Cards?
Reply to author | Forward | Print | Individual message | Show original | Report this message | Find messages by this author
Save the extra step and just go www.nextcard.com or www.capitalone.com
.

>David, I do not have a listing of low cost credit cards but you may be
>able to get one low interest credit card, instantly, online at my site.
>Go to
>http://members.spree.com/taylor1 then, click on my Nextcard image near
>the top of the page. The rest is simple. Art

>INTERNET ASSOCIATE, THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION MAY BE OF IMPORTANCE TO
>YOU. THE BEST FREE STUFF, CHRISTIAN SEARCH ENGINES , DISCOUNT SHOPPING
>WITH MILLIONS OF PRODUCTS, AND FREE BUSINESS OFFERS ARE LOCATED AT
>http://members.tripod.com/~ALTAYR/Free00.html OR,
>http://www.freeyellow.com/members/altayr/page5.html IF YOU ARE LOOKING
>FOR FAST CHRISTIAN STRESS RELIEF TRY
>http://members.tripod.com/~ALTAYR/4.html HAVE A HEAVENLY DAY!



You must Sign in before you can post messages.
To post a message you must first join this group.
Please update your nickname on the subscription settings page before posting.
You do not have the permission required to post.


n a previous article, "Peter Aitken" wrote: >Can you please explain to us what a "CHRISTIAN SEARCH ENGINE" is? Is this a >search engine that believes in the divinity of Christ? Is it a search engine I expect it is along the line of the plumbers, electricians, etc., who put the little fish in their ads in the phone book. Presumably a Christian plumber can tighten bolts better than the plumber with no stated affiliation? -- Will Bell -- w...@netcom.com -- Silence is foo in Arlington, TX



Save the extra step and just go www.nextcard.com or www.capitalone.com >Save the trouble and don't go to either. >If you do, be sure to read all the small print verrrrry carefully. What's so special about them? Nexcard starts at 2.9% instant approval instant transfers. Then up to 16-17% after the honeymoon period, single monthly cycle. They cut an indivdual deal online. Captial One is 9.9% Fixed, single billing cycle. Their fine print is better than most IMHO.
More options Dec 10 1998, 2:00 am
Newsgroups: misc.consumers
From: sbur...@usa.net (Spam Bait)
Date: 1998/12/10
Subject: Re: Low Interest Credit Cards?
Reply to author | Forward | Print | Individual message | Show original | Report this message | Find messages by this author
On Thu, 10 Dec 1998 05:14:09 GMT, pats...@sfktc.com (Patricia Martin

Steward) wrote:
>On Wed, 09 Dec 1998 21:31:11 GMT, sbur...@usa.net (Spam Bait) wrote:

>>Save the extra step and just go www.nextcard.com or www.capitalone.com

>Save the trouble and don't go to either.

>If you do, be sure to read all the small print verrrrry carefully.

What's so special about them? Nexcard starts at 2.9% instant approval
instant transfers. Then up to 16-17% after the honeymoon period,
single monthly cycle. They cut an indivdual deal online.

Captial One is 9.9% Fixed, single billing cycle.

Their fine print is better than most IMHO.

Articles from April 2009
More articles from Year 2009


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Upgrades To The Express-marketing.com

Blog Post Date: Mar 03 2009

Upgrades to the express-marketing.com

I am pleased that we are doing some upgrades to this site. It will include a new look, and a nice navigation system to help our visitors find things more easily.

This should be good.

With the onset of the credit crisis, I thought it would be prudent to offer more products and services and than just credit cards.

We'll also be offering articles, videos, podcasts and whatever else we can find to give more information about the products and services you'll find on this site.




Articles from March 2009
More articles from Year 2009


Comments (0)

Related Link: http://www.industrylink.com

Link Back to This Post
SPONSOR POST: Gasoline credit cards - Discover Open Road

In the variety of gasoline credit cards (banks insist they help saving in the times of high gas prices) it takes long to choose a really beneficial bank product. A lucky result of the long search is a credit card by Discover, which is a bundle features to please ardent car users.

Look what Discover Open Road card has to offer.
First, about the costs. 0% intro APR on purchases and 0% on balance transfers (until January, 2009) give a considerable freedom. Plus, the grace period is rather long (comparing to other credit card deals). Discover made almost everything possible to help the customer pay the balance easily. But there is a blot on the landscape: the bliss ends after July 2008 when the standard APR comes into effect. Besides, be sure to avoid late or missed payments, as the default interest rate is about 30%!

Now let us look what makes this card an excellent option for car owners. You will receive guaranteed 1% cash back on all your purchases. Plus, 5% cash back on the first $1,200 spent on gas and auto maintenance during a year, that is, first $100 each billing cycle. Discover also presents Excess Collision Damage Waiver Insurance with this credit card offer – a useful service for a passionate motorist! Discover Open Road will come in handy as a second card to save on gas and auto repairs.

Articles from December 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Paydayloanquotes.com Review

Blog Post Date: Nov 19 2007
Paydayloanquotes.com Review

Paydayloanquotes.com is a secure Payday Loans site that will get you in touch with a payday loan lender in the U.S. only.
This is a convenient service as you can take care of all of the loan application details over the phone and internet.

Once accepted you the funds will be direct deposited by the lender. It's just that easy!

The FAQ Page answers a great deal of questions regarding payday loans

It's important to be clear about the interest rate and finance charges that you will incur.
An example given is on the loan calculator page where you get a loan for $300 and pay a 10% finance charge. The finance charge is calculated to $30. This works out to an APR of 260.7%

If you want a payday loan this site gives you a 3 easy step format:
* Fill out a 1-page online form
* Connect with your lender to work out terms
* Get your funds via direct deposit into your bank account

The above is a sponsored review.

Articles from November 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
payday loans no faxing is THE place to find a quick payday loan

PaydayFans offers payday loans in the U.S. and UK. They have information about payday loans and an easy to use sign up form.

They offer an overnight loan of up to $1500 with out a credit check. As well they offer the convenience of a faxless application process. This means that you don't have to down load the application, fill it out and fax it in. You can apply for your payday loan online in the convenience of your home or office.

As with all payday loans it is important that you study the fine print to make sure that the costs associated with this credit supplier are within your budget.

Payday loans are a source of short term credit to tide you over until your next pay day. As with all convenient credit products, the cost of interest and service fees are usually higher than getting longer term credit with banks and trusts and loans.

If you are in the market for a payday loan and you only need money for a short term period, paydayfans.com will be able to offer that to you.

PayDayfans.com offers the following:
  • No Fax Payday Loans
  • Faxless Payday Loans
  • Fast Payday Loan
  • No Faxing Payday Loan


The above is a sponsored blog post.

Articles from November 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Virtual Prepaid Credit Card?? - See www-card.com!

www-card.com ( World Wide Wallet card ) is a virtual prepaid credit card which is safe and secure, and flexible and convenient. This card is an especially good idea for the upcoming christmas season!

These prepaid credit cards come in either a regular Visa Card, or a Visa Gift Card. So that you can use it to make a purchase, or give it as a gift so that a love one can make purchase at all Visa accepting outlets. What a great gift idea.

One of the main benefits of the WWW-card is that it's a completely virtual prepaid card. This means that you can apply, receive and manage your WWWcard entirely online.

You don't have to visit a bank or department store in person. This has the convenience of applying online when you get a free moment 24 hours a day.!

Because this card meets all of Visa's strict Visa's strict security and quality standards, you can rest assured that you will be able make purchases online in a very safe manner.

As the christmas season is coming soon, enjoy the convenience of the World Wide Wallet card. Get yours today! Apply Online at www-card.com

The above is a Sponsored Post

Articles from October 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Airline Rewards Credit Cards

Blog Post Date: Aug 20 2007
Airline Rewards Credit Cards

Flying has become an increasingly common and convenient way to travel. Whether you frequently travel by air or want to fly to your next vacation destination, airline rewards credit cards can help you out. Read on to learn how airline rewards credit cards work and find some of the best offers available.

Earn the Miles

Airline rewards credit cards come in many shapes and forms, but the majority of them share the same basic principles. Most airline rewards credit cards allot you one mile for each dollar spent. Once you have earned a certain number of miles, you can exchange them for a plane ticket.

Besides earning miles through purchases, many airline rewards credit cards grant you bonus miles when you sign up. They may also offer special deals for you to earn additional miles once you have the card. Some award double points for making purchases at select places, such as restaurants and movie theaters.

Most major airline carriers offer a co-branded card, which is issued in partnership between the airline and a bank or credit card company. These cards allow you to earn additional miles when you purchase plane tickets through them or use their airline partner services, such as hotels and car rentals.

Reap the Rewards

Once you have an airline rewards credit card, you can keep track of the miles you earn on your card statement. Each card company sets the number of miles needed to earn free plane tickets. Usually fewer miles are required to travel domestically, while more are needed for international flights. Some cards allow you to redeem your miles for other items, include hotel stays, cruises, or car rentals.

While the rewards are fantastic, airline rewards credit cards also include certain terms and conditions. Most of them come with a higher interest rate and charge an annual fee. However, if you pay off your balance each month, the travel rewards will far outweigh the fees.

Best Offers Available

It is important to consider your travel interests and lifestyle as you look for the right airline rewards credit card. If you want the flexibility of flying any airline, the Discover Miles Card is a good choice. It offers benefits for signing up, including 0% interest on purchases and balance transfers for the first twelve months. Also, you can earn an additional 1,000 miles each month, just for using the card. That can total up to 12,000 bonus miles over the first year! You earn one mile for every dollar that you spend. And with Discover Miles Card there is no annual fee involved.



Airline rewards credit cards offer enticing benefits. By making purchases on your card, you can earn miles that can be used for free travel. Look over your vacation plans. Then apply online today for an airline rewards credit card. Soon you'll be turning in those miles for tickets. Happy flying!

Click the following link to find Airline Rewards Credit Cards http://www.credit-card-surplus.com/airline.php . Ed Vegliante runs http://www.credit-card-surplus.com , a directory helping consumers to compare and apply for credit cards.



Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post
The Topic on Student Credit Cards and What Weighs Most

Due to the large population of students, big credit card organizations are now setting their eyes on students as a target market. These credit cards are perceived to support students to be prepared with the real problems, specifically when they already attain their mature age. These student credit cards also build up their credit rating, so when they reach a more mature age, they are now equipped to obtain loans and other financial transactions.

Student credit cards almost function the same way as ordinary credit cards. They have reduced credit limit though than the latter. This is to help avoid indiscriminate spending as well as control expenses to tuitions and other school requirements. Few contain interest charges that are higher compared than standard credit cards. This is also a manner of preserving the interest of the credit card company. Sometimes parents as well as guardians are encourage to sign the application too because numerous of the students aren't yet earning and hence not eligible to obtain a credit card.

A good student credit card doesn't have the annual fees along with APR. Six months is commonly the introductory grace period being offered. This will make it a lot easier for the credit card owner to pay for his first fees while he's still getting familiar with the concept of using a credit card for his groceries. It may also be smart if you'd settle for those that provide cash backs, rebates, and discounts. It makes spending more fun!


Student credit cards will work out ideally if they also fit your lifestyle. They should not only become a luxury but a necessity as well. Dues should also be paid on time. Remember, this is how you practically build the credit score that may make you qualified to several financial applications later on. It also speaks a lot about your personal character. If you missed payments, you could be seen as a dishonest person.

It's easy to get credit cards, particularly student Visa credit cards. Discover credit cards with low interest rates when you visit CreditCardMonitor.org today!


Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Bad Credit Instant Debt Consolidation Loans!

Blog Post Date: Aug 20 2007
Bad Credit Instant Debt Consolidation Loans!

Getting into debts and missing out on loan repayments is quite rampant now. Most of the UK residents purchase their car, home or consider home refurbishments out of the loan proceeds and repay it back in installments. The problem arises when you get into too many loans at the same time and cannot match up with your earnings.

Bad Credit debt consolidation loan -Gets you out of your debts!

Bad credits get accumulated as a result of default on loan repayment. One need not feel mired in debts anymore, if he has enough of equity which is the value of the house. If a house is already mortgaged then the equity on home would be value of the house minus the unpaid mortgage. So larger the equity, larger will be the loan amount the lender is willing to pay. It is so because the lender is at less risk when there’s a collateral set against the loan lent. Well, a borrower can be at a risk of losing out on his house if the payments are defaulted. But with secured loans lent at reasonable rates one would still pay his debt at ease.

Bad credit instant unsecured debt consolidation helps negotiate for debt with easy repayment installments on nominal interest rates!

Instant Debt Consolidation Loans manage money in a well planned manner and to lead a wealthy life during times of financial downturns or financial crisis conditions. managing debt loans to protect you from the mortification of debt struck situation.

Debt management plan helps becoming enabled to manage money in a well planned manner and to lead a wealthy life during times of financial downturns or financial crisis conditions.


• Get out of any kind of debt
• Learn how to manage money to avoid debt situations in future
• Take control of your finances within three years

Instant Debt Consolidation Loans with bad credits!

Firstly, you combine all your debts into one entity with a new lender or with an existing lender himself. With innumerable debts put together, the rate of interest will be reduced with only one payment to be made to the creditor. This way you can easily settle down your debts. Similarly, you can also avail of instant debt consolidation loan service.

UK debt consolidation loan provides you professional assistance in managing your debt and to unburden you from your debt related problems.

Content Developer for finance sites. Get free Debt Consolidation Loans with Debt Consolidation Loans


Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com



New Financial Products
banking
catalog cards
credit repair
credit reports
debit cards
auto loans
home loans
other loans
payday loans
other financial

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Secured loans: Separating the fact from fiction

There are many people out there who have no clue about finance but are looking to take a loan. In fact, most of them are uneducated about financial matters and end up in debt traps before they hit 30. In fact one out of every five Britons doesn’t have any savings. Shocking as it may seem, it’s the bitter truth. The government and other related financial organisational bodies have come up with various ways to educate the people about loans.

In fact financial watchdogs like FSA (Financial Services Authority) provide impartial information for borrowers through sites, such as http://www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk/ Not only do they provide a guide for money savings, it also gives tips on money management, mortgages, retirement options, investments, insurances, and others. It is a good tool for those who are bad money managers and have no clue where the cash goes.

At the end of it, all that is required is a little bit of planning. For starters, most of us do not cover the occasional but essential expenses that include birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas and others. Keeping a daily diary and recording all your spending, no matter how mundane, also helps in a big way. In fact, it will give you a clear reflection of your lifestyle and spending habits. If most of your cash goes in outings, then cut your evening outs during the weekdays.

Set realistic targets. Don’t put yourself on too stringent a budget; chances are that you will stray. Revise your regular expenses budget periodically in case of bill increase or pay rise. But after all these exercises, you realise that there is not enough money to cover your expenses, then what do you do? A loan might solve quite a few of your problems, but then again, taking a loan means paying back the loan too. If you are a homeowner, then you have the option of going in for secured loans. The principal sum depends on the equity available in your home minus all other mortgages and debts.

For example, let’s say your home is worth £72,000 and you got additional renovations of about £12,000 done on it, then the lender is going to take everything into account. That makes your total home value about £84,000. But in case you had taken a mortgage/loan to buy the home and you own the creditor £25,000, then your total available equity will be £84,000-£25,000 = £59,000. Thus, if there is a possibility that you may get a loan amount upto £59,000 or more if the lender deems it.

Secured loans are actually the most cost effective borrowing option in comparison to other types of credit. For starters, you can borrow up to £250,000 and repay within 25 years. Other benefits include repayment holidays, deferred payments and cash back offers. Most of these offers are available with banks and online lenders. The biggest advantage of applying for online secured loans is that applicants do not have to go to the banks or brokers to apply for loans.

The only major drawback of online secured loans is that in case of failure in returning the money, lenders can repossess your home. So, in case you do think about taking this loan, the first step is to budget yourself. Firstly, think how much you need to borrow. Just because you can borrow more doesn’t mean that you should take it all…remember at the end of the day you may lose your home because of this recklessness. Think about how much you can afford to pay back every month and fix your loan requirement on that.

Check if there’s any penalty to be paid in case the pay back amount varies during the loan tenure. See if the loan provider gives flexible repayment terms or not and what different interest plans are available. Although, secured loans give borrowers the liberty of stretching the loan cycle to over 20 years. However, the longer you stretch your repayment period, the more you have to pay. The interest will pile up and the borrower may end up paying more than he borrowed in the first place.

One more thing that you have to consider before signing on the dotted line is the possibility of what will happen if there is a change in your financial circumstances. Let’s say that you are at the receiving end of an expensive divorce case and have to end up paying a heavy alimony and child care fees. Or there might be a sudden work/career shift happening in your life. Maybe you are planning to start a family? Whatever be the case, you may consider taking up protection insurance if you are going in for secured loans. It is a way to protect your asset in case of failure in repayment. Although, the total repayment amount will be double, it might be help you in case of sudden job redundancies or illness.

Whatever be the case…if you do think of taking a loan, take it after a lot of planning.

Randhir Kumar is a business writer specializing in finance and credit products and has written authoritative articles about Secured Loans, Online Secured Loans etc. He is currently assisting Shakespearefinance as a finance specialist.



Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

The Fastest Way To Build Your Credit

Blog Post Date: Aug 17 2007
The Fastest Way to Build Your Credit

You'll be surprise but there are many adults who still have no or little credit history to work with. Without credit, you won't be able to obtain the necessary track record to obtain financing for major purchases down the line - mortgages, car loans, educational loans, vacations, and for some, a generous line of credit for new business ventures.

The group that is most afflicted with the "no credit history" dilemma is generally college students and newly arrived immigrants from other countries. For others, they should be more focused on maintaining or rebuilding their credit. The strategy outlined here is therefore, for people with no credit history.

Step One: Get a Secured Credit Card. There are several major banks that offer a terrific secured credit card to get you going. HSBC and Bank of America are two great places to start. After 12 - 18 months of solid, on time payments, they will almost certainly convert your secured credit card to an unsecured credit card. This will then open up the doors for other creditors to extend you credit. Expect to see some "pre-approval" card applications in the mailbox.

Step Two: Get a Secured Loan. Similar to a secured credit card, a secured loan requires a deposit (typically a $500 minimum) where they then will float you back the same amount in the form of a secured loan. All you really paying for is interest (at a $500 deposit, it shouldn't be a lot). Its well worth it at the end since this is used to build up a credit history.

Step Three: Become an Authorized User. If you know some one close to you who has terrific credit and is willing to add you as an Authorized User, then request to do so. Basically, you're "borrowing" their credit history to build up yours.

Any three of these time-tested strategies will work - either by themselves or altogether. Within a year and half, you'll have a very good credit history to work with. One important note though, you should have a good job as well. A stable job will ensure that you could pay off your credit balances while improving your chances of getting better credit cards in the future.
About the Author

Kit Phillip is a Researcher and Contributor to two of the Internet's most informative financial news web sites: CreditCardCreditNews.com and MoneyPersonalFinance.com. For New Credit Card announcements and industry Credit Card News, please visit www.creditcardcreditnews.com. For Bank News and Personal Finance News, please visit www.moneypersonalfinance.com.



Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Finding Your Best Options For School Loan Consolidation

By: Jon Arnold

If you are a recent graduate from college, chances are that you have many different student loans from college. Many college graduates are going out into the real world after school with thousands of dollars in student loan debt. This can be quite overwhelming, especially when being out on your own for the first time and trying to keep up with all these loans, in addition to finding the right new job. The answer to your student loan woes may be a school loan consolidation.

When you have many different student loans that you are paying on, it can be difficult to keep up with the various payments you have each month. It also can be difficult to meet all those payments when you are just starting out as well. Getting a school loan consolidation will allow you to take all your loans and consolidate them into one. This will allow you to only have one payment to pay each month, and the payment will be much smaller than what you have previously been paying.

If you decide to get a school loan consolidation, you will be able to save quite a bit of money over the years. You will be able to get a better interest rate that will save you hundreds of dollars, and you also will have smaller payments to pay as well. Since your payments will be smaller, you may even be able to put a bit of extra money to your loan each month, which will help you to get it paid off much faster.

There are a variety of options for students who need a school loan consolidation; however, you want to be sure that you choose the right loan options for you. First of all, you are going to want to look for a reputable company. While many companies offer student loan consolidations, some companies may have more flexibility in their programs or better incentives as well. You will also want to compare the rates and the terms of various loans before you pick one company for your school loan consolidation. Make sure there is no penalty for making early or additional payments on your consolidation loan.

Some of these companies offer great incentives if you make your payments on time. In fact, there are a few companies that will reduce your interest rate if you pay on time for 24 months straight. However, when you are looking at these incentives, be sure that you do not make a decision on the incentives alone. You will also want to see if the company has competitive interest rates and good loan terms as well.

Even if you have just graduated from college with a mountain of student loan debt, there is hope. A school loan consolidation can help you consolidate your debt so that it is easier to pay off. So, if you find yourself over your head in student loans, consider a consolidation and make your life easier as you are getting started out in life.

For more insights and additional information about School Loan Consolidation please visit our web site at www.debtconsolidationstrategies.com

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Save Easily With BLUE Sky from American Express

People know American Express for its credit cards. However, it is not here that the story ends, for American Express is also into traveler’s check and charge cards businesses too. BLUE Sky from American Express is an addition to their extensive list of cards. It is by far the best credit card for frequent international travelers, who are capable of clearing full balance payments monthly.

You can give full credit to BLUE Sky from American Express cards in matters of flexibility in making payments. All you need is a good credit and then you can take full advantage of its significant travel reimbursement facilities.

Blue Sky from American Express Benefits

· Blue Sky credit cards offer you an opportunity to save cash on flights, hotels and car rentals at any point of time and that without any travel restrictions and blackout dates.

· Your liberty and flexibility will know no bounds with Blue Sky credit cards as you can pay for your purchases in full at a time or in convenient installments overtime.

· With BLUE Sky from American Express credit cards, you can gain unrestrained points and miles. The points program is never a fiscal burden for you

· When and where do you want to go? This is important. Irrespective of the fact that whether you are going for a weekend’s holiday or a peak season vacation, you can always make plans according to your expediency and save cash on several items.

· You do not have to pay an extra charge on additional cards. Thus, the benefits offered by the car can be shared by both you and your family

· Do you want to shop around and compare several travel deals? Decide on the cost and pay with your Blue Sky credit card. Do not worry; you will definitely receive your Blue Sky savings.

Fundamentals of BLUE Sky from American Express

If you hold a Blue Sky credit card, you have to pay an affordable rate of interest for purchases and there is no need for you to pay any annual fee. You will even enjoy the convenience of a zero percent introductory APR for the initial six months.

A low introductory rate of 4.99 % rate in case of balance transfer is the other advantage you can enjoy, provided you plan to commence a transfer while applying online for the credit card.

Savings starts at $100 for just 7500 points, which further builds up gradually. You can follow the rate of your savings, which is generally displayed as credit on your Blue Sky billing statement.

Additional Packages Available With BLUE Sky From American Express

· A guaranteed reservation service – this is to make sure that you will always be provided with rooms even if your arrival in the hotel is delayed for some reason

· You also get an additional auto rental insurance online financial statement at the end of the year along with a unique service-Return Protection (accordingly you get an amount of $300 for purchases and these cannot be refunded within a time period of ninety days)

· The other facilities you receive include accident insurance of up to $100,000, emergency card replacement, car rental loss and damage insurance and an international help online.

In short, you can say that BLUE Sky from American Express is a credit card, which has been exclusively designed to indulge you with boundless travel specifications without any restraint.

About the Author: Richard Gilliland Provides Expert opinions and reviews to help you Compare and Apply for a Credit Card - Compare Credit Card Offers with Credit-Wisdom.com - Unraveling the best in Personal and Business Credit Cards.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

American Express Credit Cards

Blog Post Date: Aug 15 2007
American Express Credit Cards

Also known as AMEX, American Express is easily one of the most recognized names in the world of credit cards. Even though many people have Visa or MasterCard credit cards, they are still interested in AMEX. With Visa, MasterCard, and AMEX being the most popular and preferred types of credit cards, they are all great although there are also differences between them as well.

Both Visa and MasterCard are methods of payment. Both will allow different businesses to accept credit card payments using their systems. Neither of the two issue credit cards on their own behalf, instead they rely on banks throughout the world to issue the credit cards for them, provide the credit, and then charge the interest. Your credit card bill goes to the bank, as Visa or MasterCard doesn’t see any of it.

AMEX on the other hand, is very different. American Express has their own payment system, and they also issue their credit cards directly to consumers. Unlike Visa and MasterCard, AMEX runs the entire show. Therefore, when a credit card says American Express on it, you instantly know who has issued the card, what payment system it has, and everything else you would need to know.

Even though MasterCard and Visa are used more throughout the world, American Express is always expanding their networks. Visa and MasterCard are used in over twenty five million locations over the world, including third world countries, which makes them global credit card payments. AMEX on the other hand, doesn’t quite reach this degree. It is a great credit card, although it isn’t used around the world in areas where the other 2 dominant credit cards are.

You can get AMEX credit cards with rewards, although you’ll need to be careful where you look and what you select. Normally, with Visa and MasterCard, you’ll have to look at hundreds of banks before you can find the best choice. With AMEX, you can look at their website and find out what they offer and what type of APR you’ll have to pay. Most of the time, you can find a credit card with low interest and a great spending limit - providing you have good credit.

AMEX also has several advantages that it offers customers in North America and Europe. The credit card is accepted widely in both areas, offering you credit cards with great features and very attractive looks. AMEX offers you great rates, good rewards, and excellent customer service as well.

American Express also offers you Blue, which is a newly introduced credit card that offers you increased security, no annual fee, and 0% APR for the first year or so. Depending on your credit, you may be able to get an extended period with no interest. After that time has expired, you pay low fees, which makes it a great credit card for anyone looking for a deal. Blue is the newest card from AMEX, and will rapidly become one of the best - due to it’s amazing features.

In the world of credit cards, American Express is one of the best. They offer you a variety of different credit cards, designed to meet just about everyone’s needs. You find them online or through a local provider, although online is the preferred way to go. Simply fill out your application, and if you have good credit, you’ll be approved. Before you know it, you’ll have a credit card from AMEX - and be ready to experience life in the fast lane.

You can find the best choice of credit cards and pre-paid cards at www.CreditCards.us (http://www.creditcards.us)

About the Author: John Ugoshowa. You are welcome to use this article on your website or in your ezines
as long as you have a link back to http://www.quickregister.net/partners/
For more information on credit cards see the Credit Card section of Quickregister.net Free Search Engine Submission Service
at: http://www.quickregister.net/partners/

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
BLUE CASH From American Express – It Is Time For Payback

American Express focuses on centralized financial services planning, which has spawned many of the incredible American Express credit cards that promise great rewards. Blue Cash from American Express is one such card – designed in a manner to suit those of you with fine or excellent credit and planning for rebate programs.

Simply, American Express’ Blue Cash stands perfect; if you can have enough finances to spend hefty amounts on the card every year, you will receive cash back rewards in return. Well you might get deluded with the name Blue Cash (since you are not going to see any actual cash from the card). It is simply great for you, only if you are not one who is always on the lookout for regular discounts for stays at hotels or flyer miles.

You have a great program for rebate in Blue Cash Credit Card offering cash back on purchases. You might be interested to know the details of the rebate program, so spot it yourself.

Rebate Program

This rebate program allows you to earn between 0.5% and 5% cash back for every purchase on your card. Simplifying things for you, take a look at the particulars:

§ The lowest possible rebate is 0.5%
§ The highest possible rebate is 5%

The Rebate Details:

§ You will earn a 0.5% rebate for general purchases up to $6500 and 1.5% for purchases over $6500
§ Daily purchases earns you a 1% rebate for purchases less than or equal to $6500 and 5% for purchases above $6,500

So, you can earn up to 5% rebate on virtually everything you buy and especially quicker at supermarkets, drugstores and gas stations. Remember your cash award will vary according to the amount you spend each year.

How It Works?

Now, whenever you use Blue Cash from American Express for purchases at drugstores, gas stations and supermarkets (not in wholesale clubs), you will get 1% cash back on your purchase. If you make any other purchases with the card, you will get 0.5% cash back. This rate is applicable to all purchases you have made till you reach annual expenses of $6500. Once you have spent $6500, the cash-back rate climbs upto 5% at supermarkets, gas stations and drugstores and 1.5% for every other purchase.

Key Features

Now, dig through the fundamentals of the Blue Cash Card summed up here:

§ It is ideal for you, if you are planning to carry a balance occasionally. As the card requires no annual fee and has a sensible interest rate for balance transfers and purchases (provided you qualify). Fees like application, participation, inactive, reloading are not applicable.
§ It offers you a 0% introductory APR for the first 6 months of membership and gives you the option to pay in full or over time that can be applied toward purchases.
§ Blue Cash has low balance transfer rate of 4.99%. At the end of six months introductory phase, the rate gets reasonable. The variable APR’s are based on the Prime Rate.
§ This competent APR helps you to carry a balance occasionally, without fearing much about getting yourself deep in debt.

Extra Benefits

You can avail a long-list of endearing perks with Blue Cash card as mentioned below:

§ For the shopaholics this card covers – purchase protection, fraud protection, return protection and extended warranties
§ Also, if you are a frequent traveler, you have the option of an emergency card replacement service, a global assist hotline, assured hotel reservations, special travel offers and guaranteed hotel and motel reservations. You get $100,000 in travel accident insurance.
§ The Built-in ExpressPay feature allows you to make purchases even without having to swipe the card.
§ All the Internet account related services are available for you.

Now, instead of paying for a credit card, you have a card – BLUE CASH from American Express that pays you.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Credit Card Leaders: Visa and American Express

When it came to getting a credit card, millions of consumers all over the world chose Visa cards, which allows them to manage their finances in a better way, while enabling them to choose a system of payment for their purchases, either in increments over time or at the end of each month. Visa cardholders are offered the opportunity to pay for their purchases in the manner and at the time that work best for them.

Getting a Visa card can only be possible after you have contacted one of the banks that issue Visa cards. The good news is that the Visa cards are so widely spread all over the world that chances are you’ll find such an organization quite close to you.

The types of cards offered by Visa through its issuing members are credit cards, debit cards and prepaid cards.

With a Visa debit card, the customer can have access to his/her money regardless of their location as long as they see a Visa symbol. The money is deducted from their balance, with no interest. There are many advantages to using a card, such as saving the trip to the bank or the need to queue up for a cash dispenser, or being safer than carrying money. When you lose money, it’s gone forever. However, if you should happen to lose your Visa card, it can be stopped as soon as it has been declared lost or stolen, and be replaced afterwards.

The are several types of Visa debit cards, including Visa Electron, most popular in Central and Eastern Europe, Africa and the Middle East and ideal for a wide range of customers as it has in-built security features; Visa Classic, designed for those who use their cards everywhere, be it the real world, the Internet or by telephone; Visa Gold, whose most important benefit is that your card or cash, or both of them, can be replaced, should it be lost or stolen; and Visa Platinum, designed for high-spenders who can enjoy its top-level services.

Visa prepaid cards allow consumers to control spending, as well as to send money home, pay for their trips, teach their children money management, or even give it as a gift.

With Visa credit cards customers are offered a whole new world of possibilities, being exceptionally reliable and convenient.

Another company best known for its businesses with credit cards, charge cards and traveler’s cheques is American Express, or ‘Amex’.

American Express issues a great variety of credit cards, each with specific benefits, so as to please and meet the needs of all their customers. Consumers can choose from the American Express Card, America Express Gold Card, Rewards Plus Gold Card, Platinum Card, Blue form American Express, and so forth. The remarkable benefits of the American Express credit cards include personal service and attention at an exceptional level, use membership points for traveling, shopping and entertainment, access to entertainment events, special travel privileges, and many more.

The American Express Gift Cards have special offers from participating merchants and retailers all over the nation. The American Express Gift Cards can be purchased for any occasion, and in an easy manner, as they are available online.

About the Author: For more information about American Express or even about Visa please review this website http://www.mygiftcardpal.com

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Airline Miles Credit Cards - Survey & Comparison

At one time, there were not many airline credit cards available for you to choose from. The first of the airline miles credit cards was the Citi AAdvantage MasterCard, which is still available today. Though this card had plenty to offer, it wasn't necessarily the best airline credit card for everyone.

The Evolution of Airline Credit Cards

Over time, airline miles credit cards began to evolve. Soon after the Citi AAdvantage MasterCard hit the market, the United Airlines Mileage Plus card was offered by through a partnership with United Airlines. Shortly after, Continental Airlines followed suit with the Continental Airlines World MasterCard. These leaders in the airline miles credit card industry started what has become a widespread credit card option for frequent travelers.

Partnering with Airlines

The partnerships formed between credit card companies and airlines put a new face on airline credit cards. Today, there are just as many airline credit cards to choose from as there are airlines. The majority of these airline credit cards pretty much the same, though the subtle nuances can vary from card to card. With all of these cards, the miles you earn are good for use with just the airline named on the card. The only exception to this is if the airline has sister companies. In this case, the miles may be good with the sister airlines as well.

Generic Airline Credit Cards

In addition to the vast number of airline credit cards that are formed in partnership with airlines, there are many generic credit cards. In this case, the word "generic" doesn't stand for off brand or low quality. Rather, these cards allow you to earn airline miles that you can use with any airline of your choice. Usually, these cards work by assigning each airline mile a monetary value, usually 1 or 2 cents per mile. You can then use these miles to purchase a ticket through the credit card company that the company has acquired from the airline at a discounted price.

With generic airline credit cards, you are provided far more freedom in deciding which airline to use. This allows you to select the airline that is running a flight at the time and location that is best for you. It also allows you to take advantage of market fluctuations in ticket prices from one airline to the next.

Additional Perks

In addition to the number of miles it takes to earn free travel with airline credit cards, you should consider the additional perks offered. For example, so airline credit cards only provide special discounts for air travel. On the other hand, some cards allow you to redeem your points for other travel related necessities, such as car rentals, cruises, hotel stays, and vacation packages.

You should also pay attention to the special incentives offered by airline miles credit cards. Some allow you to earn bonus miles through certain purchases. For example, you might be able to earn bonus miles with a credit card that has partnered with a specific airline if you make purchases from that airline on the credit card.

In addition to incentives, some airline credit cards provide sign up bonuses. It is fairly common for an airline credit card to offer 5,000 bonus miles after using the card for the first time. The Gold Delta Skymiles Credit Card and American Express Credit Cards offer 10,000 bonus miles. Of course, you need to look out for how many miles it takes to earn a free ticket. The average number of miles needed with airline credit cards is 25,000, but you should always read all of the fine print first before making a decision.

About the Author: For more discussion on finding the best airline miles credit cards, Robert Alan recommends that you visit CreditCardAssist.com.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Why A Student Credit Card is A Good Proposition

A student credit card is exactly what the name suggests. It is devised specifically for students. Student credit cards are becoming increasingly popular nowadays with more and more parents opting to give their kids one. It has many advantages over normal credit cards. Let us look at some of the advantages that a student credit card offers.

A student credit card lets a student have a glimpse at financial expenses and management. The student who hardly has a credit rating can take the first few steps towards building a healthy credit rating for himself. Credit ratings will be a very important part of their future lives if they wish to take loans for purchasing a home or a vehicle. If they take the first few steps towards establishing a good credit rating with the student credit card, then they will be more confident and better equipped to handle their finances later on.

Since the student credit card does not have an extravagant limit, the student will also learn to control the spending habits. Most student credit cards have a limit of $500 to $1500. So the student cannot think of spending anything more than that. This habit is best inculcated in the young age.

Parents are also able to keep a tab on the spending habits of their kids. It depends on the ownership of the card as to who receives the bill, but in most cases it's a joint ownership and both parents can see how their kid has been spending using the credit card. If at all you find that your kid has been using the student credit card for unwanted expenditures then you can guide them accordingly so that they can mend their ways.

Downsides

A student credit card has a higher rate of interest than most other credit cards. This is to prevent any loss for the credit card companies in case the student defaults. Also some credit card companies make it mandatory for the parent or the guardian to sign the application so that they will be liable to pay off the debts. Some kids do not pay back on time and fall prey to debt. Once the debt cycle beings, the high interest rate causes it to mound further and the student may find it very difficult to manage it. At the same time, they are not helping their credit ratings at all.

Some Popular Student Credit Cards

Discover clear student credit card is one of the popular student credit cards available nowadays. It has loads of features that are attractive and useful for the student. The five percent cashback is one of the highlights of this card. If you redeem your certificates from Discover's partner's the cashback doubles.

Citibank platinum select credit card has an APR at zero percent for all the purchases that are made within the first 6 months of the issue of the card. If the user has not defaulted with any other card company then the user can also transfer any existing balance on to this card.

So you can choose from any of these superb cards depending on the needs of your kid. Let's hope your kid learns to use credit cards effectively.

About the Author:

Student Credit Card Some advantages of gifting a student credit card to your child. It also describes the best cards in the market now. You also come to know how the card can be harmful to your child.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
What Can You Discover With A Discover Credit Card?

Author: Ellene Bauer

What's the next best thing to getting everything for free? It's a credit card that offers cash rewards and cash back bonus with every card use. At the same time, it allows you to choose how to claim your cash rewards. For every Discover credit card application, you are guaranteed to reap the benefits from one of the first credit cards to offer cash back bonus with every purchase you make.

Your Discover Credit Card Application: How to Qualify
The only main requirement for being approved for a Discover credit card is a good credit background.

Your Discover Credit Card Application: What to Expect
With a Discovery credit card, you are immediately entitled to a 1% cash back bonus on all purchases you make using the card. On top of this, Discover offers 5% cash back when you buy from any of the popular categories from over seventy participating partner brands. Its rewards listings change four times a year, so you could you're your pick from a wide selection of gifts. Furthermore, you could also reap 5% cash back when you use your card to pay for gas, airline tickets, movie tickets, dinner at your favorite restaurant, or an outfit from Sears, for example.

Discover credit cards offer you more options on how to redeem your cash back bonus reward. It is up to you whether you want to credit this bonus to your account, have it deposited to your account, accept it as a check, or receive it in cash.

Your Discover Credit Card Application: Which Card is Right for You
One important thing to be aware of when applying for a Discover credit card is your spending habits.

Getting a credit card is very easy. Because of this, very few people take the time to think about the type of credit card they're applying for. Consequently, most end up with a plastic that is entirely incompatible with the life that they lead, or the spending that they do.

In choosing which type of Discover credit card to apply for, ask yourself the following questions.

1. Do I spend impulsively on items, especially if these are what I consider must-haves?
2. Do I save a certain set percentage of any unexpected windfall? Or, do I spend everything in one go?
3. How do I plan to use my Discover credit card? Will it mostly be for shopping? Cash advances? Emergency spending?

Your answers to the questions above can help you evaluate which card best suits your spending and your finances.

Your Discover Credit Card Application: The Whole Enchilada

Aside from the 1% on all purchases and 5% cash back bonus on popular categories that vary four times a year, Discover credit cards offer you these added benefits:

- online account-related services
- travel accident insured up to $500,000
- zero liability to card owner for unauthorized card use
- anti-fraud protection
- great discounts at participating partner brands

In addition, Discover credit card offers an excellent customer service. Efficient, professional, and dedicated customer service representatives are on standby to be of assistance to you. You can be assured that your concerns will be attended to by knowledgeable personnel who can help you resolve any issues you may have regarding your Discover credit card account.

Process your Discover credit card application today and open the door to a world of good buys, great rewards, and wonderful discoveries.

About the Author:
Thinking of processing your own Discover credit card application? Visit CreditCardMonitor.org now to find out more about plastics, from getting credit cards for teens to filing a balance transfer credit card application.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Corporate Credit Cards: Convenient Bookkeeping

Author: Roland Jefferson

The issuing of a corporate credit card is a great idea, not only from a convenience standpoint, but also from a bookkeeping standpoint. A corporate credit card given to an employee lets that employee use the card whenever it is necessary as a business expense. By issuing a corporate credit card, and having employees use it, allows the company to know how their money is being spent, it allows for extremely easy bookkeeping and you can also most of the time get a lower interest rate because of the corporate credit card status.

Choose Your Company

The first thing you have to figure out when it comes to corporate credit cards is what kind of interest rate you want to pay and that correlates to which company you go with. There are many credit card companies out there and they all offer different rates, different benefits and some are accepted where others aren’t. This is all research that must be done before you decide on ordering your corporate credit cards for your employees.

Shop The Various Companies

Research the various credit card companies and find out what they are willing to offer. In fact, call up every corporate credit card candidate that you can find and ask them all the questions that you want answered. Make sure that the interest rate is as low as possible and make sure that it is fixed, or that it won’t go up in a few months.

By using corporate credit cards, you can keep better tabs on how your company’s money is being spent and it also ensures that there aren’t any expenses being reported that aren’t company related. Previously, people would turn in receipts for company expenses. Now, that practice is very outdated because the corporate credit cards are itemized on the bill so that you know exactly when and where the company’s money was spent.

The Smart Move

With the ease of bookkeeping, and the convenience of being able to use them anywhere, anytime, corporate credit cards are the smart move. Plus, they make it harder to report expenses that aren’t corporate related. This makes corporate credit cards the best choice for any corporation doing business today. Call today to shop the various interest rates, find who has the best benefits and make sure that you are getting the best deal possible, for you and your employees.

About the Author:

Roland Parris Jefferson III is an online researcher based out of Los Angeles, California. Need more details and expert advice on Credit Cards? Then please visit our Corporate Credit Cards Resource.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Cashback Credit Cards vs Reward - What's the Right One?

Author: DoItLikeThat

Not sure how to choose between a cashback credit card and a reward credit card? Here are a few hints on how to compare credit cards to help you decide which one is the right one for you.

Definitions:
A cashback credit card gives you - what else? - cash back on your purchases made with that credit card. The amount is usually a percentage of the purchase from .5% to 5% on certain purchases. Depending on the particular card, the cash back may be a flat rate on any purchase that you make, a percentage of certain qualifying purchases or a combination of the two.

Example: The Morgan Stanley Platinum gives you 1% cash back on the first ?2,000 that you charge to your card each year, plus .5% of the rest of your purchases up to your credit limit. They issue you a check once a year for the amount of your cash back.

Example: The American Express Platinum cashback credit card gives you 2% cash back on all your purchases for the first three months, then 1% on all your purchases for as long as you use your card.

Other cashback credit cards may offer you cash back on purchases made at certain merchants, or on a certain kind of purchase like gasoline.

Rewards credit cards also pay you back for using them, but the payoff may be in points or miles or some other scheme. When you use rewards credit cards to make purchases, you'll earn points or miles that you can spend on products offered by the reward programme that your credit card company manages. The products offered in the rewards programme depend on the merchants and manufacturers with whom your card company has partnered.

Example: The American Express Nectar Credit Card is a typical rewards credit card. For every ?1 that you spend, you'll earn 4 nectar points. In addition, many participating merchants offer extra nectar points as incentives to make purchases from them - currently, for instance, you can earn double nectar points for every purchase of BP motor fuel of 25 litres or more. You can redeem your points from the membership rewards catalogue that includes luxury merchandise from Bodum, Alessi, Conde Nast and many others.

Compare Credit Cards to Find Which is Best For You
There's a lot more to comparing credit cards than deciding which one gives you the most points or cash back though. There are some really good comparison sites that make it easy to compare credit cards side by side so that you can see APRs, fees and any restrictions that may make a difference in choosing the right card for your needs. Some considerations that may apply include:

- You'll get slightly less value in cash back than in reward points, generally - but there's no restriction on where you can spend your cash.

- A rewards credit card that partners with merchants you patronize or offers merchandise you'd purchase anyway may be a better deal for you than the smaller amount of cash back.

- When and how the rewards are paid can make a difference. Usually, reward points can be redeemed at any time, but cash back is only sent back at one time in the year.

- Rewards and cash back may be offset by slightly higher interest rates. If you typically carry a balance from month to month, then the interest charges may cost you more than the cash back benefits.

In the end, choosing the right credit card is all about what works best for you. Good comparison sites can help you compare credit cards and choose the best cash back or rewards credit cards for your needs.

About the Author
Jon Francis has been involved with finance for many years! With an in-depth knowledge of the credit card UK market help helps others get the best from a credit card. Visit http://www.moneyeverything.com/cards for more information.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Credit Card Rebates - How To Get Yours

Blog Post Date: Aug 02 2007
Credit Card Rebates - How To Get Yours

Author: Robert_Alan

Getting those bills in the mail is not much fun - especially the credit card bills. But what if, every time you got a bill, you also were informed about how much money your purchases had earned - wouldn't that make it more interesting? That is exactly what credit card rebates does for you. Many credit card companies are now offering rebate credit cards, giving you a percentage back. We have offered a description of what to look for in your new rebate credit card and how to get yours, quickly and easily.

Compare The Interest

Getting credit card rebates sounds like a really good idea - and it is. A few years ago - about 15, or so, there was a standard fee that everyone had to pay if they owned a credit card. Only more recently did the credit card companies begin to vary from this pattern of standardization -apparently the competition demanded new ideas. Now just about all of them have some kind of unique way to get people to sign onto their card.

A rebate credit card is really only better for you if you are in the habit of paying it off each month, when your bill comes in. This kind of card is normally a little higher in interest than a regular credit card would be. This is their way of offsetting the expense. As long as you pay the bill each month you will not have a problem. If, however, you allow your bill to be carried over into the next billing period -- well, the truth is that your card really won't do you much good. You could do better with a regular credit card.

Look For Annual Finance Fee

Rebate credit cards will often charge an annual finance fee. Some cards will waive it for the first year, but then you will be charged in successive years. The fee can also vary quite a bit, too, going from as low as $15 to as much as $135 per year.

Notice The Caps

Quite a number of these cards carry caps on just how much of a monthly (or yearly) rebate you can receive. It may differ, too, in the different kinds of purchases you make. They often will give you one rate for groceries, medicines, and gas, and another rate for purchases you make at certain stores, and then another rate for your general purchases.

Watch Your Statements

The actual amounts that you receive from your rebate credit card will often depend on which of the above categories the purchase is placed into - this is often their prerogative - but still, gas is gas. In order to ensure proper crediting, you will need to verify your purchases, each month, the rebates that are given to you.

Note The Time Frame

A rebate credit card often uses the rebates part of it as an attraction for you to get the card -- and it is a good one, too. Keep in mind, however, that the rebates may not keep coming -- but usually are good only for the first year of the card. Other cards may only give the initial offer for three months, and then drop down to a lower credit card rebates level after that. By shopping around, you will quickly find that there are many different conditions for similar cards.

You also will want to read the fine print about possible late payments -- just in case. A late payment may be all that is necessary to put you in a category of paying the highest possible interest. So, be informed, and enjoy as many possible benefits as you can, too.

Getting your own credit card rebates is a great way to go - but there is one that is even better. When you shop around, before you sign up, try to get a rebate credit card with 0% APR, and low interest. This way, as long as you make the monthly payment in full, you will be saving on interest, and get those wonderful rebates, too.

About the Author
For more information on credit card rebates, Robert Alan recommends that you visit http://www.creditcardassist.com/cashback/creditcards.html

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
The Benefits Of Instant Online Approval Credit Card

Author: stephenchua

As more and more households are having Internet access, credit card companies are quick to respond to this growing trend by offering online application. This method allows the applicant to get approval within a few minutes after submitting the online application form at the company website.

Although the approval process takes only a few minutes, the credit card company will still need to manually mail you the physical card. This may take up to 10 days before you receive it. However, this is considerably faster than the traditional ways.

It can take up to a month or two before you receive your credit card if you apply for one via the tradition ways. This is because you have to visit the office of the card company personally or call up the customer service hotline to request for an application form to be mail to you. Then you have to submit your supporting documents and wait for a reply as the company runs a check on your credit history.

To ensure that you application get approved instantly, you should maintain a healthy and excellent credit history. That does not mean that your application will be rejected if you credit history is less than perfect. With so much competition going around in the credit card industry, many companies are willing to take the risk and accept applicants with average credit history. Some of them even provide a card for those people with bad credit.

Before submitting your application online, make sure you visit a legitimate credit card directory to compare card information first. Consider the benefits that you want to receive as you do your research. You will also want to read the terms and conditions at least once. The important items to take note are annual fees, interest rate during the introductory period, interest rate after the introductory period, length of grace period and minimum payment amount. Also take note of late payment fees and other unusual penalties. Call up the respective customer service department if you have doubts or any queries with the terms and conditions.

Remember that you should always use your credit card in a responsible way. Be sure to pay your outstanding balance before the due date and, if possible, pay the entire balance each month to save on interest fees. This will ensure that you do not get into debt problems. In addition, your credit rating will look great as well.

About the Author
Stephen Chua is the founder of FindCreditCardsInfo.com, where you can find the latest instant approval credit card online. Visit http://FindCreditCardsInfo.com today and apply for an instant approval credit card online.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

The Fastest Way To Build Your Credit

Blog Post Date: Aug 02 2007
The Fastest Way to Build Your Credit

Author: pookiepum

You'll be surprise but there are many adults who still have no or little credit history to work with. Without credit, you won't be able to obtain the necessary track record to obtain financing for major purchases down the line - mortgages, car loans, educational loans, vacations, and for some, a generous line of credit for new business ventures.

The group that is most afflicted with the "no credit history" dilemma is generally college students and newly arrived immigrants from other countries. For others, they should be more focused on maintaining or rebuilding their credit. The strategy outlined here is therefore, for people with no credit history.

Step One: Get a Secured Credit Card. There are several major banks that offer a terrific secured credit card to get you going. HSBC and Bank of America are two great places to start. After 12 - 18 months of solid, on time payments, they will almost certainly convert your secured credit card to an unsecured credit card. This will then open up the doors for other creditors to extend you credit. Expect to see some "pre-approval" card applications in the mailbox.

Step Two: Get a Secured Loan. Similar to a secured credit card, a secured loan requires a deposit (typically a $500 minimum) where they then will float you back the same amount in the form of a secured loan. All you really paying for is interest (at a $500 deposit, it shouldn't be a lot). Its well worth it at the end since this is used to build up a credit history.

Step Three: Become an Authorized User. If you know some one close to you who has terrific credit and is willing to add you as an Authorized User, then request to do so. Basically, you're "borrowing" their credit history to build up yours.

Any three of these time-tested strategies will work - either by themselves or altogether. Within a year and half, you'll have a very good credit history to work with. One important note though, you should have a good job as well. A stable job will ensure that you could pay off your credit balances while improving your chances of getting better credit cards in the future.

About the Author
Kit Phillip is a Researcher and Contributor to two of the Internet's most informative financial news web sites: CreditCardCreditNews.com and MoneyPersonalFinance.com. For New Credit Card announcements and industry Credit Card News, please visit www.creditcardcreditnews.com. For Bank News and Personal Finance News, please visit www.moneypersonalfinance.com.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Payday Loan: Myths And Reality

Blog Post Date: Aug 02 2007
Payday Loan: Myths and Reality

Author: rsbombard

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions prevalent among people about the payday loans and the payday loan industry. Such people are usually belonging to the hardworking group with incomes conforming to the middle class segment. Besides, almost half of such persons own their own houses. Advertising is considered to hold a lot of responsibility regarding the prevalence of such myths.

A widely held misperception is that the payday lenders are on the lookout of taking advantage of people. The truth is that they render valuable services to millions lacking in exclusive financial alternatives to turn to during emergencies.

People believe that the payday loans must be for sub prime customers. They feel that the loans must be for people who have been refused credit elsewhere. This is a wrong notion. The payday loans are actually aimed for prime or near on prime customers. Such customers usually possess an above par credit rating. Customers taking payday loans are generally credit worthy and certainly have the ability to repay the loan. The payday loans are set up to merely satisfy a credit need different from other established forms of borrowing. The payday loans offer a host of benefits- there are no application fees, no credit check and no hassle of check bounce involved. So, avoiding the payday loans will imply avoiding of reaping these benefits.

Another misconception about the payday loans is regarding the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) quoted for a payday loan. This seems to be very high and can thus dissuade consumers from applying. In actual fact this rate will not be too much taxing on the customer considering that it will only be applicable for a short time duration by which the loan will be repaid (upon receipt of pay check).

Yet another myth is that the payday loans are a last resort. Though it is true that these loans are opted for in order to meet cash advance to cover some emergency need yet it is equally true that a significant number of Payday loan customers borrow the loans for meeting the little extra cash requirement for funding holidays, weddings etc. So, this is not always a last resort.

It is unfortunate that many people fail to understand the payday loan industry properly and hence hesitate to opt for these useful products. There is also the doubt and misconception thriving concerning the people who patronize the money lending establishments providing payday loans which leads people to become wary and remain aloof from opting for such loans.

About the Author
Jason Uvios writes about on Payday Loan: Myths and Reality to visit :- http://www.paydayloan-search.info, http://www.paydayloan-ezine.info and http://www.paydayloan-directory.info

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Balance Transfer Credit Cards Save You Money

Blog Post Date: Aug 01 2007
Balance Transfer Credit Cards Save You Money

by ART TAYLOR

There has been a lot of talk recently about taking advantage of 0% balance transfer credit card offers. Applying for a balance transfer credit card can reduce your interest fees and balance transfer credit cards are ideal for the consumer looking to consolidate several credit cards onto a single bill.

If you choose a balance transfer credit card, it can save you a lot. Balance transfers can be helpful to consumers in many ways. Let's face it, a lot of credit card providers are offering a 0 balance transfer credit card, so you are probably looking for a 0% balance transfer credit card that stands out from the crowd. First and foremost, understand what a balance transfer is. A balance transfer is when you transfer the balance from one card to another in order to get a better interest rate than the one that you are currently getting. Second, to find the absolute best deals, look to transfer balances on cards where the initial interest rate is 0% and the amount after that is lower than the one you have now. You must also realize that in order to qualify for the best balance transfer credit card deals you must have a solid credit history. You also need to discern whether or not the zero percent introductory rates are just for balance transfers or include purchases made during this period, and it will be well worth taking your time to understand all of the terms, rates and fees in order to find the best balance transfer credit cards that suit your financial need.

Transferring balances from high APR charge cards to low rate credit cards is one of the very best ways to keep your hard earned money where it belongs. When it comes to getting rid of credit card debt, the utility of these balance transfer offers is pretty obvious; simply transfer balances from higher-rate cards to a 0% credit card and save a ton on interest while you pay off your debt. Balance transfers are available for good reasons and should be used as such, in that way they will benefit the credit card holders in a big way. Some of these benefits include no annual fees, on most balance transfer credit cards, longer grace periods and additional rewards, rebates or points just for transferring your balances to one program.

Once you have transferred your balances over to a new credit card it is vital to pay your bills in full and on time, if you want to keep great rates and all your rewards benefits. Balance transfer credit cards don't tolerate late payments, so if you miss out on a particular repayment all the benefit is lost and instantly the high regular APR's are applied.

The biggest gotcha when it comes to balance transfers is fees. You won’t want to use a balance transfer if your fees outweigh your saving potential. Over the credit line fees is one of the biggest fees that are involved with balance transfer fees. Many people who utilize balance transfers are not aware of their new credit limits and if they go over the credit limit they will have to pay for it. You may get charged a set fee, usually between $15 and $35, or in many cases card issuers charge a balance transfer fee, typically in the ballpark of 3% of the amount transferred, whereas other card issuers do not. Obviously, if you’re looking to maximize the value of your balance transfer, you’ll want to avoid fees. So, the ideal situation would be to have a credit card which doesn't take any balance transfer fees. The good news is that there are a number of fee free balance transfer options, as well as others that normally have a fee, but waive it for new applications.

Balance transfer cards are a great way for you to reduce your rates and in most cases the banks do most of the transaction work. But, perhaps most important, is that balance transfer cards are a great way to save money by consolidating higher interest credit cards to a single credit card and reducing your interest fees.

Art Taylor has been a successful internet marketer for 10 years. He publishes articles about credit cards and other internet marketplace products and services. To gather more information or apply for credit cards visit his website at: Ecreditcardworld

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
American Express - The Company set apart, but always in the game.

When people think of credit card companies, American Express is one of the first names that comes to mind. The company was founded in 1850 as an express company, but did not have credit cards until 1946. During the 80's and 90's the American Express card was the only card accepted by some major stores and restaurants. Since first entering the credit card market, American Express has constantly been a major innovator of offering new credit cards and has helped to redefine the market.

The company first helped to redefine the credit card market by offering different services to different segments. It was the first company to offer gold cards to only certain people and it was also the first to have a credit card that could only be obtained by invitation. The Platinum card was a card that was only offered by invitation and came with a $250 annual fee. To be invited to have a platinum card, the applier had to have an American Express card for a certain number of years and have excellent payments on it.

The company also offers a large amount of rewards cards and has dozens of cards to choose from in all. They offer cash back cards and airline cards just like most credit card companies, but also offer several cards that other companies do not offer. They were the first to offer cards aimed at certain cities. The more points you spend in a city like Chicago or New York, the more points you can get to spend money at certain hot spots in that city. A resident of one of these cities could spend money in that city and in time be able to go someplace they would not normally be able to afford. Another card American Express offers that differs from your run of the mill credit cards is their savings account reward card. Using this card, American Express will place 1% of your purchases into a savings account in your name.

One of the newest cards American Express offers is the ExpressPay card. With this card you can just tap the card to a reader at select stores, this saves time and allows you to use your card without it being swiped. They also recently have introduced American Express Clear, which is the first card that has no fees.

Although American Express caters largely to cards for the average person, they also offer cards for corporations and small businesses. The company has stayed ahead of the rest of the credit card pack by offering rewards and cards that you can not get any place else. They have continually redefined the credit card market by using original ideas that other companies do not offer. By staying ahead of the pack with innovative cards, American Express continues to stay atop the market.


Ted Hamilton is majoring in Magazine Journalism at Kent State University. A minor in Political Science along with membership at Society of Professional Journalists keep him busy when he is not writing about credit card offers at CompareCC.com or at the Daily Kent Stater as a Feature's Correspondent.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

10 Unbeatable Advantages Of Prepaid Cards

Blog Post Date: Aug 01 2007
10 unbeatable advantages of prepaid cards

Prepaid cards come as a whiff of fresh air to those suffering from huge drawbacks of credit cards, and credit card debt. The convenience, ease of availability, guaranteed approval and other features make them ideal replacement of credit cards. In this article we take a look at the most important advantages of prepaid cards.

1. Prepaid card is given on the basis of your deposited money. So everyone, even those with bad credit are eligible. There are no credit checks, no employment verification and approval is guaranteed.
2. Prepaid cards can be applied online instantly. And if sufficient deposits are made there are no monthly, annual and other fees. Since, prepaid cards use the deposited money, there are no repayments to be made and hence no late payment fees and other associated penalties.
3. Prepaid cards are as widely accepted as credit cards, and they have even more acceptability than credit cards in some cases. They can be used on the internet, on phone and all other vends.
4. Since, you can only spend what you have deposited, the chances of overspending are negligible. This can hugely increase the financial discipline and help build good financial habits.
5. Adding the money to your prepaid card account is a breeze using direct deposit.
6. Prepaid credit cards can be used to get instant cash from almost all the ATM's and the transaction is very secure as every prepaid card is protected by a secure PIN number.
7. Some prepaid card report to major credit bureaus and if your account is in good standing your credit history improves.
8. The activity and usage of your prepaid card can be tracked online or by using phone. This makes is super easy to control and monitor all your spending, generate reports and keep records.
9. Prepaid cards can be used to pay utility and other bills online and by using phone.
10. You can even earn money when you refer a friend to use a company's prepaid card.

Prepaid cards by virtue of these and more qualities are fast getting into hearts and pockets of US population. The benefits are simply too overwhelming to ignore.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Credit Card Mythology 101

Blog Post Date: Aug 01 2007
Credit Card Mythology 101

On campus for the first time and you feel like you should apply for a student credit card to celebrate your freedom? That’s a great idea, but before you fill out that first application, let’s examine some of the most popular credit card myths out there.

1. You have to have good credit to get good credit cards.

This one actually used to be true, but that’s just not the case anymore. Credit card companies, particularly those that offer student credit cards, have gotten far looser with their requirements in the past ten years than anyone could have every imagined, and even if you have bad credit or no credit, you can still get a great card at a great rate. There are cards designed for every need, and getting a good one can be just a click away.

2. You must have a credit card to shop online.

It is unquestionably easier to send your mom flowers, download great music, or order that new jacket online if you have a credit card, but necessary? Hardly. Most sites take online and offline orders, and increasingly, some sites accept transactions from PayPal and similar account services, so shopping online isn’t the only reason you should get a credit card.

3. Rewards credit cards are a great deal.

Rewards credit cards like those that offer hotel discounts, air miles, free merchandise and cash back can be a great deal, but they’re not necessarily the perfect card for every credit card user. Rewards credit cards only work in your favor if you do two things. First, you have to make a lot of purchases with your rewards card each month. Second, you have to pay off your balance in full each month. Rewards cards come with higher interest rates than traditional cards to pay for the rewards they’re offering you, so not paying off your balance each month will actually cost you more than the initial reward was worth.

4. I’m responsible for all of the charges to my credit card account if my card is lost or stolen.

Believing this myth is like believing that internet rumor about the Neiman Marcus cookie recipe. If you do choose to apply for a student credit card, and someone gets your account number, the law states that you’ll only be liable for fifty dollars in charges, and some credit cards make you pay for nothing if you report the problem right away. Fear of having your account stolen certainly shouldn’t be reason enough to keep you away from the credit card you want.

5. Credit cards just aren’t a safe method of payment.

Credit cards are in fact one of the safest methods of payment in the world. Because card companies invest thousands of dollars into fraud prevention each year, new technologies are being created to ensure that each purchase you make, on or offline, is as safe as it can possibly be.

If you’re considering a credit card, now is a great time. Understand the deep rooted myths within the credit industry, though, is essential before you make that application.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

What Is APR?

Blog Post Date: Aug 01 2007
What is APR?

APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate. It is one of the most important numbers that you will find on a credit card application or statement. The reason it is important is because this number determines how much interest you will have to pay on any charges that you carry over on your credit card. It is also important for consumers to understand that even a single card can have more than one APR associated with it.

Here are some examples of how you might find various rates with the same card (or with multiple cards):

You will certainly find an APR for purchases. This is the standard rate that you will pay when you make ordinary purchases with the card and do not pay off the balance within the grace period that the company allows.

You will often find that there is a different APR for cash advances. In most cases, the charge for taking cash is higher than the charge for purchases. In some cases, the cash advance charge can be significantly higher and consumers should always check for this rate before they take cash.

Consumers should also realize that many credit card companies do not allow for a grace period with cash advances or balance transfers. This means that the APR for the cash advance will begin as soon as you take the money and you will have to pay this charge regardless of how quickly you pay back the cash amount taken out.

There can also be other types of APR's associated with your account. For example, there may be a penalty APR. A penalty APR can happen if you are late in your payments. Your credit card company will state the conditions that must be present in order for them to charge this higher rate. Be very careful about this because penalty rates can be very high at times.

You may also find that your credit card company uses what are known as tiered APR's. This is a system in which different rates are applied to different levels of outstanding balances. For example, a company may state that it charges 14% on balances between $1 up to $1000, and that it charges 15% on balances on balances above $1000. As you can see, under this method the more you charge on your card, the higher the percentage rate will be and the higher your monthly bill be as well.

There are also many companies that offer introductory APR deals. These are usually lower rates for new customers but they are temporary. Once the stated period of the introductory rate is over a higher rate usually takes effect. While introductory rates can be tempting, always check for the "regular" rate as well.

Consumers should understand that if a balance is carried over from one month to the next and so forth, even small differences in the APR can add up over the course of a year. Remember that APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate, the rate that will apply on a yearly basis. Use the lower rate cards and you will save money each month. Peter Kenny is a writer for The Thrifty Scot, please visit us at Compare Credit Cards and Best Credit Cards Visit http://www.thriftyscot.co.uk

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

How To Get The Best Credit Card Deal

Blog Post Date: Aug 01 2007
How to Get the Best Credit Card Deal

Comparing credit cards is a preliminary step to obtaining the best credit card deal. It’s not surprising that many consumers sign up for a card when they get flooded with pre-approved offers through the mails.

This blinded way of obtaining a credit card can cost the consumer much more in the long run. First, the card may not have all the best features, yet they go on and sign up for the card right away since they were so overwhelmed or flattered by the thought of being pre-approved from a credit card issuer.

Second, the lack of research knowledge or the pain-staking time devoted to doing research forces the consumer to sign up for a credit card at their most earliest convenience. This lackadaisical approach could also cost you more in the long run – in the terms of unfavorable interest rates and misguided credit card features.

To get the best card deal, a consumer should compare credit cards online. They need to compare the various card features and the benefits that they will obtain for receiving the card. The educated consumer has to decide what type of card is best suited for them before applying for one.

You won’t be able to compare credit cards effectively through mail-in brochures or from a representative at your local bank. They will only sell you on their cards because they want your business.

To put the advantage on your side, you need to compare credit cards from a variety of banks and issuers to ensure that you’re covering your bases. Failure to do so increases the chances that you will sign up for a credit card without exploring all your options.

There are several notable destinations on the web that you can browse through to compare credit cards. While you are browsing through the selections, you should consider the following thoughts before applying for one:

1.) Is the credit card issuer an established financial institution? There is a difference when applying for an American Express card and one from a bank you’ve never heard of. You’re best bet is to apply for a card from a trusted institution.

There are many scam artists, even in the form of large corporations, which would like to take advantage of you. Be on the safe side and apply for credit cards from established names – Citibank, Chase, American Express, and so forth. Avoid the little known banks that haven’t established a name for themselves yet. They may offer you a better deal but they don’t have a track record to determine how reliable they are.

2.) What is the type of card and features that will best suit your needs? Are you a consumer, a business owner, or a student? Are you someone with poor credit? Find the right card that matches who you are and then compare the selections that will give you the best credit card deal. For example, not all student credit cards are the same. Some cards will give college student “fun” perks such as concert tickets or school supplies incentives while other cards give rebates on gas. Compare the cards and choose the best deal according to your needs and interests.

With so many credit cards available today and the range of benefits that they offer, it’s advisable for a consumer to compare before applying. A little effort on your part can go a long way at keeping yourself regretting from getting a card with unnecessary annual fees and high interest rates. The smart consumers always examine the various offerings before making a decision that they might regret later on.

Articles from August 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
10 Reasons Why Your Company Should Own a Business Credit Card
By: TheBenny

No matter the size of your company, be it large or small, you may still benefit from owning a business credit card. This article presents 10 reasons why having a credit card that is specificly designed for business is a beneficial decision for you, your company, and its employees.

1. Adds and air of legitimacy
Owning a business credit card will bring a level of respect to your company. Whether you are taking a client out on a business related outing, or just making a general purchase, paying with a business card shows people that your company is a legitimate business. In order to get a company credit card, the business must be well established, and this shows that your company has a level of respect associated with it.

2. Builds a positive credit history
Just like in your personal life, it is a necessity to build good credit for your business to ensure its future growth. Through the proper use of a company card you will establish a good credit history. This will help your business as you move forward, and look to expand your business in the future.

3. Better perks and discounts
Most business cards offer better perks and discounts for their users than similar cards that are not specificly designed for business owners. Business cardholders receive special rates on gym memberships, cell phone plans and devices, office supplies and equipment, rental cars, hotel stays and airfare to name only a few. These discounts are a great way for you to save money when you are making normal business purchases.

4. Earn rewards
There are business rewards cards currently available that allow cardholders to earn rewards when making purchases. Some of the reward categories that business cardholders can participate in are airline, hotel, gas, restaurant, and cash back. These rewards are earned when the cardholder makes purchases with their business card. Points or miles can then be redeemed towards discounts on future purchases.

5. Extra protection
Business credit cards offer higher levels of protection for their users to help reduce the risk of problems that may arise. Some of the protection features available to users are traveler’s insurance, lost luggage insurance, auto rental insurance, as well as extra layers of identity theft monitoring. These additional features are a great way to protect you and your employees.

6. Higher spending limits
Business cards offer a higher spending limit than a standard credit card. This allows companies to make larger purchases and gives business owners more room to carry a balance on the card.

7. Employee and company spending limits
Business cardholders are able to set spending limits for the entire company, as well as for each individual employee. This is a great way to help you and your employees stay within a set budget. This allows business cardholders to control the companies spending habits.

8. Additional cards for free
Business cardholders will find it easy to receive additional cards for their employees and other potential cardholders within the business, all of which will display the names of each additional cardholder. Most card issuers will charge cardholders a fee for additional cards, but with a business credit card account you will receive additional cards at no extra charge.

9. Eliminate need for cash and checks
A major advantage of owning a business credit card is that it eliminates the need for cash and checks. Consider the advantages of this in situations such as business related travel. Business cardholders no longer have to give their employees cash advances, or take the time to add up receipts when they return from business travel to reimburse them for expenses. Instead, business cardholders can use a company card for their expenses, and all of their spending becomes far easier to track.

10. Expense reporting
Another fantastic reason for owning a company card is the advanced expense reporting that is offered by the issuers. The credit card companies now offer expense reporting that is compatible with Quicken and Microsoft Money, which allows cardholders the ability to directly tie these reports in with their accounting data. This feature may be especially useful to cardholders during tax season, as it will give those that take advantage of the service exact amounts of their spending and provide useful backups for any receipts that may have been lost or misplaced.

Now that you see all of the advantages of owning a business credit card, don’t you think it is time for you to go out and apply for one today?

Provided by ArticleGOLD: Articles Directory - Article Directory



Visit CardOffers.com to learn more about business credit card offers and apply for a credit card online.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Platinum Credit Cards Are What You Want To Have
By: Angelknight

Platinum credit cards are considered as the most reputed credit cards and to get a platinum card, one requires proving his or her credentials. They are generally offered to those individuals with good credit ratings and an income of around $20,000 per annum or more.

Beyond the sex-appeal of the card, a platinum card typically has a much higher credit limit than your run-of-the-mill card and obtaining one is not always as easy as procuring the lower level credit cards. Most companies require applicants to have a good credit score to receive the platinum credit card since platinum credit cards offer features above that of other credit cards. The credit score requirement is directly related to the amount of credit the card issuer allocates with the platinum credit card. Since the credit limit on a platinum credit card is larger than most cards, the card issuer must have some assurance that the cardholder will pay the balance in a timely fashion. Platinum credit cards have far more benefits and features compared to a standard or gold credit card and platinum credit cards usually have a lower interest rate than regular and even gold credit cards. Once you have shown credit card companies that you have the wherewithal to pay your bills and you are not a risk, they just may offer you a platinum credit card. As long as you pay the bills on time and build your credit, then you might be offered a platinum card in as little as three months. Platinum cardholders work their way up the financial ladder by paying and establishing better credit for themselves.

So what makes a platinum credit card different from others? When you use a platinum credit card for shopping or any other transaction, you are awarded reward points depending on the size of the transaction. Generally, one gets a reward point for each dollar spent through the use of credit card. Unlike the standard credit cards, platinum credit card offers you a fixed rate. The other advantages for the platinum credit card holder include auto rental insurance, travel accident insurance and more. Some of the great advantages that may be associated with platinum credit cards are, as mentioned before: lower interest rates, plus higher credit limits, more frequent credit limit increases, no annual fee, more benefits, savings and rewards, including: fraud protection service, cash back programs, and frequent flier miles. These credit cards give such exceptional rewards because credit issuers are trying to cater to people with excellent credit.

Platinum credit cards are usually showcased through television newspapers, direct mail or telephone solicitations. The rules for offering platinum credit card differ from company to company. If a credit card company sees that you have excellent credit, they are going to want to keep your business, which is why so many companies offer platinum credit cards, to set you apart from the individuals with just good credit. Being offered a platinum credit card is a company's way of rewarding you for having great credit, while at the same time attempting to attract, or maintain your business. In almost all cases, platinum credit cards are offered to those consumers who use their credit card to make a relatively large amount of purchases. A platinum credit card can be a good selection if you often use your credit card for your routine and high purchases and pay back the entire debt at the month end. The low interest rate is a reward to platinum customers for the amount of purchases they make using the platinum credit card. One of the better ways to get the platinum credit is to search for it on the internet. Students usually do not have platinum credit cards because they do not have great credit, nor do they often own homes or other larger property with which credit might be built.

A platinum card can be a wonderful financial tool for managing you daily purchases. With low interest rates, great features and high credit limits, the appeal of platinum cards make them very desirable to most credit card holders. You may or may not currently have a platinum card, if you do not, consider getting one. If you do have a platinum card, maybe you should choose another one or two

Provided by ArticleGOLD: Articles Directory - Article Directory



Art Taylor has been a successful internet marketer for 10 years. He writes articles about credit cards and other topics. For more information or to apply for credit cards visit his websites at: Eshopperworld or Ecreditcardworld.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Business Credit Cards Are A Better Way To Manage Business
By: Angelknight

Business credit cards are primarily disseminated for business use only, and provide a simple track record of company expenses.

Business cards still have an application and approval process, still have an interest rate on spending, and still have an impact on credit scores. They are available with low APR, zero introductory interest rates, balance transfer options, rewards, like airline miles or cash back, and so forth. Business credit cards are similar to personal credit cards in how they are obtained, how they are used, and how they work, however business credit cards also offer distinct business oriented benefits and usually offer high lines of credit. They also offer travel discounts on cars and hotels, travel insurance, and even restaurant savings. The fact of the matter is, business credit cards will help your business grow and there is no doubt about it.

Business owners also understand that securing a business credit card early on in the life of the business, helps the business to build its credit track record; and that the sooner a track record is established, the sooner the business will be able to carry the business credit card liabilities on its own. These cards have slowly become one of the most common forms of business credit that assists businesses meet their urgent requirements, even when there is a minimum of cash. Businesses, both large and small, are no different from private consumers when it comes to the features of credit cards, and many businesses rely on the convenience and flexibility of these cards in order to aid the smooth running of their companies.

Business credit cards often secure preferential exchange rates to the business traveler and business credit card issuers also arrange for worldwide emergency and travel assistance. Currently, business credit cards offering zero percent interest rates and reward rich incentives are advertised widely and these kinds of business cards are going to be more widely marketed to small business owners in upcoming months.

Business credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, which is great for those who need equipment or supplies in a hurry. Business credit cards are typically issued to corporate executives or business owners in order to more easily keep business expenses separate from personal charges. Business cards for businesses in general, and for small business specifically, have become increasingly popular as more and more businesses start to realize the benefits. Business credit card volume has grown 20% annually since 2000 and business cards can be issued to more than one individual. They are a great way to increase cash flow and solve cash flow problems.

Business Credit Cards are excellent financial tools for all types of business. But there are drawbacks to small-business credit card usage as well. A business credit card carries the same personal liability as a personal card. So if the business defaults on credit-card payments, a creditor can come after the person who signed the card for payment. Moreover, your small-business credit card will be noted on your personal credit reports and a few late payments may seriously damage your personal credit score, while a big debt increase by the business could make you look more overextended than you really are, regardless of the payment history. Still, no matter what, once your business has built its own credit history, you should be able to remove your small-business credit card from your personal credit reports. One other word of caution: because business credit cards are meant to be used by companies, not consumers, they come with fewer consumer protections than a personal credit card.

From the above, you can see that the vote is in. Business credit cards are wonderful financial tools for all kinds of businesses. And, if you do not have one for your business today, perhaps you should consider getting one in the near future. After all, financial tools that come with great features and benefits are a business necessity.

Provided by ArticleGOLD: Articles Directory - Article Directory



Art Taylor has been a successful internet marketer for 10 years. He writes articles about credit cards and other topics. For more information or to apply for credit cards visit his websites at: Credit Cards or Cards.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Play The 0% Credit Card Game And Win!

Blog Post Date: Jul 31 2007
Play the 0% Credit Card Game and Win!
By: Jim DeSantis

If you use credit cards properly, they can be your most powerful financial tool. But, mishandled, they can be draining your fun money. By borrowing smart, you can Play the 0% Credit Card Game and Win!

The average credit card user does not calculate how much money they waste paying the expensive rates of most credit cards and blindly sign up. Lurking in the backround, buried in the fine print, is the credit card company's loophole. If you are late, even a day, your rate could go as high as 24% and there is nothing you can do about it. This is where the 0% APR credit card comes in. It's the best tool you can find for using OPM (Other People's Money) at no interest or fees whatsoever.

My wife and I have not paid credit card interest in over 10 years - Zero! Nada! Not one penny of interest, and we have had balances of up to $4,000.00 on our cards. In a minute I will share our 0% percent shuffle. No, it's not a country & western dance but we do make the money shuffle from one card to another.

Are we just lucky? No. We have been smart with our finances!

If you have been a wise money manager and pay your bills as agreed, you likely have received 0% offers in the mail. You should take advantage of them as we have. There is no doubt we have saved thousands of dollars in interest over the years. Low APR cards are nearly as good to have but only if you pay at least double the minimum payment each month. It's smart money management to pay off those cards as fast as possible because your credit score will soar. Then you too will be getting 0% offers in the mail.

What exactly does APR stand for anyway? Why do you need to trouble yourself with a definition? Don't you want to know how to keep more of your money?

Basically, APR is the cost of credit as a yearly interest rate. APR stands for “Annual Percentage Rate” which must be used to compare different credit and loan offers. The APR on credit cards is usually calculated monthly based on the current outstanding balance which gives you that so-called "minimum payment". Credit card companies must tell you how they calculate APR. It's in the ol' fine print that you need a magnifier to read.

There is an old saying - "figures don't lie but liars can figure"! So, read the fine print!

APR, of course, does not really apply to 0% cards because, well, it's Zero! You do want to look closely at the terms of any 0% card you are considering. Make sure you know the number of months the 0% is in effect and exactly when it expires. You want to know what the interest rate will be when 0% expires, which can get tricky. Watch out for rates tied to the Prime Rate. This will allow the company to hike your rate in line with hikes in the Prime Rate and that could get really expensive. Watch out for transaction fees or monthly minimum balance fees. We reject cards with any fees whatsoever.

Although the arrangements and terms may vary from one lender to another, the 0% or a low APR credit card are obviously what you want because the lower the APR, the better the deal for you, the more extra cash you have to spend on other things. A nice benefit, eh?

For the sake of argument, let's say you are unable to get a 0% card because your credit score is a bit low. The alternative is to apply for the lowest APR credit card you can find and work your way up until someone says - Yes. You have to start somewhere, right? This is especially true if you are into tight financial budgeting. So you see, APR is the most important factor of a credit card because APR determines how much interest you are handing over to them and how much you can save for the fun spending. Now, are you glad you got that definition?

If you are looking for a 0% card or a low APR credit card right now, you don't need to wait for the mailman. Simply go online and begin searching. You will find plenty to choose from.

Again, read the fine print of every offer. What are the charges or fees? Is it a variable rate or a fixed rate? We only accept a low fixed rate that will take effect when the 0% expires, just in case we get caught short. That has not happened yet but we are prepared for it anyway.

Say No to optional charges like payment protection insurance or credit protection plans. If there are any such charges, make sure that you understand what they are and when you have to pay them. We never take the options because most credit cards automatically protect you for fraudulent charges up to $50.00. One card we have protects us 100% at no extra charge.

Now, here is the 0% shuffle I promised to tell you about. It's really simple and we have been doing it, as I said, for over 10 years.

When the 0% on one card is about to expire and we have a substantial balance, we simply get a new 0% card and transfer the old balance to the new card! We have done this numerous times over the years with no adverse impact on our credit score. Some people will tell you that doing this will have a negative effect on your credit score but we have not seen that happen. In fact, we received two 0% offers just this past week. They even included blank checks for us to fill in the amount we want, up to our credit limit. Our credit limit, by the way, has grown from low 4-figures to high 5-figures over the years without us paying a single fee or penny in interest. Sweet.

Indeed, having a credit card can be useful and convenient, and can even help build a strong credit history that will help you with future goals like home-buying, paying for higher education, and even finding a job.

Using OPM, (Other People's Money) is the only way to go.

Yours for Success in Life!
Jim DeSantis

P.S. - Please forward this article to someone who may benefit from it.
____________________________________________

Provided by ArticleGOLD: Articles Directory - Article Directory



Jim DeSantis is a veteran Journalist providing trusted information on Money matters. Go here to Jim's Money Matters blog for lots of free resources and links about your money.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Business Credit Cards Make Living Business Life Simpler

By: Angelknight

Business credit cards are a way of reducing the amount of paperwork, receipts, and such, that a business incurs, as well as making it simplier for the accountant to keep track of the expenses.

If you are a small business owner then, one of the best ways to build credit is by applying for a business credit card. By completing a business credit card application in the name of your company you are now building credit for the business and are more likely to receive favorable terms as far as interest rates and lines of credit are concerned.

These days, easily accessible credit has become an indispensable part of many businesses day to day fiscal operations. Because of this, businesses both large and small can find offers that are nearly specialized to meet their specific needs. So, business credit cards are available from a range of lenders, and these cards offer set credit limits to businesses, and enable businesses to make purchases up to the agreed limit and then spread the repayments by making a minimum repayment each month. These business credit cards are not connected to personal credit.

Business credit cards offer specific business oriented benefits and generally offer high lines of credit. These credit cards can offer rewards, savings on business products and services and the spending power of a credit card. Business credit cards will help your business grow; there is no doubt about it. Business owners also discern that securing a business credit card early on in the life of the business, helps the business to establish its credit track record; and that the sooner a track record is built, the sooner the business will be able to carry the business credit card liabilities on its own.

Business credit cards are distributed for business use only and provide a simple track record of company expenses. Credit cards for businesses in general, and for small business in particular, have become increasingly popular as more and more businesses started realizing the benefits. Business credit cards have become popular as a source of financing for small businesses, since business credit card issuers often give up to 60 days in which you can pay the full statement amount, which can help your cash flow immensely. Business credit cards have gradually become one of the most common forms of business credit that assists businesses meet their needed requirements, even when there is a deficiency of cash. Business, both large and small, are no different from private consumers when it comes to the benefits of credit cards, and many businesses rely on the convenience and flexibility of these cards in order to aid the smooth running of their finances. These credit cards open significant avenues of financial assistance in the future through the bank or company that issued the small business credit line.

Business credit cards often secure preferential exchange rates to the business traveler. Card holders sometimes qualify for frequent flier miles or discounts on certain flights and at designated hotels. Business credit card issuers also arrange for worldwide emergency and travel assistance.

Business credit cards offering zero percent interest rates and reward rich incentives are advertised extensively and business credit cards are going to be more widely marketed to small business owners in upcoming months. As you can see, business credit cards are a wonderful resource if used properly and are a must for business people. So, if you have a company do not put it off any longer, get a business credit card and save time and money for your company, today.

Provided by ArticleGOLD: Articles Directory - Article Directory



Art Taylor has been a successful internet marketer for 10 years. He writes articles about credit cards and other topics. For more information or to apply for credit cards visit his websites at: Credit Cards or Ecreditcardworld.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Cashback Credit Cards: not to Miss - Great Offers From Leading Credit Card Companies

Credit card companies have been providing reward programs that return a percent of cash back to the customer on his valid purchases. In this article we take a look at the most popular cashback reward offers from leading credit card providers.

Chase Business Rebate Card gives a 3% Cash Back for purchases at restaurants, gas stations, office supply stores, building supply stores, hardware and home improvement stores and 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.

Chase Free Cash Rewards(SM) Visa® Card gives a $25 check or a $25 gift card/certificate from participating merchants for every 2,500 points earned.

Advanta Platinum w/ Rewards Business provides a 5% Cash Back or Travel Rewards and charges No Annual Fee on this credit card.

Advanta Life-of-Balance Platinum Card gives Up to 6% Cash Back or Travel Rewards.

Blue Cash from American Express® one of the most popular credit cards gives Up to 5% Cash Back with Unlimited Cash Rewards.

Amex Blue Cash for Business from American Express also gives Up to 5% cash rebate.

Platinum Business Cash Rebate Card from OPEN: The Small Business NetworkSM, an excellent credit card for small business owners gives Up to 5% cash rebate on purchases and no cash back limit.

Discover credit cards issued by Morgan Stanley has a large number of credit cards giving cashback options. For example: The Discover® More Card - Wildlife Collection, Discover® More Card - American Flag, Discover® More Card - Sealife Collection, and Discover® More Card - Clear all give 5% Cashback Bonus on Get More purchases in popular categories that change four times a year like home, apparel and more.

The Discover® Motiva Card gives 5% to 20% Cashback Bonus at top online retailers through discover's exclusive online site.

Discover® Open Road Card on the other hand provides a full 5% Cashback Bonus on gas and auto maintenance purchases*

The cashback offers listed in this article are for information purposes only. Any or all of these offers can change without notice. To get the latest on cashback offers it is advised that the person should visit the credit card company's website or contact a representative of credit card company.

About the Author:

Duran Mueller an expert author and credit card consultant,provides great American express credit card tips. Read more credit card articles at his credit card website.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Reward Credit Card: Basic Things to Follow to Get the Maximum

Getting rewarded as you spend money with your credit card makes things interesting for a credit card holder. The cashback, free gas, free air travel, free shopping, discounted merchandise and other freebies that a reward credit card brings with it, add value to credit card ownership. But, there are many things that should be considered to get the maximum benefits from a reward credit card. Read on to get familiar with the basics.

Getting the right reward card that 'really' helps your cause is the first thing that should be kept in mind while going for a reward card. There is no point in taking a credit card with gas reward if you don't drive much. Similarly, if you rarely fly, an airline miles reward card will be worthless for you.

What are the limitations to reward program? Get clear about it. Ask the credit card agent or representative about store preferences, gas outlets to which the credit card is affiliated, airlines, blackout dates, travel restrictions, reward expiry, reward point accumulation and what is required to earn rewards. A reward credit card with lots of restrictions and difficult to redeem gift vouchers or reward points will only frustrate things on your end.

A reward program with balance transfer option with 0% intro APR is a good thing to have. It saves you money on high interest rates, and if used properly 0% intro APR credit card can be a good asset.

A good credit history helps you get a good credit card with excellent reward programs. Credit cards with reward programs have very low tolerance for repayment defaults. Generally, if a person defaults the 0% intro APR ceases instantly and a high regular APR takes its place. Similar things happen to other rewards. These things are not told, to the customer but are buried in fine prints. And fine prints control how your reward program behaves under different conditions. So, it is better to get a good idea about all the things that can affect your credit card reward program before settling for a particular reward credit card.


About the Author:

Cynthia Stewart an expert author and credit card consultant, provides great Advanta credit cards tips. Read more credit card articles at his credit card website.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Make Money With A Cash Back Credit Card

Blog Post Date: Jul 30 2007
Make Money With A Cash Back Credit Card

Cash back credit cards are a fantastic way for you to make some cash while spending on your credit card, although it does only suit the customers who pay their bill in full at the end of each month.

A cash back credit card will give you the chance to earn as you spend, as a percentage is returned to you on an annual basis for every pound that you have spent. This is usually set at between 0.5% and 2% depending on how generous the credit card lender is. I cannot stress enough, you must be able to pay off your credit card statement in full each month, and this is the only way that a cash back credit card will work for you.

If you are a borrower then a cash back credit card will only cost you, even though you will be earning a little back, you will find that this will be eaten up and more by the interest charges, which are usually on a higher scale of APR.

Is a cash back credit card for everyone?

By not incurring the interest payments, then for every pound that you spend on the card you will see a little coming back to you. If you pay your credit card balance in full every month, then why not switch to a cash back credit card. A cash back credit card is a fantastic opportunity to reward you for spending money!

There is a word of warning that will come with this though, if you decide that you want to balance transfer a amount from your existing credit card company on to a cash back credit card, then you should try and avoid this. As a matter of fact avoid it altogether, as any payments you make to the credit card will only go on to pay the amount transferred and interest will only mount up on any purchases that you have made on the credit card. You will then be paying back more than the cash back card is making you.

Here are some of the best deals

There are a few good deals on the go right now, with the Amex Blue cash back card the Amex Platinum and the First Trust Bank cards worthy at a look if you decide that a cash back credit card is for you.

So if you have a clear statement at the end of each month then go for it and make that bargain in the sales save you even more cash.


Peter Kenny is a writer for creditcards-gb.co.uk.
For additional articles and an extensive resource for everything about credit cards, please visit us at http://www.creditcards-gb.co.uk and http://www.creditcards2go4.com

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Business Credit Cards

Blog Post Date: Jul 30 2007
Business Credit Cards

Looking for business credit cards? Well, there are a couple things you should know when you go on the hunt for a business credit card that fits you best. With so many options out there, you need to find out what benefits and rates are necessary to you, and then find a card that meets those needs.

What defines business credit cards? They usually come with a relatively low APR, with many starting around 8%. A standard business credit card usually comes with an introductory period of 0% APR as well. These cards can be used to better balance your business expenses with most cards offering a quarterly and annual balance summary. Some cards also offer rewards that would directly help a business. Things such as free frequent flier miles come with cards such as the Citi Platinum Select. Other business related expenses can be deducted by choosing the right card.

Pretty much every creditor offers several business credit cards for you to choose from. You would not be hard pressed to find companies such as American Express, Visa, or Mastercard offering various business cards. Finding the right one is merely up to you.

Remember when looking for a business credit card that there are many sites online which compare various cards. Be sure to look through as many as you can before you decide in the card that may fit your needs.


John Gibb manages http://www.credit-card-guides.net

An updated blog dedicated to educating people on credit cards.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Gibb

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Visa Credit Cards

Blog Post Date: Jul 30 2007
Visa Credit Cards

Visa. Clearly one of the most known credit card companies, the Visa symbol is known worldwide. There are many different types of Visa credit cards offered, and this article will review some of them to give you a better feel for the company.

Visa credit cards are not actually distributed by the Visa Company, merely banks that back up the Visa standard, so rates may be different.

The Visa classic is one of the most commonly seen credit cards. It is an ideal first card that is simple, flexible, and usable worldwide. Many different banks issue this type of card.

The Visa secured is a great way to begin to build credit, or help re-establish bad credit. By placing down a deposit, you can effectively guarantee that you will be approved for this card.

For those with established history, the Visa Gold can be the next step up. It generally features lower APR rates and higher credit limits. For those in the higher echelon of the credit world, the Visa Platinum is a standard for credit excellence. Featuring phenomenally low rates and high credit lines, this card is the who’s who of Visa credit cards.

Remember, make sure you can afford monthly payments before you mount up any debt, that will you will continue to improve your credit rating, and can gradually get better offers on cards and any kind of credit. You will also be more likely to be accept for much lower interest rates, such as 6 month 0 percent annual interest rates.

After finding out about the various types listed here, you can generally figure out which card is right for you. Simply find a bank that offers the card, and you’re well on your way to becoming a Visa cardholder!


John Collins manages Credit tips. A site dedicated to helping people with credit cards.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Gibb

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Prepaid Cards

Blog Post Date: Jul 30 2007
Prepaid Cards

Prepaid cards are a type debit cards that draws down a balance that is already loaded or deposited on the card. Prepaid cards are commonly called prepaid credit cards. There are different types of Prepaid cards based on the function they serve including gift cards, travel cards, payroll cards, and general purpose prepaid cards. Unlike debit cards, Prepaid cards typically do not require opening of checking account at a bank. The companies that issued the card and allow customer to access their funds by using it to purchase goods and services wherever a visa or MasterCard debit is accepted maintains the card balances. Cardholders can also use the Prepaid Card like a check card by withdrawing cash from their balance at ATM locations worldwide. These cards are designed for long term use and generally FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) insured, which means that if the issue of the card has financial troubles you can get your money back.

· These Signatures based prepaid cards will allow reloading to the card. Like the other prepaid cards, it can be connected to a bank account, and in some cases may allow you to have your payroll check directly deposited into the account.

There are three ways to use a Prepaid Card

Use it with Signature Purchase: - A prepaid card can be used anywhere Visa or MasterCard is accepted. (E.g. restaurants, movie theaters, clothing stores, drugstores, supermarkets, etc). Like a regular credit card, cardholders simply sign the receipt after swiping the card

Use it with a Personal Identification Number (PIN): At a corner store, supermarket, and check casher cardholder can swipe their card and select ATM/Debit as their transaction type. Instead of a signature, the check out system will ask for a PIN. Prepaid cards can be used like this anywhere that a bank-issued debit card is accepted by entering a (PIN) at time of paying. The great thing is that customers can not only use this method to purchase any type of groceries but also get cash back at the same time by simply asking the cashier

Withdraw cash at an ATM: At ATM’s worldwide customers will be able to withdraw cash in local currency at any bank ATM by simply swiping the card and entering their personal identification number (PIN)

There are numerous benefits from Prepaid cards. These include:

· Accessibility – There are no credit checks and no Check System checks to get a Prepaid Card. and can get transaction history. Anyone can get a Prepaid card. Certain state and federal laws does require government issued ID to get a Prepaid Card.

·Easy Reloading. It’s easy to add more money to the card so the card can be used over and over again. Prepaid cards allow direct deposit of Payroll Checks, Commission Checks, Expense Reimbursement, Government Checks (Social Security, IRS, Medicare, Unemployment, Disability, Welfare, Military, etc.). Save on check cashing fee. Save a trip to cash to the check. And get paycheck even if not in the office. Certain Prepaid Cards allow you to add more money at drug stores and grocery stores so you can have 24/7 accesses to your money.

·Safety - If you are buying online or on the phone and your card is used fraudulently you can get your money back. If you lost your card, Visa and MasterCard has lost/stolen protection.

·Control - Prepaid cards are an ideal way to control the spending of children and employees as it gives transaction history and don’t let people spend more than what they have on the card.

·No debt risk: - With a prepaid card there is no chance of spending too much as it is limited to the amount put on the card. There is usually no way to overdraft a prepaid card like a bank account thus customers can avoid overdraft fees that can go up to $40 per overdraft.

·The card for travel: - As well as being able to top up the card, depending on the specific provider, it can be used in ATMs worldwide. If lost, a new prepaid can be issued from the card provider. Some providers even offer 0% foreign exchange fees.

Prepaid Cards are suitable for those who do not have a bank account and who regularly face inconvenience in cashing their paycheck and making routine payments like for utilities and phone bills. This Card is not a credit card. It is prepaid. Because no credit is granted and no payments are required, this Card does not build credit history.

Articles from July 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Advanta Business Card Master Master Card News

Blog Post Date: Apr 16 2007

ADVANTA CREDIT CARD


Advanta Prices Securitization Backed by Business Purpose Credit Card Receivables

SPRING HOUSE, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Advanta Corp. (NASDAQ:ADVNB; ADVNA) announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Advanta Business Receivables Corp., has priced a $225 million business credit card securitization backed by receivables in revolving business purpose credit card accounts originated by Advanta Bank Corp. The transaction is expected to close on or about April 20, 2007.

Advanta Business Card Master Trust AdvantaSeries Class A(2007-A2) notes are issued under the AdvantaSeries structure that de-links the issuance of senior and subordinated notes. These 3 year fixed-rate senior notes represent the twentieth publicly offered tranche of notes issued in the AdvantaSeries and carry a coupon rate of 5.00%. After the issuance of these notes, there will be $4.065 billion of notes outstanding in the AdvantaSeries.

RBS Greenwich Capital and Deutsche Bank Securities are co-lead managers on this transaction with Credit Suisse acting as co-manager. It is anticipated that these notes will receive ratings of AAA from Standard & Poor's and Aaa from Moody's. Advanta will retain the servicing and customer relationships of the revolving business purpose credit card accounts.

Apply for a Advanta Platinum BusinessCard

About Advanta

SMALL BUSINESS CREDIT CARDS



Advanta is one of the nation?s largest credit card issuers (through Advanta Bank Corp.) in the Advanta Small Business Credit Cards market today. Advanta?s exclusive focus on this market, as well as its size, experience and commitment to developing meaningful product offerings and a high level of service tailored to the needs of small businesses, differentiate the company from other issuers. Founded in 1951, Advanta has long been an innovator in developing and introducing many of the marketing techniques that are common in the financial services industry today.

Articles from April 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Types of credit card categories on this site.

  • Business Credit Cards
    Business Credit Cards are good for business people who want to keep track of their expenses. It's important to keep personal expenses separate from your business expenses, and these are the cards to do it with.

    My accountant likes my business credit cards as she keeps them separate in the accounting system. This way she can easily keep track of expenses and payments.

  • Cash Back Credit Cards
    Cash back credit cards, are good because you get a cash back amount every time you make a purchase. Some people prefer rewards such as air travel, or gas rewards, and some people just prefer to get back plain old cash from their credit cards. The beauty of this is that you can purchase whatever you want, when ever you want with your cash savings!

  • Balance Transfer Credit Cards
    Balance Transfer Credit Cards are handy for when you want to consolidate some of your payments in to one.. It's as simple as transferring a balance from your other credit cards to your balance transfer credit cards.

    Another benefit is that many balance transfer credit cards have a low interest start up period which gives you a good amount of cash savings on your regular 19.99+% credit card interest rates.

  • Rewards Credit Cards
    As with cash back credit cards, it's nice to have rewards of all kinds by using your credit card, which you would use anyways. Might as well get some extra benefits from these credit cards.

    Some rewards include:


  • Student Credit Cards
    Student Credit Cards are have the following benefits:
    Note that these benefits are available on different cards.
    • 0% Introductory APR on all purchases and balance transfers for up to 6 months
    • Build Your Credit History
    • Easiest Online Account Management Options
    • DOUBLE your Cashback Bonus?
    • Full 5% Cashback Bonus?
    • No Annual Fee


  • Low Interest Credit Cards
    The main benefit of Low interest credit cards are that they save you money on interest when you carry balances.
    Some of the Best interest rates are as follows:
    • 2.99% Fixed APR for LIFE on balances transferred within 3 months
    • 0% APR* for up to 12 months
    • No Annual Fee
    • 7.99% Fixed APR for 6 Months on purchases and balance transfers


  • Airline Credit Cards
    • Earn up to 10,000 Bonus Miles* with the WorldPerks? Visa? Card!
    • 1 mile for every dollar in purchases
    • Redeem miles for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, cruises and other travel related items
    • Choose from over 250 airlines without restrictions


  • Prepaid Cards
  • Bad Credit Cards
  • Auto Credit Cards
  • Gas Credit Cards
  • Instant Approval Cards
  • Annual Fee Cards
    Annual Fee cards are those that charge an annual fee to their customers.

Articles from April 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Business Credit Cards
Business credit cards are almost something we take for granted each day! If you're a business owner, it's almost impossible to walk around with a wad of cash in your pocket to purchase expensive business supplies such as computer parts, parts for your equipment and even office supplies such as pens and paper.

Doing business on the internet makes it just plain impractical to use cash or money orders etc.

Our Business Credit Cards pages hi-lites some of the best credit cards that you can receive online.

Online Retailers such as OfficeMax, Staples and Quill give you the convenience to order office supplies from the comfort of your home or office using your business credit card.

Purchasing anything online for you business should be done using a credit card so that you have a receipt for your purchase, but also the opportunity to send back the purchase and get a refund , should the supplier not give you what you ordered.

As I started to think about all of the businesses products and services you could purchase online, the list became endless.

The limitations of what you would buy online using a credit card would be very expensive equipment, where the price of the equipment was more than the credit limit on your credit card.

Articles from April 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I thought I should do a quick post to let everybody know that we'll be doing some upgrades in the credit card area.

We're going to be offering a great deal more detail about the credit cards, including blog posts and interviews with the credit card companies.!!

We've got some good things happening in the very near future.

Stay tuned.

Monty Loree

Articles from February 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (2)

Link Back to This Post

I Just Signed Up For This..

Blog Post Date: Jan 01 2007
I just signed up for this..
If you blog and want more people to share comments with on your blog, this may be a good source for you.

Blog commenting - high quality links






Articles from January 2007
More articles from Year 2007


Comments (3)

Link Back to This Post

2003 Cadillac Cts Advertising Viral Marketing

Blog Post Date: Dec 02 2006
Cadillac CTS 2003

Do you drive a 2003 Cadillac CTS? Do you like it?
Cadillacs are a great car but do they hold their value.? I have talked to people who say that although cadillac is a well known brand, they just don't hold their value very well. Is that bad for Cadillac CTS 2003?


Some news about 2003 Cadillac CTS
Commentary: Bad Ideas Never Die - ForbesAutos
28 Nov 2006 at 10:02am
Commentary: Bad Ideas Never DieForbesAutos, NY - Nov 28, 2006 by Detroit ? sold better than that before Ford killed it early in 2003. The problem is that GM decided that its Cadillac CTS, a successful, smaller, rear

Revised interior aids crossover Cadillac - Saanich News
24 Nov 2006 at 11:04am
Revised interior aids crossover CadillacSaanich News, Canada - Nov 24, 2006 I first saw the Cadillac SRX at the 2003 Detroit auto say that the more recent STS was where Cadillac should have t have the edgy styling of the CTS, plus it s

Cadillac factory celebrates 5th anniversary - Easier
6 Nov 2006 at 3:15pm
Cadillac factory celebrates 5th anniversaryEasier, UK - Nov 6, 2006 Lansing Grand River, which exclusively produces the Cadillac CTS, CTS-V, STS, STS-V and the most productive luxury car plant in North America in 2003, 2004 and

GM Teams win post-season awards - Motorsportcom
1 Nov 2006 at 1:01am
GM Teams win post-season awardsMotorsport.com, Canada - Oct 31, 2006Established in 2003, the ALMS Most Popular Driver award is determined by the fans it provides a proving ground for vehicles like the Cadillac CTS- V ," Spitzer

Lincoln rolls out plan to shift out of reverse - DetNewscom
4 Nov 2006 at 1:07am
Lincoln rolls out plan to shift out of reverseDetNews.com, MI - Nov 3, 2006 languishing for years, Cadillac started roaring back in 2003 with aggressively each Zephyr sold than GM does with its comparable CTS, but Cadillac is moving

Burglars strike on Friday the 13th - Miami Herald
29 Oct 2006 at 3:02am
Burglars strike on Friday the 13thMiami Herald, FL - Oct 29, 2006 stolen: The xenon high-intensity headlights were removed from a 2003 Nissan Maxima grab: Someone smashed the driver s-side window of a 2004 Cadillac CTS in the

FEATURE: Beijing Show confirms Chinese coming of age, but - just-autocom
21 Nov 2006 at 8:00am
FEATURE: Beijing Show confirms Chinese coming of age, but just-auto.com (subscription), UK - Nov 21, 2006 Cadillac has launched a version of the CTS sports sedan once made a version of the Suzuki Alto and was taken over by a mobile phone battery maker in 2003.

Cadillac CTS 2003

Articles from December 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

Link Back to This Post
CREDIT CARD - IDENTITY THEFT
Seems to be making the news lately. Forged credit cards.
One in three Canadians surveyed not protecting their identity

Articles from November 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Hard-to-Believe Credit Card Rates

Blog Post Date: Nov 21 2006
Universal Default Practice

I got this definition from the sites below:
  • universal default practice
    WIKIPEDIA - Universal default is the term for a practice in the financial services industry for a particular lender to change the terms of a loan from the normal terms to the default terms (i.e. the terms and rates given to those who have missed payments on a loan) when that lender is informed that their customer has defaulted with another lender, even though the customer has not defaulted with the first lender.

    The growing use of this technique is one of the most controversial trends in the financial services industry.
  • universal default credit cards
    You may not be aware of it, but the credit card companies are watching you. Even if you already knew this, they are probably watching more closely than you think.

    In addition to watching your every move on their product, they are also watching when you pay your bills, whether or not you apply for other credit cards, and whether or not your credit score has dropped. And if they don't like what they see, they can raise your interest rate without your knowledge.

    The practice is called Universal Default. Basically, it means that if you pay any bill late, even your phone bill, your credit card company can raise your interest rate. In fact, they can raise the interest rate up to almost 30%. They can do this even if you have a perfect payment history with them. Credit card companies do this because they now see you as a risk. Higher risks equal higher interest rates.
  • Hard-to-Believe Credit Card Rates- universal default
    MSNBC - I've read plenty of times about how credit card companies routinely charge many borrowers as much as 30% interest or more per year. I even reported on it. In that article, I explained a practice known as "universal default," which can get you whacked with sky-high interest rates on many or most of your cards if you're late paying just one bill. And the default typically kicks in without your receiving any notification about it.

Articles from November 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Some credit card news about Chase credit cards and other credit cards.

Sometimes I forget that the little plastic credit cards in my pockets carry so much corporate weight in the world. Credit card companies are huge with thousands of employees and complex software systems. I do enjoy reading what goes on in the back ground.

It's interesting that JPMorgan Chase & Co., is one of Delaware s largest private employers. Who would have thought that the credit card industry would take over manufacturing, wholesaling etc as far as employers go.

Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

Link Back to This Post
It's nice to see that American Express Canada gets involved in the arts and culture in Canada. I guess it's to their benefit as their clients use their American Express Canada cards to buy tickets to the theater, rent a cars, air line tickets etc.

The people that use American Express in Canada use their Amex cards to gain Air Miles points for these arts and entertainment purchases which in essence double their benefits. You gotta love more and more credit card benefits.

Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Technorati Ping Update My Problems Fixed

Blog Post Date: Oct 15 2006
TECHNORATI SLOW LATELY?
I was going to start a rant about how long it's taking for http://www.technorati.com to update my pings and my blog.

I did some checking on my blog and realized that I had missed two things lately as I've been reformatting my site:
1) My RSS.xml was slightly broken and wasn't showing properly. I got a book on XML and then quickly fixed the wrong formatting of my blog.
2) After doing a bunch of work on my site, I must have dropped my javascript link that technorati provides.

Even though I was pinging technorati like crazy, these were two major problems that I needed to solve before they're going to index me.

I am currently at
URL: http://www.express-marketing.com/blog.html
Updated: 185 days ago

I will keep looking for errors that I've caused and report back.

I noticed that ProBlogger.net was having the same problem. It appears that he's fixed his problem as his blog is getting nicely updated.

UPDATE: I just read on Technorati Help the following:
It looks like my blog is updating to you, but my posts aren't appearing correctly. How can I fix this?

The spiders that are picking up your posts might be having trouble parsing the data in your blog and identifying your posts. You can add additional code to your blog to better identify your individual posts by adding permalinks and rel="bookmark" to your post titles. For example, add the rel="bookmark" and permalink code so it looks more like:
POST_TITLE

Making these changes will also help your visitors subscribe to your blog and find the permanent location of your blog posts. You can refer to our Publishers Guide for more information.

I'm going to try rel="bookmark" and see how it works.

Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Credit, History Of Credit, Pawn, Loans

Blog Post Date: Oct 11 2006
When you think of nursery rhymes, what comes to mind? Certainly not credit or credit cards, pawning, etc., I'm willing to assume. Throughout the ages, nursery rhymes, which were often traditional stories or poems, were used by parents to teach young children the basics in math, dancing, languaage, etc. One of the most popular nursery rhymes was Pop Goes The Weasel. Though there are many versions of this rhyme the one listed below is about pawning and credit.

All around the mulberry bush,
The monkey chased the weasel.
The monkey thought 'twas all in fun.
Pop! goes the weasel.

A penney for a spool of thread,
A penney for a needle.
That's the way the money goes.
Pop! goes the weasel.

Up and down the City Road,
In and out of the Eagle,
That's the way the money goes.
Pop! goes the weasel.

Half a pound of tuppenney rice,
Half a pound of treacle,
Mix it up and make it nice,
Pop! goes the weasel.

Pop Goes The Weasel dates back to England 1700's. This rhyme is made up of mostly Cockney slang created by the Cockney people themselves due to their suspicious nature and their slang was used to confuse outside people. Both pop and weasel is slang - Pop meaning to pawn and weasel is derived from "weasel and stoat" meaning coat. People would pawn their suit or coat when times were hard. They usually pawned their coat on a Monday and claimed it back before Sunday. This is where the term came from "Pop goes the Weasel".

The Eagle refers to 'The Eagle Tavern' a pub which is located on the corner of City Road and Shepherdess Walk in Hackney, North London. The Eagle was an old pub which was re-built as a music hall in 1825. Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was known to frequent the Music Hall. It was purchased by the Salvation Army in 1883 ( they were totally opposed to drinking and Music Halls). The hall was later demolished and was rebuilt as a public house in 1901.


Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

LIST OF CREDIT CARDS YOU'LL FIND ON OUR CREDIT CARD MENU

A huge list of credit cards. I thought I would take a moment to compile a list of all of the credit cards you'll find listed on our site. As you can see, there are over 200 credit cards to choose from. We sort our credit cards by Bank / Issuer and Benefit Types.


Orchard Bank Secured
The Miles Card from Discover? Card
Orchard Bank Platinum
Discover? Platinum Card
Blue Sky? from American Express
Blue from American Express?
Chase Free Cash RewardsSM Visa? Card
Citi? Platinum Select? Card
Chase BP Visa? Rewards Card
Chase Travel Plus Platinum Visa?
Chase Flexible Rewards Platinum Visa?
Impact Card
Platinum Business FreedomPass Credit Card from OPEN(sm) the small business team
Tribute? MasterCard?
The Imagine Gold Card
Orchard Bank Silver
Triple Advantage from Experian
Power Rewards? Visa? Platinum Card
Orchard Bank Gold
Platinum Benefit
Chase Business Rebate Card
Citi? Diamond Preferred? Rewards Card
Disney Rewards? Visa? Card from Chase
Vaya Prepaid MasterCard
HSBC Platinum
USA Platinum
One from American ExpressSM
New Millennium Platinum Card (NMB)
Chase Marathon
Chase Student Flexible Rewards Card
The Chase Business Rebate Card
The GM Business Card from Chase
Starwood Preferred Guest? Credit Card
Chase Platinum MasterCard? Card
United Mileage Plus? Signature Visa? Card
Platinum Plus
Choice Privileges? Visa? Platinum Card
Instant Approval Auto Loans
New Millennium Bank Secured Gold
Continental Airlines? World MasterCard? from Chase
USA Gold
Citi? Dividend American Express? Card
All American Gold
JetBlue Card from American Express
CitiBusiness? Card
Sony Card(sm)
Prime Mutual
Blue Cash? for Business Credit Card
Gold Delta SkyMiles? Business Credit Card from OPEN (sm) the small business team
First Premier Gold
Discover? Student Classic Card
Advanta Platinum BusinessCard
Citi PremierPass(SM) Card
Toys"R"Us? Visa? Platinum Card from Chase
Universal Entertainment MasterCard? from Chase
United Mileage Plus? Platinum Business Card
Gold Delta SkyMiles? Credit Card
Pulaski Bank MasterCard/Visa
Delta SkyPoints from Amex Bus.
Discover? Platinum Clear Card
Amex Delta SkyPoints
US Airways? Visa?
Starbucks Card Duetto? Visa
The WorldPerks? Visa?
Citi? Driver's Edge? Platinum Select ? Card
Citi? Platinum Select? Card for College Students
AT&T Universal Platinum Card
Bank of America Rewards? American Express? Card
Money Return Visa? Platinum
Anne Geddes Visa? Platinum Card
Evolution
Consumer Info Free Credit
Chase Amazon.com Platinum Visa? Card
Efectiva? Visa?
American Express? Preferred Rewards Green Card
Hilton HHonors? Platinum Credit Card from American
American Express? Preferred Rewards Gold Card
Alaska Airlines Visa?
Subaru? Platinum MasterCard?
Bank of America Visa Signature? with WorldPointsTM
MilesEdge? Card
First Premier
British Airways Visa? Signature Card
Volkswagen Platinum Visa? card with Rewards
Make-A-Wish? Visa? Platinum
Business Gold Rewards Card from OPEN(SM) the small business team
Citi? Diamond Preferred? Card
Borders 3.2.1(SM) Visa?
Platinum Business Cash Rebate Card from OPEN(sm) the small business team
AT&T Universal Rewards Card
Discover? Platinum American Flag Card
Centennial
Hawaiian Airlines? Visa?
Citi? Platinum Select? / AAdvantage? World MasterCard?
Citi? mtvU(TM) Platinum Select? Visa? Card for College Students
Citi? Driver's Edge? Card for College Students
Citi? Professional(sm) Card
IN:NYC ? Card from American Express
Gold Delta SkyMiles? Business Credit Card from OPE
Citi Credit Monitoring Service
Chase Speedway
Discover? Student Clear Card
The Chase Home Improvement Rewards(sm) Credit Card
E-Carlenders
Bank of America? WorldPoints? Platinum Plus? MasterCard?
Pet Rewards? Visa ?
CitiBusiness? Card with ThankYou Network(SM)
IN:Chicago ? Card from American Express
Citi? Hilton Hhonors? Visa? Signature Card
Homeland Prepaid
IN:LA ? Card from American Express
Advanta Platinum w/ Rewards Exclusive
Asiana Visa?
Business Green Rewards Card from OPEN(sm) the small business team
Discover? Business Card
Overstock.com Rewards Visa Card
Direct Rewards Platinum MasterCard
Chase Amazon.com Business Visa? Card
Citi? Home Rebate Platinum Select? MasterCard?
Citi? Upromise? Platinum Select? MasterCard?
Citi? Bronze? / AAdvantage? MasterCard?
Citi? Dividend Platinum Select? Card for College Students
Bank of America World MasterCard? with WorldPointsTM
Charge.com
Mexicana? Airlines Visa? Platinum
Continental Airlines Business MasterCard? from Chase
Citi? Gold / AAdvantage? World MasterCard?
Direct Merchants Bank Platinum MasterCard
Advanta Life-of-Balance Platinum Card
Home123
CitiBusiness? PremierPass(SM) Card
CitiBusiness? / AAdvantage? MasterCard?
Air Miles-Amex Canada
Bank of America Student Visa? Platinum
Discover? Platinum Wildlife Card
Discover? Student Tropical Beach Card
Aeroplan Plus
All Access? Visa? Prepaid Card
Privacy Matters
Pioneer Military Loans
Discover? Platinum Sealife Card
First Vineyard
Harbor Credit New Car Lead
Lexington Law
Blue from American Express(Exclusive)
Western Union? Prepaid MasterCard? Card
Business Line of Credit from OPEN(SM) the Small Business Team
PayDayOk Loans
Points Now MasterCard
Direct Rewards Platinum
Eufora Preferred (1 Creative 3 levels)
Centennial Gold
Expert Debt Solutions
Debit Cards Liberty Union
GetSmart Mortgage
Instant Car Loan Leads Non-Exclusive
Marriott Rewards? Visa Signature? card
Direct Merchants Bank (Yellow Ribbon)
Lending Tree Refinance Loan
Amex Preferred Rewards Gold
The American Express? Air Miles?* Gold Business Ca
Capital One Auto Finance
Beneficial Home Loan
PayDayRightNow
AccountNow Vantage Debit MasterCard
Blue Cash from American Express
Mt Vernon Cash Advance
Capital One? Platinum: Prestige
Lending Tree Home Purchase Loan
Advanta Platinum Exclusive
Amex Preferred Rewards Green
HFC Home Loan
Allow Card
Platinum Business from Open
AARP Rewards Platinum Visa? Card
Capital One? Platinum: Credit That Needs Some Impr
One from American Express
BlueHippo?
GetSmart Refinance
Blue Sky from Amex
DentalPlans.com - Single
Capital One? No Hassle MilesSM Rewards
Capital One? No Hassle CashSM Rewards
Capital One? Platinum: Limited Credit History
GetSmart Home Equity
Blue Cash for Business
HealthyCredit.net
CitiFinancial Auto
Delta Skypoints
Superb Debt Settlement
DebtSX
Business Green Rewards
Starwood from Amex
Business Gold Rewards
Platinum Cash Rebate from Open
Harbor Credit Refinance Auto Loan
Business Gold Delta Skymiles
Business FreedomPass
Jet Blue

Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

CREDIT CARD SITE ANNOUNCEMENT

Blog Post Date: Oct 04 2006
CREDIT CARD SITE ANNOUNCEMENT
Effective October 8, 2006, I will be switching www.express-marketing.com over to credit card and debt help products news and sales.

We will be promoting the most prominent credit cards and other types of credit such as payday loans, house mortgages and auto loans.

We will bring you news and info regarding credit cards and the world of credit.

Look for the new look and feel of this site.

Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Discover Credit Cards Rating

Blog Post Date: Oct 04 2006
The Hardcore business of credit cards. There's the romantic side which talks about how credit cards will help your lifestyle, and then there's the Fitch Ratings!!


Fitch Rates Discover Card Master Trust I Class A/B Series 2006-3 'AAA/A+'

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fitch rates Discover Card Master Trust I Class A/B series 2006-3 as follows:

--$500 million floating rate class A certificates 'AAA';

--$26.316 million floating rate class B certificates 'A+'.

The ratings reflect the high quality of the receivables generated by Discover Card holders, 12.5% available subordinated amount supporting class A, 7.5% cash collateral account protecting class B, the transaction's sound legal and cash flow structures, and strong servicing capabilities provided by Discover Bank.

Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

CSS To RSS XML Feed Styling RSS CSS

Blog Post Date: Oct 02 2006
After beating my head against my stack of books and the internet trying to figure out CSS for my websites, I decided to break down and buy some new CSS books. I got the Wrox book "Beginning CSS - Cascading Style Sheets for Web Design" by Richard York, and "CSS Mastery" by Andy Budd. After reading the first few chapters in these books I started to understand the fundamental concept of "Cascading".

These are superb books and I do recommend them.

I noticed that people are creating style sheets for their XML documents.

I was just wondering if anyone reading has created an style sheet for their xml RSS feed document and WHY?!! you would do so?

Check out www.bluehatseo.com for a new article about How To Create Your Own Autoresponder Network

Articles from October 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

SPAGHETTI WEBSITES
I've been going through my sites and automating them to death. These are sites that were built over a period of years, using all types of standards and code... I'm calling them the spaghetti websites...

I spent the better part of weeks standardizing all of my sites and getting all of the excess code out of them.!!

I figured out how to compact my HTML code. IE... get the same look with about 25% of HTML code. I figured that the search engines would like this much better because they don't have to comb through as much code and content to see the good stuff...

In compacting my code, I am starting to see my websites start coming back up in the search results. I am getting rewarded for cleaning my sites.

I think that is important to remember for every webmaster who's had a website for a while. You add this here, a picture there, some new bulletin board etc... Stuff all over the place.. And there is a tendency to lose consistency..

It may be a good time to go through your sites and see if you can clean up some code, get things lined up a little better. The your site is like SPAGHETTI CODE, the more google yahoo etc aren't going to like it.

Articles from September 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

404 Error Logs Process, Google Rank Problems

Blog Post Date: Aug 24 2006
NOT PROCESSING 404'S WILL HURT GOOGLE PAGE RANK
As I've become more and more familiar with my hosting systems etc, it dawned on me that I should check out my error pages and how they were handling all of my 404 page error information.

I was shocked and horrified to realized that we had set up catchall pages on our htaccess file. This means that we were sending all error type pages to one file (say "content-processing-.php"). When the visitor would request a file that was no longer being served, their browser would be transferred to this catchall page, which DID NOT serve an 404 Page Not found error.

I suddenly fixed this problem on my sites and then I was flooded with error logs full of pages that I had to go in and fix. These were pages that for some reason were linked to but we no longer had on the system.

I spent the better part of three days cleaning up my error logs and making sure that all reported links were properly dealt with..

Google / Yahoo check how you're processing error pages!!
During my error page log travels, I discovered that google and yahoo were sending requests for bogus pages to my server to see how my server was handling 404 error pages.

When these requests were forwarded to my catchall page, it told those engines that I wasn't processing error pages properly. I then thought to myself that my sites were probably being devalued for pagerank because of this.

It makes sense: If you're not handling your 404 error pages properly, google's not going to crawl your site as much. It gives them less confidence in your site that you're not handling your page errors properly.

I will be monitoring my error logs much closer after realizing this. I will also be monitoring my ranking in google for my keywords for the next few months.

This is a fundamental issue that never dawned on me. We thought it was pretty cool to use htaccess in the first place. As we started to learn about it, it's a powerful tool, but one that has to be used properly..

Make sure you check your error logs on a regular basis.!

Articles from August 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

We are pleased to be working with Dr Trina Read who has her Doctorate in Sexuality and who is a sex speaker.

Speaking about sex takes years of expertise and special skills and Dr Trina has all of that. She also has her Doctorate in sexuality which means that she's even more qualified to help people with their sexual problems.

If you would like to book a sex speaker for an event, please contact Monty Loree at 306-949-9511... HomeGrown Advertising Inc

Articles from July 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Homegrown Advertising Makeover Website

Blog Post Date: Jul 19 2006
I've decided to revamp our central website and give it a nice face lift.
HomeGrown Advertising Inc website show cases what we do and some of our clients.

We'll be showing some of our sample video ads, animated gifs etc.

It's part of our effort to show case our service and let people know what HomeGrown Advertising Inc can do for them.


Articles from July 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Google Adwords Video Ads Development

Blog Post Date: Jul 11 2006
I've been on holidays for a few weeks and am finally getting a chance to post.

I started making my first Google Adwords Video Ad. It was quite an interesting process. I couldn't have imagined all of the pieces involved in making video ads.

Just to confirm from my previous post Google Adwords Video Ads must be maximum of 2 minutes. I thought they had to be maximum of 50kb in size. I spoke to Google's rep who said that file size didn't matter as long as the Google Adwords Video Ads were under 2 minutes.

Things to learn with making a video ad:
  • Script writing
  • Voicing the script
  • Learning video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro
  • Developing graphics for the video
  • Editing the video itself, especially if you're using a digital video DV movie
  • Outputting the video. Getting the clarity, FPS,filesize, file type to what you want.
  • Much More.


I found that the video development process was quite a bit of a learning curve, however video ads are going to be the wave of the future and well worth the investment.

Articles from July 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I am spending today looking and learning how to create Google Adwords video ads. I love the concept, however I am mystified by a few things.

I am using Adobe Premiere pro and consider myself as novice when it comes to using it. I've got a nice DV camera that shoots at TV quality.

I did some preliminary testing on outputting some simple videos and my file size was 500kb plus.

I searched around for other people who are blogging and talking about Adwords Video Ads - Keeping it under 50kb and couldn't find any/many people talking about this yet.

Simply put, how much information, graphics can you put into a video when you've got to keep it under 50kb? And then have audio to boot?

If anybody has experience with keeping your adwords video ads file size under 50KB... please do leave a comment.

Articles from June 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

CHECK OUT THE BENEFITS OF THESE POWERFUL WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT TOOLS
Website development tools are very important to your website. You either build them or buy them. The truth is, the more you build your site, the more money you're going to make.

I've built many tools for my website. I've spent the time learning PHP, mysql, CSS, HTML etc. There are just some things that I can't and won't build.

Some software is too complex to build, and too time consuming. It's more cost efficient to buy it than make it.

I've just purchased the resale rights for Website Equalizer products. I am currently using them myself and really love them. Importantly these tools save me tons of money and give me alot of publishing power that I couldn't possible develop by myself.

It's got three powerful Website Equalizer tools that you can use right away to put 3 of the most powerful aspects of website development to use right away.
1) Sales Page Developer
2) Multi-media video presentation
3) Fly-In Ad Generator.


1) Sales Page developer.
I've written alot of web pages in my time, but when I saw the structure of how this software builds sales pages, I was really impressed. I immediately started building headlines, sales copy and all of the other powerful sales copy that I need to sell products.

This software is template driven. All you have to do is write the copy for your product, and the Sales Page generator does the rest. It pops out a ready made, nicely formatted page that will get you sales results and make you money.

2) Multi-media video presentation
Let's face it... we're in the multi media generation. People love to watch videos and hear sales pitches. This software takes your recorded video and formats it into a presentation that you can use on your site.

This software is important because you can't use just any type of video editing software, unless you're a multimedia expert. This software formats your video so that it will download off the internet and not take "years" to do so.

It's easy to use, and it takes seconds to learn how to use it.

First thing you know... you'll be live on your website pitching your own products and services in person. How can you get any more credibility and control over your sales pitch than that?!!

3) Fly-In Ad Generator.
Sometimes your website content is not enough. It's important to help make your readers aware of your special new deals using the fly-in generator.

These fly-in ads get past pop-up blockers which means your ads will be read. This is pretty sweet new technology.

I like using fly-ins ads because they help me sell different offers at different times, and I don't have to change the main copy and lay out of my main pages.

Let's face it, you spend good time and money getting people to your site. You need to get the most value for your money with every visitor.

THESE TOOLS ARE POWERFUL
Buy these 3 Website Equalizer tools today and get the power of the internet at your fingertips. These tools will give you the advantage over your competitors who don't have these sophisticated tools.

YOU'LL USE THESE TOOLS FOR YEARS
Much unlike other website fad tools, these tools will last for years. you'll never stop building videos for your website, or using fly-in ads or building sales pages.. These tools are what the web was built on and will continue to be built on for years to come.

Website Equalizer

Articles from June 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

I've been using MIRC for a a few years now, but had only a limited scope.. I didn't realize that there was such a large amount of servers, networks etc.

I got onto EFnet which is huge, and started looking around. They've got chats for all types of subjects.

I looked for a topic on EFnet for one of the products I am selling. There were quite a few. I don't believe in spamming the chats, however, when I got into the chat room, there were quite a few people who were asking questions, that my product would solve.

Hmmm... relationship marketing!!

I also believe in getting to know people within good time. Not jump into a chat room and start spamming people. Getting to know people takes time, however builds credibility and trust.

The lights started to go on and I started to get a whole bunch of new ideas for marketing.

I thought I would pass that along. IRC... efnet and others are a great place to network with like minded people!

Articles from June 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Bill Gates Retiring 2008 Microsoft Ceo

Blog Post Date: Jun 15 2006
Bill Gates if finally retiring! from Money.cnn.com

There's a guy who's done alot over the years, and has been highly praised and criticized for it.

I remember people who hated Bill Gates for having such a big monopoly and controlling power over operating systems and computers. They called his company microslop etc etc etc. (this was more towards the days of Windows 95.)

Back then I said that Microsoft, like all companies would have it's peak, and then start into the maturing process. Back then I said it would take another 10-15 years.

So now Bill gates is retiring in 2008. good for him. He's worked hard.

What's he going to do next? Start knitting, and join the local lawn bowling club. I can't see Bill Gates retiring any time soon. That would put him in an early grave.

It's good that he's giving everybody 2 years notice. That's a nice thing to do.

Well Bill Gates... hats off to you. I hope the next leg is as fun as the first.

Gates to leave day-to-day role at Microsoft
Chairman to devote more time to charitable works.
By Amanda Cantrell, CNNMoney.com staff writer
June 15, 2006: 6:05 PM EDT

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) - Microsoft announced Thursday that chairman and co-founder Bill Gates will transition out of a day-to-day role at the company, effective July 2008, to spend more time working on his charitable foundation.

Articles from June 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I've parked my car for the summer, taken the plates insurance off the car, (so I won't be tempted to drive it).. I'm going to bicycle and walk to work for the summer.. until end of September.

What does getting in shape have to do with website marketing?
After sitting all winter I've put on a whole bunch of extra pounds and I need to get that off.

So far, in the last three days, my energy level has increased quite a bit, although my bones are aching like crazy.

Website marketing requires a sharp mind at all times.. Sitting behing the desk 12 hours a day, will dull the mind after a while with out any exercise to offset it.

It's a little extreme to park the car and take the bicycle, however, that's about the only way I'm going to get off my butt and start exercising.!

Articles from June 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

I'm so excited... I actually talked to MSN AdCenter today. The phone number that I located that puts you in direct contact with the support desk at MSN adCenter is 1-800-966-7361. Their hours are 6:00am to 6:00pm PST. (TTY phone number is 1-800-877-9580).

Thanks to Dallas SEO Blog for the referral.

I contacted MSN ADcenter who mentioned that their AdCenter was opened in May 2006 for everybody, and had only been available to a select group since October 2005.

The lady at MSN Adcenter was very helpful and knowledgable about the MSN ADcenter service and answered all of my questions promptly.

There you go... There is the MSN ADcenter phone number for customer service.

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (5)

Michael Cheney Adsense Video

Blog Post Date: May 30 2006
NEW!! ADSENSE VIDEOS
I just noticed a new product that helps webmasters earn more money with Google Adsense / Adwords. Michael Cheney's Adsense Videos was created by a man who makes over $19,000 per month with Google Adsense.

With the introduction of Adwords videos in May 2006, there is an even newer opportunity to capitalize on! I like Michael Cheney's style as he talks about scientific ways to develop your adsense revenue. He says that he has tried and tested many different methods for generating adsense revenue, and is now passing that information on to you and me.

This opportunity is brand new and really exciting. Check it out before everybody else does!

Check it out. Michael Cheney's Adsense Videos

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I thought I should Point out that we are promoting a bunch of great Affiliate Marketing software tools and ebooks on this page: Affiliate Marketing Tools

If you are even slightly interesting in affiliate marketing on the internet, have a quick look at these tools.

  • Super Affiliate Marketer's Secret Weapon
  • CB Buddy
  • When Mr Cb - Meets - Mr SuperTips
  • Super Affiliate Handbook
  • The Affiliate Handbook
  • The Definitive Guide To Google AdSense
  • Brand New Adwords Software


Once again... you can find these affilaite marketing tools on this page Affiliate Marketing Tools CHECK THEM OUT today!

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I just receive this email from a visitor to ww.express-marketing.com

I get a sense that sometimes when new webmasters purchase website marketing software, they have no idea what it should do or its benefits.

Maybe the person in this email didn't like adblaster or know what to do with Adblaster.

Here's the reality of purchasing web site software and ebooks. As with all businesses, you're going to need a Research & Development fund. Some of the products are going to work well for you and some aren't.

sometimes users don't really know what the out come should be for using a particular website marketing software. And thus, they think that the product isn't working.

Quite frankly... some of the website marketing products on the market don't really work or are outdated.

If you don't know what a software is supposed to do, you may have to purchase it and try it. Check out different reviews on the software before you buy it.

My personal thought's are: if a search engine blaster type software says that it's going to blast your ad to 2.5 million search engines... I would be a little wary. Reasonably speaking, there aren't 2.5 million search engines.. There are barely 5 main search engines.

And if the software is highly automated and mass marketed, it's probably being used by thousands of other webmasters which may or may not water down its effectiveness.

I've learned that sometimes when I don't understand what a product is supposed to do, I use it patiently until I figure it out. Or I try to develop software that has the same functionality.

I am sorry that the person emailing me felt that she didn't get the value that she was expecting from the software that she purchased.

I truly hope that this person continues to try different types of products in order to figure out which ones WILL work for her.

Classified ads on the internet

I just surfed into your site while looking for tips to build traffic. I looked at your list of revied products. One in your "no recommendation" list caught my eye. It is the adblaster. I tried it with 0 results. I asked for a refund based on their "Money back" guarantee. They agreed to a refund but did not do it until I complained to my credit card company. If you accept reviews from people who surf to your site. I would place it in the warning label catagory.

I have a site for diabetics. If you have any good traffic building tips for someone with a good cause and no budget I would appreciate being steered in the right direction. I am on a mission to make the world a healthier place.

Toma

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Blog Post Date: May 26 2006
Jason was kind enough to help me fix a problem on my website and so I thought I would give him a link here.

Spartix Solutions - Jason Roe - About Me

I?m a Freelance Developer / Designer by trade, with over 5 years experience in the commercial web development industry, working on a diverse range of projects for some of the leading Irish organizations and Institutes (Microsoft, Company Registration Office, Company Law Review Group, Mountjuliet, Interxion IRL).

I have a diverse skills set from working in an ever changing Irish market, my main focus is on web based design and web development solutions. From a technical point of view I cater for a wide range of programming languages (ASP, PHP, JSP, J2EE, JAVA) and have experience of integration with many databases and formats (MySQL, MsSQL, MDB, XML). More Information


Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Learning Linux And Website Marketing

Blog Post Date: May 24 2006
What does the following have to do with website marketing?
I came into the office early today to get some catch up work done.
My websites aren't showing up at all, however I am able to see the rest of the internet.

As I've mentioned, I am taking on the task of learning linux in order to understand what goes into website marketing etc.

I have to find the following things in my Linux book and online.
To the average marketer, this geek stuff is painful.

procs -----------memory---------- ---swap-- -----io---- --system-- ----cpu--
r b swpd free buff cache si so bi bo in cs us sy id wa
0 0 6428 15096 110632 165040 0 0 5 3 4 0 2 0 97 1

I HAD TO STOP AND START THE HTTP SERVER
Start and stop the http server:
/etc/rc.d/init.d/httpd start
/etc/rc.d/init.d/httpd stop

The I got an error message that I had to many mysql connections open. error 1420 (What the heck does that mean?)

To stop and start MySQL, run:
/etc/rc.d/init.d/mysqld stop
/etc/rc.d/init.d/mysqld start

NOTE: Accounts created before July 7th, 2003 will need to use:
/etc/rc.d/init.d/mysql stop
/etc/rc.d/init.d/mysql start

I attempted to stop the mysql server however i got an error message that it couldn't let go of threads or some such thing. I need to post all of the error messages!!

Finally I rebooted my mysql server, and magically it all worked.
I understand that you're never supposed to reboot linux, however, I'm sure I'll spend a saturday figuring out exactly what happened today.

I love learning linux AND website marketing!

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

Oh my goodness... I thought I was a patient person.

Today I noticed that my server was getting hit on by people trying to do Brute force SSH logins, on my web server. Otherwise , the server was running just fine.

I posted this message a little earlier, and then I got some replies.
I also checked out google groups for answers to my problem and the web in general. Being a novice to linux my head was completely spinning. People were saying try this and try that.

While I very much appreciate the help, I spent the whole day learning some fundamentals of linux so that I could barely understand what they were saying.

This exact same thing happened last week. My linux mail server running qmail was getting hit on from people spamming me. Otherwise it was working just fine. Being a complete novice to qmail, I tried to fix the problem and had it fixed for 10 minutes before I buggered it up again.

This time the problem was worse because not only did I not know about linux, I didn't know about the qmail email program.

The alternative is to bring in a technician who charges $100 per hour and I would be out the money and not understand the problem anyway.

THE GOOD NEWS:
Despite the blistering headache and numbness in the eyes, I started to get a better feel for how linux works and how to move around, unzip (untar) files , use wget, yum etc.

I wish there were more enjoyable things to spend a saturday on , however this is it for the moment.

I've learned the hard way , that the best way to learn about something is slow and steady, little by little.

Linux is a good operating system, but I can see why the majority of people would gladly stick with microsoft's products!!

Newbie question cd var/qmail/bin/ linux

Hello,

I noticed that my /var/log/secure linux file was getting to be 57MB's and hadn't been cleared since we installed the machine a few years ago.

I copied the secure file to secure.old and then made a new secure file. I chmod'd the file to 600.

I also did cp /dev/null /var/log/secure .. which i read about on
google.groups.com

I'm not sure if there is anything else to do... or how I would know that
everything is ok with this file.

I tried logging back on /ftp'ing on to this service and I'm not getting any log records in the secure file.

Any ideas?
______________________________
Learning Linux for the first time is like going to an adventure theme park,
always a new FUN :( adventure.

Monty Loree
____________________________________
www.express-marketing.com

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

i received an email from Rosalind Gardner about her newly updated Super Affiliate Handbook



I purchased the Super Affiliate hand book and found it quite helpful even though I've been in website marketing for a few years. One thing that I can say about Rosalind Gardner is that she is thorough in what's she's writing. There were quite a few helpful tips that I enjoyed and know that a new website marketer would find them even more valuable.

Affiliate marketing is becoming more and more complicated and in order to be successful it's nice to hear from a person who has alot of practical experience. Rosalind Gardner has a great deal of experience with affiliate marketing.

Check out the Newly Updated - Super Affiliate Handbook today!

See our review here

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY?
There's always a long standing debate amongst webmasters as to the question: should new webmasters purchase the types of products that are listed on sites such as this?

I can now see the value of prebuilt e-marketing software products and ebooks as a tool to help the new webmasters. As I've been developing software for the last several months, I realized that much of what I had built was already on the market, built by somebody else.

There are RSS feed products, and email products and website building template products available on this website. Many of which I decided that I was going to build myself. (I guess I should have used the products that I was selling?!)

TWO KINDS OF WEBMASTERS
There are two basic kinds of webmasters that I know of.
1) Those that have a product or service that they sell and build a website to help them market themselves.
2) Those who build websites to help others market their sites.

If you're the first type of web marketer, you're probably very familiar with your product and service, and are not proficient at web site marketing. In this case, I would recommend that you rely heavily on the types of products and ebooks while you're first starting to market your website.

The reason I say this is because, the tools that we promote were built by people who have successfully used them to market their own sites. Putting up a website and getting it visible is very difficult these days and even more so without the help of some premade tools.

If you don't know anything about website marketing it takes years to learn and is becoming even more competitive each day.

Engineers and doctors don't just walk into their profession untrained.

I like to refer to the fact that website marketing these days is becoming more and more of a structured profession. Thus, the people doing it need to spend a few years at least learning the craft and profession.

Also, doctors and engineers who are brand new to their profession aren't expected to build all of the tools they're going to use to perform their jobs.

So... it should be easily expected that a new webmaster starting off , purchase some of the SEO tools available in the market place.

The alternative is to build the tools yourself. While this is a valid option, you have to weigh the pros and cons of how long it would take you to learn programming and then design and build these new tools.

Having spent the better part of a year learning my programming skills, I can vouch for the fact that it is a lengthy and expensive proposition.

So.. please do feel free to shop here for web master marketing tools. We have types of makes and models. ALSO: If there is something you're looking for and can't find here, let us know and we'll try to help you find it.

FEATURED PRODUCTS
~Affiliate~ marketing is all about selling other people's product and acting as one of their advertising agents.
~Marketing~ products for other companies gives you a wide variety of products and services to choose from. ~Work at Home~


Affiliate Marketing is also about being the vendor and having other people sell your products. This type of marketing is great because it leverages all of the traffic of the website owners and list owners that work with you.


See our selection of Affiliate Marketing Products
- from Jeff Alderson

Article Equalizer
RSS Equalizer
Bloggin Equalizer

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

On my trek to learn programming, I am starting to learn some of the cool PHP functions that are powerful string manipulators. PREG_MATCH being one of them. I've also learned some other tools.

I've also figured out how to develop my websites in a compact format that is really easy to manage and edit. My main website engine tool is about 10 lines of code that includes a bunch of files. This would be called object oriented programming, probably if I knew what that meant :)

My template file is really small where as it used to be huge and located on 5 different include files. Now I'm using a small 20 line template that includes all of the rest of the parts. I find this really easy to manage and work with. I used to pull my hair out trying to manage every last page, on every last site, as they weren't as efficiently built.

The other thing I'm doing is putting all of my pages, whether high quality hand written content, or RSS feeds content etc into tables.

I used to have several hard files in my directory that I had to physically open and manage. They all had their own separate header, footer, body parts. OUCH!! Very painful.

I have built editors that pull my information out of mysql tables and then edit them nice and easy. One form edits a whole bunch of pages.

This makes things way better to manage and way less stressful.

All of a sudden I am beginning to understand black hat a little better. Black hat marketers have really good tools that help them administer their sites and data. It gives them more time to figure out "cool" ways to market their websites etc.

I thought to myself.. Now that I have these great tools in place, I probably could manage even more sites (more money) better. And I could still have time to learn new tricks on how to get my information seen more.

LIke RSS feeds. It just occured to me that I should be putting affiliate links on my outgoing RSS feeds. After I thought about that for a few seconds, I thought that maybe I should be putting affiliate links on incoming RSS feeds!

And then, of course, if I'm doing all that, I should have lots of websites with these features!! That's the beginning of blackhat, in my opinion.

It's all about high volume content management.

The goal is to be able to manage high volumes of content and websites so as to get your advertisers out and seen. It's getting harder and harder to be seen on the net , especially with all of the noise.

I'm starting to understand what the black hatters are doing and how they come to their decisions about what to do and why to do it. It's pretty interesting.

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

I've been working my tail off for the last 7+ months trying to learn PHP, mysql and all of the concepts related to building solid and efficient websites.

Yesterday, at long last, I finally installed one of my best components which works with RSS feeds! I was really excited about it.

What I've been working towards is compact code that works efficiently. I believe I'm getting to that stage.

One of the benefits of getting to this level of programming is that I am starting to understand what the experts are saying about website development etc.

It's really difficult to conceptualize all of the refined techniques of website building when you are struggling with just building the website.

As soon as I installed this latest component and then looked at it work, alot of things started to make sense.

It's been a long road, however a necessary road.

Topic: php mysql css website programming efficient code

Articles from May 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

I thought I should post this since I found it very helpful..
Today I was searching for a way to find all of the backlinks to all of the pages to one of my sites.

Usually you would use link:www.site.com to find the quantity of links to that one page. I was looking for the quantity of links to all my pages.

I found google's reference page

Google's reference page includes the following helpful info:
1. Overview

1.1 Search Requests
1.2 Cache Requests
1.3 Spelling Requests
2. Search Request Format

2.1 Search Parameters
2.2 Query Terms
2.3 Automatic Filtering
2.4 Restricts
2.5 Input and Output Encoding
2.6 SafeSearch
2.7 Limitations

3. Search Results Format

3.1 Search Response
3.2 Result Element
3.3 Directory Category

Google search reference items link back link allinurl allintitle

Articles from April 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

I see articles like this and wonder.
Google's $10 billion cash

Google has done a fine job of developing software and a nice cash flow. $10 billion gives them alot of strength. That's a healthy click revenue.

Where as google tries to make you feel bad for spamming their search engine... I am seeing that they are secretly happy about it. They are so happy, because they have $10 billion built on the backs of white hat and black hat web developers. That's pretty nice leverage.

I am feeling less and less sheepish about spamming the search engines.

$10 billion gives google a nice war chest and really enhances their staying power for a long while to come.

Articles from April 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (3)

Learning Linux Apache Website Marketing SEO

Blog Post Date: Apr 12 2006
I've decided to bite the bullet and learn Linux, Apache etc.

I have been using windows/dos based computer since 1987 so I'm not a computer newbie. However, linux is a different environment with all new commands and ways to do things.

I get the feeling that the more linux and apache that I learn, the more I'll be able to do with websites. At least I'll understand the mechanics of what goes on behind websites etc.

When I hear the "experts" talk about SEO and getting their websites highly ranked I get a strong sense that they know linux and apache thoroughly. They're talking in much greater depth than just php and mysql development.

When I first logged on to my linux boxes I was completely blind to the whole structure of how the operating systems works. After doing some research, reading my linux book, and going to two Losurs Meetings, I am starting to get the flow of how linux works.

Is it giving me ideas for building a better website? Not yet. However, it's giving me a great deal more comfort in knowing what's going on in my servers. That's nice peace of mind.

I am confident that as I learn more linux, it will help me to build better websites etc.

Articles from April 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

Qmail Sending But Not Receiving Email Linux

Blog Post Date: Apr 02 2006
Newbie question about qmail:

We have qmail installed for our mail server.
Just recently I cannot receive email, but still can send them.

I've done qmailctl-stop, qmailctl-start and a few others. I've checked qmailctl-stat which tells me that all of the processes are up and running.

I checked the directories and there is no email in the Maildir directories. I think that the server is bouncing any emails we are receiving.

I have no idea where to begin or things to start to look at to start the diagnosis process.

What types of things would stop qmail from receiving email.

I appreciate your time in advance.

Monty Loree
HomeGrown Advertising Inc
____________________________________
www.express-marketing.com

Articles from April 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

FIRST WEB MARKETING SEMINAR IN REGINA
We had our first web marketer seminar in Regina today.
I'm very pleased with it. We had a small group which enabled us to get into some good details about web marketing for the small business.

The meeting lasted for 2 1/2 hours.. I think people would have stayed longer, but we covered too much information and people were getting tired.

Hopefully we'll have another meeting of web marketers in Regina, SK

Articles from April 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

Some things I find conceptually difficult in programming and multi-dimensional arrays in PHP is one of them.

I fought all week with a tool that I'm developing that is the most complex that I've built so far.

I finally had to take the plunge and learn multi-dimensional arrays as they seemed to be the best way to do the build.

I'm glad to say that I fought and fought with them and finally won. I am really impressed at the power a multi-dimensional array can give to a program. I condensed a bunch of code down to a fraction of what is was.

I guess multi-dim arrays are just like working with mysql, except just different functions and commands etc. I love the flexibility and compactness they offer.

I'm glad I bit the bullet. Some times it's just hard to find the time and mental energy to master something like that.

I'm glad I did, as it's going to be a new tool for me to use.

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

It just goes to show you that even some of the most savvy marketers can upset their loyal email subscriber readers.

I can just imagine that this person read through 124 pages and then realized he had wasted his time on a big ad for Jeff Alderson's -(xybercode) products. You have to understand that is a major part of the sales process. Writing 124 pages of information is alot of work and takes a great deal of time investment. You have to carefully distribute your ads throughout your material.

I can't imagine Jeff Alderson (xybercode) writing 124 pages that didn't explain that there were products to be sold and that that ebook was a sales document.

I've heard marketers say that some of their best closing documents were 24 pages. This is much longer than the mile long sales page.

You can find Jeff Alderson's products HERE

Jeff Alderson - Xybercode is this REAL!!!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I like many of you subscribed to Jeff Aldersons newsletter - but today for the first time I WAS INCENSED - I don't mind an an affiliate product plug but 124pages (124 PAGE SALES AD! Are you mad!) plug for xybercode.com (AND NO, NO, NO THIS IS NOT, NOT AN AFFILIATE LINK - INFACT DELETE THIS POST NOW, DO NOT BUY THIS! I AM NOT ADVERTISING THIS PRODUCT) get real, the only people making $500 per sale?
I have never been so mad about an internet sales plug in all my life.
Let's think now whoever 'wrote' this is supposedly broke but tells us all how they spent $150,000 to 'show us the way'. I'm sorry but how does someone who has no money find $150,000 (That's like a new Ferrari - err.. when you have no money....) to experiment on what does and doesn't work on the internet, food/housing/living that's what most of us would be worried about. Joel - YOU HAVE TO SPEAK UP. I don't mind you selling stuff to us but Please if you want credibility you must comment on this now.


purchase domain name
email marketing
web design service
sell car online
sanitary engineers
life insurance settlement
piano parts supplies
payroll services systems

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I found this John Reese video on Alice Seba's blog. Alice is very diligent at posting good quality information.

John Reese claims that he made $526,744 in 2005 with Google Adsense. As always I'm curious and decide to listen to the full length video that he's presenting.

I was listening to John Reese intently to see what he's saying and how he claims to have made that kind of money. I had to really listen because most of the presentation seemed to be about how the earnings increased and decreased daily etc. I like everybody else wanted to know how he did this.

The point that stuck out was that John Reese mentioned that he's beeng doing website marketing for over 10 years and has taken a scientific approach to marketing. So... to start off with, he's taking his 10 years of experience, putting the best of the best together and then implementing it.

He probably sat for quite a while thinking of the best type of experiments to do, the best designs to use, the best software designs to use based on his 10 years of experience. Add to all this that he's used the scientific approach over 10 years so he's got data to support the implementation of the best of the best.

I can't argue with that. An engineer with 25 years experience is going to make better decisions on a project than a 2nd year engineering student, even though the engineering student may have the aptitude for engineering projects. The person with 25 years experience has simply seen more things go right and wrong over those years.

That's how to be successful in this business. Keep trying and testing things until you weed out what doesn't work and keep what does work. That's what I'm doing!!




Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I'll be honest... I've been busting my butt trying to build nice white hat content that is nice to read, and valuable to my readers.

I've been networking a little but it's time consuming. Getting out and posting on other people's blogs.

For all of the content I've been writing, my traffic isn't going up proportionately. I get a sense that the search engines put a limited life on article / blog type content. The content is hot for a few days and then gets cooled down in the search engines.

I find myself having to be more and more creative with how I generate traffic to my sites. I'm spending more and more time designing and developing ways for people to find my site.

I'm seeing that some of these ways could be interpreted as black hat. Well... you've got to do what you've got to do to get traffic. If I'm getting diminishing returns on proper white hat based content, I can only write so many articles in a day or month. I need to grow the business and make more money for growth purposes.

Black hat people are very creative and diligent people. They take the time to test different marketing methods to see how they work. If that's the case, I guess I will be leaning in that direction in the years to come.

While I don't like the low quality spammy methods that some others use, I don't like the "high quantity of content spread out into many places" type marketing. I like my writing to be seen as wide spread as possible.

If black hat means creative and diligent development in website marketing, please consider me as black hat as possible.
www.express-marketing.com

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Pop Up Blockers No Porn Keeping Kids Safe

Blog Post Date: Mar 20 2006
My wife and I decided that it was time that we talk to the children about (undesirable) things you might find on the internet. Our kids are in the early teens and so their curiosity is in full force.

I was very pleased when I asked my daughter if she had seen any porn on the computer. She emphatically replied, NO! I said, "what about on popups?" I guess I answered my own question because we use several popup blockers on that computer. There's a very unlikely chance that she would see anonymous porn pop-ups.

I was over come with relief at that point. I was excited to know that she wasn't being bombarded with material that she shouldn't be seeing.

So... aside from popup blockers saving your from those annoying ads, they also can help keep your children's minds at a more pure level.

That's my experience with porn popup blockers. Otherwise, popups have their time and place and are another way for advertisers to show their products and services.

answering referral services
answering equipment systems service repair
answering equipment systems wholesale manufacturers
answering machines sales service
answering services

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

Blog Post Date: Mar 14 2006
I just noticed this website .spam emailer jailed.

Here's a guy that didn't know when to quit sending spam email.

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I am gaining a whole new understanding for email , newsletters etc.

I simply wanted to send a note to some of my clients using the email database that I've been collecting over the last five years. I have approximately 2500 names in this list.

I am using aweber.com for this list as I like some of their tools. I noticed that the email campaign that I was trying to send out didn't go out. After inquiring with customer service as to why they weren't sending out my email, they indicated that my email list was too old and out of date.

Hmm... I have a verified optin list that is too old and out of date.

I went and purchased an email verifier software which I am now running my lists through. There are a few settings that i needed to put in such as a valid email address and an valid IP address.

According to the software manufacturer when you verify the email with the receiving email server, it wants to know that you're coming from a real email address and a real IP address.

This is a really good lesson in why it's important to keep an email list fresh. I thought I would pass it along.

www.express-marketing.com

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

Losurs.org Linux Operating System Help Group

Blog Post Date: Mar 09 2006
I attended my first Losurs meeting. Linux is the next thing I have to learn. I have a few linux machines but haven't taken the opportunity to learn the operating system.

Scott Wunsch and Mike Warnecke were very helpful, along with all of the other attendees.

If you have any linux related questions, I'm sure the folks at losurs.org would be pleased to help.

It's exceptionally comforting to know that there are some techies in my area who know how to work linux. It's a powerful operating system, but it takes a little to get used to.

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

high volume blog generator

The black hat debate continues.

Blog and Ping is an excellent way to get your web sites indexed EVEN TODAY, though the "gurus" will tell you that it no longer works.

Since I can program I decided to make a Blogger generator so that I could easily make blogs without having to manually change the settings and template.

Well, I found out something great when I made the program, I didn't have to enter the CAPTCHA (image with letters) every time I created a new blog. I had found the Blogger backdoor. I could create 1000 blogs in 10 minutes. This was great and I must've made around 200,000 blogs in that 3 month period that the backdoor still worked. I was generating DSG sites like crazy to the point where I had 5 dedicated servers! Talk about cash flow...

This young clever fellow figures out a way to set up 200,000 blogs in blogger in 3 months. That's pretty clever, and he makes some really good money from it. I've got to give him credit.

If you have 2000 people creating 200,000 blogs in 3 months that would be 400,000,000 blogs created. Won't these "high quality blogs" lose their meaning at some point? I'll be honest, I just can't read 400,000,000 blogs in a life time.!!

Then you get other spammers who have published 5 million + pages on several hundred or thousands of websites. These spammers are doing well because they have enough volume of pages to carry them.

A body of 5 million pages is great for doing tests on different things. Linking, different types and styles of keyword density etc. People who have 5 million pages published need a whole bunch of tools to manage these pages and websites. Otherwise the beast will get out of control.

It's amusing that the developer admits you have to generate ALOT of these blogs to see any return. As everyone jumps into the pool doing this, you're going to get a diminishing return. You'll have to publish more and more to get the same results.

I highly encourage the creativity that goes into developing such software. That's what makes the internet great. The only thing is that whatever can be programmed will most likely be abused by those who can.

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I've been taking some extra time to learn some moderately advanced programming. I can't believe I haven't written in this blog for over a month now!

I get it into my head that I need to know how things work. I hear alot of web marketers talking about different techniques of how they market their sites and some times my eyes just glaze over. Lately, I've been taking the time to program some of the tools and get a better feel for what these experts are talking about.

TESTING AND EXPERIMENTING
One thing that I've been curious about is how these guys are testing sites, forms, text, graphics etc so quickly. I feel that I'm talking to a bunch of webmarketing scientists. And really, that's what they are.

They are trying a whole set of different systems and techniques to see which ones are working. Trial and testing. Research and development.

That's what I've been spending my time on. Developing my sites so that I can test things faster. In doing so, I have learned some things more quickly.

The attitude is a little different than I used to have. I used to think that I would build a site and then leave it do its job. Now I'm interested in tweaking the sites to get better results out of them.

I spent the better part of a week developing a sign up form that is portable and flexible. This will enable me to try different types of forms, asking for different amounts of information in a test lab environment.

I'll keep every one posted as to how it's working as time progresses.

Articles from March 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I've enjoyed a pretty steep learning curve in the last few months regarding programming and website marketing.

I just purchased Rosalind Gardner's ebook - Titled Super Affiliate Handbook.

I loved the 260 page ebook because it's really hard to argue with somebody who is successful and who's been successful for the last many years. Her systems are tried and true.

One of the things Rosalind talks about is staying focussed while you're growing your business. Laser precision focus.

I understand focus all too well but at times have been out of focus while trying to grow the business.

Personal Example: For the last many years my sites were highly ranked in their respective keywords and they were all I really needed to make a good living. I worked hard at keeping my sites ranked well for these keywords.

Then in September, with Google's Jagger update, all of my sites were introduced to ranks that were so low, they would be considered Arctic Rankings. Cold and nowhere.

I went from focussed to out of focus very quickly. With my main sites out of the game, I had to figure out if I was going to do SEO, PPC or a combination of the two.

The skill that I was really good at was writing high quality, well keyworded pages that got good ranks. All of a sudden this skill went out the door. My high quality 50 page sites were no longer visible.

So... what do I do now?
Since September, I've bitten the bullet and taken the plunge into programming, so as to learn how to easily build large scale sites. l 've also built my first high quality PPC campaign that tweaks all of my geo-targeting and keywords to death. It's really beautiful!!

I've decided that I'm going to do a bit of all types of marketing so as not to get into the same 'one skill' rut as before.

To be honest, I plan on trying black hat and white hat techniques as I learn them. Black hat is harder to learn for newbies :)

I want to see which techniques give me more control over traffic. I want to see which techniques make me less reliant on search engines or any one internet entity.

LONG STORY SHORT:
I've felt like I've had to learn a huge amount about programming, PPCs, SEO, website development to get back into focus, and to get back some control of my traffic. In grabbing this education, I feel like I can tackle several types of marketing and be fairly competent with them. I'm getting my focus back.

I COULDN'T FOCUS ON / OR SEE WHAT I NEEDED TO DO, BECAUSE THERE WERE TOO MANY FRAGMENTED THINGS TO LEARN FIRST!

Finally... while I had been very successful in internet marketing for years, in September 2005 I was forced to open myself up to a whole bunch of new learning experiences.

Website marketing is like ice fishing
I compare the website marketing process to going fishing in a lake in Northern Canada during the cold of winter.
You know there's fish in the lake, and you know you're going to catch some. You just have to dig a few holes to figure out where they are. You have to dig the holes while not being able to see where the fish are. And you have to be consistent enough to dig the holes until you get the fish.

Website marketing at the beginning is a work of faith and you have to be willing to do it blind for the first while. That's what I'm learning!!

Articles from February 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

On the weekend I had an interesting experience.

I was at a social gathering for a crowd in their 20's. It was my younger brothers birthday party so I thought I would stick around and see what people in their 20's were up to these days.

While there, I met a guy and his girlfriend, and I over heard them talking about search engines and google. Naturally my interest was tweaked as I rarely get to speak to others in my city who know about google, yahoo or anything else internet for that matter.

After talking to them a bit, I mentioned that I have created high amounts of white hat, content based, websites. ie.. spam

The young fellow then explained that "he was a physicist of some sort and had I ever heard of the Bayesian Theory?" I think that he implied that his organization helps google fight against spam with the Bayesian Theory. (I'm not sure.. the party was loud and there was a lot of background noise. ) He got angry and told me that what I do is the antithesis of what he does. He hates spammers. Then he started to joke about how he doesn't need penis enhancement, or viagra or adult material etc...

I promptly explained that I don't get involved in the adult area of websites.

I held out my hand for a handshake with this young fellow as if to say, peace, we're in the industry etc.. He refused to shake my hand as if I was the devil.

This fellow was pretty angry with me and it quickly turned me off the party atmosphere.

THE POINT:
Here's a young physicist - "moralist" telling me that I'm bad for creating completely legal webpages in high volumes so as to compete with companies who have published way more of the same than myself.

He seems to be vigorously defending google and yahoo and the other search engines for their anti-spam policies.

Morally speaking, both google and yahoo are NOT on the moral high ground. They are businesses who make money from showing content. They display millions of times more content than I do.
You can find what ever you want to with regards to their regular searches, groups, discussions, videos etc.

Morally speaking, both google and yahoo have huge cess pools of garbage that make Sodom and Gomorrah look like saints.

My philosophy is, to each his own.

The point of this post is to not talk about what's right or wrong on search engines. The point of this post is that this young fellow in his youth and zeal, should get his facts straight. If you're going to talk about moral issues, make sure you understand what you're talking about.

He was defending google as some type of great business that was some how god like. My thought was that if google was owned by a church you wouldn't see porn videos, and have access to the worlds most disgusting base of knowledge!!

Just a contrast in thought.

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

I FEEL BAD FOR NOT WRITING EVERY DAY
I feel like I've been in this huge university course for the last several weeks. I've opened up my brains full throttle to take in as much information as I possibly can. Fortunately it's getting a little easier as I go along here.

It's kind of true what they say... it's harder to teach old dogs new tricks. While I'm not a stranger to huge learning curves, they are getting a little more difficult as I put on a few more years.

STUDY THE MUD:
The lesson I'm learning is this: To be successful, you've got to get in the trenches and analyze the mud. You have to get close to the mud and get to know the mud. See the patterns in the mud. Mud analyses.

There is really nothing exciting about mud analysis and getting to know the trenches except that it makes you an expert.

That's what I've been doing for the last several months... Digital mud analysis.

Stop and watch the traffic.
Stopping to watch what's going on around me is helping to. Today as I walked over to the coffee shop to grab a coffee there was a huge line of cars in rush hour traffic. I was trying to cross the street. I thought to my self... if I wait here long enough, there will be a break in traffic and I'll be able to successfully cross. Sure enough, after carefully watching the traffic, there was a break, and I was able to carefully walk across the street.

It's a simple and mundane point. Internet marketing is like that. As I carefully watch the traffic on the internet and see what's going on around me, I'm finding more and more opportunities.

Mud analysis and studing the traffic.

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I've had an incredible week of learning about website marketing. Sometimes it's challenging to learn a whole bunch all at once, as I feel it important to implement what I've learned all at once.!!

With regards to affiliate marketing, I'm starting to see writing and using other's content (RSS) as content packaging. I compare this with the large TV networks repackaging reruns and selling advertising to go with the reruns.

Content packaging is the same. Putting valuable content together for the benefit of the reader and the advertiser. Giving both value. What a concept!!

I'm seeing high volumes of content less like spam and more like content packaging. And, these days, you need to leverage a huge volume of content in order to make some reasonable money.

If the multibillion TV and radio networks can package and repackage their content, so can website marketers.

When you look at it, aren't 30 year old reruns of gilligans islands, constant reruns of Mythbusters , kind of like TV Network content spam?

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

Rss Feeds, Rss Validator, Technorati.com

Blog Post Date: Jan 08 2006
I'm sitting here looking at my blog and then I notice that the rss feed at www.express-marketing.com/rss.xml is broken.

I'm looking at it and thinking to myself, what do I do now?!

I drove down to my local book store Chapters, the main HUGE bookstore here, and much to my shock and horror, there were NO books on RSS feeds. (Sometimes I wonder why I'm a few years behind !??!!)

I sat with the rss feed, studied it and finally got it to display properly. Then I went to http://validator.w3.org. and made sure that the feed validated properly.

I think I got a very basic understanding of how RSS feeds work. at least on the publishing side. I also think that I"m going to have to purchase that book on RSS over the internet and have it delivered to my office.

I was wondering why I wasn't getting my regular traffic from technorati.com etc.

RSS Feeds are fun when you know how they work etc.

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (4)

I saw this article in CNN Money that Martha Stewart appealed her conviction and was denied. What was she trying to do? Get more publicity?

I am completely amazed that Martha Stewart is still in business and working for her company. The American people are very forgiving of some convicts and not of others.

It just goes to show.. get arrested, and you too could get billions of dollars worth of publicity for your business!! NOT!

I'll be interested to read the commentary about Martha Stewart, her business and her conviction for illegal stock trades 5-10 years from now.

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) - A federal appeals court Friday upheld the conviction of celebrity style setter Martha Stewart for lying about a stock sale.

In 2004, Stewart was convicted on charges of conspiracy, obstruction of justice and making false statements and her former Merrill Lynch stockbroker, Peter Bacanovic, was convicted on four of five counts against him.

An appeals court upheld Stewart's conviction for lying about a stock sale.

Shares of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia have lost almost 40 percent in the last year.

The verdict on Martha A federal appeals court just upheld Martha Stewart's legal challenge to her conviction.

Read the documents US v. Stewart, Bacanovic (PDF)
Superseding Indictment

Stewart served five months in prison and near six months of house arrest starting in October 2004.

The charges stemmed from Stewart's sale of almost 4,000 shares of ImClone Systems stock in late 2001, just before the shares tumbled following a negative FDA ruling about the cancer drug Erbitux, which was later approved for use against colon cancer.


Martha Stewart Convict

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

I'm just in the midst of writing a multi-session mini home based business course for people who want to work at home and have their own home based internet business.

This is another value feature that I'm adding to this site. Primarily because, as I started to look at it, I felt that I could help people who wanted to start a home based business and who wanted to work from home. I've done it, i've been successful at it and I know what it takes to make a home based internet business - working out of my home work.

Feel free to have a look at SESSION 1 and let me know what you think. Any feed back would be much appreciated.

work at home article

Working at home - having your own home based internet business ultimately gives you control over your time and life.

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

Last night I couldn't sleep so I watched the TV series Rome for 1 hour. I hadn't watched it before, so I thought I would give it a try.

In one of the scenes, Roman soldiers, were sent out to seize the golden staff, or some such thing. There was a big to do about it from Caesar.

These well trained Roman soldiers who had been trained and disciplined, came upon a band of untrained, undisciplined people who had kidnapped Caesar's nephew. The next scene shows the Trained Roman soldiers confidently and completely wiping out everybody in the travelling party, freeing the nephew of Caesar and recovering the golden staff.

Although I was still half asleep during this show, I marvelled at how 'easily' the trained Roman soldiers finished their competition and didn't think twice about it. They knew what to do and they did it. The weak, untrained, competition didn't have a chance.

I'm seeing this more with website marketing and everything else for that matter. The people that get into the internet marketing business, become trained and disclined marketers, and get strong in the business will soon win over the weak undisciplined internet marketing competition. Those are words of comfort for people who work hard and are diligent in this website marketing business.

The trained and well disciplined ancient Roman army is a 'good example' for website marketers.

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

INTERNET HOME BASED BUSINESSES
I'm going to be spending the next few days writing about how Home Based internet marketers can start and run their own internet business. I'm approaching my writing for the person who is relatively knowledgable in computers, which means that you at least know how to run a word processing software, but who hasn't ever written a web page or done any programming.

It's been a few years since I learned how to write HTML (1999) and I take many things for granted. It was interesting to remember when I was first learning HTML and there weren't as many helpful resources as there are now in bookstores and on the internet.

80 Hours to learn 1 hour worth of work.
A little story about me learning HTML... I was trying to get my pages to have a certain look, (rounded corners). It literally took me 2 weeks at 40 hours per week to figure out how to write tables, develop the graphics and get the colors to match between the jpg graphics and the html tables!! These days creating these tables and graphics would take me 1 hour at the maximum. I've had many similar experiences since then.

I'll let you know as soon as I get the pages written.

I'm excited about writing about Home Based businesses as it is important for every one to be able to have the opportunity to make money online.

JUST GET STARTED
The most important part of trying a home based internet business is to get started and trying things out.

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

WE'RE ACTIVELY SEEKING JOINT VENTURE PARTNERS
I thought I would put the call out that I am actively seeking Joint venture partners who have website traffic and email lists to co-advertise marketing products etc.

If you're interested in Joint venturing leave a comment here.

Joint venturing is a great way to leverage lists and traffic. I would be pleased to actively enhance the marketing of other people's websites and products for help in kind.

Let me know if you're interested in Joint Venturing.

Let me know numbers like traffic and list size.

Thanks

express-marketing.blogspot.com

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (2)

HOME BASED BUSINESSES ARE BECOMING MORE IMPORTANT
Home Based businesses are becoming more and more important in this economy. It's always good for people to have control over their finances.

I was wondering what many of the people were going to do who were laid off from General Motors and Ford Motor co for example.. These hard working folks had jobs for many years, and they had good job security until now.

Sometimes in the midst of a turbulent economy, it's a great idea to take matters in your own hands. That's where the Home Based web marketing business comes into play.

AN INTERNET BUSINESS NEEDS TOOLS TO RUN AND TO MARKET.
The problem with the internet is that there is usually so much to learn, and so many types of techniques to use to build an online business. It's not like 5-10 years ago when it was relatively simple to start a business online.

That's why I'm confident about the selection of website marketing software products for homebased businesses.

IT'S COST EFFECTIVE TO PURCHASE PRE-MADE TOOLS
The benefits of purchasing pre-made software and coaching books.
Personally, I like to build my own online tools whenever possible. There are some types of website marketing tools that are cost effective to buy because I neither have the time nor expertise to build that certain type of software.

As far as website marketing ebooks to learn from, it's important to learn from people who have been there, done that. Even the experts read online ebooks because the field of internet marketing keeps changing.

The best way to approach the home based business is to a little planning. Get a feeling of what you would like to sell, and what types of websites you would feel comfortable building and administering.

After you get a feeling of what you want to do for a business on the internet, the next thing to do is pick some tools to start off with. As with all businesses, you should expect to spend some money on buying tools of the trade. Just as in the plumbing or electrician etc trades... much of the time, the tradesmen have to buy their own tools.

WE'VE GOT THE WEBSITE MARKETING TOOLS TO HELP
That's why we're here to help out with that process. I have personally looked through hundreds of sites for tools and ebooks that will help the home based internet business owner. We are showing over 200 such products on this site. If we like the products, we'll tell you about that. If we don't like the products we'll let you know that too.

HAVE A LOOK AROUND
I encourage everybody who is looking at starting, or already starting a home based internet marketing business to have a look around on this site. We have sites categorized by vendor name, product name, and product category.

Best of luck with your home based internet marketing business.

allergies laboratories

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

Spam Network computer pictures.

I can understand naming your computer... I really can.. We have computers name Zaragoza, El Guapo, TerrorBeast, Joe Sacco just to name a few.

In that picture David Naylor calls it like he sees it. He's got a name tag for the one computer name "Spam Network".

I love it. That says it all. Normally spammers are quiet about what they do.. Putting a picture of your computer with a name tag like Spam Network is a pretty public admission.

I applaud David Naylor for making that bold statement.

I think they should call a race horse, "Spam Network"

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

2005 was a nasty year.. I didn't like 2005 at all.. It had it's good points, but as far as wear and tear on my brains, I lost too much tread from my grey matter.

I made a decision to relearn programming again and to program my sites myself. I felt that I would need to get back into the mud to really understand what's going on with websites and SEO and website marketing software etc.

Going back to 'university' at my age is not the easiest thing. I can see why they say that it's hard to teach old dogs new tricks. I'm pleased to say that I learned way more about programming than I had anticipated and am feeling more confident than ever about developing websites etc.

2006 is going to be all about using what I've learned to develop the best website that competes well in the search engines, and more importantly gives my customers better access to products and services.

The lesson I'm learning is, that if you're going to be marketing on the internet these days, you've got to be really hands on, unless you've got enough cash to hire people to do the nitty gritty work. Even still, it's only getting more and more competitive.

Long gone are the days when you could throw up a few pages and make a few bucks. From here on in, you've got to work at it as if it was a full time job.

That's all right with me. Here's wishing everybody success in 2006!

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

I was intrigued to read greg boser's Greg Boser's Link Contest

He's giving away $3,000 to the website who links the highest for a given keyword.

While it's not a new idea, it is interesting to think about how you would compete for keywords, since that's what we do for a living.

I might give it a shot.

Articles from January 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (0)

EXPENSIVE MISTAKE MOVING MY BLOG - TECHNORATI.COM
In the last few months I've been heavily working on this site, shifting things around until I get comfortable with it. It's also called trying and testing things on the fly.

At the start of the process I put this blog on the main home page of the site. I hooked up all of the connects with technorati.com and many of the other blog services. www.technorati.com was pointed at www.express-marketing.com. A few weeks ago I shifted the blog over to www.express-marketing.com/blog.html.

YOU LOSE YOUR CREDITS IF YOU MOVE YOUR BLOG
The problem with that was I stopped getting credit for published articles or links back to the blog. All of the links back credits stay with the original page.

Now I am starting fresh again with my blogsite being at this location.
This is an expensive error as it cost me a few months of posting and backlinks etc. As I was trying different things, I'm not sure how I could have avoided this problem.

There are only theories on the best places to put your blog.

If possible, if you're going to set up a blog, make sure you put it in a spot from which it isn't going to move again.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

I LOVE INSPIRATIONAL STORIES
I was watching Rudy the other night. I was in the mood for an inspirational movie about a young fellow who beats the odds and fulfills his dreams. His story was later portrayed by Sean Astin in the movie "Rudy" in 1993.

See Rudy's official website

The imagery on the movie is pretty inspirational as they show young Rudy having a dream and then all of the activities he does to fulfill his dream. He has to change his mind set and the mindsets of people around him.

The parts on the movie where he is playing football against huge football players. He gets the stuffing knocked out of him over and over. He keeps getting back up for more punishment. His diligence is tremendously inspirational.

WEBSITE MARKETING IS LIKE RUDY'S ADVENTURE
In order to be successful in internet marketing you have to be like Rudy. Just coming back for more. Bloody and all.

The important thing that I enjoyed and was refreshed by was that, when people see that you're really serious about what you do and that you'll take the hits to achieve your goal, they'll get behind you and support you. Sometimes it takes a while for people to back you.

You just have to keep working at it. If you really believe in your goal, you just have to keep going for it.

Website marketing and internet advertising is not an easy task. If you don't market your site and products, nobody else will. You just have to keep getting out there and promoting yourself.

If you haven't seen the movie Rudy, look out for it at your local video store, or see it on TV. It's a worthwhile. movie to watch.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Well it's that time again.
Getting out and visiting with the relatives. Leaving all this website marketing stuff behind for at least a few hours!!

I posted a new article for new articles writers here.
It's about writing articles, article submission and some of the problems new writers face when they're just starting.

All the best in this holiday season.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Tim Berners-Lee started his blog on 2005-12-12. Tim Berners-Lee was the fellow who created the first internet browser which he called WorldWideWeb and later called his browser Nexus.

According to The WorldWideWeb browser
The first web browser - or browser-editor rather - was called WorldWideWeb as, after all, when it was written in 1990 it was the only way to see the web. Much later it was renamed Nexus in order to save confusion between the program and the abstract information space (which is now spelled World Wide Web with spaces).


This is a screen shot of the first browser.

You just gotta love this stuff.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

One thing I find, which is remarkably noticeable in these forums, is the lack of content relating to actual marketing. It's as if all the contributors believe the only way to rank at a search engine depends on some technical issues which need to be addressed. It's like, we'll do the SEO and then we'll have a look at your marketing!

Further

Awareness campaigns for new brands/sites, using niche marketing into verticals, especially for b2b sites works a treat. If you are a genuine marketer, there are dozens of methods of promoting a web site other than just sitting on your ass in the so called sandbox, waiting around for Google to do YOUR job.


Mike says market your product

There is so much talk about this search engine marketing technique and that website marketing idea.

I think it's important to market your product or service. If you work on behalf of clients, market their products and services. The people that spend the most time actively marketing are those who are going to survive.

While it's important to know how web pages work and website marketing/ programming works, it's more important to know marketing skills. I say this as I come from a marketing background first and then from SEO marketing second.

As I've mentioned over and over again people are going to buy from you if they know you, like you and trust you. You've got to know this from the depths of your sole. Fancy programming, blog spamming, cloaking etc is not going to magically get people to like you and trust you.

There are many more ways to advertise your website than just free google search engine results. I have to admit that prior to Google Update Jagger, all of my online marketing came from free search engine results. For the last several months, I've gone through the excruciating process of learning several new methods of internet marketing. No longer am I going to rely on free google search engine results!

I like to read these posts as they are entertaining. I like to read posts from real marketers because I know that they know how to market to people.

I like Mike Grehan's common sense comments in his blog.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Recently I moved my blog page over to blog page from my home page.

The problem I was having was that my page was loading slowly. I did some tests with the load times and different components that I had loading.

As soon as I took the Technorati.com "blogs that link here link off"

the page loaded alot faster.

The problem is that technorati won't track your site if you don't have their code on your blog. It's good to have technorati loaded on your blog as it gets you more traffic.

So, I moved the blog page away from the home page and have all the blog toys and goodies on this page. My apologies if the page loads alittle slower than it should. I just hope that technorati adds some new servers soon.

The problem of success... technorati has done such a good job, but now they are too successful and it's bottlenecking all over.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Brett Tabke is one of the best in SEO that I know of. His www.webmasterworld.com is one of the highest traffic seo forums on the net, if not the largest.

It seems that just for fun, he has put his blog in the Robots.txt file on his site.. It's amazing that people actually read Brett Tabke's robots.txt file.

It's an enviable position to have that much power and traffic. Currently WebMasterWorld has 292,000 pages listed in the google search results.

I like this comment from Brett Tabke with regards to being completely white hat, or being a little 'black hat' -
Does that mean we will be pure-as-the-driven-snow? No way - our job
is to generate traffic at a reasonable to low universal risk. That means getting listed - getting ranked - getting traffic - is only the
first step. *ANY* SEO policy MUST focus on ROI as well as
traffic acquisition. If your seo practices poison your ROI, then
what is the point? You can only trick your visitors for a certain
amount of time.

So... even one of the most respected names in the industry is in the business of "-getting listed - getting ranked - getting traffic no matter what he has to do. Brett Tabke also admits the fact that many blackhat techniques are going to go by the wayside, especially with google.

I find that encouraging. The whole idea is to get people to get on your site and stay on your site. The only way to do that long term is to give them value, value, value.

The hard earned luxury that Brett has is that he has enough traffic to try all sorts of things with his loyal visitors.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Website development and SEO are like going to the Gym and doing heavy weight lifting...

It's extremely difficult, exhausting, frustrating, etc while you're doing it.
Afterwards, you feel great for having done the work out.

I've had this quote in my mind alot lately.

Also.. google just updated their backlinks, pagerank etc. It's a new , fresh google update.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Monty's quote of the Day:
There is a new linker born... every second!
(This is SEO motivational talk to help us when we feel we're getting low on people linking to us.)

After my email blunder, I contacted each person who complained, all two of them.

I spoke at length with Rod Beckwith over the phone and told him that I wanted to introduce myself as I was selling his products on my site. As with the affiliate game, he had no idea who I was. The email blunder and phone call started a good relationship.

Rod Beckwith indicated that he's got alot of new products that he is going to introduce in 2006, so I'll be looking forward to seeing them.

The whole point of the internet or any business is to create good relationships with people. I thought I would turn my error around for the good and it worked.

Aside from that... i've been beefing up my pages on this site and putting more value into them.

rod beckwith email problem website development

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Well... when you eat, sleep, and breathe something sometimes you make dumb errors. I thought I would share mine with you.

As I was working through one of the techniques suggested in one of the ebooks I'm reading about developing your newsletter, it suggested that I send out emails , as in a reply sort of thing, to all of the people who have emailed me , in my 'inbox'.

So I thought, that's cool... it's not spammy... these are people who have sent me emails asking for something or replying to something, it's fair game.

What I forgot about is that all of my email addresses from my websites are funneled through one account. There was no way for me to tell from which websites these people were contacting me from. OUCH... this is embarrassing.

Being that I work in advertising in different industries with different websites promoting really different things, some people don't know my different identities.

I got a crank email from Rod Beckwith of Mr Joint Venture fame, whom I some software from. He sends out spamarrest emails to those who are trying to contact him. My auto emailer sent out an email to his spam arrest account and he thought I was a spammer. Geez... I feel stupid.

I got another angry email from a fellow who made a purchase from me from a different website, and wouldn't have a clue about this marketing site. He was happy with the service from the other website, but he didn't know who was sending him this "marketing" type email.

The lessons from today... Much unlike myself, please put in at least 3-5 minutes of planning with something before doing a campaign like this. It was pretty dumb, and I cancelled all subsequent "automatic" emails to people that send me email.

I always look at these types of things as a learning experience. I'm sure I'm going to do a few more idiotic things like this, however, sometimes you've got to do them in order to learn not to do them.

I am going to make sure that everybody I email from now on is actually from the website that they contacted me from. What a marketing concept. Market to targeted people. Don't market to people who signed up for something on a different website as they won't have a clue who you are.

I thought I would share this BONE HEAD mistake publicly so as to help people not do the same thing.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post
I've been programming for the last few months steady, to build up this website. I thought I would take a break today and practice some of the techniques I've learned.

I won a copy of RoboForm over at WebMasterRadio the other day and by using it, found a product that I really like. Traditionally I have made it a point to memorize every last password that I use at every last website I log in to. I log into alot of websites each day.

RoboForm automatically and securely remembers my log in passwords and usernames, autofills the login forms and then hits the submit button for me. Before, I would cringe at having to go to a website because I had to 'manually' remember the login codes. Now I just have select the site I want to log in to and RoboForm does the rest. I was impressed with the software at this point!

Then I learned that RoboForm fills in all types of online forms.
(I didn't get it when I first visited RoboForm's website.)

Being a web-a-holic, I have considered myself pretty diligent at
logging into forms and posting at blogs, forums etc. Example, I like to post at alot of blogs. I usually have to enter in my name, email address and website EACH TIME.. RoboForm has a feature that automatically fills this information in for me every time. And as all blogs/ forms are different, RoboForm has a system that allows me to train it to look for words and phrases of the respective input boxes.

I was so excited, I couldn't sleep last night, thinking about all of the ways I could use this new tool! I've often thought about how to program this type of tool, but I just don't have the time nor inclination at this point. RoboForm is going to help me communicate, better, stronger and faster with all of the blogs, forums, directories i like to visit each day. Check it out for yourself...RoboForm Webpage

Aweber.com - Autoresponder Email is another product that I am starting to like. I am currently building a collection of valuable articles and information that I want to share with my subscriber base on a regular basis. All I have to do is enter these articles into my aweber account, make sure they're formatted properly, and then submit them.... These website marketing articles will be automatically forwarded to my subscribers .

While autoresponder technology is not new by any means, I'm starting to learn the value of it, and I do like aweber. Aweber
has been reliable to work with and gives me more tools and reporting than I initially needed. (They've even come out with an RSS email tool feed).

The reason I'm just now starting to use aweber's email autoresponder is that up until a few months ago, all of my websites were pretty well ranked with google. With google update jagger, my sites have lost the positioning that I enjoyed for years. I am now learning and exercising the "OTHER" internet marketing methods.

Aweber even has a 30 day free trial .. Aweber's website

New Website Marketing Articles Area

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Market, Marketing, Website, Website Marketing

Blog Post Date: Dec 16 2005
I just added website marketing article directory

We're starting to collect website marketing articles that we feel will be good value for our readers.

These are written by authors who are knowledgeable in the field of website marketing.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I came across this interview with Barry Schwartz - Rusty Brick of SERoundtable fame.
interview with rustybrick barry schwartz

I've met Barry at some of the webmasterworld conferences. He is very good and diligent at taking notes and keeping records of things.
That's why his blog is so well respected.

website map product categories

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I'm finally starting to get control with how I'm showing products on this site.

The following links are for marketers products which we are selling on this site. The linking is a much better format and was a bit of a learning curve to get it right.

Just to let you know... we DO sell products on this site. The products below are from some of the more popular authors and creators around.

Jeff Alderson
Jimmy D Brown
Michael Rasmussen
Chris Carpenter
Rosalind Gardner
Michael Rasmussen
The Rich Jerk

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Trying to market product when you're just starting out with internet marketing is a little frustrating. I've been going through this myself, lately. I've taken on the task of programming my websites as I want to get a closer control of how they're laid out and created.

The problem I'm having is, being a guy, I can only concentrate on one thing at a time!! Therefore, marketing takes a back seat when I'm learning a new programming skill.

Sound familiar?

The best thing to keep in mind when you're just first starting is that you've got give yourself some time. I've been relearning how php, mysql and html works together for about three months. The first month was spent just relearning the logic of the programming code. At that point I wasn't even thinking about keyword placement etc in my documents. Search engine optimisation wasn't even coming into play.

After the third month, I am now starting to memorize some of the programming language which is allowing me to be fluent in programming.

This weekend, I was looking at google to see how my pages were ranked. Much to my shock and horror, my pages weren't doing well. I then looked for the reasons and immediately noticed that I had completely missed some fundamental components of search engine optimisation on my pages.

Prior to programming these pages, I wrote them out manually. My pages have usually done well in the search engines and I spend a great deal of time making all pages search engine friendly.

As I'm getting a little more fluent in programming, I thought it might be a good time to look at the other aspects of page development. I can finally concentrate on other issues.

The point is... even though I consider myself somewhat of a veteran web page builder, I overlooked many of the fundamental principles of webpage development when I was learning a new skill. If you're starting off in website marketing, you're going to be flooded with a huge learning curve for the first several months.

Give yourself lots of time to learn everything.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I've been developing this site lately, and have made extensive changes on an ongoing basis.

Lately I've noticed my site was loading a lot slower than I would like. I did some checking and ran into the W3C Markup Validation Service

This site analyzes your website's html code and looks for broken tags and invalid code of any sort.

I noticed that I had 18 code errors on my home page. These weren't big errors, however the browser still has to translate them and try to correct for them. That takes time...

Last night I went and corrected all 18 errors and Voila! my page started to load faster. I was surprised and thought I should pass that along to the readers.

At the webmasterworld conference in New Orleans, I heard talk that the search engines might penalize sites for having code mistakes in pages, ie... sloppily written pages. I can see why now. If a google spider is slowed down while trying to parse through your page which is full of errors, they might hesitate before coming back. This makes sense.

So... take a moment and validate your html code.

The best part about this is it's FREE!

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I've been trying to understand, so as to write about it, why internet marketing is so frustrating for people.

You hear about product reviews where people say this product works, or that product doesn't work. I've figured out why some product DON'T work.

As with all small businesses, online and offline, the initial setup stages are filled with many mini failures. You keep trying different things until you figure out what works.

There are three variables which you have to consider when looking at why your hard work fails:

  1. Your level of experience - company maturity - in the market place, and how much credibility your company has in the market place.
  2. Product maturity - which is how saturated your product is in the market place, how well do people know about the product and its benefits.
  3. Industry maturity - how many competitors there are - how saturated is the market place with product, Overall experience of the market place.

It's a good idea to think about where you are in your market place. example... if you're a new inexperienced company working in a mature saturated market place, it may take you longer to succeed than if you were an experienced company in a new market place.

There are challenges and hurdles no matter what level you 're starting at in developing your business.

THE 80/20 RULE.
When starting a business there is no road map for success for sale at the local store.

When I look back at some of the businesses I've developed, there were many times when I spent weeks on a project that was later scrapped. I've done that several times over my career. I've spent time on developing things that at the time were a good idea. Later, I realized they weren't valuable and scrapped them.

YOU MAY HAVE TO SCRAP SOME OF YOUR WORK
Is it possible that in order to be successful you may have to scrap 80% of the things you build and keep the 20% of things that work? That's what I'm starting to think. R&D like everything else is a numbers game. Especially on the internet. you have to keep trying and monitoring different things until you find what works for you, your company, and your industry.

If you can become comfortable with knowing that you may have to scrap 80% of what you build, you will have an easier time of developing your business.

It is important to keep in mind that monitoring the success and failure of what you build is very important. The whole thing is to know when to scrap things and when to keep them.

The 80/20 rule of marketing and developing your website is a good one to remember.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
This post is one of the more honest analysis I've seen about creating spamlike scraper sites.

He's saying that a life expectancy of a scraper site is 3 months. Your expected revenue is $xx.xx for that time period.

Black hat spammers are often frowned upon. It is my strong opinion that if they could, the largest ad agencies on Madison avenue would be doing the same thing offline if they could.

Advertising is all about creativity. Black Hat spammers are some of the most creative people I know.

The only thing I don't agree with, is black hat spammers scraping white hat sites and getting the white hat sites banned. That's unethical.



Email Marketing Products

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I saw this on Oilman's blog.

I did a little more research and found this on CNN
CNN -Reporting MicroSoft, AOL or Google $20 Billion Dollar Deal?
NEW YORK (FORTUNE) - Investors looking for something that will move Time Warner's intractable stock price, stuck between $16 and $19 a share for two years, should expect to be disappointed -- again.

All fall there has been talk about its AOL unit doing a huge deal with either Microsoft or Google that would value AOL at at least $20 billion -- triple what analysts value it at now. But it's not going to happen. A deal with one of the two will get done and will likely be announced within two weeks. But it will be radically scaled back and likely won't move AOL's valuation needle on Wall Street at all.

Google already works with AOL with content

Currently, Google supplies search and search related advertising to AOL as a subcontractor. AOL gets about $300 million a year from that arrangement; Google gets about $100 million. AOL wants an even bigger take and more importantly, to get more of its content into Google's search index. Because of AOL's years as a subscription-only service, most of its pages are still hard for search engines to find -- even now that most of the content is free.

It's interesting when the big guys are battling. It's also scary. Every time these giants get larger, they also get more control of the net. It makes it more challenging for the mom and pop internet businesses to make a go of it.

I guess we'll see as this mystery deal unfolds

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Internet marketing with PPC just got even more difficult.

Google Adwords - Quality Score

I've been working pretty heavily with Adwords in the last few days getting brushed up on it.

With this Quality score they're even putting an algorithm on pay per click ads. This is much different than the old days where you bid on a term and you got placed at the rank you bid at.

I spoke with a client rep at google yesterday and she was briefly explaining Adwords Quality Score. The way she explained it, you may get a better rank than a higher bidder if your keyword, adgroup ad and your landing page are better quality than a higher bidder.

That puts the onus on every body to go and rework their ads if they were just throwing in tons of keywords and crappy ads.

It's a continuous tweeking process.

One the one side, it's good that google is giving the customer better results. On the other side, it's creating a great deal of work for the thousands of advertisers.

One thing you have to say for google is that they continuously innovating and improving!

Links of people who sell Software and ebooks
Links of people who sell Software and ebooks
Links of people who sell Software and ebooks


Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I just received another product announcement in my email for Press Release Equalizer by Jeff Alderson. Jeff seems to have some pretty good products.

In the process of building up this site, I have reviewed a few hundred websites, products ebooks etc. The last thing I need is something new to learn?!!!

SO MUCH TO DO... SO LITTLE TIME
One of the main problems with internet marketing is that is it is so time consuming. On top of learning products and marketing softwares etc, you have to then go and do the work.

The press release software is good, but you have to learn it, and then you have to write the press releases! This all takes time.

THE LEARNING CURVE IS ENDLESS
Along with press releases you need to learn about:
? Keyword development
? Pay Per Click (PPC) development and management
? Website development
? SEO
? HTML writing
? Making Graphics
? Checking for people copying your content
? Products
? How to capitalize on opportunities
? and on and on... the list is endless

Another problem with owning any type of business, online or offline, is that you have to learn many different aspects of the business in order to make it work.

GET A GRIP ON THE AMOUNT OF TIME THAT IS REQUIRED
The first thing to do is realize the amount of learning you've got to do. If you're just at the starting phase of your internet marketing business, expect that you're going to have to spend alot of time in studying and set up.

SET ASIDE TIME FOR A TASK
I would recommend allocating a certain amount of hours on a certain day to a certain task. Give yourself two hours on Monday, for example, to learn and develop keywords and your pay per click system. Give yourself a half hour each day to write article(s) for your blog.

The best thing is to pace yourself and keep your expectations to a realistic level. You're not going to be able to accomplish everything you need to do all at once. Allocating time to yourself will cut down on stress and give you a sense of accomplishment.

MASTER ONE SKILL AT A TIME.
I am also seeing that mastery works the same on the internet as it does in other professions. The people that do well on the internet are those who have taken the time to master a certain form of marketing, or writing, or what ever the skill is. Since there are so many things to do to market your business on the internet, it's especially important to work at mastering one thing before moving on to another.

Of course, mastery, is easier said than done. Especially when there is a huge quantity of 'must do' marketing activities staring you in the face each day.

SAVE ON STRESS, ALLOCATE TIME FOR EACH TASK
The best thing to do is get into a quiet area, sit and plan what you need to and would like to do as far as developing your online business, and then allocate the proper amount of time to do these tasks on a weekly basis.

Good luck!

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I received this in my email today from Sandy.
I don't usually read joke emails but I thought I would read this one.
It is an interesting marketing message that I and many others are guilty of. Sometimes I find it hard to stay in touch with people.

Sometimes sending customers and prospects a cute joke is a nice and non-commital way to stay in touch. It's well appreciated by the recipient as well. I loved the concept of it when I read it and thought I should post it here for you to read.

This explains why we forward jokes.

A man and his dog were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead.

He remembered dying, and that the dog walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them.

After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble. At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight.

When he was standing before it he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the dog walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side.

When he was close enough, he called out, "Excuse me, where are we?"

"This is Heaven, sir," the man answered.

"Wow! Would you happen to have some water?" the man asked.

"Of course, sir. Come right in, and I'll have some ice water brought right up."

The man gestured, and the gate began to open.

"Can my friend," gesturing toward his dog, "come in, too?" the traveler asked.

"I'm sorry, sir, but we don't accept pets."

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his dog.

After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence.

As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book.

"Excuse me!" he called to the man. "Do you have any water?"

"Yeah, sure, there's a pump over there, come on in."

"How about my friend here?" the traveler gestured to the dog.

"There should be a bowl by the pump."

They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it.

The traveler filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then he gave some to the dog.

When they were full, he and the dog walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree.

"What do you call this place?" the traveler asked.

"This is Heaven," he answered.

"Well, that's confusing," the traveler said. "The man down the road said that was Heaven, too."

"Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That's hell."

"Doesn't it make you mad for them to use your name like that?"

"No, we're just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind."

Soooo...

Sometimes, we wonder why friends keep forwarding jokes to us without writing a word.

Maybe this will explain.

When you are very busy, but still want to keep in touch, guess what you do? You forward jokes.

When you have nothing to say, but still want to keep contact, you forward jokes.

When you have something to say, but don't know what, and don't know how, you forward jokes.

Also to let you know that you are still remembered, you are still important, you are still loved, you are still cared for, guess what you get?

A forwarded joke.

So, next time if you get a joke, don't think that you've been sent just another forwarded joke, but that you've been thought of today and your friend on the other end of your computer wanted to send you a smile.

You are all welcome @ my water bowl anytime

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
It's interesting that some of the top, most creative and experienced web marketers are starting to blog.

Greg Boser - WebGuerilla
Todd Friesen - Oilman
Mike Grehan

These guys are legendary in the SEO industry.

I'm curious as to why they've started to blog. I'm also very glad that they are blogging. They are extremely important to listen to as they have a huge amount of experience.

It's good to see this trend.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post
AT LONG LAST, IT'S HERE! - The KLT Factors ebook
I put the finishing touches on the first publishing of The KLT Factors ebook. If you haven't subscribed to our newsletter, please do so and you will receive the ebook at NO CHARGE!!

SIGN UP FOR FREE, INSTANT DOWNLOAD
CLICK HERE to send us a quick email to subscribe. Once you confirm your email address you will receive an email giving you the link to download the book.

SUBSCRIBERS GET A FREE COPY
If you have subscribed to our newsletter I have already sent you a link to the ebook via email.

THIS EBOOK IS TIMELESS AND VALUABLE
Unlike many ebooks about marketing on the internet, KLT Factors is a timeless ebook. The information will never go out of date.

I will be making references to KLT Factors more and more in my reviews so this ebook will help our readers and customers understand the standards that we're using.

PLEASE DO give me some feed back as to what you thought about the ebook in the blog comments. This will help me to refine the material for its next publishing.

I hope you enjoy The KLT Factors.

TELL YOUR FRIENDS
PS please tell your friends to come by and get their ebook. We're excited to have more and more people get to Know us, Like us, and Trust us!! ;-)

CLICK HERE to send us a quick email to get your free copy of the KLT Factors.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (2)

Link Back to This Post
? Love him or hate him, Matthew Lesko is a great self marketer. I met him in person and he is actually quite a quiet fellow. The point is, if you love him or hate him, you must know him and it proves my point that Matthew Lesko is a great self promoter.

? BL Ochman's What's Next Blogis another blog that I have started to read. I like her style. She seems to research her material well and talks about fresh new ideas for internet marketing and blog marketing.

? Buzz Marketing with Blogs by Susannah Gardner is a site with nice graphics. I love the concept of buzz marketing. Seems she's even written a book about Buzz Marketing with Blogs for Dummies. Talking, Buzz, Talking some more, More Buzz

? Jensense / Jenstar Making sense out of contextual advertising
I've met Jenstar a few times at Webmasterworld. Along with being a podium speaker at WMW she writes a down to earth blog. I always remember her saying, "don't / never click on your own adsense links"
She is pretty down to earth, and good at what she does.

? Matt Cutt's Google - SEO blog Matt Cutts who is the PR guy, industry intemediary guy for Google goes to most of the search engine conferences and has to talk about what google is doing. Needless to say that people listen to every word he says and then talk about it to death. Matt puts up a blog where he wants to talk about stuff and is VERY closely watched. It's hard to have a somewhat anonymous blog when you're Matt Cutts

? Spam Huntress The Norwegian Spam Huntress - Ann Elisabeth I have sort of mixed feelings about SpamHuntress.
My thoughts are that as long as people aren't stealing (copyright theft) or breaking the law in some fashion, marketing is marketing.

Spamhuntress seems to be pretty diligent in tracking down spammers. It's good to read her blog to see what's she's up to.
I think that people should do what they need to do (within reason) to get people to know their sites, blogs, products etc.

? Dan Janal's PR LeadsDan Janal's service is pretty unique in that he's matching up speakers and experts in their fields to reports / magazine writers who want to interview experts. The beauty of this is that PR Leads gets requests from hundreds of journalists for expert text bytes for their articles. If you are successful in having your name published in a top level publication, that is huge credibility for you and your website. This helps the "TrustRank" of your site.

? Adland DisAdinformation - Ad Rag I love blogs that talk about ads. It's refreshing to have an honest discussion about all types of ads. Let's face it, you're stuck with the ads you see on TV. Some of them are pompous / arrogant bits of expensive air filled promotion. Some ads are actually quite good. It's nice to have an honest discussion about them.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (5)

Link Back to This Post
A few weeks ago I issued an Invitation to different authors and creators of software and ebooks.

I received a few replies from my emails and post here but nothing that was earth shaking. From those replies I was able to do some good reviews of marketing ebooks . To note, I received replies back from John Stafford, Jeff Alderson and Dianna Huff.

INTERNET SALES DIFFERENT THAN TRADITIONAL SALES?
It was interesting to me that I suggested that I wanted to sell these people's products and that I would like to contact them. These website marketing software & ebook developers must get tons of these requests. In the traditional business world, the supplier always talks to their customers and answers questions directly.

In the world of internet marketing, I guess the suppliers don't have to talk to the customers. ( NOT!! )

I don't mind doing a quick review of a product, however, it seems that it's pretty difficult to do an extensive review of a product, even if I buy the ebook or software. I learned a great deal from the people that I spoke to about how they do things and how to conduct their business.

BAD SITES ARE EASY TO EVALUATE... THEY'RE JUST PLAIN BAD
What I'm finding is that it's easier to weed out the bad marketing software and ebooks than it is to do a really good in depth research and review on good products.

Another thing I'm finding is that because some of the products are so detailed, and require quite a bit of set up work , it may take a few months to review these products in any great detail.

THE PRODUCTS WORK, THEY JUST TAKE TIME AND EFFORT
From some of the ebooks I've read so far, the author suggests this technique and that technique. To really see if these techniques work, you've almost got to dedicate a few days to setting up these suggestions and then exercising them.

If there is one criticism that I see alot with regards to these "GURU" type books, it's that they don't work!. The reason that it may not seem like the technique works is because it takes hard work and may require days and months to get the momentum built up.

In reading John Stafford's book about email marketing and list development, I was overwhelmed with all of the good information he had listed. I have done some of the minor recommendations, but I haven't had the time to get into the heavy lifting suggestions. I'm still intending to do so, but this just illustrates why people may get a little disappointed with a product.

AFFILIATE SOFTWARE & EBOOK VENDORS ARE STILL WELCOME
So... the invitation is still out to every affiliate supplier who markets a website marketing software and ebook. We would like to review those here on this site, if you're interested. The invitation is still open to get your product reviewed and placed on this site.

If we review a product on this site, that's just a little more credibility for the product if we like it.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post
James Martell is reputed to use only organic search traffic for his affiliate programs. In the past, James Martell has boasted that his 90 sites make / sell $1000 per month each.

Interesting discussion I found on this topic of James Martell paying for clicks.

I would be interested to know how James Martell and other super affiliates are making out after the google update jagger fiasco.?!!

From what I've read, James Martell is pretty creative at what he does. He and his wife have built tons of websites and done really well. He has to be pretty creative to stay ahead of the curve.

What happens if half your sites get tanked by something like the google update jagger?

Does a person like James Martell then start doing pay per clicks?

I am curious to hear from anybody who may know the answer to this question. I've heard many stories which go both ways.

I'm sure that the super affiliates such as Rosalind Gardner who only do pay per clicks laughed at the other super affiliates who rely on organic search engine traffic.

It's interesting to note that an acquaintance of mine who is a prominent black hat marketer has since taken a "very white hat" job promoting other people's websites. I've heard stories of a few hard core marketers taking on regular jobs in the last year.

This just tells me that marketing on the internet is becoming more difficult by the day!!

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post
I wish I could spend as much time as I need to get this area as spiffy as I would like, however, it's going to have to be a work in progress.
See our new Product Menu

As I've mentioned, I will be adding more and more reviews, critiques etc to our catalogue of products. Then we can get into the really juicy gossip about the vendors and what they're doing etc.

If there are any website marketing products you want us to review, let us know and we'll put them on the list.

Articles from December 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
THE SCENARIO
You're trying to find some good marketing software products and ebooks and you've been looking around, trying to figure out who has what to offer.

You've seen a million websites that have these mile long sales pages and are full of hype. You're confused, and need some background on these people that are offering these hyped marketing products.

MY ANALYSIS
On my few days off, I was trying to put in perspective the products that we sell on this site. It's a part of trying to help define our customers expectations when they buy these marketing software products and ebooks.

One thing I noticed is that most, if not all, of the developers of these clickbank type products are really small companies and home based businesses.

These are not companies that have had millions of dollars of cash injection put into them. They haven't had tons of research and development dollars put into them.

These developers are people who have most likely done really well themselves on the internet and want to share their successes with other people and make a few bucks at the same time.

It's important to keep in mind that anybody who can write software that is reasonably well tested and for sale has to have a certain amount of competence. That goes for ebook developers as well. It's not particularly easy to write an ebook that is going to genuinely help the reader.

EXPERTS HAVE A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE
Being an expert and developing a product takes hours of research, study, development etc. That's why I give credit to these products.
Because the internet is such a highly fluctuating place, it's difficult to get financing from banks and venture capital companies to support the development of these one-off products.

The developers of these internet marketing software and ebooks must then finance and market the development of their products on their own. You have to give them credit for their creativeness and diligence.

That's why we thought it important to develop our review system here, to develop some standards for which to evaluate the usefulness and value of each product.

LARGE CORPORATIONS HAVE A BUDGET FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
The benefit of large corporations is that they have the resources financially and employee wise to develop all of the supporting documents and product manuals. Large corporations such as Microsoft and Symantec have customer service help desks that their customers can call in to. These companies have the budgets to develop, train and maintain these customer service departments.

SMALL COMPANIES DON'T HAVE THE INFRASTRUCTURE OR BUDGET TO MAINTAIN CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENTS
With a smaller, homebased business, the customer service department is also the developer of the product. The small business owner is usually doing his/her best to get through their daily chores.

We believe that by doing our news & reviews, we are adding value for our customers when they are shopping for internet marketing software & ebooks.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
IS SEO DEAD? HAS SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMISATION GONE BY THE WAY SIDE?
There was some chatter on the RockStars program, on WebMasterRadio.fm with 'Oilman' Todd Friesen and Greg Boser 'WebGuerilla', that people are talking about SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) being dead?!!

I don't think SEO is dead. I DO think the rules have changed quite and bit and it is worthwhile to be mindful of what the search engines want in order to get some free traffic. I love free traffic.

SUPPLEMENT SEO WITH DIRECT WEBSITE MARKETING
However, I think it's also prudent to work on developing traffic with many other types of direct, controllable marketing. This ensures that you're insulated against the whims of googles algorithm changes.

If you're developing traffic with other types of marketing methods then worry about search engines will become less and less.

I am becoming more and more excited about internet marketing as I learn all of the techniques of the people that we're reviewing. That's the great benefit of studying and learning about different types of website marketing. It's a pile of things to learn, but I've developed a whole set of new strategies that I'll be able to share with our readers.

TIME TO TAKE ON THE NEW LEARNING CURVE?
SEO is not dead. People will be getting free traffic as long as google, yahoo msn etc will be giving it away. By that definition, people need to continue making their sites appealing to their visitors as well as the search engines.

It's also important to take on the task of learning a few other ways to market your website. We'll be here along the way to help out.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
Tomorrow we should be showing a new link to show some new products by 8 new categories. I'm trying to give our readers and customers better ways to shop for software.

If you want a quick preview have a look at Website Marketing Software & Ebook Menu

As time progresses we will continue to add more and more products to fill up these categories.

WE DO SELL PRODUCTS ON THIS SITE
The purpose of review products and filtering out bad products is to help our customers find good products.

There may be some concern about our keeping objective with selling products while reviewing them. It is our intention to give solid evidence to substantiate our reviews. We will provide facts that back up our reviews which will strengthen our sales discussion even more.

Not only that, we are being pretty harsh on sites that we don't feel are solid value for our customers. It's easy to evaluate crappy no-value sites and very difficult to do good quality reviews on good products and ebooks.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Time Off, Thanksgiving, Jeff Alderson

Blog Post Date: Nov 27 2005
I am taking a few days off . I will be back on Tuesday.

In taking a few days off, I am developing some great ideas for the site.

Happy Thanksgiving weekend!

Jeff Alderson's website marketing products

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post
GOOD THINGS TAKE TIME
Wow... sometimes good things take a while to develop. After reviewing 200 websites for marketing software products and ebooks, my mind was spinning trying to categorize these websites and make them a little more black and white for our visitors.

A SOLUTION TO A COMMON PROBLEM
I think I've got a system that is pretty black and white for reviewing these mile long hype filled web pages. Although I do enjoy the hype and sales language, I found myself getting bogged down in trying to understand what the product was really supposed to do.

I'm really excited to know that a marketing software product or ebook is going to direct 58,765 visitors to my site, or make me $34,657 in 6 weeks!! I am even more excited to know what it's doing and if it's really what I want for a marketing tool.

15 CATEGORIES OF WEBSITE MARKETING PRODUCTS AND EBOOKS
After studying these sites in detail I was able to come up with approximately 15 categories that most of these products fall into. It was really great that after determining these 15 categories, my work had then become easier.

After determining these 15 categories I was able to quickly go through the list and allocate the products that we're promoting in this site to those categories. I believe that this will be greatly helpful for our customers as they will be able to shop in the categories that suit them. Not only that, the products in these categories will be reviewed, for the most part.

BETTER THAN TRYING TO FIGURE OUT A BUNCH OF COLD WEBSITES
Instead of trying to go to a bunch of 'cold' websites, they'll be able to look through our already previewed and reviewed websites to see what we're recommended.

SHOP BY CATEGORY
Example: we will have a section for all of those who are interested in marketing their sites with Newsletter, Email List and ezine products and services. (I know that this is a valuable service as it's taken me several hours and weeks to work through these sites to see what's good and what's garbage.)

It's also nice just to see a list of related products categorized in a nicely done and nicely reviewed area. I hope that our customers and friends will enjoy how we've built these categories.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (2)

Link Back to This Post
UP-TO-DATE & RELEVANT WEBSITE MARKETING PRODUCTS vs
OUT-OF-DATE & IRRELEVANT MARKETING PRODUCTS

In an attempt to give people better service and helping them find things better on our site, I have been thinking of different categories that our software and ebook products fall into.

I thought of the following categories that website marketing and software may fall into. (I'm writing this out because you may find it helpful if you're site is somewhat disorganized or doesn't follow a theme.):

ONSITE WEBSITE MARKETING & EBOOKS
Onsite marketing is what you do on your site to get people to buy your product or service. This can include Search Engine Optimisation.

    Examples:
  • Onsite content pages
  • Keyword development
  • Graphics
  • Forms
  • Sound & video etc.

These are all things that people have to be at your site to see and listen to

OFFSITE WEBSITE MARKETING & EBOOKS
Offsite are all the ways you try to get in front of your client that are not on your site. This type of marketing has nothing to do with Search Engine Optimisation.


    Examples:
  • Newsletter Emails
  • Blog Chat
  • Forum Chat
  • Banners
  • Popups
  • Links on other sites
  • Offsite Classifieds

These are offsite marketing that you do to get people to click to your site.

NEW AND RELEVANT Versus OLD AND OUTDATED
As I started to think about what's relevant and what's not relevant with regards to online and offline marketing, I started to see more categories.

The problem with advertising on the internet is that it's an ever changing market place. As I've been talking about Google Update jagger. This update changed some of the fundamental rules about SEO and website marketing.

If you've mainly concentrated on onsite marketing (as I have), some of the techniques that you used to use are now irrelevant and outdated. Some of the website marketing SEO products that have promoted these now irrelevant techniques are now old and irrelevant as well.

SOME MARKETING TECHNIQUES ARE TIMELESS
One thing that's important to remember is that some marketing techniques are timeless and will hold true no matter what's going on in the ever changing internet marketing place.

When shopping for products that will help you market your site, it's important to look for onsite and offsite marketing. You need products that are going to help you exercise the KLT Factors: helping prospects to Know you , Like you, and Trust you. While this is kind of basic, it will always hold true no matter what the internet is doing at the time.

Direct marketing, ie getting out and actively marketing to people will always stand the test of time. The more things you do off site is just as important as what you do when people visit your site.

BOTTOM LINE:
When you're shopping for internet marketing products make sure that the products or services are timely and relevant. In one ebook I reviewed, there were a bunch of out date links. Because these links made up a great deal of the value of the ebook, I felt that some of ebook was somewhat outdated, even though the bulk of the information was relevant and timely. ( I mentioned the outdated links to the author, and he subsequently updated the links making the product timely and relevant again.)

I'll be doing my best to make sure we're giving you good quality products in relevant categories in a time fashion!

Cheers

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (2)

Link Back to This Post
ClickTracks Analytics
One of the hardest things to do is admit openly when you do something dumb... Or not do something that you should have done along time ago.

Over the last 5 years, we have enjoyed some nice organic search traffic from Google MSN etc. We have never been terribly concerned about what our traffic is doing, because it's always been free and we've always had more than enough.

With google's most recent Jagger Update, they've thrown us out of our comfort level and into oblivion. We're being forced to change the way we market. our site and our products.

The first thing that came to my mind was "WE NEED TO BE DOING ANALYTICS".. We need to be analyzing what's going on on our website. We need to know our numbers if we're paying for traffic.

I installed ClickTracks Analytics and am starting to look at it. (This is where the horrified comes in). 63% of my free traffic is leaving the site without looking around any further. Not on this site, but another site that we manage. Had I have known this I could have done SO MUCH BETTER when we had the free traffic.

I am now able to see what people are doing when they're on my site. (This is where the excited comes in) . I'm glad that I have to only learn this lesson once. I am completely sold on doing using this analytics software on my sites.

Analytics tells what's happening on each page of your site. It's based on actual sendlogs or actual history of the traffic on your sites.

It tells where people are going on your site and how many are leaving. If 63% of the people are leaving after looking at the rest of my site, that tells me one BIG thing.... I need to greatly enhance that site. If I could get 50% more people to look at some of the other pages, I'm probably going to double or triple my sales on that site.

If I was paying for clicks to go to that site, I would be burning 63% of my money, because paid visitors aren't any different than free visitors.
They want value and to know that the site is credible.

CONCLUSION: If you're trying to make money on the internet and AREN'T using any type of formal analytics software, I encourage you to do so right away... Please learn from my horrible mistake.

Topic: website traffic analytic software.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I love this post about Creating Passionate Users. This is a well written blog post that talks about more important and long term methods to advertise to people than just hammering them over the head with money and advertising.

They talk about
The most important skill today is... teaching.

Whatever it is you're launching is probably not in short supply, and there's always someone who's doing it better, faster, and cheaper (or will be within weeks). Most of us authors, non-profit evangelists, indie software developers, small start-ups (the soon-to-be Fortune 5,000,000) can barely afford broadband let alone a "marketing/ad campaign". We can't hire a publicist. We aren't going to be on Oprah.

How truthful and refreshing.

Getting people to like you by adding value to them and helping them use your product better, or do something better.

Here's another great bit of wisdom

But passion requires real learning. Nobody is passionate about skiing on their first day. Nobody is passionate about programming in Java on their first day. Or week. It's virtually impossible to become passionate about something until you're somewhere up the skill/knowledge curve, where there are challenges that you believe are worth it, and that you perceive you can do.


I share these beliefs.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I thought I should write about this here as I'm starting to get some decent reviews going.

25 Ways To Grow Your E-Newsletter List

I liked her style. Dianna Huff is a B2B copywriter and indicated that she works with Fortune 500 companies. Being that she works for Fortune 500 companies she is interested in quality and credibility. She described how she wrote her book about developing a newsletter email list. She said she did so out of necessity. She researched so many ways to build a newsletter and finally got successful at it.

Dianna indicated that she has a list of 1500 high quality subscribers and doesn't want to grow it any further. Every time she sends out a newsletter she gets more business than she can handle, so she has to be careful at this point. (A nice problem to have)

She mentioned that her techniques are for new newsletter list developers who want a high quality lists and not huge spammy lists.

I like the concept, I like her low-hype approach and I got a good feeling from talking to her on the phone.

Check it out...25 Ways To Grow Your E-Newsletter List

See more RECOMMENDED PRODUCT reviews:

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post

Blog

Blog Post Date: Nov 17 2005
I'm interested to know what's going on a WMW pubcon because I'm not there this time around.

Check out this blog and this blog as the writers are in Las Vegas at WebMasterWorld, in person.

I learned so much from going to WMW, it's taken me six months to implement what I've learned!!

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (3)

Link Back to This Post

Internet, Yahoo, Google, Net, Free

Blog Post Date: Nov 17 2005
From what I hear, the response to Google Analytics is so good that google's servers are not able to handle the load.

Google has says that they would take 12 hours for them to have initial data reported. It's been alot longer than 12 hours, and my data is not reported. No biggie.

What was google thinking.. Understandably Google's trying to pull out all of the stops to compete with Microsoft and Yahoo. They're giving a feature rich service away for free. Of course their servers are going to be jammed.

As is the way of the internet, I'll just wait and see what happens.

UPDATE: It's now 36 hours later and google analytics is not up and running. Hmmm...

I think Google wasn't anticipating the response.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
I just visited 1clickpromotion as I was searching for sites which do viral marketing.

I quickly read the page and then scrolled down to the bottom. I clicked the buy now button and paypal gave an error message that said,
"Error Detected
This recipient is currently unable to receive money. "


That's not something you see every day!.

I then checked Alexa to see there were any reviews on this site: This was even more interesting: Alexa Review 1clickpromotion.

This wasn't pretty at all. This is an example of a bad website that is dishonest, gave horrible customer service and was shut down.

This site is provided by: Micky Multani - 1clickpromotion.com
DON'T BUY FROM THIS GUY!!

Visit our Marketing Blog

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post
I've read some reviews about products that I am reviewing and promoting on this site. I often hear about people who are disgruntled because the information they read in the ebook can be readily available on the internet.

Well... Yes... Of course.... the information is available on the internet. Which information isn't available on the internet?

Sometimes you have to spend hours searching for that FREE information. I've spent hundreds of hours researching free material on the internet. If my time is worth... say $10 per hour and I spend 10 hours looking for free information that is available in a $35 book, you're losing money. You've spent $100 of time when you could have purchased the ebook for $35 and spent the 10 hours learning even more and marketing your products.

The other problem: Some people are experienced senior marketers. They're buying books that are intended for junior marketers. Then they complain because the information is too light.

DO EBOOKS HAVE PAY BACK AMOUNTS?
Let's do some more math... If a junior marketer some spends $100 to buy an ebook that explains 25 ways to market a product for free that they haven't heard about, then that's good value.

If the junior marketer was going to spend 20? per click to get people to his site, and instead he practices the free way to get traffic, he would need to generate $100 (paid for the book) /20? (saved from not using PPC's) = 500 visits to his site using the free methods to get traffic to his site.

If a junior marketer is serious enough about using the free marketing methods described in the book, I'm sure that most people are going to get those 500 visitors for free over time using the free methods.

If the junior marketer is diligent with these methods over 6 months to a year, he's going to much more than make back his investment.

FREE VIRAL MARKETING SYSTEMS
I use different viral sites like WebBizInsider and AdLandPro Viral Community I don't get paid if you sign up for these, but I do get free traffic. People seeing my site for FREE!

You can find these on http://www.express-marketing.com/viral-marketing.html

These sites are free, and of course you can pay for stuff, if you want.
These are simple sites that you probably would find people complaining about the free traffic. With webbizinsider, I've had 150,000 people see my site at least. It may not be the best, most high quality traffic in the world, however, it's free and it's another way for people to get to know my site.

So, people can complain all they want. The idea behind marketing is to get free traffic and paid traffic. They do the same in offline marketing. Publicity departments strive for free advertising all the time. Richard Branson owner of the Virgin Brand is genious at getting publicity.

So... if you're just starting out.. you have to make a decision on how much you can afford to buy in ebooks etc. I would recommend buying some website marketing ebooks coupled with surfing the net for free information.

If you're a senior marketer, stop complaining about some of the ebooks available. If somebody has written a 165 page manual and sells it for $97, I think the junior marketer will have spent his money well if he learns enough techniques to save himself $98 in PPC's or other cash costs.

CONTENT OR INFORMATION IS NEVER FREE!
Remember... there is never anything done for free in business. Free internet content costs money to produce in man hours. Publicity costs money in the implementation stage. The costs of "free" content has to be paid for some how. My feeling is that companies won't give out free information unless they're going to make their money back.

(There you go.. I've spent 20 minutes writing this FREE blog post. Now I've got to sell 3 products to pay for my time !!)

Cheers.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post

Market, Marketing, Plugging

Blog Post Date: Nov 16 2005
Oh My Goodness. it's -29c this morning.

snowy trees in Regina, Saskatchewan Canada


I thought I would throw this picture in. It's hard to see the trees. The frost is 1/8" thick on the tree's branches. It's a really nice site.

HAVE YOU EVER HAD TO PLUG YOUR CAR IN?
That's pretty cold. I'm sure the folks in the southern U.S. have never had to plug their car in?!!! Plugging your car in means that it's so cold you have a heater that keeps your car engine warm enough to start in the morning.

I'm going to have to plug my car in if it stays this cold!

Also the frost is so thick on the windshield that I have a hard time scraping the windshield. We get frost on the windshield, however, when it gets really cold the frost seems to be glued on the windshield.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (2)

Link Back to This Post
I spent some time reviewing Stephan Ducharmes www.moneyhome.com - 1 million visitors
Stephan Ducharme also runs www.freeadguru.com - Stephan ducharme free ad guru

There seem to be quite a few high pressure ads and mostly negative reviews when I research this product.

I found these reviews
1 million visitor review - stephan ducharme

Stephan Ducharme Review on Alexa

The question is: it looks like he's getting some reasonable traffic to his site. Is anybody who is working with his systems getting the results that he asked for?

Sometimes people who write negative reviews are those who are competitors, or lazy people don't want to spend the time working systems.

Have you had success with Stephan Ducharme's systems. Do you know anybody who's had success with his systems?

Personally I've been on the internet for a few years. Getting a million hits by just working the FREE methods to get traffic is a huge amount of work. My impression is that you'd have to hire people to work enough free systems to get that much traffic. All of a sudden, that's not free any more!

I'm interested to hear from anybody who has used Stephan Ducharme's system and had no success with it or good success with it.

Articles from November 2006
More articles from Year 2006


Comments (1)

Link Back to This Post

Google, Traffic, Free

Blog Post Date: Nov 15 2005
Google Analytics
Google has published their Urchin analytics software and is giving it away for free. If not temporarily.

Google Analytics will tell you about the traffic on your site and what people are doing while they're on your site.

I'm pretty excited to try this out.

If you don't already have an analytic tool in place that you're subscribed to, I would recommend checking this out.

Google Analytics is now published - for FREE!

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post


I needed a little afternoon levity. That's the ultimate challenge for website marketing is to get in front of tough prospects. I saw this picture of cowboys, who probably don't like computers, out in the middle of nowhere. That's a good marketing challenge to sell these cowpokes on the internet.


Regarding the KLT Factors... I hammered out approximately 10 pages today. I'm excited about the new information. It's hard to say how long it's going to take to finish this ebook. There's so much to talk about and only so many hours in the day. The concept is making even more sense to me as I am getting the information into my MS Word doc.

Just remember: There are only three reasons why people buy from you. Those are the KLT Factors....

Stay tuned.

Articles from November 2005
More articles from Year 2005


Comments (0)

Link Back to This Post
KLT Factors

DEVELOPING AND EASY STANDARD TO UNDERSTAND ADVERTISING
I've been working for several months to come up with a way to document and categorize my advertising experience into a method to communicate what I know with my readers. In effect I'm trying to develop some easy to understand standards.

After thi