How to Start a Web Agency

Web Agencies are used by many companies, and are considered to be a somewhat cheaper form of advertising. They can also serve various other purposes, from delivering the company’s brand message to providing customer support services.  Web agencies typically specialize in services such as email marketing, web designing, micro sites, banner advertising and even optimization for search engines.  The process of starting a web agency is largely the same as forming any other business, with the exception of a few special considerations.

Things You'll Need:

• Internet Access

Step 1:

Hire a web developer who can develop a website for your web agency. Come up with a name for your site. Use a name or company tag line that identifies the services offered to potential clients.

Step 2:

Take time to consider the services which you want to offer the consumers. You can allow the clients to choose their selected fields such as demographics, geography, art, health, lifestyle and so on. Wider coverage means better business in the end. Also allowing capability to have an online magazine which can be referred to as Ezine can enable clients to draw traffic to the sites they make.

Step 3:

One of the most important services that should be implemented when creating a Web Agency is the Search Engine Optimization or SEO for short.  This enables the clients sites to be recognized with the aid of keywords .For example If the client is trying to sell a product related to medicine the search engine will take key words from it and implement it to their database, so potential customers can see the site when searching for such items.

Step 4:

Advertisements can be added to the Agency website as well, and this will help divert web traffic to the client’s website. The Web developer software gives several options to choose, such as adds which pop up, or pop under, ads which float and the famous banner ads and side bar ads all which help spice things up in the website.

Step 5:

Last but not least, after the site is made, it should be promoted in such a way that people can find it and easily access it, which is done by doing some of the techniques mentioned above as well as typing articles and newsletters giving descriptions about the site and what it contains.


References:

• Quick on the Net: How Does it Work?

How to Become a Puerto Rican Travel Agent

Travel  agents are a lifeline for many travelers. Agents can wade through the various rates of different airlines and hotels to create a customized travel package that makes the most of your vacation  budget. Because it is a popular tourist destination, Puerto Rico offers a lot of travel opportunities, and by extension, creates opportunity for travel agents.

Things You'll Need:

• Degree in Travel and Tourism

Step 1:

Learn about Puerto Rico. If you are a travel agent who is relocating to the area, take the time to familiarize yourself with the island. Research the Internet for articles and read about the island's attractions. Get to know Puerto Rico through the eyes of the locals. There are many things that only a native would know. Hire the services of a local travel agent and enjoy a guided tour. This will give you an idea of the competition as well as what a tourist would want.

Step 2:

Get practical job experience before relocating to Puerto Rico. Work part-time or full-time in a travel agency where you currently live. This will give you an idea of what to expect if you decide to follow a career in the industry. If you are not qualified to be an agent, then take any job in the office, which would offer a great opportunity to learn from professionals in the office.

Step 3:

Earn a degree in travel and tourism. The University of Puerto Rico at San Juan has a program for travel and tourism, as does the University of the Sacred Heart in Santurce. You also will increase your chances of becoming a Puerto Rican travel agent if you have been employed as a travel agent in an agency endorsed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or the International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN). Membership in these organizations brings legitimacy to your experience.

Step 4:

Learn to speak Spanish. Spanish is the national language of Puerto Rico. Being able to communicate with those who do not speak Spanish will help you to become a travel agent in Puerto Rico.

Step 5:

Obtain the proper work visas. Citizens of Puerto Rico and the United States do not need to apply for a tourist or work visa. However, citizens from other countries might need the proper visa. An American citizen needs only to provide proof of identification to enter the island. If a visa is required, make sure you get the right one. A travel/tourist visa only allows you to enter Puerto Rico, whereas a work visa will allow you to both enter the country and find employment.


References:

• Travel Agent Academy: Puerto Rico 
• Top Puerto Rico: Tourist Information 

Resources:

• International Air Transport Association
• International Airline Travel Agent Network 

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How to Run Word 2002 on Windows XP

Windows XP is a popular version of the Windows operating system. The operating system is no longer sold and has been replaced with Windows Vista and Windows 7. Despite the fact that it is no longer on the market, Windows XP is still installed on many computers  that were on the market prior to this decision. Chances are that you will encounter this operating system on a regular basis. When you do, it may help to understand how to run your standard software on Windows XP, such as Word 2002 or other Office software programs.

Things You'll Need:

• Microsoft Windows XP
• Microsoft Word 2002

Step 1:

Download the Microsoft update patch (see Resources) that will allow you to install Word 2002 on Windows XP. The Windows XP operating system requires a manual approach for the necessary update.

Step 2:

Open the package once it has been downloaded. Begin the installation wizard. Select the express option because it contains all the necessary upgrades for the update. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update installation.

Step 3:

Go to the Microsoft website and download the Windows XP compatibility pack for Word 2002. (See Resources.) Open and install the compatibility pack so that your Windows XP operating system will be prepared for the programming in Word 2002.

Step 4:

Insert your Microsoft Office 2002 CD and install the software. Restart the computer once installation is complete. You can now open and use Word 2002 without restriction.


Tips:

Check the Microsoft website frequently for newer version releases to both the Windows operating system and Microsoft Word.


References:

• Microsoft Support: How to install the Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack so that you can use earlier versions of Excel, PowerPoint, and Word to open and to save files from 2007 Office programs or from from 2010 Office programs 

Resources:

• Microsoft Update 
• Microsoft: Microsoft Compatibility Pack

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How to Prime a Heating Oil Tank

Priming a heating oil tank is done when oil in the tank is depleted. If the tank has been allowed to burn itself out, there will be no oil in the fuel lines to restart the system. In this case, priming is used to get the flow of oil started so that the heater can restart. The process is not difficult by following a few basic steps, but caution should be exercised at all stages.

Things You'll Need:

• Box end wrench set
• Bucket
• Scrap cloth

Step 1:

Find the bleeder port. This generally is found above a return or bypass valve. Use a wrench to loosen the bleeder port. Once loose, oil will seep out through the bypass. Use a bucket to collect the oil.

Step 2:

Turn on the power to the oil burner. Oil should begin spraying into the bucket. Once the oil flow is steady, the oil burner should be shut off. This takes about 30 seconds. If there is no flow, press the reset button and try again.

Step 3:

Allow the tank and heating system to stand for several minutes, then start the oil burner. Burning should begin immediately. Check to make sure there is a consistent flame inside the heating system. Use the control valves to increase or decrease the flow.


Tips:

Oil leaks can be cleaned with special cloths and kitty litter.

Warnings:

When maintaining an oil tank, it is important that the oil tank does not run lower than 1/8th of its volume. When a tank runs dry, impurities may gather and block outlets in the system.


References:

• Jim Kerns Heating: How to Prime an Oil Burner if the Oil Tank Ran Dry

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How to Become a Dirt Bike Parts Dealer

A dirt bike is a lightweight, off-road  motorcycle, built with a strong frame, exceptional tires, and solid suspension to suit all kinds of terrain. Though dirt bikes are designed to be sturdy, their parts are vulnerable to wear and tear, as with any type of motorcycle. Hence they need frequent replacement parts. Dirt bike parts are in great demand nowadays because of the popularity of the bike. Anyone can become a distributor of dirt bike parts if he knows the design elements of different dirt bike models and the mode of operating the business.

Things You'll Need:

• Start-Up Capital

Step 1:

Search for suppliers. Find the best dirt bike parts manufacturers in the country or abroad. Do an extensive search for manufacturers on the Internet. Inquire about leads from your friends and other business people. When you search for dirt bike manufacturers, check whether they provide top-quality company and off-brand parts. Besides determining that it makes top-quality parts, you must also check with the manufacturer to be sure it produces dirt-bike parts that the customers need.

Step 2:

Shop for financing. To become a distributor of dirt bike parts, you need to have enough money to start the business. It should not be a stumbling block because there are various means to get the money you need. A bank loan is a great source of funding. You will need to provide a solid business plan and an estimate of the possible financial returns from the business to get the loan. However, if you wish to avoid all formalities of bank loans, there are many private finance companies that are willing to offer finance for small business operations.

Step 3:

Study the various parts of different dirt bike models. As a dirt bike parts distributor, you should know about the various parts of the motorcycle and which part is needed the most and how to obtain it quickly.

Step 4:

Communicate effectively. The most crucial thing a distributor should possess is excellent communication skills. Since the field of distribution encompasses buying and selling, you need good negotiation skills, a nose to sniff out the next "hot" dirt bike part and keen salesmanship. You should sell the product at an attractive price without sacrificing profits. For this, buy the parts from companies that sell at reasonably low prices and resell them at a higher price to make a good profit.

Step 5:

Advertise your business. Once you open your shop, make sure people know about you. Place ads with your address in sports magazines and online directories. You can even have your own blog. This will encourage dirt-bike lovers to communicate with one another and to buy their spares from you.


References:

• Entrepreneur: How to Start a Distribution Business 
• BTO Sports: Dirt Bike Parts
• Street Racer Parts: Motorcycle Parts and Accessories: Become a Dealer

Resources:

• HJ Ventures International: Starting a Motorcycle Dealers Business

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How to Test Gold Purity with a Scratch Test

The value of gold depends on two factors; how much the gold weighs and how pure it is. The science of measuring the purity of gold is assaying. Professional assayers typically use specialized laboratory equipment  to certify the purity of gold down to the number of micro-particles. While this is not practical for the average person to do on their own, some methods will give a more general measure of the purity. One such method is to perform a scratch test, which will allow you to verify how many carats the gold is.

Things You'll Need:

• Touchstone
• Testing Keys
• Testing Solution

Step 1:

Visually inspect the gold. Look for any stamps or other markings that will identify the purity of the gold, particularly if the item is a piece of jewelry. Although these stamps are not always accurate, they will give you a good early indication of what you are working with so that you can narrow the number of testing keys you use.

Step 2:

Scratch the source gold on the touchstone. Find an obscure place on the item so that scratches will not be immediately evident. Press down firmly and rub the gold back and forth several times, so that the gold is scratched against the surface of the stone.

Step 3:

Scratch the test keys on the touchstone. Select two or three testing keys that you feel are probable matches for the source gold. Firmly scratch each key on the touchstone in an area near the scratch of the source gold. Remember which scratch belongs to which testing key.

Step 4:

Drip one to two drops of testing solution onto the scratch test area. Note that the scratches begin to change colors, with each degree of purity being a different color.

Step 5:

Look at the color of the scratches. Compare the color of each scratch to the color of each tuning key. Matching the color of the scratch with the color of the key will tell you that the source gold is the same purity as the key that made that particular scratch. 


Tips:

Using a scratch test is not a scientific measurement of purity. It is, however, an accurate assessment for on-the-spot verification of gold purity.


References:

• Ruby Lane: Precious Metal Testing: A Beginner's Guide
• Shore International Corporation: Instructions for Scratch Testing Gold, Platinum and Silver

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How to Put on Link Style Tire Snow Chains

Roads can become slippery quickly in snowy conditions. These driving conditions often result in accidents and in vehicles  being stranded and unable to move. Driving in snow and ice requires special precautions, one of which is to use snow chains on your car tires. Snow chains, which are also called tire chains, are attached to the tires of a vehicle in order to increase traction in snowy conditions. Installing link type snow chains requires practice and patience.

Things You'll Need:

• Link type snow chains

Step 1:

Park the vehicle in a level area, ensuring that there is enough space around the vehicle to lay out your snow chains and tools. Make sure that the engine is off and the emergency brake has been applied. 

Step 2:

Lay out the chains on the ground, rolled out in front of the tire they will be installed on. Put them on the front tires for front wheel drive vehicles, and on the back tires for rear wheel drive. Make sure that the beginning of the chain is in contact with the tires and that the chain is laid out in a straight path for the tire to roll onto.

Step 3:

Drive the vehicle slowly and carefully onto the chains. If possible, have someone to guide you while you drive over the chains to ensure that you have centered the tire over the chain. Turn the engine off and reapply the emergency brake.

Step 4:

Connect the chains. Pull the chain ends over the top of the tire from both ends so that the two ends meet. Fasten the closing mechanism and ensure it's properly closed. It is normal for the chains to have a relaxed fit, as long as they are snug enough not to fall off the tire. Repeat this process on each tire.


Tips:

Use snow chains only when driving on roads that have a substantial amount of snow and ice. Using chains directly on asphalt will chop up the road and cause it to deteriorate quickly, and the chains will wear out more quickly.


References:

• 4x4 Now: Get a Grip in the Snow 
• Edmunds: How to Install Snow Chains

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How to Resize Images with Kodak EasyShare

Kodak EasyShare is a software program that allows your digital camera to easily share information with your personal computer. EasyShare allows you to connect these devices via USB connection, then to transfer files, such as photos, from one device to another. Also, a number of photo-editing options are built right into the EasyShare software, such as the ability to crop or re-size an image. Using Kodak EasyShare is relatively user-friendly, once you have familiarized yourself with its layout.

Things You'll Need:

• Kodak EasyShare Camera

Step 1:

Select the menu option on your digital camera. Scroll to the "Picture Size" option or the equivalent on the camera. The following resolutions should be available: "4:3," "3:2" and "16:9." Each resolution can be set to be taken at a certain megapixel rating. The pixel rating determines the clarity and quality of the image. A higher megapixel value will give a clearer image, while lower megapixels will make smaller-sized images that can be easily stored.

Step 2:

Transfer the images from the camera to the computer. Connect the camera to the computer via USB cable, or remove the memory card from the camera and insert it into a card reader on your computer. Drag and drop the pictures into a folder in your computer. The files must reside on the computer before EasyShare can locate them. The program is compatible with Kodak and several other brands of cameras.

Step 3:

Select and save your desired resolution. Open EasyShare and add the pictures you wish to alter. Add them by dragging and dropping them into the main window. Select the image and (using the re-size option) the level of scaling required. The scaling option reduces the image to 75, 50, and 25 percent of its original size. However, the scaling option only allows reductions in size.

Step 4:

Select the location you wish the file to be stored and select the "Save" option. This relocates the altered file to a folder of your choice.


Tips:

Kodak EasyShare also allows you to perform scrap-booking features on your photographs, such as adding captions or speech balloons.

Other options available via EasyShare include printing at home, ordering prints online and emailing. A thoroughly indexed help feature in the program assists you with any issues you may encounter while using the software.


References:

• Kodak EasyShare Software 

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How to Get More Followers on Twitter

Twitter is a microblogging network  that allows users to post status updates about where they are, what they are doing or just random thoughts that cross their minds as the day goes by. The site utilizes a message structure that is similar to an SMS text message, with the length being limited to 140 characters.

The key to successful "tweeting" on Twitter is to build a large follower base. The more followers you have, the more likely it is that someone will see and respond to your messages. A simple and direct strategy will help you get more followers on Twitter.

Things You'll Need:

• Twitter Account 

Step 1:

Sign into your Twitter account and click the "Profile" link at the top of the page. Look over your profile to make sure everything has been completed. You also should upload a profile picture and make sure you've filled out the bio section. If you need to do either of these things, click the "Settings" link at the top of the page to complete your profile. Consider altering the font or background color of your profile to give it a more individual style. Express yourself! Twitter users tend to gravitate towards completed profiles that show you are a person and not a bot.

Step 2:

Look over the main body of your profile page to ensure that you have an ample number of tweets. Twitter will display up to 20 tweets before adding a "More" button. Have at least 20 tweets and make sure that the newest one is from today. This shows potential followers that you are active on Twitter.

Step 3:

Find a member who is active in follow-back circles. Click the "Home" link at the top of the page. Scroll down until you see the search bar on the right side. Type either "#followback" or "#teamfollowback" into the search bar and press "Enter." Look over the people who have recently used the hashtag you searched for and click on one.

Step 4:

Click the "Follow" button to follow this user, then click the "List" link on their profile. Look for lists that identify people who follow back. Click one of these lists to open it, then click the "Following" link to display a list of everyone on the list. Results will be broken up into segments of 20 users per page.

Step 5:

Scroll down the list, clicking the "Follow" button next to each profile. Skip over any users who are tweeting in a foreign language. Also, skip users with a padlock icon, as these will require manual verification. Continue following members in this manner until you have followed several hundred new members. Twitter allows you to follow up to 1,000 members per day but it's generally a good idea to stay a few hundred members below this ceiling.

Step 6:

Wait a minimum of 24 hours. It will take up to a day for some members to follow you back. Be patient and give them time to respond. Many of the individuals you are following may be members of automated follow-back programs that only run once per day. Allow at least a day and you will see a noticeable increase in the number of your followers.

Step 7:

Go to the "Manage Flitter" website using the link provided in the Resources section below and sign in using your Twitter login. This site will process the list of people you follow and the people who follow you on Twitter. It will run a comparative analysis and generate a list of people that you follow but who do not follow you back. Check the box to select everyone on the list and then click "Unfollow." Log out from the Manage Flitter website. Over the next several minutes, your Twitter account will unfollow these users, leaving room for you to follow others.

Step 8:

Begin looking for a new follow-back list so that you can follow an entirely new group of people. The more people you follow, the more that will follow you back. Continuing this process will allow you to build a Twitter account with a substantial number of followers in a very short time.


Tips:

Although this process will work  as described, Twitter does not like it if you are following and unfollowing a large number of accounts. Try not to follow more than 600 new people at once and break your unfollows into increments of 250 or less during any 24 hour period.

References:

• Twitter: About Twitter 
• Manage Flitter: Welcome to a New Way to Manage Twitter 
• Social Mouths: How to Get Twitter Followers Without Using a Mass Follow Tool 
• Nick Marks: How to Get 1,500 Twitter Followers in 30 Days

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How to Use Jumper Cables on a Dead Battery

Anyone who drives a car  will face a dead battery sooner or later. Whether you forgot to turn off the headlights, or the battery has just been stressed by cold whether, a dead battery is one of the most basic maintenance issues a car  owner will face. The most common method of dealing with a dead car battery is to give the battery a "jump start". This method delivers an initial charge with jumper cables to get the car started, then the battery will be recharged by the alternator as the engine runs. The process of jump-starting a dead car battery is very simple as long as a few basic steps are adhered to.

Things You'll Need:

• Car with a charged battery

Step 1:

Position the car with the working battery near the car with a dead battery. Make sure that the running car is parked facing the car with the dead battery as much as possible or if the car batteries are off to one side of the engine, have those sides of the cars next to each other, since jumper cables have a limited length. Turn off the ignition of both vehicles and turn off all electronic devices, such as the radio, lights and air conditioner.

Step 2:

Connect one end of the positive jumper cable to the positive battery post on the car with the dead battery. The positive cable is identified by having red clamps. The positive battery terminal will be marked with "+," and usually has a red cable connected to it. Connect the other end of the positive battery cable to the positive terminal on the car with a good battery. To connect the cables, simply clip the clamp onto the terminal.

Step 3:

Connect one end of the negative jumper cable to an unpainted, clean metal surface under the hood of the car with the dead battery.

Step 4:

Start the car with the good battery. Rev the engine several times to help produce more electrical charge for the other car's battery. Start the car with the dead battery. You may have to try a couple of times before the engine turns over. If it won't turn over initially, give it a few more minutes to allow it a chance to charge some more.

Step 5:

Disconnect the jumper cables. Disconnect the cables in the reverse order that they were connected. Remove the black, negative cables first, then the red, positive cables.

Step 6:

Allow the car with the jumped battery to continue running for at least 30 minutes. As the car runs, the electric charge in the battery will be revitalized. Take the car for a brief drive on the highway to assist this process.

Tips:

Jumping a car battery is a last resort option. Try to properly charge or replace the battery in advance before a jump is required.

Warnings:

Do not allow the black and red clamps of the jumper cables to come into contact with each other if the other ends are connected to a battery.

Do not connect the negative cable to the negative post of the dead battery. This will minimize the risk of an explosion. 

References:

• Car Buying Tips: How to Jump Start a Car
• Art of Manliness: How to Jump Start a Car

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How to Retrieve Keys from a Locked Car

At some point, most of us lock our keys inside the car. It can be a frustrating and embarrassing experience. Fortunately, a number of options are available to help remedy the situation if you lock your keys in your car, and they don't involve calling an expensive locksmith service. The important thing is to always have a backup plan.

Things You'll Need:

• Spare Key

Step 1:

Have spare keys made at a nearby hardware or home improvement store. Keep one key where you know you'll always be able to find it, and other keys with trusted family members and friends. You can always call one of them if you lock your keys in your car. 

Step 2:

Consider hiding a copy of the spare key in a magnetic "Hide-a-Key" case. These are usually available wherever you have keys made. The case is used to hide a set of keys under the car by sticking the magnetic box onto any metal component. Choose a location that is difficult to see, but that you can easily remember.

Step 3:

Find out if your insurance company offers a lock-out service, where it keeps a copy of your key that can be delivered when needed.

Step 4:

Ask the police for help. Most police departments have tools, such as a "slim jim," that can reach the inner mechanics of the door to pop the lock. The best part of seeking help from the police is that the help is free and safe.

Tips:

If your vehicle has the OnStar security service, you can remotely unlock the car doors by calling OnStar on the telephone.

References:

• Cars for Girls: Locked Out: 7 Ways to Retrieve Your Car Keys

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How to Start a Linen Exporting Business

Starting an export business  can be a lucrative endeavor. By shipping products to other countries, you can reach new consumer markets that have not yet been saturated by the competition. Many people assume that opening an export business  is a complicated process. While this is certainly true in some circumstances, it largely depends on what items you intend to export. Linen is not consumable, perishable or hazardous. As such, it is not subject to many special regulations that other materials must follow, making it relatively easy to start a linen export business.

Things You'll Need:

• Linen Suppliers
• Shipping Partners
• Receiving Agents

Step 1:

Register a company to operate under, before you begin operating a linen export business. This gives you a legal business identity, and also registers you in the system for purposes of paying sales tax and any applicable employment taxes. If you are the single owner of the business, then an S-Corp is the standard structure to use, since it allows owners to carry business losses as a deduction on their personal income tax returns. If the business is being established as a partnership with two or more individuals, then a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is often the preferred corporate structure to use. If you will be receiving goods overseas via your own overseas import company, then that business will need to be registered separately. 

Step 2:

Establish a supply chain for the linen products you wish to sell, of which there are many varieties. Raw fabric, bathroom linens and garments are just a few categories of linens that you may expect to sell. Determine which types of products you will offer and establish accounts with wholesale outlets that deal in those products. There are many wholesale companies that specialize in linens and textiles. Open an account with these vendors and acquire any product catalogs they offer. As you receive orders, you can purchase them from the wholesaler at significantly reduced rates, allowing you to profit on the sale and shipment of the items.

Step 3:

Research the port where your linens will be shipped and come up with a plan for how the items will be received. Establish a receiving agent who will be responsible for receiving the linens you ship, and properly storing them until they can be collected and distributed to retailers.

There are two primary options available when choosing a receiving agent. The first option is to rent a small amount of warehouse space and hire your own overseas staff to pick up the linens, warehouse them and deliver them to customers. This option retains the most profit, but also has the highest overhead. The second option is to simply sell items to established receiving agents who have their own retail customers. In this case, you will be selling the linens at a slightly lower rate, but you have no costs involved other than the price of shipping the linens. Many exporters like to use a combination of the two.

Step 4:

Select your shipping methods. The best method for shipping your linens depends on the destination city. One method may be the only option available in a particular location, or may be the most economical choice. There are two primary options you can use for shipping large quantities of linen.

The first is to use airline transportation to ship the items. Almost all airports have a special section for cargo shipping, and visiting this location will give you more specific rates for shipping linens from your location to your destination city. If you choose the flight distribution method, you will need to pack the linens into boxes, which can be loaded onto pallets and shrink wrapped.

The second option is to make use of cargo shipping containers, shipped over the sea to arrive at the destination city. This method of shipping is slower than flying, but is much less expensive. It is also open to a wider range of distribution ports, particularly on islands or in coastal regions where airports are not common.

Tips:

Using an online catalog to accept orders via the Internet. Preselling linen in this manner will help you clear inventory much faster.

References:

• Lawyers.com: Taxation: Net Operating Loss Carryback and Carryforward Rules
• Foreign Trade: How to Start Your Own Import and Export Business at Home
• Entrepreneur: How to Start an Import/Export Business

Resources:

• Wholesale Linen Supply 
• Linen Company 
• Jersey Towel Supply  

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How to Become a Private Stock Broker

Becoming a private stock broker can be a lucrative career  choice for those who successfully forecast stock markets. Being a broker brings a great deal of responsibility, because others are trusting you to turn their savings  into more money. The broker profession requires a keen understanding of finance and economics, as well as the ability to follow some specific steps in order to succeed in the trading business.

Things You'll Need:

• BS Degree in Finance or Economics

Step 1:

Begin in high school by taking mathematics and economics courses. Being a successful private broker requires years of practice that allow one to develop insights into how the markets operate under various conditions. Starting at an early age provides more time for these skills to develop. Join your high school's investment club, if one is available. Use pretend money noted on paper to practice different investment strategies. These activities will help develop the skills you will need as a private broker.

Step 2:

Obtain a college degree. Most private brokers obtain a degree in finance or economics. A Bachelor of Science degree is common, although staying long enough to obtain a Master's degree will make a significant difference in the amount of money you will earn in a post-graduate world. Those who wish to entertain corporate clients might also wish to obtain a secondary degree in business administration.

Step 3:

Obtain proper licensing to conduct business as a private broker. The first step is to pass the General Securities Registered Representative Exam. More commonly referred to as the Series 7 exam, this test is administered by the National Association of Securities Dealers, and is required to be employed as a broker anywhere in the United States. Many individual states will require additional credentials. To meet the criteria of these locations, you will also need to pass the Uniform Security Agents State Law Exam, also known as the Series 63 exam, and the Uniform Investment Advisor Law Exam, also know as the Series 65 exam.

Step 4:

Apply to a brokerage house to build experience and clientele. Brokerage houses often hire large numbers of recent graduates with the expectation that many of them will not last more than a year under the pressure of the job. Working for a brokerage house allows you to use name recognition to build a portfolio of clients. It also gives you real-world working experience that will help prepare you for any exams that are required to obtain additional accreditation.

Step 5:

Start a private practice. After working at a brokerage house, you will eventually reach a point where you have learned the skills that are required to operate independently. Reach out to the clients and contacts that you have made while working at other companies, inviting them to look over your new practice. Operating your own private practice allows you to continue offering the same brokerage services to clients, with the primary difference being that you will keep a full portion of the trading profits rather than being paid a commission from another brokerage house.

Tips:

Being a successful private broker largely boils down to being a good salesman. You first must sell yourself and your abilities to a client, and then sell them on the idea of the stocks in which you are interested.

References:

• All About Stock Market: Become a Stock Broker 
• American Investment Training: Become a Stock Broker: Career Information for Advisors and Brokers 

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How to Make Money Online with HYIP

HYIP stands for High Yield Investment  Program. These investment opportunities provide investors with the ability to earn incredibly high returns in a short period of time. The downside is that they also carry a substantial risk, so it is easier to lose your money with HYIP than with other investment options. For those who take the time to formulate an investment strategy, it is possible to make enough money with HYIP to offset any potential losses. Following a few basic tips will help you minimize your risk.

Materials:

• Investment Funds 

Step 1:

Learn the risks associated with HYIP. These high yield programs have the ability to generate exceptional returns, but only because the risk of loss is great. Knowing, understanding, and accepting the risks is a fundamental step when getting involved with HYIP.

Step 2:

Set a budget for investing in HYIP. Many people regard HYIP investments as a form of gambling, and approach the investment with a similar strategy. Determine how much money you can realistically afford to lose, and never place any more than this at risk. In addition to setting an overall investment budget, many people like to establish "stop limits" as well, which means that when your profits reach a specific plateau, you will take down all of your investments and profits.

Step 3:

Get in early. Most HYIP programs have a short life. Many of them go out of business within the first 6 to 8 months, and it is rare to find one that has been around longer than 18 months. These are short term opportunities, so it is important to invest at an early stage, when the program first launches, and to remove your money prior to the opportunity dissolving. This also makes it important to constantly research which new programs are opening.

Step 4:

Diversify your investments. With HYIP being such a volatile investment, it is important to spread your investment capital around. Placing all of your investment dollars into one HYIP programs puts you at risk of losing all of your investment at once. Having the money distributed across several HYIPs will increase the likelihood that sustainable programs will offset the ones that close.

Step 5:

Compound the interest. One of the ways people build up large balances in HYIP is by compounding their interest. These programs pay out daily interest payments, but allow members the option of automatically depositing the interest into their account. Compounding the interest early on will help you build up a large balance, so that even after your original investment is withdrawn, you will still have funds in the program paying you dividends every day.

Warning:

HYIP is a risky investment strategy. Never risk money that you can't afford to lose.

References:

• HYIP News: How to Find a Good Program 
• Safe Investment: HYIP Investment Rules to Keep Your Money Safe

Resources:

• Reliable HYIP Investments Blog 

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How to Start a Vitamin Shop

A vitamin shop is an ideal business  for many people. Rather than selling products that are unhealthy, vitamin-shop owners can have a clear conscience in knowing that their products improve people's general well-being. Vitamin shops are also profitable ventures, particularly for those who have health conscious people living in the community.

Materials:

• Business Plan
• Financial Backing
• Vitamin Suppliers
• Retail Location 

Step 1:

Write a business plan  to organize how your vitamin shop will be managed and how much money will be needed to operate it. Refer to the Resources section for a sample business plan template that will help you write a business plan for your vitamin store.

Step 2: 

Raise the money you need to start a vitamin shop. You will need to raise $10,000 to $25,000, depending on how much inventory you will keep on hand. Savings, personal loans and using credit cards for expenses are the primary ways most people fund small businesses. Obtaining loans from family, friends or private investors is also an option. Most banks will only issue a personal loan for a new start up, but you can ask the loan officer if you qualify for a guarantee from the Small Business Association.

Step 3:

Incorporate your business. You can register your business with the office of the secretary of state, or you can go to the local courthouse and file the same papers with the city clerk. Officially incorporating your business allows you to buy vitamins and other supplies at wholesale rates and also gives you indemnity to keep your personal finances  separate from those of the vitamin shop. The process of incorporating is simple and basically involves filling out a template for the "Articles of Incorporation," as well as filling out a form. There is also a one-page form to be completed if you need to obtain a federal employer tax ID number.


Step 4:

Find a retail location for your vitamin shop. You generally want to find a location that has a significant amount of auto or foot traffic. This will help people, who may otherwise miss your advertising campaigns, notice your business . It is important to keep your budget in mind as you look for a location because the more consumer foot traffic the location has access to, the higher the monthly rent will be.


Step 5:

Line up suppliers for the products that you will be selling. Many wholesale vendors specialize in health and beauty products, including a wide assortment of vitamins. Having accounts with as many wholesale suppliers as possible will help you find the lowest price for a particular item and will also allow you to carry a wider variety of vitamin products in your shop.


Step 6:

Develop and implement an advertising strategy that will let the public know about your vitamin shop. Think about who your target consumer groups are, and then consider ways that you can effectively get a message in front of those people. Local newspapers and radio are always good options, and forming advertising partnerships with local gyms and health-food stores will also give your vitamin shop a big push forward.


Tips:

Including a mail-order catalog in each customer's bag will help create more sales that may have otherwise been missed.


References:

• Starting a Vitamin Supplement Business
• Vitamin Shops
• Small Business Start Up Basics

Resources:

• Vitamin Shop Franchise Opportunities
• Sample Business Plans
• Incorporate Your Business Online

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How to Improve VPN Performance in Windows XP

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a private computer network that uses public communications lines. Computers  in a VPN are spread across multiple locations. Rather than going through the expense of provisioning private network lines, many companies will use a VPN to create a virtual private line on public Internet  connections. This is typically achieved by creating secure communications tunnels that only allow access to authorized users. Using a VPN can sometimes have a noticeable effect on the speed of your Internet connection. This problem can be corrected by optimizing the performance of your VPN.

Materials:

Windows XP

Step 1:

Increase the Maximum Transmit Unit. Data that is transmitted over VPN connections is sent in packets that are referred to as transmission units. To prevent system overload, the transmission units have a maximum size assigned to them, which is referred to as the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU). Windows XP has a default setting of 1500 bytes for the MTU, or 2000 bytes for an XP VPN. Increasing the size of the Maximum Transmission Unit means that fewer units are required for each data transmissions.

Step 2:

Choose the appropriate tunneling protocol. Virtual Private Networks typically come with two different tunneling protocols: Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) and Point to Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP). Layer 2 tunneling has more advanced security features, as well as a higher standard of encryption. This makes L2TP the ideal tunneling method for VPNs that transmit confidential information from one device to another. However, this added security comes at the cost of heavier server  load and increased latency time for those using the network connection. Users who have their needs met by a basic security layer will benefit from using a PPTP connection, which carries a lighter server load and consumes a smaller amount of available bandwidth.

Step 3:

Monitor your hardware topology. A VPN typically involves site-to-site connections involving two or more remote offices. It is important for each office or connection point to have hardware that is dedicated to maintaining the VPN tunnel. The servers that are dedicated to each connection point on the VPN give you the ability to increase the available bandwidth on any particular part of the VPN, thereby increasing the size of the tunnel and allowing more users to utilize the system. Most Network Administrators  will use special VPN monitoring software that will analyze the traffic flowing over the network and determine when a bandwidth increase is required.

Tips:

Many VPNs come as part of a managed service, where a third party designs and maintains your secure network.

References:

• Microsoft: How to Change the Default MTU Size Settings
• Tech Republic: Factors that can Boost VPN Performance
• Windows Networking: How to Optimize Network Connections in Windows XP

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Where to Get Budget Moving Truck Rental Coupon Codes

Moving can be both stressful and expensive, especially if you are moving a long distance. One way to save on the costs of moving is to rent a truck  from a company like Budget Truck Rental. This allows you to handle the move yourself, rather than paying professional movers to transport your belongings. You can reduce your moving expenses further by locating a promotional coupon code for your Budget moving truck. These coupon codes are plentiful and easy to find, providing discounts that can cut as much as 20 percent off the price of your truck rental.

Step 1:

Download and print a coupon from the Budget website. Go to BudgetTruck.com (see Resources). Look for the link that says "Discounts." Visit the "Truck Deals" section and enter the zip code you are moving from and the zip code you are moving to. The website will present you with a list of available coupons that you can print and use when you make your reservation.


Step 2:

Go to the Moving.com website and look across the top of the screen for the menu link that says "Coupons" (see Resources). This page features up-to-date coupons for moving truck rental companies, such as Budget, as well as coupons for boxes and other moving supplies.


Start 3:

Search on MyCoupons.com (see Resources). Type "Budget Truck" or "BudgetTruck.com" into the search bar on the website. This will present you with a list of coupon codes that have been submitted by other users. Each code gives statistics on how many people the code worked for, as well as how many people had trouble with it. This helps you identify the best coupons from the start.


Tips:

Make sure you are obtaining coupon codes for Budget Truck Rentals and not Budget Rental Cars. The same company owns both businesses, but the coupon codes are not interchangeable. If you try to use a rental car coupon to rent a moving truck, the code will not work.


Resources:

• Budget Moving Truck Rental
• Moving.com Coupons Page
• MyCoupons.com Budget Truck Page

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How to Register New Inventions

Coming up with an idea for a new invention can be a highly rewarding process. Once you have a new invention or an idea for an invention, it is important to register the invention so that your ownership of the idea will be protected. This effectively prevents someone else from being able to steal your idea. You can pay an attorney thousands of dollars to help with your invention or you can register it yourself by following a few simple steps.

Materials

• Invention
• Internet Access

Step 1:

Solidify your idea for an invention and write a detailed description of your invention. Add drawings or technical diagrams if possible. This is the first transition of your invention from being an idea to being something tangible.

Step 2:

Perform a patent and trademark search at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. This can be performed for free online at the USPTO Web site (Found below under "Resources"). Think of keywords and keyword phrases that relate to your invention. Perform a patent search for those terms and then search through the results to see if anyone has already filed a patent on your idea. If not, proceed to the next step.


Step 3:

File a patent on your invention. Return to the homepage of the USPTO Web site. Click "Patents" on the navigation menu. A new submenu will appear with options that relate to patents. Click the option that says "File Online in EFS-Web". Fill out the form to register your invention online.


Step 4:

Wait for your patent application  to be reviewed. You will be assigned a review officer and there will be a window of time during which someone can file an opposition to your claim on the idea. If an objection is raised, the outcome will be determined by an independent arbitrator, otherwise the patent will be issued and your invention will be registered.


Tips:

The amount of the filing fee for a patent on an invention varies according to specific patent classifications. Most people pay around $300 to patent their idea.


References:

• Register an Invention Patent

Resources:

• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

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How to Create Your Own Email Service

One of the ways the sites like Yahoo and Google maintain a dominant presence on the Internet is by offering free email service. This not only has users returning to their website multiple times per day, but also distributes a large amount of ad inventory, thus earning revenue. This same technique can be applied to most any website. It is certainly possible to add an email service to your existing website, or to create a special site that focuses exclusively on the email service.

Materials:

• Dedicated Server
• Email Server Software 

Step 1:

Choose a domain to use for your email website. If you will be adding this service as an additional function to your existing website, then you will already have a domain and can skip this step. Otherwise, think of several dot-com names that you would be interested in using. Ideally, try to use a name that consists of no more than three words. You may need to try several domains before you find one that is not already owned by someone.


Step 2:

Set up a dedicated server account with your web host. A basic shared server may work  OK for a simple website, but if you are allowing the public to send, receive and store email messages on your server, then you will need to upgrade to a dedicated server. If your site becomes widely popular you will need to expand your infrastructure to include a network of cloud servers, but a single dedicated server is more than ample to initially launch your email website. Any web hosting company can set up and manage a dedicated server for your email business.

Step 3:

Choose an email server software solution. The solution that you select will depend on what services you will offer and how extensive you want them to be. If you just want to start a basic email website, you may wish to go with a hosted solution, such as MailEnable. These solutions host the email traffic on their own server and carry a smaller upfront cost, but you will loses some control over your operation. If you wish to maintain complete control over your mail service, consider using hMailServer, which is a free email server software package that works on Microsoft Windows servers. If you require more extensive services, look over IceWarp Mail Server, which will allow you to offer email, instant messaging and even VOIP telephone service. There are a large number of software options on the market. Consider them carefully and choose the one that works best for you.

Step 4:

Complete your web development. Think of your website as the front end of your business. Once the software has been installed on the server, or back end, you can develop a website that connects your visitors to that software. The software itself will provide you with API code that can be copied and pasted into your web template to provide users with the access they need for signing up, logging in and managing their email account.

Tips:

Set up your email software to automatically attach a footer message to each email that is sent. This allows you to get an advertisement for your email website or your advertisers added to the bottom of your member's emails, resulting in additional exposure.

References:

• All Profit All Free: Add Email to Your Site for Your Visitors - Offer Free Email
• ICE Warp: Quick Start Guide
• hMailServer: Installation Tutorial

Resources:

• ICE Warp 
• hMailServer
• MailEnable

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How to Calculate a Janitorial Bid

Many commercial janitorial contracts start with a bidding process. Even residential customers have a tendency to base their decision, at least in part, on the price you charge. This makes calculating the amount of your bid an important factor in the success of your company. The bid must be low enough to be an attractive offer over competing bids, but must also remain high enough to be profitable for the business. Determining how much to bid is an art, but one that is helped along with a few standard considerations.

Materials:

• Janitorial cleaning business

Step 1: 

Obtain the details pertaining to the project you are bidding on. Determine the type of janitorial services required, how often they are needed and how large the area to be cleaned will be. If at all possible, visit the location in person to see the site you are bidding on, as well as to ask questions that could uncover any unexpected requirements before submitting your bid.

Step 2:

Plan the janitorial duties and create a list of all the items that will be needed. Account for all items that will be required to complete the job, such as garbage bags, cleaning solutions, rubber gloves, disinfectant, brooms and mops. Anything that will be needed in order to complete the job should be listed so that the cost can be accounted for. 

Step 3:

Estimate the number of man hours that will be required to complete the project. Start by determining how many people will be required to clean the facility and then estimate how many hours it will take them to complete their duties. Multiplying these two figures by each other will give you the estimated man hours for the job.


Step 4:

Calculate the total project costs. Add the amount that will be required for supplies to the wages that will be paid to the cleaning crew. This will give you the estimated costs for completing the project. It is generally recommended that you add 10% to this figure in order to account for any unexpected costs.


Step 5:

Determine your minimum profit threshold. Consider how much you must mark up the price to make the endeavor profitable. Many people consider a 20% price increase to be ideal, but you have to be careful to make sure that your final price is competitive to other bids that will be submitted by competing agencies.

Tips:

Follow up on your bid with a telephone call to ask if the potential client has any additional questions that you can answer. The more opportunities you have to encounter the person reviewing the bids, the more you will stand out in their memory.

References:

"Janitorial Bidding Guide, Your #1 Source for America's Best Bidding Information, How to Bid, Price and Make Money In Your Own Janitorial Business"; Jay D. Pennington; 2002 

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How to Buy Cheap Gold Online

Many experts agree that investing in gold is a good way to hedge your investments against long-term inflation. Not only is investing in gold a great long-term strategy, but buying and selling gold actively can also produce lucrative short term profits. Opportunities to buy and sell gold are abundant, but many people are finding that one of the best places to look for cheap gold is the Internet. Many investors buy their gold exclusively online, due to the low prices they can find.

Step 1:

Watch the market and wait for the ideal conditions. The gold market goes through long-term highs and lows, but within each of these periods, day-to-day price fluctuations can be used to earn profits. Determine what your ideal purchase price will be in order to earn the desired profit when you sell the gold, then wait for the market price to reach that level before you buy. You can find the current gold rates by checking kitco.com or by checking the stock section of your local newspaper.

Step 2:

Consider purchasing bullion from the American Precious Metals Exchange (APMEX). This exchange buys and sells all forms of gold bullion, including coins, bars and ingots. Whether you're looking for American Buffalos, Chinese Pandas or even just 100-ounce gold bars, you can find a large inventory available on this exchange. There is also a large amount of antique gold from around the world, opening up the market to collector-value coins as well.

Step 3:

Buy scrap gold whenever the opportunity presents itself. Online auctions are an excellent place to buy scrap gold. Stay clear of circuit boards and micro chips unless you want to get involved in chemically reclaiming the gold. Focus on old rings, broken earrings, necklaces and similar items. These items can often be purchased at rock-bottom prices, and then sold as melt scrap.

Step 4:

Check online gold marketplaces for people who are looking to offload gold bullion they have been saving. Sometimes people need to liquidate gold to cover unexpected expenses, or in some cases they may have held it so long that a price you consider a steal is actually a nice profit for them. Regardless of the circumstances that have led the sellers to place their gold on the market, there are some great deals that can be found by shopping at online marketplace sites, such as the Bullion Direct Nucleo Exchange.


Tips:

Gold can be either bought and sold daily for short-term profits, or stored until long-term rate changes occur.


References:

• Kitco: Live Market Quotes
• APMEX: About APMEX
• Bullion Direct: Nucleo Exchange

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How to Make Money Online with Digital Gold

Gold enjoys a positive reputation in the investment  community. Many people consider gold to be more valuable than currency because its relative value remains consistent even as the value of individual currencies rises and falls. Some of the positive association people have with gold is carried over to the electronic version, giving digital gold the perceived credibility that it needed to become a profitable investment. There are a number of ways to make money online using digital gold, without requiring any special training or degrees.

Materials:

• Investment Funds

Step 1:

Learn and understand the basics of how digital gold works. Rather than making deposits and withdrawals directly from your digital gold account, the gold is bought or sold through an exchanger. An exchanger is a company or person who either has digital gold to sell or wants to buy gold. Professional exchangers provide both services to gold users. Becoming an exchanger is the shortest path to profits with digital gold.

Step 2:

Raise the investment capital  that you will need to start an online currency exchange. Those who can raise a significant amount of investment cash can start a larger-scale operation, but even raising an amount from $2,500 to $5,000 will allow you to start buying and selling digital gold for a profit. Personal savings, loans from friends and credit-card cash advances are popular ways to raise the money to start a digital gold business.

Step 3:

Conduct research to determine which digital gold platforms currently have the highest demand. These can change over time, so it is best to read gold investment forums to see what kind of digital gold people are buying and selling the most of. Identify and select the top five digital gold options on the market for your initial launch.


Step 4:

Open an account at each of the digital gold platforms you will be working with initially. Make a small deposit  into each account using a third-party exchanger. Keep your starting deposit small. You want to buy only enough gold to have some available when a customer wants to purchase digital gold from that platform. You do not want to make too large of an initial purchase, however, because it will add to the profits of an exchanger you will be competing with. Most of your deposits should come by way of customers who are looking for an exchanger to cash out their gold account.

Step 5:

Consider using a currency exchange software program to automate part of your business operation. Most currency exchanges are processed manually, but there are software programs available for those who want an automated system. These programs typically extend their functions beyond buying and selling gold, and also offer the ability to perform currency-to-currency trades and various other transactions.

Tips:

Embrace the profit potential of this business. Digital gold exchange services collect profits from both ends of the transaction. When a customer uses the exchanger to buy gold, he or she is charged a fee that is based on how much gold the person is buying. When the same customer cashes out his gold account, he pays fees associated with the withdrawal.

Warnings:

Spikes in the gold market could cause fluctuations in profits. Keep a buffer zone in your profits at all times to accommodate this possibility. Also, be wary of credit-card purchases. It is common for gold to be held for three days if the purchase is made via credit card, particularly for first-time customers.

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