Travel, Design, Be Local
This is the time of year for reflection. A chance to look back at the passing year, an opportunity to think about the coming year. 2011 included lots of travel, speaking, designing and focusing local. Travel: In 2011 I traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, New York City and Hutchinson KS to speak at a 140…
Deb Goes to NY
I had the great honor to attend and speak at the 140 Character Conference in New York in June. If you’ve never been — go!
5 Things to Consider
I’ve heard business owners say things like “in this economic climate, it’s hard to get new customers” and “no one has any money to spend, we can’t afford to use new ways to advertise”. I’ve heard customers say “they never do anything different” and “why should I shop local? I can get a better deal…
Merry Christmas!
Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!
Shop Local – It Matters
Consider shopping local today. Don’t carry your phone into the store with the Amazon app on it. You know, the one that checks prices and then offers to give you another $5 if you buy it from Amazon. Will they help you pick the exact perfect gift for your mom? I don’t think so –…
Unique Way to Advertise
Last Sunday and next Sunday in our community you can go to a Live Radio Play: A Christmas Carol. The Franklin County Arts Council is presenting it, the actors are the Franklin County Players. It’s a great play telling a classic Christmas story in an unique way. But here’s what is interesting -they are having…
Mapping Software for Tourism
I love new things! Yesterday I learned about mapping software. You can use Google or you can use ArcGIS to create maps you share links to, or embed in your website. I went to ArcGIS, created a free account and map a map that shows places where activities are taking place in Hampton, Iowa on…
Social Media Conferences in Iowa
There’s a couple of social media conferences coming to Iowa in 2012. I’m lucky in that I’ll be speaking at both! Jody Halsted and the Amana Colonies are hosting the Social Technology Conference at the Amana Colonies – and you won’t want to miss this one. Geared towards small businesses, there will be a lot…
What do you look like?
When was the last time you upgraded your head shots? You do use head shots, right? If you have a business, you market online, you need head shots. Good ones. If you can, find a local photographer and hire him/her. If that doesn’t fit in your budget, be creative. Approach the photography class at a…
The Little Drummer Boy
Today’s guest blogger is Melanie Mayberry. Mel writes about stewardship, and I believe Thanksgiving is the perfect time to talk about how we are (or are not) stewards. I would guess nearly everyone sings along to the familiar tune of “pa rum pa pum pum” this time of year. In the lyrics, the singer relates…