On August 25, 2010, Google announced its latest innovation in connection with its Official Gmail Blog. Gmail has set up both voice and video chat, allowing users to make computer-to-phone calls to the United States and Canada for free. These calls will remain free until the end of the year. It is uncertain what changes Google will make at the end of 2010.

In the meantime, Google via its Gmail Voice and Video Chat, also has opened the door for inexpensive calls outside the U.S. and Canada. Listing the U.K., France, Germany, Japan, and China as just a few examples, calling someone is as simple as using a standard telephone.

You need a Google Voice Phone Number and a Gmail account to take advantage of their new system.

Personally I haven’t tried it yet. If you have, and would like to provide feedback for me and other readers, please do so!

If you have a comment that applies to this post, but haven’t tried it yet either, I’d love to hear from you, too

Unfortunately, there are press release “traps” out there just waiting for the unwary. Releasing what can only be called an ad as a press release is a misconception many fall for… a press release in no way resembles an ad.

Off and on I am contacted and, at some point during the conversation, the idea of press releases comes up. A press release is a specific way of marketing. It is not “advertising”, but a true announcement of something major such as:

o A business anniversary
o New or upgraded website(s)
o Transfers of ownership
o Milestone accomplishments
o and more

Writing a press release is done with the intention of
Click here to continue reading "When Is A Press Release Not A Press Release?"

The first thing I’d like you to note about the video below is that it is not my video, but it does belong to someone I admire and respect. Like me, Lisa has been online doing business for over 10 years. Also, like me, she tells it like it is – not like you’d like it to be – I’ve even “featured” her in another writeup on this blog:  Strategies for Life.

The second item I’d like to call to your attention is the DATE of this video. February 2009. And yet, to this very second, it still applies. In fact, it applies even more now then it did over a year ago when Lisa made it.
Click here to continue reading "Success Is More Than Wishful Thinking"

This morning, in my inbox, I received one of those “holy cow” messages. The email advertising was written exactly the way it should be written (DO read my note at the bottom, but don’t leave yet).

The subject line was right up my alley, and the inside was persuasive enough that had I not known what to do next, I’d be out $100.

So what is the problem with this particular email that did its job and got me to read it, and then write about it?

First, it revolved around a subject that I am interested in, so I opened it. Then I read the claims and thought, “Wow, that would be something.”

However, after visiting the page, I referenced back to the email.

THEN I started what every person should do… I took my time and did my research.

So based on the email that got my attention, here’s what happened next:
Click here to continue reading "When Is A Keyword Tool or Phrase Not A Gold Mine?"

I know that a majority of individuals join affiliate programs. I did it, and still do (I’m very picky), and like everyone else, you do the best you can and hope for the best.

However, that doesn’t mean you cannot step (perhaps) outside your comfort zone and try new things, new methods.

One of the easiest ways to make money online, as I’ve stated before and over on the Online Internet Marketing Strategies blog are the “get paid to” resources.

Today I present a new one I just signed up for myself. It has more flexibility than eHow (eHow is good) and since eHow joined forces with Demand Studio, and there are still restrictions on writing strictly “how to” articles/steps, this new resource may be a better choice for more people.
Click here to continue reading "Other Get Paid Ways to Make Money Online"

Earlier today I replied back to an email about the performance of, in this instance, a solo ad. The implication was there was something amiss about the process.

Quickly double and triple checking that all went just as planned – the service completed as ordered – (I never take things at face value especially from my own business perspective, my continued reputation as the good guy is important to me and has been for over 10 years) – I verified that yes, indeed, everything went off like clockwork.

However, since it is also vital that this person receive a reply – never, ever not answer your emails (!) – after re-reading it, I realized that without giving away the person’s identity, the reply itself would make a great, informative post.

So here is information that affiliate marketers – every online participant in terms of making money – can use. In this case, I am talking about the much-pushed “solo ad” and reference you also to the frequently asked ezine advertising questions web page on the primary site, My Wizard Ads.

Here goes:
Click here to continue reading "Affiliate Marketing and Marketer Tips and Tricks for Success"

I don’t often do this, but today a good friend (and long time client) of mine sent me something that just makes perfect sense. I personally don’t even own a cell phone, have never sent a text message (other than online), and I am a stickler when it comes to driving.

I play my role as driver very seriously. In fact, frankly, I’m a control freak and almost always insist on being the one to drive (it’s a long story going back to my childhood and into my youthful 20s).

As the driver of the automobile, whether it’s just me inside or with passengers, it is the driver’s personal responsibility to ensure that, to the best of one’s ability, all remain safe and arrive or return where they belong – in one piece.

I understand, and deeply empathize with anyone who has lost a loved one due to an automobile accident. That’s why when Paul Uhl sent me information on how to text hands free, I figured it would be next to criminal not to share this with you.

Nope, I’m not an affiliate, but I do care about your life if you’re one of the crazy people who insist on texting (or for that matter using a cell phone at all) when you should be paying attention to the road.

So check out this safe way to text hands free with voice activated technology… please!

Heck, the thing will even post to your Facebook for you. You stay safe, and others are not subjected to your dangerous driving habits.