BizBits
biz bits on the go
Light up my life…
HP Digital Projector mp3320
At just 3.8 pounds, this digital projector is ideal for the business traveler. Presentations will be razor sharp with a contrast ratio of 2000:1 and the latest Texas Instruments DLP technology keeps color even across images with no fading or loss of resolution. A tiny wireless remote control means moving around the room while presenting is easy, and the 200-watt lamp bulb will keep your presentations brighter for longer with an estimated life of 2000 hours. $1,399.99 www.shopping.hp.com
Talk to me
ETYCOM headset with VoIP adapter
As the popularity of Internet calls on Voice-over IP (VoIP) services like Skype sky rockets, so does the need to own a decent headset. The ETYCOM is a hands-free, phone headset that can be used in conjunction with a VoIP adapter to be plugged directly into your PC. Users will notice the benefits of the noise isolating technology that ensures conversations are cell-phone quality clear even with high levels of background noise.
ETYCOM $49 VoIP adapter $3 www.etymotic.com
Small and strong
Seagate Barracuda 7200.10 750GB Hard Drive
If you fi nd that your storage is always busting at the seams, you need the Barracuda. This hard drive boasts an incredible capacity of 750GB. The 3.5-inch drive uses perpendicular recording technology, which increases capacity and dependability by storing data vertically instead of horizontally. The continued increase in demand for improved storage should make the Barracuda a popular choice. $500 www.seagate.com
biz bits the word
Making a Good Game Plan
Bottom Line Results
By Randall Bell (Owners Manual Press) $27.95 www.ownersmanual.com
Success is merely a function of problem-solving, according to Randall Bell, and that’s something he should know about; he’s an applied economist specializing in damage economics, frequently called in by government and businesses to draw up game plans for some pretty testing situations. Think Hurricane Katrina, OJ Simpson and Laguna Beach Landslides, and you’ll understand just how good a position he is in to teach others how to develop successful game plans in both business and personal matters.
With a mix of hard-hitting advice and informative worksheets and diagrams, this book will give managers and leaders the skills and confi dence to face challenges head on.
Food For Thought
Robin Jay
Choosing a venue for a business lunch can be a daunting task; should you choose formal or relaxed, prix fi xé or à la carte? Robin Jay, motivational speaker and author of The Art of the Business Lunch—Building Relationships Between 12 and 2, shares her top ten criteria. And with more than 3000 client lunches under her belt, this is a woman who should know…
Top-Notch Service
The right service can make or break a deal. Great service is NOT an option!
A Fabulous Menu
Stay away from the exotic. Instead, offer a great, fresh selection.
The Right Size Room
Seek out large tables with privacy. For a major presentation, fi nd a restaurant that offers a private room, complete with A/V hook-ups.
Acoustics that Work
A room that is too loud will have your clients shouting their business or make them uncomfortable. Too quiet and they may fear being overheard.
The Right Price
Expensive is impressive, but you can go overboard. A restaurant that features a prix-fi xe business lunch menu is ideal—and is guaranteed to make your boss happy.
Great Location
Stay as close as possible to your client’s offi ce. Doing so will give you more time to talk.
Accepts Reservations
Can you imagine meeting your client only to fi nd that the restaurant you chose is booked solid? What a disaster! Make sure they accept reservations and call ahead.
The Right Amount of Action
Impress your client with movers and shakers or even a celebrity sighting!
Accepts Credit Cards
NEVER, ever pay for a business lunch with cash!
Consistency
You have a lot riding on your meetings. It always helps to stack the deck in your favor.
The Closing Bell
by Jack Guinan