Saturday, January 26, 2013

Writing Thank You Notes for Cash and Checks

For a graduation, wedding, birthday or other special occasion, everyone loves a big, beautiful box all wrapped up. But isn't it fun when the gift is a card, with money or a check inside?

Wondering how to write a thank you note for cash or for a check? Relax! Just follow these tips:
Use nice note cards or stationery, and hand write your note just as you would for any gift. Mail it in a timely manner. A proper thank you note should have two to three sentences. Never start a thank you not with the word "I." Always include the words "thank you." It's nice to tell the gift-giver how you will use the gift, but it's not imperative. If the person has indicated how the money is to be used, assure him or her that you will follow their wishes. Never mention the amount of the gift. If it is a large amount of money, you can refer to it as a "generous gift."

Here are some samples to help you:

Writing Thank You Notes for Cash and Checks

Wedding Note Sample #1

"No need to wonder if your gift will be used! Tyler and I have so many things we need for our new apartment, and that's why your generous check (or gift of cash) is so appreciated. We'll think of you when we go on our first shopping spree!

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness."

Wedding Note Sample #2

"How nice of you to send Brad and me such a generous check (or gift of cash), Aunt Lois. We will indeed use it for our honeymoon, as you requested - that will be easy to do! We are looking forward to our trip to Key West and thanks to you, we will be able to see and do even more fun things. Thank you so very much.

We look forward to seeing you at the wedding!"

Graduation Note Sample #1

"Wow! Thanks, Mr. and Mrs. Simpson! Your graduation gift will certainly come in handy this fall when I enter Miami University. There are so many things I need for my dorm room and of course, there are text books to be purchased.

I really appreciate your kind gift, and I also send thanks for coming to my graduation party."

Graduation Note Sample #2

"Leave it to you to come up with the perfect gift for a new grad! Thanks so much for your nice card and note and the check (or gift of cash) you sent.

Now that I'm going into the "real world," I need so many things and your super gift will come in very handy as I contemplate getting my own apartment. I appreciate your love and support always, grandma. You're the best!"

Birthday Note Sample #1

"It was so much fun to receive your nice card and check in the mail! Thanks for thinking of me on my birthday. I have been saving up for a new ____ and your gift gets me closer to my goal."

Birthday Note Sample #2

"You sure know how to please a teenager! Thanks so much for the check you sent me, Uncle Bob. I have wanted new speakers for my computer and that's exactly how your money will be used. I really appreciate you making it a very happy birthday!"

Writing Thank You Notes for Cash and Checks
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Emily Easton is a note-writing expert, and loves to help you craft the perfect note. Her website on Wedding Thank You Notes, with wording for over 60 notes, can be found at http://www.emilyeaston.com

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Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Writing Tip - Decades and Apostrophes

Let's start with a quiz. Which of the following is correct?

1. We did better in the 1990's than we did in the 80's.

2. We did better in the 1990's than we did in the 80s.

Writing Tip - Decades and Apostrophes

3. We did better in the 1990s than we did in the 80's.

4. We did better in the 1990s than we did in the 80s.

5. We did better in the 1990's than we did in the '80s.

6. We did better in the 1990s than we did in the '80s.

If you said number six is right, congratulations. If you didn't, don't feel bad. This is one of those rules people seem to get wrong more than they get right. They get it wrong because they forget that apostrophes have two main purposes: (1) to show possession and (2) to create a contraction - that is, to show that something has been yanked out, as in the word "don't" - the contraction of "do not."

In the foregoing sentences, is 1990s either possessive or a contraction? No. So an apostrophe has no place in it. What about '80s? Is it possessive? No again. But is it a contraction? Yes! The 19 has been taken out, so we place an apostrophe where those numerals should have been - just so the reader doesn't think we're talking about the decade that began 80 years after the birth of Christ.

In short, don't put an apostrophe before the "s" in 1990s because it's neither possessive nor a contraction. But do use an apostrophe before the "8" in '80s - not because it's possessive, but because it's a contraction.

One last quiz: Is the following sentence right or wrong?

The 1960s' fashions were even more bizarre than the '70s' styles.

The sentence is correct. But why? Because we've made 1960s' and '70s' possessive - both of them.

Writing Tip - Decades and Apostrophes
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Steve Osborne is author of "Writing Tips for the Real World," a blog at [http://www.thewritersbag.com] He is an award-winning freelance writer and writing instructor. His blog teaches writing tips, techniques and strategies designed to help people from all walks of life turn the written word into a powerful success tool in their careers and personal lives.

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Monday, January 21, 2013

Speakers - Setting Fees For Workshops and Other Speaking Engagements (Purposely Not Called 'Gigs')

Speakers (of every different ilk, i.e., keynoters, workshop leaders, consultants, trainers, etc.) often wonder what to charge and how to decide their fees. Since I have been a speaker (in all of these roles) for many years, I've given this question a fair amount of consideration. Here are some ideas on how to determine your fee:

Sometimes, I do have a flat fee, but rarely. For example, for me to do a Productivity Power Day(tm) in someone's office - in the area where I live - then it's a flat rate. If I have to travel, it goes up some because I will be spending the night out of town, etc. Productivity Power Days are quite similar in scope and process, so it's one of the reason I can quote an exact fee right on my website or when someone calls me. For essentially all other endeavors (speaking & consulting), there is much more involved in making the determination.

For speaking engagements even within my own area, I have a base rate and then I make a final determination based on some (or all) of the following factors:
Is this a brand new workshop (speech, etc.) or one I've done before and will be able to offer in essentially the same way or with minor modifications? Are the people ones who will be easy to work with (or difficult to work with)? Often, I don't know this until I've worked with them in the past...and then I know, believe me! What is the expected number of participants? It takes far more energy to work with a group of 100 or 200 (for a workshop, for example) than a group of 35. So, I need to know the number of people who will be in attendance. Is this part of a series of workshops/seminars I will be doing for this group or is it a stand-alone? I prefer to work with people over longer periods of time - developing relationships and building community and trust. When people are interested in that as well, they receive a different price than those who want a one-shot event. If I am going out of area, then I take the following into consideration, as well:
Time zones crossed (more of an issue as I get older!) I add a certain amount for each time zone I hop. Ease or difficulty in travel (flying all the way across the country in one plane vs. hopping 3 different planes, taking a bus, then renting a car to even get 1/3 of the way across the country).

Speakers - Setting Fees For Workshops and Other Speaking Engagements (Purposely Not Called 'Gigs')

So, these are issues I take into consideration, but each person needs to determine what it is that makes the work easier or harder for him/her.

Sometimes, one factor to consider is whether you are trying to build up a market -- and in order to penetrate that market, you choose to price yourself a bit lower than you will later on...I have certainly done that (and continue to) in certain markets.

Always, always, always, however....remember the value you're bringing to your clients and price yourself accordingly. And to go back to the title, for heaven's sake, don't call what you do 'gigs'! Unprofessional and unworthy, in my opinion, which is what you got in this article, of course!

Speakers - Setting Fees For Workshops and Other Speaking Engagements (Purposely Not Called 'Gigs')
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If you want additional ideas for moving your speaking and consulting business forward, be sure to consult the Life of E's blog:

http://meggin.com/lifeofes/wordpress/

Topics ranging from money to productivity to speaking to writing to coaching to business set-up and more are featured there.

And, to make sure you are productive in your personal and professional life, you'll want to access the resources at

**http://www.TopTenProductivityTips.com

(c) 2009 by Meggin McIntosh, Ph.D., "The Ph.D. of Productivity"(tm)

Through her company, Emphasis on Excellence, Inc., Meggin McIntosh changes what people know, feel, dream, and do via seminars, workshops, writing, coaching, & consulting.

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Thursday, January 10, 2013

Article Writing - Sites That Pay

If you are a new writer, or even if you are a seasoned writer who is looking for new markets, it can be helpful to identify the websites that will pay for your writing. While these websites vary in the amount that they pay and the way that they determine how much they will pay for writing, they do have some things in common. Understanding how these sites work, exactly, can help you to make the most for your writing.

Here are some of the websites that pay for writing:

* Helium. While you may be reading this article on Helium, you may not yet know that you can make money on Helium. There are a variety of ways that Helium will pay for your writing. There are contests, the marketplace and other promotions, as well as pay-for-performance payments that can continue for many months or even years after you post the article. Helium is probably the most diverse of all of the websites that pay for writing, in that there are so many different ways you can make money on Helium.

Article Writing - Sites That Pay

* EHow. This website pays you for writing a "how-to" article. EHow lets the writer put in their article in a "steps" format. In other words, writing at eHow involves writing step by step instructions. EHow pays writers based on the performance of the article, sharing revenue with the writer.

* Associated Content. Associated content pays for writing in a couple of different ways. For some topics, they will pay a small fee up front (usually around .50.) For other topics, they will only pay based on performance. Unlike Helium, Associated Content pays based on the number of page views that an article gets, rather than sharing revenue with the writer directly.

* Constant Content. Constant Content is more of a broker than it is an article repository. Essentially, you can browse through the various article requests at Constant, and then write articles to fill those requests. You then get paid if the article is accepted.

There are many other websites that will pay for writing. These are merely several of the most popular ones. In addition, there are many web sites such as scriptlance and elance where you can find clients who will pay for writing, as well.

Article Writing - Sites That Pay
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Bob Younce is a professional freelance writer living in Linwood, Michigan. Bob loves helping new writers improve their craft and fully realize their dreams.

Subscribe to his blog at http://www.writing-journey.com and check out his Roadmap for starting your freelance writing business

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Monday, December 31, 2012

Bar Mitzvah Speeches and Speech Writing Tips

Writing a Bar or Bat Mitzvah speech can be a daunting task. The sheer importance of this life event can make even the coolest heads experience moments of stage fright. Composing and rehearsing a well-written, heartfelt Bar Mitzvah speech can eliminate some of the anxiety that is so commonly associated with this familiar ritual. At BarmitzvahCards.net, we understand what you're going through - so we will attempt to provide a comprehensive review with suggestions and tips of how to create the perfect Bar or Bat Mitzvah speech.

For Parents:

Most mothers and father who speak at their sons and daughters Bar or Bat Mitzvah want to be able to say something profound, meaningful, and memorable. The best tip is to stick to writing from your heart. As corny as that may sound - it's very true. But for those who need more guidance than that...here is a basic outline and a few ideas.

Bar Mitzvah Speeches and Speech Writing Tips

The Introduction:

While all Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah attendees are there to focus on the young man or woman - it is the parents' speech that is often the most eagerly anticipated. With that being said, it is very important to spend a considerable amount of time and thought on a very special introduction. A short story or fond memory about your boy or girl that speaks on their character is a popular way to start a speech. As always, famous Jewish quotes are another common segue.

The Body:

Unlike with your teenager's speech, there are no best practices or rules to follow. Your speech can last anywhere from a short toast - to a 10 minute spiel. Go with the flow and proceed with whatever you are comfortable with.

A few ideas for topics to cover (it's alright to choose one, none or all!):

* Share your own experiences on becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah
* Your feelings about and wishes for your child in reaching adulthood
* An anecdote that represents your child's personality
* Why you are proud of your son or daughter?
* What does Judaism mean to you?
* Which characteristics about your child remind you of your forefathers (or foremothers)?
* Include Israel and mitzvoth. Donate, organize, or otherwise provide charity to celebrate this milestone occasion.

Conclusion:

Conclusions commonly contain a few thoughts dealing with thanks and gratitude. It is a respectable way to end a very important speech. The ideal Bar/Bat Mitzvah speech should be informative, sentimental, & entertaining. It is important that you are satisfied with the results; otherwise keep trying until you are. This is among the most memorable moments in your life - make sure everything is absolutely perfect for you and your child!

For the Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah:

Although your children's speeches will usually be written with the help of your tutor or Rabbi - we still felt it might be helpful to go over some of the basics for an effective Bar/Bat Mitzvah speech.

The Introduction:

Often, one of the toughest parts of writing a B'nai Mitzvah speech is coming up with the right words. It is not uncommon to start your speech off with a famous quote or words of wisdom. A powerful statement that is relevant and meaningful can set the tone for the rest of your speech, and is always a safe addition. Poems are also a popular way to lead. Depending on what type of mood you would like to set, this introduction can be philosophical, reflective, or even humorous (to an extent). It is easy to find a list of profound sayings using a search engine. Start by looking for a particular topic, author, or meaning - in no time you will have the perfect introduction for your Bar Mitzvah speech!

The Greeting:

After the introduction, a greeting is proper. This section usually offers a warm welcome for everyone kind enough to attend the ceremony. There is also a thank you of sorts for all those sharing with you this special coming of age moment in your life.

The Topic:

Depending on your synagogue, you may have a choice between speaking from and giving commentary about a recent Torah and/or Haftarah portion - or you may have specific requirements. Either way, it is very important that you spend a good deal of time and energy thinking about the meaning and how it can be applied. It's customary to highlight one or more portions of the reading and provide additional dialogue or personal knowledge on the subject. Being one of (if not the most) important aspects of your speech - it cannot be stressed enough to put some personal thought and reflection into your words.

Personal Feelings about Adulthood:

Describe the impact being a Jewish adult will make. What will you do to show your ongoing, growing commitment to Judaism?

Conclusion:

Reiterate thanks to:

* All in attendance
* Your Parents
* Your Rabbi
* Your Family and Relatives who traveled from out of town
* Hebrew school teacher (if applicable)

These are some of the main points to cover in Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah speeches. While speech writers are common place and can be hired for cheap - it is important to personalize yours and incorporate your own feelings, attitudes, and experiences. As difficult as writing it may be, when it's all over, you'll wish it wasn't. Hopefully this helps - and don't worry - it will only be remembered for the rest of your life!

A few tips about Bar and Bat Mitzvah speech writing:

1. Take time to brainstorm
2. Organize your thoughts into lists
3. Take your lists and provide commentary on each topic
4. Re-order everything until it flows right
5. Take a day or two off - re-visit your speech and make any necessary edits
6. Share with someone close to get feedback (optional)
7. Rehearse! Rehearse! Rehearse! (Out loud too!)
8. When giving your speech - Relax! Relax! Relax!
9. Make sure your speech was recorded. It will be priceless to you in a few years
10. Enjoy this special day!

Bar Mitzvah Speeches and Speech Writing Tips
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C. Wise is a father of 2 wonderful children and lives in Daytona Beach, Florida. He is a former party planner and event specialist helping with ideas and suggestions for life's most special moments. He designs Bar Mitzvah invitations as well as personalized wrapping paper for all occasions and has experience giving speeches about marketing and motivation for small businesses.

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Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Technical Writing - Definition of Foreword, Introduction, and Preface

Definition of foreword, introduction, and preface OK, let's get started. Easy enough to say, but what do we start with? What comes first, a foreword, an introduction, or a preface? The best way to approach the subject is to look at what they do.

A foreword, if we follow the generally accepted definition in publishing, is an introduction to a book by someone other than the author. It comes right after the Table of Contents, and the pages are numbered with lower-case Roman numerals, e.g., i, ii, iii, etc., rather than the Arabic numerals used for the text of the book.

Ideally, it's written by an expert on the subject of the book who says that the author did a good job writing about the subject. The foreword generally speaks well of the author.

Technical Writing - Definition of Foreword, Introduction, and Preface

A foreword, as the spelling indicates, is a word that comes before. It's not a forward, which is a direction, or a foreward, which is a misspelling.

A preface is usually written by the author of a book and often gives an overview of how the book came to be written, its intended purpose, and to what extent it covers the topic. It may come before or after the foreword, but it usually comes after and follows the same page numbering system. The preface may also include acknowledgements.

An introduction is also written by the author (or, sometimes, the editor). It's an essay that sets up the full topic of a book. It states what the author's point of view is and may indicate what the reader's point of view should be. After reading the introduction to find out what's in the book, the reader can decide whether or not to read it. Since it's part of the text, the pages are numbered with the same numbering system as the text.

Technical Writing - Definition of Foreword, Introduction, and Preface
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If you can write a simple sentence and organize your thoughts then technical writing may be a rewarding field. Become a tech writer and quickly start an extra income stream.

To learn more go to [http://www.techwritingcourse.com/bright_future]

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Sunday, December 16, 2012

The Words of Effective Public Speaking

The objective of effective public speaking is to communicate in a clear and interesting way. The language used will depend on the type of audience and your own personal style. Because of this there are only a few guidelines that generally apply.

The language used should not be too elaborate. Sometime speakers fall in love with long words and quotations so that they become too elaborate in their presentation. Audiences expect to listen to interesting speeches that they can easily understand and do not expect great oratory.

For effective public speaking simple words and expressions are better than fancy language because this is the style they use in private conversation and they are more likely to understand it. It appears even Shakespeare supported this idea when he used some of the smallest and simplest words to express one of mans biggest questions "To be or not to be."

The Words of Effective Public Speaking

Use simple words instead of unwieldy words, where they communicate well the ideas and thoughts you are seeking to express, for example use: Opposite instead of antithesis

Pay instead of remuneration

End instead of conclusion

Raise instead of elevate etc.

Of course there are times when a long word is the only way to be clear. If you have difficulty in pronouncing the long word, use it as often as you can before you give your speech to get used to saying it.

Do not use offensive words in your speech. To a certain extent once the audience has sat down they have to listen to your speech. The use of offensive language is usually self-defeating, because the audience often goes from objecting to the language to the speaker then on to their purpose.

The use of slang words can also be difficult. To be effective the audience must be familiar with the meaning of the word. When you know the meaning of the slang word and it is widely accepted then it is probably OK to use it. Just don't use them too often. However, when starting out slang words should probably be avoided. As you gain more experience these can be added in moderation.

Effective public speaking uses the language of great conversation. The language used in conversation is more direct and simpler than that used in formal language and written language. It is more effective for public speaking because it is easier for the audience to understand.

Effective public speaking today is about clearly communicating to your listeners. Normally the language used in great conversation is the most effective - simple words and phrases are used to convey ideas and information. It is good manners and good practice to avoid using language that offends the audience.

This modern approach to public speaking where it is the effective conveying of ideas rather than the language used that is most important makes it easier today for most people to become effective public speakers.

The Words of Effective Public Speaking
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To learn more about effective speaking when presenting to groups and in conversation visit http://www.SelfConfidentSpeaking.com to receive a free preview of The Art of Great Conversation.

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