Business Credit Cards

By Heather Johnson

The struggle to attract and retain key customers is a constant one, but business owners and freelancers have lots of tools and resources to help them when marketing themselves and their businesses. Web-based solutions produce hassle-free services and efficient communication options, while networking events and online opportunities are perfect for making new contacts. This list is full of ideas to improve your branding techniques, e-mail etiquette, website design and other hacks to help you figure out ways to keep customers from flirting with the competition.

Where to Find Them

You’ll never beef up your client roster if you don’t know where to find new customers. Maintaining a presence on select sites and at certain events will increase your profile too.

1. Conventions: Get yourself an invite to conventions that market to your target audience. Everyone’s already in the mood to network anyway. Just don’t forget to bring your business cards.
2. Airports: If you travel on a week day, you’ll probably notice that a good percentage of your fellow passengers are business travelers. Strike up a conversation with someone about their business, and you may find yourself gaining access to a whole new demographic, region or industry.
3. Volunteer events: Whether you’ve got your eye on snagging the nonprofit as a future client or just want to meet people from a range of backgrounds while showing off your community efforts, volunteer events and fundraisers are a great way to meet customers.
4. LinkedIn: This popular social networking site connects professionals and alumni to forge profitable relationships.
5. Ryze: Ryze “helps you expand your business network.”
6. Xing: Xing is a sleek social networking site that offers professional contact management, a business accelerator and other cool apps.
7. Facebook: Get on Facebook to market yourself to a particular demographic, keep track of customers and set up groups.
8. MeetUp: Members of this site organize get togethers based on interest and location.
9. Chamber of Commerce: Visit your chamber of commerce to gain access to their business mailing lists. You’ll have names and contact information for some of the leading professionals in your area.
10. Industry-related seminars: Even though you might think you wouldn’t be able to learn anything new from a seminar, attend anyway so that you can meet your target audience and offer them supplemental advice and services.
11. Guru: Guru is an online “marketplace” for freelancers. You might be able to find new customers willing to trade services or share mailing lists.
12. Elance: Elance is another freelancer-oriented site that connects business professionals and jump starts new partnerships.

Networking Tips

Once you’ve met your target audience, you’ve got a small window of opportunity to make an impression. Check out these networking tips that will make you and your business more attractive.

13. Business cards: Never leave home without your business cards. Visit this site to design some for free.
14. Pass out coupons: Attach a coupon to your business card to encourage future contact.
15. Stand out: This post from Freelance Switch gives freelancers plenty of quality ideas for standing out in a competitive field.
16. Host your own networking event: Under the guise of bringing together your friends and business associates, plan a happy hour to meet new customers for yourself.
17. Pass out free stuff: This tip works especially well if you’re hosting the event. Pass out promotional items that boast your logo as prizes or to put in goody bags.
18. Sponsor a contest: Sponsor a contest in your community that awards the winner a temporary gig designing one of your products or an invite at an industry-related convention. Write up a press release for the paper and advertise at schools, churches, community centers and more.
19. Engage others: Whether it’s by introducing yourself to the “loners” or starting up a group conversation, bring different groups together. You’ll be remembered as someone who’s inclusive and knows a lot of people (even if you really don’t.)
20. Make notes: Make plenty of notes to help you remember the people you meet. You can jot down a few key words on the back of someone’s business card which will give you something personal to say when you follow up.
21. Know your competition: If you don’t know your competition ahead of time, you may wind up handing out coupons or pitching a project to the wrong person.
22. Follow up: In the world of networking, the follow up is key. Send an e-mail, a coupon or a handwritten note.

Website Tricks

Make sure your website is user-friendly and attractive otherwise your future clients will leave you for someone sleeker and more organized.

23. Update your blog: Your business blog keeps customers in the know about upcoming projects and the daily grind at your office. Use this guide to ensure maximum blog usability.
24. Create a simple navigation system: Designing a clear, simple navigation system will help customers find out information about your company easily and quickly.
25. Write an “about” page: Don’t forget to publish a short bio about yourself and the history of the company. Your new customers will want to do a background check before they enlist your services, and it’s best if they hear the truth from you.
26. Link with CSS: The website NetMechanic.com encourages Web designers to set up their links with CSS. Follow the tutorial to find out how.
27. Make searching for information easy: Include a search box that allows visitors to search for information and archives on your site easily.
28. Give customers access to their own account information: Let your customers have secure, online access to their account information, including billing statements, deadlines, services requested and more.
29. Set up 24/7 support: A live chat software program will give customers online support anytime they need it.
30. Link your homepage to your logo: This tip isn’t just about website usability: any action you can take to promote your logo is a smart move.
31. Advertise security: If you want customers to buy products from your website, you need to convince them that your site is secure.
32. Encourage feedback: Set up a feedback form on your site to let your customers know you care what they think and are dedicated to making improvements.

Spoiling Them

There’s no better way to keep your clients loyal than to spoil them. From sending out a birthday surprise to sharing your contacts, check out this list of fresh ideas.

33. Celebrate their anniversary: When a customer has reached the one year mark of doing business with you, give them a break on their monthly invoice or attach a free service or coupons to their regular services.
34. Host free clinics and workshops: Educate your clients by offering them clinics and workshops that teach them how to perform simple tasks that you normally do for free anyway. Just don’t give away your major secrets!
35. Remember their birthday: Send a perky e-mail or have flowers delivered to a customer’s office on their birthday. Chances are, everyone else will be doing the same thing, and if you don’t, you’ll stand out: in a bad way.
36. Send a thank you gift when a customer renews a contract: Don’t act like a renewed contract is expected. Even if it’s coming from one of your most loyal customers, make it a big deal and take them out to a special lunch.
37. Allow them to pre-order new services: If you’re about to launch a new product that will undoubtedly sell out, give your loyal customers first dibs. Let them pre-order the item or hold on to a few to send as gifts.
38. Share your mailing list: You may not want to give out your top secret contacts, but sharing a few key e-mail addresses and phone numbers from your Rolodex will make them feel special. They may even return the favor.
39. Nominate them for awards: Nominate your top clients for community awards to show off their business talents and community spirit. They won’t be able to thank you enough for the personal gratification and free PR.
40. Provide plenty of perks: The next time someone sends you free tickets to the symphony or a heavily discounted reservation at a bed and breakfast, consider passing them on to your best customers.
41. Give them space: Your customers might feel too pressured or overwhelmed if you’re constantly throwing specials and reminders in their face.
42. Get personal: Blogger Eric J. Adams suggests cultivating a personal relationship with your customers in order to inspire loyalty. Keep it simple, though: Adams cautions, “don’t expect too much from your newfound intimacy; two minutes of chitchat will only go so far.”
43. Gift giving Dos and Don’ts: Before you shower your customer with gifts during holiday time, read this post to anticipate appropriate gift ideas.
44. Make house calls: No, we don’t mean showing up to your customer’s house in the middle of the night with a contract that needs to be signed, but making occasional trips to their office to deliver confidential agreements will earn you brownie points.
45. Emphasize quality: Always pledge to do whatever it takes to deliver quality products and services to your client. They’ll move on to the competition if you start offering defective merchandise, hiring lazy employees or missing deadlines.

Being Attentive

Customers like to assume that they’re your number one priority. Even if you’re juggling a large client roster, make sure to check in on each customer every once in a while to give them the personal attention they expect.

46. Encourage partnerships: Put your clients in touch with each other and encourage them to make partnerships of their own. They’ll see you as a leader in your field and a “go to” person for meeting new people and starting up projects.
47. Hand out your cell phone number: This isn’t always a smart idea, so make sure you give out your cell phone number to very close customers only. They’ll feel honored to have gotten such a sacred number.
48. Send handwritten notes: Quick e-mails are okay, but if you really want to spoil your clients, send them a handwritten note as a follow up or to thank them for their business.
49. Send out holiday greetings: Whether it’s a well-designed e-mail at Thanksgiving or a funny card for St. Patrick’s Day, show your clients that you care all year round.
50. Follow up after a service call: After a customer receives a service from your company, make a phone call, send an e-mail or mail them a feedback form to find out if they’re satisfied with the results.
51. Give them plenty of notice: If you’re going to be out of town or unavailable, let your clients know way ahead of time. Give them alternative contact numbers in case they have an emergency when you’re gone, and make sure they’re well taken care of before you take a vacation.
52. Hire interns: If you can’t afford to hire a full-time employee to write thank you notes and monitor customer satisfaction, hire an intern to do the grunt work instead of failing to do it altogether.
53. Design effective e-mail campaigns: Periodically send out well-designed e-mail campaigns to touch base with your customers, update them on specials and introduce them to new hires.
54. Show them how current events affect their services: If the economy is bad, let your customers know how gas prices will affect your business or if you expect to cut back on certain goods and services. Giving your customers insight into how your business works will make them feel included.
55. Communicate during a project: Give your customers updates regarding their project, especially if you think you might need more time on a deadline. They’ll be more understanding if you talk to them ahead of time than if you wait until you’re already behind schedule.
56. Train employees to be customer service professionals: Even if you don’t have a separate customer service department, take the time to train your employees to work with your customers in a variety of crisis management situations and phone skills.
57. Don’t go into hiding when a problem erupts: If you’re approached with a client problem, don’t stop answering the phones. Tackle the issue head on and take responsibility when necessary.
58. Continue to make improvements: Asking for feedback isn’t any good if you don’t actually make improvements and listen to your customer’s complaints. Showing them results means showing them you care.
59. Prioritize: Use a smart Web-based system like Neptune to help you prioritize and keep track of how much time you spend on each customer.

Exclusive Specials

Give your customers exclusive access to specials and deals they wouldn’t receive with any other business.

60. Throw an annual party for your regulars: Everyone loves a party. Gather all your regular customers together and treat them to a special dinner. Better yet, invite them over to your home for a more intimate party.
61. Go above and beyond: If you’re in the print making business and find out that your loyal customer’s daughter needs a sign for her softball championship, see if you can offer a discounted price for the job, or even design one for free.
62. Give your customers VIP online access: When customers shop online, give them a special promo code or discount.
63. Sign on specials: Award new customers with “sign on specials” after they make their first purchase. Give them a free gift or a discounted price for the first few months.
64. Reward your best customers: Try out these ideas from Starbucks customer Ron Lieber, who suggests throwing members-only parties and offering free coffee.
65. Customized gifts: Don’t limit yourself to creating promotional products for your business only. With a program like Qoop, you can create stickers, posters, keychains, calendars and more for your customers, featuring their business logo or photos from company events and fundraisers.
66. Free upgrades: Whether or not it’s a special occasion, periodically reward special clients with free upgrades, like same day shipping or including bonus products.
67. Offer reduced cost shipping: Give your frequent customers a break when it comes to shipping prices. E-mail them a members only code to enter into the online shopping register at checkout.
68. Free samples: Free samples not only make your customers feel spoiled, they also promote a new product.

Hassle-Free Services

Making things easy for your customers will keep them coming back for more. From interactive calendars to quick and easy accounting software, these tools will make your business transactions run more smoothly.

69. MOO: MOO lets you design promotional items and print images that will come in handy when you want to advertise a new product or send a greeting card.
70. Harvest: This time tracking tool will help ensure that you don’t overcharge clients.
71. Escrow: If you sell products from your website, use this program to protect yourself and your clients from fraud.
72. Box: Keep all of your customers’ files safe by working with this Web-based file sharing system. You won’t have to worry about misplacing important documents or losing contracts anymore.
73. BillMyClients.com: This user-friendly bill pay system sends invoices through e-mail or the USPS quickly and securely.
74. FreshBooks: This popular online invoicing and time tracking system will help you manage your finances more accurately.
75. Spongecell Calendar: Create and share a Web-based calendar so that you customers have easy access to your schedule.
76. LogMeIn: Business owners can stay connected to their work and their customers by managing files, conducting online meetings and more with LogMeIn.
77. PunchyTime: This time tracker offers an easy, fun way to keep track of your employee’s time as they network with clients, work on projects and even do business after hours.
78. Breeze: Another way to keep in touch is to update your clients with e-mail campaigns designed with Breeze.
79. Dimewise: This economical, remote access financial solution will allow you to organize invoices and reports securely and accurately.
80. Veetro Help Desk Software: Set up your own help desk to assist customers with technical problems.
81. Backpack: Backpack helps you “organize your business and share information with your team,” including anxious customers who want up-to-date info. on their latest projects.
82. Vstore: This free software gives business owners the tools they need to set up shop online. You can customize different designs to reflect your website’s theme and online store.
83. Veetro Management Reports: This smart software program helps business owners create reports with “real-time statistical reporting on all aspects of…business performance.” Your customers will love being able to access organized, accurate information about their accounts and your company.
84. Google Alerts: Set up Google Alerts so that you’ll be notified whenever one of your customers is featured in a story online. You can send them the link or congratulate them on the new press.

Effective, Convenient Communication

Keep your customers engaged by promoting effective, convenient communication. This list features Web conferencing tools, project management software and more.

85. TokBox: Use this live video chat application to talk to your customers in real-time without having to drive to meetings.
86. HyperOffice: Share files and receive customer input on special projects when you work with HyperOffice.
87. activeCollab: This program helps you “eliminate stress” and “manage success.” You’ll be able to involve your customers in whatever project you’re working on through customizable design options, website integration and more.
88. ShareItNow 4.9.02: Use ShareItNow to share items on your desktop with clients for easy project management and collaboration.
89. Zoho Web Conferencing: Instead of zooming all over town for different meetings, encourage your customers to use this simple Web conferencing solution.
90. Campfire: Campfire is an application that features Web-based group chats, fire sharing and image sharing, so that you can work with customers online anytime.
91. EyeOS: This open source tool goes beyond project management. Open up your operating system to customers and vendors, so that you can conduct meetings, design presentations and access all your files from any computer with an Internet connection.
92. Skype: This popular online voice messaging service is great for quick communiques with customers.
93. Meebo: Meebo combines your buddy lists from instant messaging services like AIM, Yahoo, Google Talk and others. You can log onto your account anywhere, not just your home computer.
94. Basecamp: This popular application organizes all kinds of information and communication histories within your company and client list. It’s password protected, ensuring a secure system.
95. Wikis: Set up a community portal for information sharing and open communication by creating wikis on your company website.
96. Userplane: This collection of online communication applications includes a Webchat services, Mediaplayer and more, allowing you to chat via text, voice or video.
97. Google Talk: This very simple instant communications solution is a popular Google app that has file transfer capabilities, Gmail notifications and more.
98. Communication tips for the technology age: Review this post titled “Is it Time to Consider New Ways to Communicate?” to come up with cutting edge communication techniques for savvy customers.
99. Don’t disappear on the weekends: If you’re the owner of a business, customers expect you to put in more time than your regular employees. Freelance Switch encourages you to “communicate promptly, even on the weekend.”
100. Brush up on e-mail etiquette: E-mail is becoming the official way to communicate in professional circles, and even if you think you have perfect grammar and plenty of tech savvy, your e-mail etiquette could need a makeover. Check here for tips.

By Jessica Hupp

When you’re going it alone, it’s vitally important that you get support. The best way to do that in business is to join a professional network. Whether you’re a writer or an accountant, you’re sure to find help in these groups.

Business

If your freelance work relies on business, get connected in these networks.

1. AccountantsWorld: Freelance accountants can get great deals, news, and lots more from this organization.
2. Association of Executive Search Consultants: If you’re an executive search freelancer, check out this association.
3. Direct Marketing Association: Stay relevant and successful with this association.
4. Association for Financial Professionals: If you’re a freelancer in treasury and cash management or corporate finance, this is the place for you.
5. United Professional Sales Association: With this network, you’ll get education, a great community, and more.
6. Institute of Chartered Accountants: Accountants in England and Wales can enjoy this association’s professional development, referrals, and more.
7. AIPMM: International product marketers should join this network for education, connections, and more.

Technology

The technologically-inclined will fit in great with these networks.

8. AIGA: Join this professional association to get access to ideas, information, education, and so much more.
9. Mediabistro: Find jobs, education, news, and lots more on mediabistro.
10. Association for Computing Machinery: This association offers publications, career resources, and more for freelancers in the advanced computing profession.
11. The Usability Professionals’ Association: Check out this network’s job bank, exhibits, and more.
12. Six Apart: Learn how to get more out of your Six Apart blogging platforms and more in this network.
13. leniche Digital Media: Find tutorials, jobs, and more with this freelance community.
14. Acoustical Society of America: This acoustics society represents professionals in engineering, robotics, music, psychology, and more.
15. National Association of Science Writers: Get help with contracts, query letters, and more with this association.
16. IEEE: This leading technology association offers conferences, publications, education, career assistance and more to freelance technology professionals.
17. Association of Information Technology Professionals: If you’re an IT professional, be sure to check out this group.
18. TalkFreelance: In this web development community, you can take advantage of their marketplace, get help, and more.
19. Graphic Artists Guild: Check out this guild to learn, get jobs, and more.
20. British Computer Society: British IT Professionals can join this organization for qualifications, development, and more.
21. Digital Media Association: Stay on top of issues, events, and much more with this community.

Arts

Whether you’re an artist of language or canvas, these groups are great for networking.

22. International Freelance Photographers Organization: Register with IFPO for credentials, education, and assignments.
23. The Association of Illustrators: Freelance illustrators should check out this organization for resources, news, and more.
24. Jewelry Design Professionals’ Network: Share ideas, interaction, and more with this network for professional jewelry designers.
25. Wedding and Portrait Photographers International: Here you’ll get access to programs, services and more aimed at wedding and portrait photographers.
26. Writers-Editors Network: Get resources, inspiration, work, and more from this network.
27. TEFL: Use this network of English language teaching professionals to find a job, guidance, and more.
28. The Illustrators’ Partnership of America: Join this partnership to get great resources and more.
29. Photo Marketing Association International: Look to PMAI for conventions, news, and much more.
30. Society of Professional Journalists: Get in this network’s directory, use their tools, and connect with others.
31. Freelance Business and Technology Writers Association: Stay on top of news, resources, and more with this association.
32. Freelance Artists Network: In this network, you’ll join the ranks of talented freelance artists in the fields of portraiture, fine arts, and more.
33. Editorial Freelancers Association: This network is full of resources, jobs, and more.
34. Professional Photographers of America: One of the largest professional photography associations, this group will help you find resources, education, and more.

General

These networks are open to just about any freelancer who will join them.

35. Freelancers.net: Find jobs and more on this UK-centric freelancing network.
36. LinkedIn: This professional networking site is great for freelancers in any field.
37. Freelancers Union: Get connected, take action, and even get insurance from this union.
38. Orkut: Connect with business contacts and more on this networking site.
39. Minority Professional Network: This network offers a connection for job seeking, promotion, and more.
40. Freelance Nation: Here you’ll find jobs, business management resources, and much more.
41. Freelance Community of Interest: Check out this freelancing community for court reporters.
42. IMDiversity: This professional network for minorities will help you get connected with opportunities.
43. Ecademy: On Ecademy, you’ll meet new contacts, get business support, and more.
44. FreelanceSwitch: Get advice, community support, and more from this network and blog.
45. Freelance Mom Network: Join this community of mothers and entrepreneurs for guidance and more.
46. Business Know-How: Network, find suppliers, and more in this small business network.
47. iHispano: Get tools for finding opportunities and more with this network.
48. Xing: Join this network to put the six degrees of separation theory into practice.
49. Ryze: Reconnect with friends and business acquaintances with this network.
50. Your local chamber of commerce: When you’re trying to establish yourself in your local area, perhaps the best network is the one in your own backyard.

By Laura Milligan

Even though Christmas season is over, everyone knows the gift giving never stops. From birthdays to Valentine’s day, it’s hard to come up with original ideas for those who already have everything. If you’re looking to impress your loved ones this year, take a look at this list of 25 of the most expensive gifts known to man, from the truly outrageous to the impossibly indulgent.

1. Bombardier Global Express XRS Executive Jet: $48 million: If you’re constantly booking last-minute plane trips to exotic locations, this may be the gift for you. Back in February, TeamSugar posted Jim Trippon’s annual list of the Most Expensive Valentine’s Day Gifts in the World. The Bombardier Executive Jet topped the list at $48 million, so that you and your honey can fly off into the sunset to celebrate in style.
2. First G.I. Joe: $200,000: G.I. Joes were meant to be tossed around and buried in the dirt by rough and tough little boys, but the buyer of this action figure will probably want to keep it locked up in a glass case. Setting a world record for the most expensive toy soldier, the buyer purchased the G.I. Joe in 2003 directly from the creator for $200,000.
3. 3D Motion Simulator: $300,000: Forget Nintendo and Wii gaming systems: what your kids really want this year is a 3D Motion Simulator from FAO Schwartz. At $300,000, it’s included on the Forbes list of the Most Expensive Toys, and this ride “seats eight for CD-ROM-driven excitement, including space trips, roller coasters, slot car races… and more.”
4. The Christian Hammer: $3.5 million: The most expensive Stradivari violin ever auctioned off, this gorgeous instrument is three hundred years old. No word on how well it still plays.
5. Ferrari Go-Cart: $50,000: If your kids are too young for a real Ferrari, ease them into the luxury auto market with a $50,000 Ferrari go-cart, also from FAO Schwartz. Your children will be the toughest, coolest kids on the block and will put all those Barbie-mobiles to shame.
6. Marks and Spencer Christmas Basket: $1,500: Christmas baskets are usually last-minute gifts thrown together for your kids’ schoolteacher or the hostess of your next holiday party and can consist of everything from gift certificates to baked goods to scented bath soaps. The British department store chain, Marks and Spencer, decided to up the reputation (and price) of traditional Christmas baskets by offering this gift of champagne, wine and gourmet goodies for a grand total of $1,500. According to The Most Expensive Journal, “the most expensive gift basket appears to have been a limited item” and is no longer offered.
7. Most Expensive Champagne: $17,625: What would a holiday or birthday celebration be without a little bubbly? If you’re feeling extra generous the next time you’re invited to a party, why not try to get your hands on this bottle, which was sold in 2005 at an auction for over $17,000.
8. Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head: $8,000 each: Luxury department store Neiman Marcus publishes its annual Christmas Book each year to tempt the world’s elite with outrageously expensive gifts and goodies. In 2004, a Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head collector’s set was offered for $8,000 per figure, which were covered in dazzling Swarovski crystals.
9. Bugatti Veyron: $1.7 million: In 2006, Neiman Marcus included this super charged car in its annual Christmas Book for the price of $1.7 million. According to Wikipedia, the Bugatti Veyron “is the most expensive and fastest accelerating street-legal production car in the world.” In other words, it’s just perfect for the speed-obsessed millionaire on your list.
10. Boeing Business Jet: $35.2 million: In 2002, About.com reported that the Boeing Business Jet was “the most expensive item ever offered” up for sale in the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book. With its swank interior and unbeatable reputation, it’s no surprise that the big boys’ toy was a tantalizing item even in its unfinished form.
11. Neil Lane 15 Carat Diamond Earrings: $750,000: Jim Trippon isn’t just mad about Valentine’s Day: he’s also released his list for the Top Ten Most Expensive Christmas Gifts of 2007. Number two on the list is a pair of Neil Lane 15 carat diamond earrings, sold for a whopping three-quarters of a million dollars. Often considered one of Hollywood’s preferred jewelers-to-the-stars, Neil Lane has designed engagement rings for celebrities like Kate Walsh, Brooke Shields and Kate Hudson.
12. YSL Crocodile Uptown Bag: $26,995: Wealthy women love luxury purses, and the Yves Saint Laurent crocodile uptown bag is no exception. Customers who don’t mind buying real crocodile skin probably won’t mind the exorbitant price tag either: $26,995 at Neiman Marcus for the 10″H x 14 1/2″W x 6″D tote.
13. Baby Shiloh 3-Carat White Diamond Pacifier: $17,000: If you’re welcoming a new baby into the family, you’re probably loading up on diapers, bibs and cozy blankets to spoil him or her. If, however, your tastes are a little more extreme, er, expensive, the baby aisle at Target probably won’t cut it. Instead, consider treating your baby like a movie star, or at least like one of their offspring. Shop5thAvenue.com now offers the same 3-carat white diamond pacifier that Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie received as a gift for baby Shiloh. Friends and family can personalize the pacifier by choosing different jewels like rubies, sapphires and emeralds and by adding the baby’s initials to the shiny bauble.
14. Vertu 7.2 Carat Pink and White Diamond Phone: $75,000: $75,000 for a cell phone? Well, it does work in more than 150 countries and features a 24-hour one-touch concierge service just waiting to indulge your every fantasy. According to NeimanMarcus.com, only 100 exist in the entire world, and each phone comes encrusted with 7.2 carat white and pink diamonds set in 18-carat. rose gold. Your jet-setting pre-teen just can’t wait to get her hands on one of these.
15. Triton 1000: $1.44 million: Perhaps the most bizarre gift featured in the 2007 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book is the Triton 1000 submarine, just in case your holiday plans include plunging into the ocean for research, top-secret military missions or, you know, sightseeing.
16. 10 Acres in Paradise Valley: $2.3 million: Many people agree that land is the most precious possession, especially as humans continue to overpopulate even the most remote areas. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway for your family, try bidding on “10 acres of secluded land among the mountains of Paradise Valley in Montana, up for grabs for $2.3 million” and included in the 2007 Christmas Book.
17. Diamond Studded Lipstick: $62,000: If you think all lipsticks are equal, you are highly mistaken. Spoil your wife or girlfriend this holiday with the lavish gift of $62,000 diamond studded lipstick, courtesy of beauty and cosmetics company Guerlain. Appropriately named KissKiss Gold and Diamonds, Luxist.com reports that “you’ll get a consultation with Guerlain’s artistic director Olivier Echaudemaison and a lipstick shade customized just for you that comes in an 18-karat gold lipstick tube encrusted with 199 conflict-free diamonds, plus rubies and emeralds.”
18. His and Hers Double Portrait in Chocolate: $110,000: This gift is for the truly indulgent. If you long to see a portrait of you and your honey hanging in the hallway, why not have it created in chocolate? Artist Vik Muniz will create a “60″ x 48″ museum-quality photographic” portrait of any couple that purchases the gift, and all proceeds will be donated to his personal charity, Centro Especial Rio de Janeiro.
19. Diamond Barbie: Around $85,000: Many little girls find Barbie dolls wrapped up under the Christmas tree, but this extra special doll is a true collector’s item. Named the world’s most expensive Barbie, Diamond Barbie was co-designed by De Beers and “comes with a gown sporting 160 diamonds,” as reported by CanUAffordIt.com.
20. Clive Christian No. 1: $2,350 per ounce: Perfume is a popular holiday gift, but if you want to set yourself and your sweetie apart from conventional gift-givers this season, splurge on a bottle of the world’s most expensive perfume. The blog, The Lifestyles of the Rich, reports that Clive Christian No. 1 is currently the most expensive perfume available, on sale for $2,350 per ounce. The high cost has not deterred buyers, however, as the perfume is sold out online at Nordstrom.com and SaksFifthAvenue.com
21. World’s Most Expensive Cat: Around $40,000: Cute and cuddly puppies and kittens may suddenly find themselves rescued from pet shops and animal shelters during the holidays, as pets are traditional Christmas presents. This Bengal cat won’t be discovered at the local pound, however, as it is generally regarded as the world’s most expensive cat. Purchased in 1999 for around $40,000, this exotic kitty probably won’t find herself topped with a bow underneath the Christmas tree.
22. Rothschild Faberge Egg: $18.5 million: Faberge eggs have been a tradition in aristocratic Russian families since the times of Alexander III, but none have received such a high bidding price as the Rothschild Faberge Egg when it was auctioned off at Christie’s this year. Originally “created in 1902 as an engagement gift for Baron Edouard de Rothschild,” the pink Faberge egg was sold for $18.5 million to a Russian art collector.
23. Amour Amour Dog Collar: $1.8 million: Even if your pooch is one of the family, would you spend almost $2 million on a sparkly diamond dog collar to hang around its neck? The Love Dog Diamonds company believes that dogs deserve to lounge around in luxury just as much as their wealthy owners, and the Amour Amour 18-carat white gold dog collar will go perfectly with that fluffy pillow.
24. Ronde Island: $100 million: Don’t bother mixing with the common riff-raff during holiday resort season; instead, purchase your own island as a gift for your family so that you can enjoy a unique vacation in private luxury. The website Gifts.Infoniac.com advertises the Ronde Island in Grenada in the Caribbean, which, for $100 million, could be yours to enjoy.
25. World’s Most Expensive Diamond: $7.98 million: If you’re planning to pop the big question during the holidays, why not do it with the world’s most expensive diamond? In November 2007, the Moussaieff Jewellers of London purchased the blue diamond for nearly $8 million at a Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong. How could anyone turn down that kind of a proposal?

Social Networking for Entrepreneurs
If you have a website where you publish regular fresh content (articles, videos, etc.), such as a blog for your business, social networking is a must. However, with hundreds of social networking/ social media sites out there, you have to pick the right ones for your niche. To that end, check out BootstrapMe’s social networking toolbox and Tropical SEO’s list of niche social sites that send traffic.

Never Too Old For Business Success?
Freya Bletsoe (Sykes?) at Small Business Branding asks what’s the right age to start a business. She offers some of the benefits and advantages of both young and old age groups.

But if you’re one of those over-30 entrepreneurs that always feels that time is ticking away for your business success, seeing “Top 20 Under 30 Entrepreneur” type lists probably don’t help. Don’t fret. Successful entrepreneurs are typically older - in their 50s and 60s. But even that might put some of you in a fret, worrying that you don’t have time to “make it”, depending on how old you are.

Well then check out this gallery of 8 entrepreneurs over 80, involved in several different markets. If this doesn’t ease your stress over an imaginary ticking “success” clock, probably nothing will.

Downloadable Shopping Maps
With Google’s current bids for wireless spectrum and indications that mobile marketing will be heating up in the next few years, consumers will have a lot of useful mobile applications to look forwards to. But until they’re commonplace, you have things like downloadable shopping maps [via Business Opportunities]. Currently they’re only for Sydney, Australia, but what do you want a bet more cities will follow suit?

By Jessica Hupp

If you’re a busy entrepreneur, chances are you barely have time to brush your teeth, let alone brush up on all of the blogs, business news, and books out there. If you’re too busy to read, podcasts are a great alternative. Try listening to these podcasts for entrepreneurs while you’re on the go.

Startups

Hear about strategies for up and comers in these podcasts.

1. FlyingStartups: Get monthly updates of interviews with well known startup entrepreneurs on FlyingStartups.
2. Startup Nation Radio: The Sloan Brothers take you on their adventure of starting a dream business.
3. Loic Le Meur: This serial startup entrepreneur creates podcasts with interviews, news and more.
4. Andrew Allgaier: Andrew Allgaier’s on the brink of launching his business.
5. Cubicle Divas: Leesa Barnes shares secrets on how women can start a new business on a shoestring.
6. StartupBizCast: Steve Mullen’s Startup BizCast has loads of business advice and tips for startups.

Finance

Keep your mind on your money by checking out these podcasts that center on finance and investment.

7. Business With Cents: This podcast is all about starting a successful business without a lot of cash.
8. Best Accounting Practices: Listen to Best Accounting Practices for insight from CPA Jack Boyer.
9. Venture Voice: These podcasts offer infomation on venture capital, entrepreneurship, and other topics in business.
10. Entrepreneur Magazine Radio-Money/Jobs and Economy: This podcast covers news and interviews in money and economy.
11. Kiplinger Personal Finance: Entrepreneurs need to keep a close eye on their personal finances. Learn how to do that with Kiplinger’s podcast.
12. Entrepreneur and Investor Corner: This podcast is designed to help entrepreneurs get their feet wet in finance and investing.
13. Joseph Associates: This podcast from Joseph Associates covers the merger and acquisition marketplace.
14. QuickBooks Small Business Podcast: Get small business seminars in this podcast from QuickBooks.
15. TaxQuips: If you’ve got a small business tax question, tune in to TaxQuips.
16. Accounting Best Practices: Steve Bragg discusses a number of accounting topics in this podcast.

Inspiration

Use these podcasts to spark ideas and inspiration for your business.

17. 60 Second Ideas: Get inspiration from these quick idea podcasts.
18. Daily Thoughts for Business: These inspirational thoughts will brighten any entrepreneur’s day.
19. Teen Biz: On this podcast, you’ll find business ideas for teens and young adults.
20. Biz Op Radio: Chris Murch stays on top of business opportunities in this podcast.
21. HBR Ideacast: This ideacast from Harvard Business Review offers loads of management ideas and commentary.
22. Entrepreneur Cast: Learn how to take your inspiration beyond the concept with Entrepreneur Cast.
23. Tweak!: Tweak! teaches entrepreneurs to make small changes in their business.
24. Escape From Cubicle Nation: Pamela Slim’s podcast is all about getting out of the cubicle and into a life you can enjoy.
25. iinnovate: Learn about innovation and entrepreneurship with this podcast.
26. Killer Innovations: Phil McKinney shares his knowledge about creativity and innovation.

Productivity

Listen to these podcasts for strategies and help for staying on top of everything.

27. Gain Control of Your Day: Use these tools and techniques to stay on top of your productivity.
28. A Motivated Entrepreneur: Get motivated with this podcast.
29. Smarter By The Minute: Work smarter and live happier by checking out Smarter By The Minute.

Marketing

These podcasts provide loads of ideas for getting the word out about your business.

30. Aggressive Marketing & Entrepreneurship Podcast: Tune into Michael Cage’s podcast to learn about strategies and news for marketing your business.
31. The Cold Calling Podcast: Listen to the Cold Calling Podcast for tips, insight, and tricks on telephone prospecting and lead generation.
32. Guerilla Marketing: Find out what people want online and how to be an exceptional guerilla marketer with this podcast.
33. Recognized Expert Marketing: Listen in to this podcast to learn how becoming a recognized expert can help you with marketing.
34. Biz III: Listen to this small business podcast for loads of tech-savvy marketing tips.
35. Personal Brand Marketing: Check out Vikarm Rajan’s podcast for marketing tips you can use.
36. Duct Tape Marketing: John Jantsch’s Duct Tape Marketing podcast delivers loads of marketing tips and offers lots of big-name guests.
37. Marketing Edge: Check out Marketing Edge for insight on public relations, marketing, and more.
38. Marketing Voices: Listen to Marketing Voices for perspectives on social media marketing.

Business Building

Build your business with these podcasts.

39. Build a Private Practice: Learn how to build a private practice from therapists and experts who have been there before.
40. Struggling Entrepreneur: Find out what this entrepreneur has learned along the way.
41. Building a Home Business That Doesn’t Suck: Listen to this podcast to learn how to build a real home-based business.

Foreign

Check out these podcasts for business outside of the US.

42. Business Coach Podcast-Canadian Small Business: This business coach has lots of advice for Canadian entrepreneurs.
43. The China Business Show: Find out how business leaders do business in China.
44. I’m Boss TV: Get small business information from Australians here.
45. The Engaging Brand: Anna Farmery’s The Engaging Brand is all about a consultancy in the UK.
46. China Business Podcast: Find out about growth and opportunities in China by listening to this podcast.
47. Entrepreneur’s Journey: Check out Yaro Starak’s podcast to hear about the Australian’s journey as an entrepreneur.
48. Small Biz Pod: Check out this podcast for UK entrepreneurs.
49. InsidePR Podcast: This weekly Canadian podcast is all about public relations.

Interviews

In these podcasts, you’ll hear interviews with lots of successful entrepreneurs.

50. Jenerous: Listen to the stories of entrepreneurs and marketers on Jenerous.
51. Leader Network: On The Leader Network, you’ll listen to interviews on known and unknown leaders.
52. Like Nobody’s Business: Lalita Amos’ podcast includes interviews and challenges to traditional business thinking.
53. Startup Studio: With Startup Studio, you’ll enjoy interviews of entrepreneurs and learn how they did it.
54. Biz Link Radio: On Biz Link Radio, you’ll get weekly interviews with entrepreneurs and executives.
55. Entrepreneur Exclusive: Listen to exclusive interviews with entrepreneurs.
56. Small Business Netcast: The panelists on this podcast discuss creating, developing, and managing small businesses.
57. Round One: Listen to interviews of prominent entrepreneurs on Round One.
58. Beermat Business Radio Show: Mike Southon, “Beermat Entrepreneur,” interviews successful entrepreneurs, CEOs, and leaders.
59. Meet The CEO: Listen to interviews of big-name CEOs on this podcast.
60. DSM Buzz: This podcast interviews successful entrepreneurs and encourages consumers to buy local.
61. Small Business Podcast: Listen to the Small Business Podcast for interviews with loads of business experts, entrepreneurs, and more.

Leadership

Learn how to be a good manager and leader using these podcasts.

62. Change Maker Minute: Get motivational messages for leaders from this podcast.
63. The Good Manager Podcasts: Learn how to be a good manager in these podcasts.
64. Fireside Chat with Lisa Haneberg: Learn about business management with these podcasts from Lisa Haneberg.
65. Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders: Check out these lectures from Stanford for thoughts from entrepreneurial leaders.
66. Small Biz Survival: Becky McCray’s podcasts focus on business leadership and management advice.
67. Manager Tools: Use Manager Tools to become a more effective manager and leader.