Internet Junk Versus Gems

Sometimes it feels like I'm drowning in information. I'll admit I'm old fashioned and actually subscribe to my local newspaper, The Charlotte Observer, and read it every morning. From there, I check the Internet news, my various email accounts and google alerts so that I've got the latest news that impacts my freelance writing business. The problem is the amount of information out there - it's nothing short of information overload. Miss one day, not to mention two or three, of checking your google alerts and you feel hopelessly behind. The Internet has given us instant access to information that in the past would have taken days or weeks to find or wouldn't have been accessible at all. But most of the time you have to sort through all the junk , and there is gads of it, to find the true gems of wisdom. The key is finding those gems and, as a business owner, making sure what you put on the web is a gem towards which your target market will gravitate. Tips for Sorting through the Junk

• Pick a few areas that are most important to you and focus your information gathering on them. It's better to be an expert on things that impact or relate to your business than trying, and ultimately failing, at being an expert on everything.


• Learn to skim - you don't have to read every line to figure out whether something is worth your while or not.


• When you find a site or blog whose information is valuable to you and your business, make it a favorite.


• Agree to share sites you've found valuable with business associates and vice versa.

Making Your Web Communications Gems Versus Junk

• Time is of the essence for everyone, including your customers - be concise.


• Be the expert in your field. If you're a reliable source, your customers will keep coming back and referring you to their friends and colleagues.


• Make sure your communications provide your readers with something useful to them, not just beneficial to you.


• Differentiate yourself - Don't be afraid to show your passion for your business. Just make sure you keep tip #1 in mind in doing so.

For more communication tips, check back frequently at http://www.thewordslingers.blogspot.com/.