Rachael's comments

Hi Jennifer, Have you ever used Quicken or Quickbooks? The software is pretty easy to use and might be a good solution to your problem.

I tend to follow Judy's line of thinking on a collaborative newsletter - I definitely think it would distract from the message I am sending my clients.

I often debate with myself about whether to switch to an e-newsletter but I just can't imagine my clients reading them. Perhaps it's the nature of my business but my clients tend to like paper.

I have only recently (Jan 2008) begun sending out a monthly postcard to my clients with a quick focus tip (for my ADD'ers) and an easy organizing tip for those folks who hope to reach organizational utopia. The response has been fantastic; I've signed on three new clients and some others are in the pipeline.

Regarding newsletters I receive from other people - I may be old school but I prefer a hard copy I can make notes on. Also, due to the large amount of email I receive, I tend to immediately delete anything that I don't need to respond to. When I am in the office I don't want to be distracted (usually) whereas if I have an extra few minutes in the car or at home I'll pick up anything and read it.

I also tend to get P.O.'d if someone adds me to their email list without my permission but don't much care about receiving something in the mail (so easy to recycle).

Rachael

We did the Vegas thing and it was great. A destination wedding definitely keeps the unwanted relatives and "friends" at bay. Plus, there is something to be said for a guests ability to self-entertain. Just be careful not to drink toooo much the night before you get married or you'll end up with Montevegas's Revenge.

Thanks for the article Ilise. It's a good reminder of the basics; we know them and yet forget them much of the time.

This is a great idea. I coach adults that have ADHD and this is a service I often provide for my clients. I have always wanted to have someone on the other end to help ME with my follow thru. Please put me on the list of interested parties. One thought though - we'd have to be careful to not distract one another...

Hi Benni, I coach adults that have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and would be happy to give you some help with your business. Just let me know if you are interested.

I use US Bank. There is no fee for my checking account or for my Visa and customer service is always helpful (and free). US Bank has online billpay and online customer service.

Brian, you have great timing. A colleague and I met on Monday to discuss the possibility of starting a W. Seattle networking group through Biznik. Would you be open to inviting some non-biznikers?

Hi Aimee - are you looking for a private office or would shared space work? A colleague of mine is in a large loft-type space that is shared between several people and they are looking for someone to join them. I believe the rent is $250.00 and includes a fantastic view of Portage Bay. Let me know if you want the contact info.

Hey Rachel - sometimes people say really unhelpful things because they don't know what to say that would help. Or sometimes it's because they're feeling bad about themselves and inadvertently decide to take it out on you. My best suggestion is to join a small biz networking group and talk with people who don't know you well. We're more likely to give you unbiased advice and to truly understand how frustrating it can be to be in business for oneself.

I recently ran into my ex-bosses-boss and he asked me how my "little business thing" is going...

Keep your chin up, Rachael

Hi Fiona - I used Kate Baldwin Photography. I had a great experience and I actually like my photo which is rather unusual for me.

Kate Baldwin Photography 1109 Elliott Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119 Phone: (206) 284-5678 Email: kate@katebaldwinphotography.com Web Address: www.katebaldwinphotography.com

Try Pascale LeJeune. I haven't used her before but I've heard great things from my clients.

Pascale LeJeune, CSS, CTS, NCS EXPERIENCE Active Travel 240 NW Gilman Blvd Issaquah, WA 98027 Phone: 425-503-0389 plejeune@travizon.com http:// www.issaquahtravel.com

Hi Rachel - I have firsthand experience at this since I'm in the process of transitioning my own business. My approach is to continue my work with existing clients while moving steadily forward with the new. I'm not taking new client's for my old business and I'm only networking and advertising for the new stuff.

If you have any specific questions please feel free to call or email me.