MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

I will not be posting for a number of days due to Christmas vacation.

Missing Money

I recently read an article that said there is about $33 billion in unclaimed assets currently in forgotten accounts. There are scams that offer you the service of recovering your missing money; however you should beware before engaging with a firm. Do some research and check them out with the Better Business Bureau and your Attorney General’s office. It was also recommended that you periodically check http://www.missingmoney.com/; this site links almost all 50 states’ unclaimed property efforts. I visited the site and unfortunately couldn't’t find any missing money…yet! :)

Source: Money Magazine article by Donna Rosato

Shopping Savings

I love a bargain and frequently find myself comparing prices and items to get the best deal possible. I recently learned a new way to save, visit http://www.google.com/ and search for store coupons you are interested in (for example, type “Barnes and Noble coupons”) and you will get a list of the different sites offering information on coupons (both online and in-store).

A few sites I like and have used to find discounts are: http://www.dealcatcher.com, www.retailmenot.com/, http:///www.couponcabin.com/.

Every little bit helps!

Good Interview Questions

When interviewing for a job, you should ALWAYS ask a lot of questions. It demonstrates a high level of interest in the company and the position, and can set you apart from your competition. I have interviewed people in the past and was quite disappointed when they didn't ask any questions. You basically want to interview the person you are speaking with to ensure you are interested in what they have to offer you as a potential employee.

Here are some questions that may be useful:

1. Who do you consider your major non-traditional competitors?
2. In the company's recent history, what do you think has been your biggest advance and what has been your biggest setback?
3. What are the company's greatest strengths?
4. What type of training would you offer someone in this role?
5. Does the position have quantitative objectives to meet?
6. Who has been successfull in this role?
7. Is this a newly created position?
8. What is your highest priority in the next six months and could someone like me help?
9. Tell me about a typical day?
10. Where do you see your company going in the next 5 years?
11. What are the 3 main qualities you are looking for in a candidate?
12. How do I compare with other qualified candidates?
13. Do you have any hesitations about me being successful with your company?
14. How do you measure success on the job?
15. What is your hiring timetable and next steps?

In addition, you should always ask questions specifically related to the job you are interviewing for, for example, if the job posting states you will have responsibility for supervising employees, you can ask how many employees? what their levels? etc.

Business Plan for Entrepreneurs

I have always admired entrepreneurs, and would love to have that big idea to speak of one day. I was recently on http://www.score.org/ **and found an excellent business plan sample. If you are interested in starting your own business you should always start by creating a comprehensive business plan; even if you are not seeking funding from a third party.

A business plan serves as your compass as you embark on your new adventure. It solidifies your thoughts and there is something 'magical' about seeing it in writing that encourages you to take that leap into entrepreneurship.


Here is the link for the business plan: http://www.score.org/downloads/Business%20Plan%20for%20a%20Startup%20Business_July.doc.

**"SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)."