The 12 Commandments To Follow When Presenting to Investors

By Gilles Herard, Jr. 

In business, as in everything else, communication is key. If you want to give your project its best chance at getting funded, there are certain key points that I like to call the 12 Funding Commandments that you must abide by, questions you must answer before even your investor(s) asks. You present these clearly and concisely, you've got yourself a killer Presentation.
1) Who is the applicant (Legal name, whether you or your company or the company that will be created specifically for this project) and exact location (complete street address and full contact details)
2) Ownership of the company has to be crystal clear and if the company is controlled by a holding company: who are the principals of the holding? Investors must know who are the individuals behind the corporation, along with full contact details
3) Brief description of your project (maximum 10 lines)
4) Detailed cost of the project (no need for fancy graphs, just tell it like it is)
5) Cash invested by the principals (i.e. you or partners in project)? Do you have "skin in the game" and if you don't bring cash, what do you bring and what is the value of what you bring (a patent for instance can be worth much more than cash)
6) Do you have additional cash you can invest or are you completely broke after investing your first money? (Don't lie, they'll find out. Tell it like it is)
7) Further to the money you have invested, what is the actual value 'as is where is' of your project if you were to sell it tomorrow?
8) How much money are you looking for and under what structure (debt only, equity only or a combination of each?)
Note: make sure your figures add up if you're looking for an equity partner. If say your project is worth $1M and you're looking for $5M and say that investment will be worth 20% of your company, your math doesn't add up and that will make you look greedy - and like someone who flunked out of math class in high school.
The deal offered has to make sense.
Same reasoning - if you declare a $1M value for your project and you want to borrow $5M, what will be your investor's collateral to cover the $4M gap?
9) You need to present a detailed use of funds and a schedule of disbursement, which once again has to make sense. If you are applying for $100M to build a hotel, you will not need the lender/ investor to dump $100M into the bank account in a one shot deal (nice dream, though, isn't it?), but rather the lender/ Investor will match the disbursement of the funding to the construction ( implementation) of the project.
Same reasoning goes for all other types of projects.
10) Exit Strategy. You need to be crystal clear about the repayment of the advances (whether equity or debt) and you have to back it up with very strong supporting documents! (in any given case you need to submit a detailed and professionally prepared Business Plan)
11) Define clearly and logically the strengths and weaknesses of the project (maximum 5 lines). Again, honesty is the best policy. If your investors catch you in a lie about the weaknesses of your project, you won't get a second chance to present it.
12) Lastly, what is your experience (as promoter of this project) in the line of business related to the project; are you going into a venture you know nothing about and hoping to 'make it work' or are you a professional in your industry and you know what you're talking about?
Sometimes we are tempted to make to hide the downsides of a project, or at least downplay them, but that will work against you. Rather, if you present clearly your project and everything about it and make the investor(s) understand that you know the risks and you're ready for them, that will make you look like a much stronger candidate. These 12 Commandments can be broken down and used in most other types of presentation, whether for the expansion of a company, presenting a new business idea, or even presenting a company's standing and future vision.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6886182

The 12 Commandments To Follow When Presenting to Investors

Top 10 Small Business Ideas for 2012

By Mark Favre 

Starting a small business takes a lot of planning and the ability to execute your business plans. Though it doesn't require a big capital for a small business however you cannot lose your capital as this will cause a serious trouble on the financial front at the same time your future expansion plans. If you have knowledge about how to run a business successfully, you won't be able to take a wrong move that can affect your business plans. Before we go on further to the small business ideas, refer to the tips for running a small business.
• Can it sustain your everyday expenses and can it profit you.
• Can it raise enough funds to get it running for a long time and can become a profitable venture.
• Is it something that is needed everyday and does it has an appeal to sell on a steady basis?
• Is it something that you know how to do and can you do it well?
• Is it something that you like to do and doesn't mind you at all doing it over and over again?
Now that we know our objective in putting up a small business let's go forward and see what are the best idea for small business this 2012.
1. Online business - this may include article writing/blogging, virtual assistant, translator, copy writer or bookkeeper, data entry, etc. This is one of the ideal business ideas for beginners would be to take advantage of various online business opportunities. By doing online data entry and online paid survey jobs, you can earn money per hour for your work. The more accuracy and consistency you show in your job, the more work you will get.
2. Mobile apps development - almost all people nowadays possesses a mobile phone and included on the mobile phone is application that people always uses. Calendars, Alarm Clocks, notepads are some example of applications that are commonly downloaded. Whether this is a businessman, a politician, an artist or just an ordinary person has a lot or even tons of mobile application.
3. Make-up artist or hair salons - Providing either makeup artist services or hair salons is yet another interesting small business idea. Makeup artists are in great demand in the fashion and entertainment industry. If you have the required makeup skills and talent, you can start your own company and do the makeup of television and movie stars. By providing good service, you can get long-term contracts which will increase your revenues greatly. The great thing about hair salons is that they are a sure thing. No matter how dismal the economic climate, women will still scrape together the money to get their hair done, even if they have to let their nails go. So hair salons with talented stylists and well-priced services will still be real money makers.
4. Cleaning services (pool, yard, garage etc.) - A cleaning service is a good business proposition for a person who relishes the idea of cleaning apartments, homes and commercial establishments. Housekeeping is an art and people are typically deterred by the prospect of getting grease, tough stains and odors out of carpets, keeping their bathroom clean and eliminating odors from their refrigerator. Hence, a cleaning service can be a steady source of income assuming that there are no immediate competitors. Otherwise, one would have to spend money on advertising and this may eat into one's profits. Cleaning services can operate round the clock since residential apartments are generally cleaned during the day while commercial buildings are cleaned after office-hours. Considering that cleaning services earn popularity and goodwill through word of mouth, a job that is well done will rarely go unnoticed.
5. Elder assistant or baby sitting - being a babysitter doesn't require you to have a license, with more parents needing to work and offering a home based child care can be a great way of starting your own business while taking care of your own kids too. The growing numbers of senior baby boomers also provide growing business opportunities for senior care. In-home care and senior residences are the obvious ones, but don't forget all the related opportunities such as driving, delivery, catering and cleaning services for seniors who want to stay in their homes. You can certainly develop your own business providing care for seniors.
6. Recycler - the best thing of being a recycler is that you're not just earning your own money and you're also helping the environment. Average homeowner doesn't always know where or how to recycle the stuff they've got. A pickup truck are all you'd need to start buying or simply offering to remove scrap metal, old computers, electronics, ink cartridges and other recyclable materials.
7. Event management/party planner - Event management or party planning can also be a good option for a small business. Event planners have to organize a particular event by taking into consideration the suggestions given by their clients. This job requires creativity, patience and ability to get work done from people on time. It can help you be a successful event planner if have a good team of creative professional that can help you organize the event under you.
8. Online selling - whether this is a pre-loved or brand-new stuff you can still earn big bucks. This is being popularized by e-bay. There are still some people who have a whole lot of money and are willing to spend it on the name products that matter. Luxury handbags, scarves, and shoes for women are still selling well, for instance.
9. Social media consultants - With the ever rising of the social media era and the giant social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and You tube, businesses have been taking advantage of this to gain more exposure for their brands and products. With more than 800 million active users in Facebook alone, business promotion in this top social networking site is now a priority for business owners and marketers. If you have the social media marketing skills that can outsource likes and follows for your client's business, then this business can help you earn cold cash on the Internet.
10. Pet related services such as pet sitter, pet cleaning and grooming services - Most Canadians and Americans loves pet especially dogs and feeding, caring for them and pampering their pooches a spending priority. Kennels, doggie daycare, dog treat bakeries and dog resorts are few of the things that you may want to venture in.
These are not necessarily ideas for businesses that anyone can start however you can get some idea on the list above. But in my opinion, these are business opportunities that are going to provide real chances to make money in 2012 and beyond. Business that is done right, in the right place and for the right people may be profitable enterprises for years to come. If you've been considering a sale in 2012, take your time and do it right. Plan ahead, research your market and stand out from the competition. Knowing the sales process is half the battle. With proper preparation, you can ensure a stress free transition and a financially successful exit from your business.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6787012

Top 7 Habits of Highly Effective Bosses

By Dianne D Dixon 

Having a good boss makes a great difference in any work environment. But what traits make a highly effective boss who not only earns the respect of team members but also of peers and superiors? Experience being a given, here are 7 habits of effective bosses that not only earn them the respect but also enable them to handle any challenge that comes their way:

1. They are decisive - Effective bosses are known to make decisions quickly and are slow to change those decisions. That's often seen as stubborn or even resistant to change but it boils down to this: A boss that changes his or her decisions frequently is seen as indecisive, confusing, and loses the respect as a team leader. Often those who change decisions often rely too heavily on impressing others with their title and position instead of understanding what's in front of them. Well informed quick decision making is a signature of highly effective bosses
2. They make definite plans and know how to execute them - Leading by guesswork without definite plans can be seen as disorganized. For the most part, effective bosses take the time to think things through, weigh all options and come up with viable ways to address positive and negative risks that may arise. Essentially, they plan their work and work their plan.
3. They have good personalities - I remember during the first week of my new job, I was told how tough and mean my boss was. With that in mind, no one was more surprised than I when he invited me to a party at his house during the first week of my new job. I went and it was the best party I ever went to. He saw me, made time to ask me how I was doing. The following week at work, it was business as usual but that party was a topic of discussion. He was still one of my toughest bosses that pushed to be a better analyst but he knew how to laugh and have a good time with everyone.
4. They sympathize with others - It's easy for some bosses to dismiss the personal issues of team members citing that if it's not work related then it's not that important. That was the party line for many years but effective bosses realize that paying attention to team members as well as their work is essential to having a productive team. Not only does it make the employee feel like they matter, it is also good business. A boss that sympathizes and provides resources to his/her team is a part of the holistic business approach that is good for team morale as well as business at large.
5. They are masters of details - A former boss of mine looked at one of my data sheets and told me what happened during the fourth week in January 1996 and why the strategy we were using in February 2007 needed to align with that. It was both scary and amazing. His in-depth knowledge of such details not only showed me that he respected the seriousness of his position but it also inspired me respect my position that much more.
6. They take full responsibility for themselves and their team - When a mistake is made, it is easy for a boss to (subtly or overtly) point the finger. But the best bosses I've seen have embodied the motto The buck stops here. For any and all errors, they take responsibility and choose not to blame anyone else for their mistakes. That habit earns the respect of not only their team but also of their superiors.
7. They know how to enlist the cooperation of others - For any project to work, there needs to be 'buy-in' from all parties. There are many ways to enlist cooperation but an effective boss knows that one of the best ways is to use referential authority to induce team members' and project sponsor cooperation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6861531

Jaguar XK Artisan SE

Every Jaguar XK represents a compelling combination of advanced engineering and cosseting luxury, yet the latest additions to the evolving range - the Jaguar XK Artisan SE models - further enhance that luxury quality through the introduction of hand-crafted 'Artisan' interiors.

Available in both coupe and convertible form, the Special Edition model's Artisan interior introduces the use of tactile 'scraffito' finished leather to the front seats, instrument binnacle, door and rear quarter casings. In combination with Poltrona Frau® leather headlinings, two new veneer finishes - Shadow Walnut and Dark Figured Aluminium - and standard features including a 525W Bowers & Wilkins sound system, 16 by 16 way adjustable heated Performance seats, a heated steering wheel and keyless entry/start, each Special Edition model promises a heightened level of opulence and comfort.

To complement the sumptuous use of materials, Jaguar's design team, led by Director of Design Ian Callum, specified two exclusive Artisan interior colourways for the Special Edition models; Navy with Jet headlining and Truffle with Canvas headlining. Convertible hood colours have also been carefully selected and include Black, Blue, Grey and Brown. Special Edition treadplates and stainless steel pedals are additional discreet enhancements.

An exterior paint palette of three colours includes the exclusive Special Edition colour of Celestial Black, Polaris White and Rhodium Silver being the alternative options. A new 20-inch alloy wheel design completes the exterior changes; Orona style with a polished finish.

XK: an advanced choice

Whether in coupe or convertible form, each Special Edition model benefits from the advanced engineering techniques inherent to the entire Jaguar XK range. Jaguar is industry-leading in its use of aluminium technology, and both coupe and convertible models utilise riveted and bonded aluminium monocoque construction that means light weight, exceptional rigidity and strength. In combination with continuously variable adaptive damping - standard on all models - and a 5.0-litre direct-injection V8 petrol engine in 385PS naturally-aspirated form, the result is a beautifully damped yet controlled ride, precise handling, and effortless performance when required.

UK pricing: Coupé - £77,350 (OTR), Convertible - £82,500 (OTR)

Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"As you become more clear about who you really are, you'll be better able to decide what is best for you - the first time around." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"Before you agree to do anything that might add even the smallest amount of stress to your life, ask yourself: What is my truest intention? Give yourself time to let a yes resound within you. When it's right, I guarantee that your entire body will feel it." Oprah Winfrey Quotation

"Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"Books were my pass to personal freedom. I learned to read at age three, and soon discovered there was a whole world to conquer that went beyond our farm in Mississippi." Oprah Winfrey info

 

"Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure." Giving Quotes by Oprah Winfrey

"Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. Try again. Do better the second time. The only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire. This is your moment. Own it." Giving Quotes by Oprah Winfrey

"Doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment." Giving Quotes by Oprah Winfrey

"Every one of us gets through the tough times because somebody is there, standing in the gap to close it for us." Giving Quotes by Oprah Winfrey

"Every time you state what you want or believe, you're the first to hear it. It's a message to both you and others about what you think is possible. Don't put a ceiling on yourself."

"Excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism."

"Follow your instincts. That's where true wisdom manifests itself." Oprah Quotes

"For everyone of us that succeeds, it's because there's somebody there to show you the way out. The light doesn't always necessarily have to be in your family; for me it was teachers and school."

"I always knew I was destined for greatness."

"I am a woman in process. I'm just trying like everybody else. I try to take every conflict, every experience, and learn from it. Life is never dull." Oprah Quotes

"I believe that every single event in life happens in an opportunity to choose love over fear."

"I define joy as a sustained sense of well-being and internal peace - a connection to what matters."

"I don't believe in failure. It is not failure if you enjoyed the process."

"I don't think of myself as a poor deprived ghetto girl who made good. I think of myself as somebody who from an early age knew I was responsible for myself, and I had to make good."

"I don't think you ever stop giving. I really don't. I think it's an on-going process. And it's not just about being able to write a check. It's being able to touch somebody's life."

"I feel that luck is preparation meeting opportunity."

"I have a lot of things to prove to myself. One is that I can live my life fearlessly."

"I know for sure that what we dwell on is who we become."

"I still have my feet on the ground, I just wear better shoes."

"I think that when you invite people to your home, you invite them to yourself."

"I trust that everything happens for a reason, even when we're not wise enough to see it."

"I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism. And that's how I operate my life."

"If you come to fame not understanding who you are, it will define who you are."

"If you neglect to recharge a battery, it dies. And if you run full speed ahead without stopping for water, you lose momentum to finish the race."

"If you want to accomplish the goals of your life, you have to begin with the spirit."

"If you want your life to be more rewarding, you have to change the way you think." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"I'm black, I don't feel burdened by it and I don't think it's a huge responsibility. It's part of who I am. It does not define me." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"In every aspect of our lives, we are always asking ourselves, How am I of value? What is my worth? Yet I believe that worthiness is our birthright." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"It isn't until you come to a spiritual understanding of who you are - not necessarily a religious feeling, but deep down, the spirit within - that you can begin to take control." Oprah Winfrey Quotations

"It's much easier for me to make major life, multi-million dollar decisions, than it is to decide on a carpet for my front porch. That's the truth."

"I've learned that you can't have everything and do everything at the same time."

"Living in the moment brings you a sense of reverence for all of life's blessings."

"Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down."

"Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity."

"My first day in Chicago, September 4, 1983. I set foot in this city, and just walking down the street, it was like roots, like the motherland. I knew I belonged here."

"My philosophy is that not only are you responsible for your life, but doing the best at this moment puts you I the best place for the next moment." Giving Quotes by Oprah Winfrey

"Partake of some of life's sweet pleasures. And yes, get comfortable with yourself."

"Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you." Giving Quotes by Oprah Winfrey

"Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody's going to know whether you did it or not."

"So go ahead. Fall down. The world looks different from the ground."

"Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher." Famous Philanthropist Oprah

"The big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you're willing to work."

"The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams."

"The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude."

"The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate."

"The thing you fear most has no power. Your fear of it is what has the power. Facing the truth really will set you free."

"The whole point of being alive is to evolve into the complete person you were intended to be."

"Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another steppingstone to greatness."

"Though I am grateful for the blessings of wealth, it hasn't changed who I am. My feet are still on the ground. I'm just wearing better shoes."

"Turn your wounds into wisdom."

"Understand that the right to choose your own path is a sacred privilege. Use it. Dwell in possibility."

"Unless you choose to do great things with it, it makes no difference how much you are rewarded, or how much power you have."

"Use what you have to run toward your best - that's how I now live my life."

"We are each responsible for our own life - no other person is or even can be."

"We can't become what we need to be by remaining what we are."

"What God intended for you goes far beyond anything you can imagine."

"What I know for sure is that what you give comes back to you."

"What I know is, is that if you do work that you love, and the work fulfills you, the rest will come."

"What material success does is provide you with the ability to concentrate on other things that really matter. And that is being able to make a difference, not only in your own life, but in other people's lives."

"What we're all striving for is authenticity, a spirit-to-spirit connection."

"Whatever you fear most has no power - it is your fear that has the power."

"When I look into the future, it's so bright it burns my eyes."

"When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time."

"Where there is no struggle, there is no strength." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"With every experience, you alone are painting your own canvas, thought by thought, choice by choice." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"You CAN have it all. You just can't have it all at once." Oprah Winfrey Quotes

"You know you are on the road to success if you would do your job, and not be paid for it." Oprah Winfrey Quotes