GENEROUS

A Commercial We Can Relate To

2014-04-01T01:34:09Z

It's been a while since I've used these but I miss them. The good folks at Pantene released this subtle message about women and the glass ceiling.

(c)2013. All rights reserved.

Never Fear, Tax Time is Here!

2014-04-01T01:22:48Z

Yeah..I know...that was cheesy but here's something you might not know about.

If you weren't exactly rolling in dough last year, you may want to consider VITA to help you file your 2013 taxes. This is a free program run by the IRS and both federal and state are covered at each appointment.

Here's my honest first-person account.

Last year was not exactly profitable for me as I'm still dealing with illness but I remained single with no kids. Instead of a 1099, I brought my bank statements as proof of income. Since I once worked in accounting, I try to be as organized as possible.

Well...that thought wasn't exactly mutual.

I don't mind someone new but dumb scares me when it comes to business. When I met the preparer, with her two-sizes-too-small booty jeans, I was ready to head for the door and activate my TurboTax account. But she seemed polite so I proceeded until we got to my previous IRS business. Getting help took a long time and the person "in charge" mumbled something to me in Spanglish, so they had to hunt down someone else.

She also had wild attire but had the sense to remind me of the many business deductions I had, making my payment lower of course.

The New Job Search Strategies

2014-02-22T08:07:00Z

The search for a career has taken a new turn as virtual communication rules in just about every aspect – from an online resume to social media presence to accompanying videos and VoIP communication tools like Skype.

Then there’s another trend that some job search specialists and coaches have suggested, volunteering.

Finding these opportunities doesn’t have to be hard nor should it feel like a waste of time, if a person knows how to market themselves.

Most of these people know they are getting something for nothing and though saying “Thank you” or providing lunch is a polite form of communication, it does not pay the bills.

But contacts can, if you know how to network effectively.

For the altruistic person who is not living paycheck to paycheck, serving food to the homeless is ideal. However, everyone else should know their worth and how far it can go in the world of business.

A few years ago, I worked in public relations for a non-profit that held annual fundraising balls to stay afloat. Originally, my efforts were overlooked and underestimated. Then in my absence, the staff began to see that I was about getting the numbers in so that a decent forecast for future efforts could be performed. Volunteers were normally not invited to the Ball but I got tickets for two anyway. This meant rubbing elbows with all types of hotshots who ran companies and could be of influence.

Volunteermatch.org also offers virtual opportunities. Most are pretty flexible and if you’re a college student, this may count towards internship hours.

This is also great for career-changers or those returning to the work force after a “staycation”.

Bounce Back with Plastic

2014-02-20T08:04:00Z

If the recession left you with a little less plastic and you would like to change this, there are some ways to turn this around.

One popular way is to seek representation from a consumer credit agency that can help negotiate a lower amount on your behalf. If not, they offer flexible payment plans but we all know that the end fees are just elevated interest and late charges. So in reality, they are happy to get what they can since the amount has been charged off on their books anyway.

Like the FDIC’s website, there is also a financial literacy tutorial as well as many interesting articles like The History of Women and Credit.

I’ve used these before and it is really recommended for anyone who is at least $5000 in debt. At the same time, a person needs to assess whether they are really in the hole by that much as many things are negotiable.

If you are only a few dollars in debt and have decided to eliminate the middleman, there are a number of credit cards available. Credit.com is a good resource but I encourage anyone looking at a particular card do their homework first. I can personally say this applies to First Premier as they were one of the first to come calling when I started my business. Also, I have read some interesting testimonials about the Rush/KLS card, which to my knowledge is a reloadable debit card with no effect whatsoever on a person’s credit status.

In other words, don’t give into the hype of paying fees and don’t give up hope of being able to start over because we all know it’s just a big hustle.

Getting Money Right ...for Free

2014-02-18T08:13:27Z

Folks are still recovering from the recession and there’s many people out there willing to take advantage of those who are also recovering from debt.

Online are many who will make false promises for a price and others who just give recycled information. As far as the latter is concerned, a few do have the nerve to charge but the best resource is a solid government source that does not charge.

I learned about the FDIC’s Consumer Protection page back when I was getting the business off the ground. Everything is written in plain English and being it is an unbiased source that regulates the U.S. banks, it is safe to say that the information posted is current.

Sites like this help for anyone looking to get re-acquainted with the traditional banking system (long ago, I once messed up and tried to do the check cashing thing and all I can say is…NEVER AGAIN) or just need answers on things like getting a mortgage.

One feature I like is the Financial Literacy tutorials that actually issue a certificate for every segment completed. Though I can’t confirm it now, but I’m pretty sure this is the same system that non-profits use when they offer a mandatory finance class in order to start a business or buy a home.

A New Year... a New Career?...Not So Fast!

2014-01-15T21:23:16Z

You may have watched that one annoying dude that talks about getting off the couch and making the one important phone call that will change your life for the better. I don't habitually watch talk shows but I do know that I am sick of people saying that a person can have a new career in 9 months or less.

It's not that I don't believe this but lucking up into a real job takes more than desire to make more money. For instance, while dude on the screen is reading you for being lazy and unresourceful, what about this wonderful learning institution? Mmm hmm, now we're getting somewhere.

See, prospective students need to find out what their graduation rates are, as well as accreditation, and whether they have been reported to a local or federal consumer reporting agency for behavior that may be an obstacle to the learning experience.

And don't go by who has been around for a while as some of these places change their dba name like Katy Perry changes wigs. I used to pass by this vocational school for years, not knowing the evil that was happening on the inside as students and teachers were wasting time and money!

In short, check out your community college or university for low-cost extension programs as well as adult schools or district-run vocational schools.

Saving Money or just Shacking Up?

2013-10-30T21:44:41Z

You've met that someone special who is really cool and it may be platonic...or not. Either way, you both realized that life would be so much better if you became roommates.

Maybe, maybe not. Cohabitation can be serious business and in some states, it is treated like a traditional marriage.

Basically, it all depends on the expectations of both parties in the short and long of things. While it may be difficult for younger people to know whether they want to marry or buy a house, it is great to at least have an idea. Should you feel strongly about either, then you should share this with your roommate-to-be.

Especially if they are your spouse-to-be. Often people cohabitate as a training ground for the big step. While this is logical as it can save time and money, it can also be a loss. For instance, you both have decent jobs but only one is serious about buying a house. Even if that person buys and has the paperwork in their name only, it is not fair that they do all the legwork or that the hassle and/or expense is not shared. Or the person who is not ready to buy a home wants to rent forever because it is comfortable, it is not fair to the other person because they will find that having a mortgage is less money (and stress) than dealing with a landlord.

My experience had more to do with the matters of the heart as this person proposed as a way to get in. Though everyone is different, I say long engagements are BS and just a way for someone to buy time while they get over (or have enough resources to get their own place). Also, I have to say to all women that if you are doing more work (at a job or home matters) than when you lived by yourself, then marriage will not make it better.

Then there's the matter of money. While it is expected (especially in this economy) to cover rent for someone once in a while, what really happens when one person is bringing home the bread, butter and cheddar? Yep, many women are becoming the major wage earners and have many assets - sometimes before the age of 35, which is fairly young.

The good news is that there are potential life mates who work hard, do not mind helping out and make great spouses - even if they do not make six figures a year. The bad news is that people in general have a lot of homework to do before bringing someone into their home full-time and around their family. Though many just do a full background check, are a few tips to begin the weeding out process -

Look at where they live - Is their home clean or dirty? Are they dodging their landlord? Do shady characters stop by on the regular?

Keep the relationship in mind before letting them move in - Though every situation is different, I do not condone getting involved with someone who has a spouse or "friend" at home. They may say they are staying for the kids or money reasons but save yourself the trouble and do not get involved, period.

Find out their money habits - Get someone in a comfortable environment (possibly drunk) and they will tell you if they pay their bills on time. While this economy has placed many in the position of needing to eat or paying credit card interest, no doubt we need to live for ourselves first. At the same time, those with a lack attitude about work and money will only become your problem if you move them in.
Get to know their friends and family members so if they come up ghost, you will know who to contact before getting the law involved.

If they constantly change jobs, even if they temp for a living (voluntarily) or work in a business that is not steady (like construction or talent), always keeps funds aside and either have separate leases or get everything in your name only.

While many living situations result in a long, prosperous life together, there are just as many that end up in court for non-payment of rent, claims to goods after someone has died, or domestic battery.

Yes, some states treat common law (shacking up) situations as a legitimate marriage, especially if a lot of years have been put in.

Stand Your Ground When it Comes to Your $

2013-08-27T00:23:04Z

I said I would still keep things honest and though I will not spill all of the tea, I will give enough away to let people know that they do not have to taken as a sucker.

Recently I bought a product to help out with the re-branding of this site. This is someone I've known about for a while and so far had a decent relationship. The reason that I mention this is because they are one of those businesses that is "women-friendly". Now, if you remember, the whole GENEROUS brand started off as promoting positive things that were about women.

So, one day they do not deliver as promised. I've been billed and this is not the first time this has happened. The last time I spent money on a product, it took several days to resolve and I still have a huge question mark in my head about whether that was money well spent as virtual fairs are still a fairly new concept. This was before I learned more about target marketing so I just chalk it up to experience.
Anyway, I go directly to the source to cancel and report everything days after it was promised. And guess what? I get the item in my email hours later.
But because you can't pull funny stuff on PayPal (either you have the money or you don't), people tend to get kind of excited and that's what this person did with me. I was recently diagnosed with a serious health issue (Kyle, if you're reading, please get in touch) and the last thing I need is stress.
So I let her vent. But when she demanded I reimburse her, I was more than happy to document all the steps taken. She has no defense except that she lost money due to her lack of due diligence.

All I have to say is tough titties!

(c)2013. All rights reserved.

Before You Sell Your Gold or Precious Metal

2013-08-26T23:59:50Z

In the past, I have written content for marketing companies who target people looking to sell their gold and fine metals for fast cash. Some companies were strictly online and others had a storefront. While many of these claimed to be better than going to a pawn shop, there were still some that pushed the convenience factor over market value. In other words, because they promised to give the customer immediate money, the customer could lose big time.

While there are some money matters we cannot predict, such as health matters (even with insurance), no one should feel pressured to short themselves. What I learned in my research of these companies, one resource that a person can check is the money.org website. This is home to the American Numismatic Association and it is best to look for a buyer that belongs to this organization.

Another good site to check out is the U.S. Mint. This is a government site that gives money talk in simple terms plus there are many online resources for the consumer.

Whatever you do, do not throw money away trying to pay bills!

Work Online the Smart Way

2013-08-04T00:43:11Z

If you earn money online, here are some tips from the Better Business Bureau you may want to check out as people are coming up with new ways to scam folks everyday. I've been at this for years now and there are some real characters that make their way to oDesk and other outsourcing companies.
Courtesy of NewsSentinel.com.

Also, there is my other blog Work in Hell. It's pretty much the same as the old format except as time passes, more of the posts relate to freelance work and resources instead of first-person commentary about bosses you'd like to set on fire. However, inquiries are still welcome if you want to contribute.

Another great source is Real Ways to Earn Money Online. There are daily updates (yes, they are free) as well as access to online freelance and work resources that have been pretty helpful to me in my times of need. Also, Anna is really good about posting unbiased accounts concerning companies and if you have a good or bad account to share with the public, commenting is really easy and she gives you an opportunity to plug your blog post.

Save Money by Knowing Your Rights

2013-07-16T17:59:45Z

Like many people, I was hit by the recession. My clients were becoming slow or shady with payments and when the few legit clients came through, I was paying late fees and interest charges. However, the worst part came when it came to rent. My place was slightly overpriced to begin with but the maintenance (then) made up for the shortcomings. Though I hated doing this and really felt like a sucker afterwards, I realized through a client that it may work to my advantage.

Here is a consumer rights cheat sheet for situations that do not feel right.

The first time rent was late, it was by a day and I got a lecture about a late fee. I reminded the landlord that the many times we (ex and me) performed his yard work because he stopped paying for someone to cut the grass (which is his responsibility). He near jumped out of his skin because he knew this was in the agreement and we once even threatened to move because of the vermin and dead animal bodies that greeted me after a long day at work.

Unfortunately, it got worse as only partial payments were made from both of us. While the landlord would lecture, I told him several times that my salaried gig ended and that my roommate was the one who really wanted to stay on - but if he needed to file paperwork, I would understand.

He hasn't to this day.

These situations vary from one state to another but in this case, especially when the landlord is negligent (except for plumbing, we took care of about 90% maintenance), Cali residents may stay on the property for an additional 4-6 months - RENT FREE.

I would never take advantage of anyone to that degree but the happy medium would be to issue a 30 or 60 day notice. The landlord eats the costs but it makes more sense that harassing people. There are even situations where a barter (free labor) could have been worked out but this suggestion was ignored.

Anyway, the arrears have nearly been paid off and I am looking to move by the end of the year but here's the rundown of apartment living when not married.

Stay on top of state laws. Landlords sometimes think that regular people don't pay attention but keep records and receipts of anything that you paid for, even if you don't seek reimbursement.
If you are not sure about your partner, request separate lease agreements. This was my number one mistake, even after explaining that we hadn't been together that long and had a way of doing a disappearing act when it came to communicating about when I could expect their half of rent. Oh yeah, and if you have a nice job, don't let the superwoman thing take over because the minute things slow down, these so-called men will remind you that you are late on a payment instead of covering like you once did.
A rental is a rental. Though there are some cases where people are more than happy to maintain another person's property and there is flexibility in payments or other arrangements are made, this works best when the landlord is a family friend or relative. Otherwise, you can be late once and get a 3-day notice, receive a legal increase the week your hours have been cut, or anything their heart desires. While the person I rent from had some compassion, he also had to face the facts that his profits did not allow him to maintain the place. With units being vacant for months (and sometimes years), he lost money that could have gone to paint, carpet, and other details that would make it easy to rent to another party.

My Budget-Friendly Vacay

2013-07-07T18:44:14Z

Summer is no time to be stuck in the house as it’s been pretty hot in L.A. and my hormones have been more out of control than normal. This means something different when you get older but at least I know that I won’t be wasted in the club. However, I do like to gamble a little. Bingo. Slot machines. Safe stuff like that. The truth is that I get into more trouble at the buffet table than the blackjack table. So when I learned about Online pokies, I thought I’d give it a try.

My fridge is little so there would be no stocking of goodies for me…but, I gotta have a drink in hand. I would recommend that people could save money buy getting the store brand spirits, but those give me a headache. So my next suggestion would be to try those warehouse supermarkets. If you knew how much money liquor stores net, you would by elsewhere unless it was someone cool that let you buy on credit. Then again, we all know how those relationships can go – interest never dies, it only multiplies.

Not long ago, after telling some friends about Online pokies, we decided to pool our resources (another way to save on fun) and with one mega store club card, we created our own casino-style buffet with never-ending drinks. I won a few dollars and though one friend nodded off with laptop in hand, we agreed this was a lot safer than having a “Hangover” moment. This is a pretty nice way to relax from a long week of work. There is not long drive, crowds, or worrying about pickpockets as you and your group are walking from one casino to another. And if you’re like me where you are just there for the ambiance, you don’t have to worry about the person who is looking to gamble away their entire paycheck or get completely wasted.

(c)2013. All rights reserved.

Why Those Payday Cards Are Not the Business

2013-07-01T20:48:12Z

About a year ago, I worked for a merchandising company outside of my state. The job wasn't bad but the hours were limited but long.

Because my bank account was OD'd beyond words, I told them to send me one of their Chase debit cards.
The sad thing was that I got the card when the project ended but worse was I was being billed even for viewing my balance.

Now, this may be your situation today but the truth is that payday cards can place you deeper in the hole. Courtesy of Yahoo Finance.

If you find that you can't get a bank account at the moment (not even those BS second-chance accounts that Chase bank once advertised), here are some solutions -

Talk to your local merchants and find out if they cash checks. Sounds a little strange but I found out that many liqour stores not only cashed checks but sold money orders up to $1000.

Find a low-fee check cashing place where you can do multiple transactions. There is the stigma of people hanging around these places looking for someone to carjack (or mug) but if you can find an established one that will let you pay utilities, get money orders and stamps. However, do not think of this as a permanent way of life. Get in contact with a financial professional that can help you rebuild your financial standing. And you can get advice free of charge, btw.

The next time you visit a 7-11 check out the VCom machine. I personally have limited knowledge but I have used them to withdraw cash and never had a problem. These have been in L.A. for more than a decade and in an age when a multizillionaire like Paula Deen can lose an empire overnight, these are still standing diagonal from the slushies and hot dogs.

Why Your Blog May Need a Newsletter

2013-06-10T04:48:00Z

Many people start blogs and wonder why the heck they haven't made any money. Maybe what they have to say isn't interesting or just isn't marketed to the right audience. However, what I can attest to is that having a newsletter worked for me and allowed me to meet and network with people from all over.

So are you ready to Take The Newsletter Challenge?

Take it from one who didn't have much of a guide starting out. Running a business can be fun and rewarding but the truth is that if too much time is spent on BS, then it might as well be a hobby.

And we all know that the utility companies, the landlord, and (maybe) your kids aren't trying to hear all that. The best investment you can make when creating an online brand is time. Spend it wisely and prosper!

Getting Ahead The Right Way

2013-06-08T19:30:29Z

Last year, I was drained out of my mind because I remember having to stay late nights at the library hours before my research paper was due.

I was one of those people who said that working and taking care of home was enough and that I would never go back to school.

Well baby, times have changed as making it financially has gotten harder in today's economy.

However, I am testament that it's not impossible. All it takes is having a good backup plan and solid support system to help you see things as they are.

One person in my little group was not always a realist when it came to execution of projects. They always procrastinated and would sometimes exaggerate things just to make themselves appear more knowledgeable. They would tell me that presentation was the key to getting ahead and when you can do it for less, it's a wise investment.

That's why their research paper looked like a toddler wrote it. No citations or other points of reference that could make their facts stick. If my kid hadn't caught the flue earlier that week, I would have been more than happy to share notes but my time was precious.

I was smart enough to get the right kind of help and put in the work early enough so I will graduate on time. Not so sure about other folks. Last I heard, they left school to wash dishes part time.

(c)2013. All rights reserved.

Getting the Business Tools You May Need For Less...

2013-03-20T21:10:15Z

than a night out on the town with girlfriends!

You may have had to place a limit on Girls Night Out (or stopped altogether) but you remember those times...$10 drinks, $12 appetizers and making it rain.....?

And the next thing you know, you were out $100.

Even if you were a little more conservative like me, which was mostly bitching about jobs I hated, people I disliked even more and that relationship from hell (more later on how to NOT mix love and finances with Mr. Right Now). I could still find my bank account lighter by $50-60 easily.

While I've made decent choices I could have done better by not wasting time and money. Sometimes, it is hard to determine when it's time to let your hair down and time to focus on the future but here is a little something that will have a big impact.

One thing that any business class, workshop, webinar or tutorial will tell you is that you must have a great understanding of marketing in order to be successful. Though it's not necessary to enroll at your local college, it does help to have the tools and resources necessary. Here is a deal I ran across for less than the cost of one unit at my school. Yes, ONE UNIT! The IndieBizChicks Moving Sale has a ton of information designed to help you create an effective marketing plan.

Work at Home Deals For Amazon Customers

2013-03-20T20:44:42Z

If you are a Amazon customer, here is your chance to save money on

some great e-books as well as get some great ideas on making money at home.

You may be like me where the days of spending lazy Sunday afternoons at Borders sipping an iced cappuccino and munching on peanut butter biscotti are a thing of the past. So books can get expensive and sometimes all you need are the bare facts. If you're on a budget, keep reading...

The good folks at Real Ways to Earn Money Online have taken the time to compile a cool library of WAH e-books written by a number of experts that may be downloaded for free (or less than $5) to your Amazon Cloud Reader. Titles deal with writing, sales, advertising, how to make extra money and more!

Heck, even if you've been thinking writing that Kindle book, I'm sure if you talk kind of nice, Anna will include you in the $!

Getting Ready For the Big Time

2013-03-08T01:34:05Z

Last semester had me about to pull my hair from the root. My hours at work were cut. I told one of my professors where to go after they chastised me for being late because my car broke down. Getting my thesis done without my usual resources had me wondering if the trouble was really worth it. Then I found an essay writing service that understood my situation.

See, I'm one of the few people out there that takes pride in what I do. No, I'm not popular at most of my jobs but I do like the feeling of knowing that attention to detail was used and not some rush job. Whether I'm flipping burgers during the lunch rush or researching the effects of sodium benzoate in the urban community, I like a job well done.

Some people look at price first and run with it. Or they stress themselves out looking for the cheapest price. I say that's academic suicide. If you knew how many people got burned and then found themselves burning out at the end of the semester, my goodness. Money is very hard to come by these days, so why not make it work for the better?

(c)2013. All rights reserved.

Cool Resources for Working at Home

2013-02-20T20:14:33Z

I hate the term WAHM not just because everyone needs to work but there are many dads out there facing the same $hit we're dealing with.

Okay...this is a blog I've been following for some time and though many of the leads are companies I, personally, am familiar with or have worked with there are quite a few gems here.

Here is the rundown of all the LEGIT WAHM sites that do not charge fees or take your through a maze of links, annoying videos, pictures of "cute" animals, etc.

Truthfully, I'm finding sites like these to be of greater worth than CareerBuilder, Monster and these days, craigslist.

I'm going to try out this list since I termed a couple of clients and have some time on my hands.

(c)2013. All rights reserved.

In Love and on a Budget

2013-02-12T19:42:04Z

According to Women's Day magazine, the average consumer spends around $100 for Valentine's Day. Of course, this goes up significantly when buying jewelry or paying for a wedding.

And you don't need me to tell you that the merchants do see you coming when it comes to the latter two events.

Now, I'm not here to say not to celebrate love or have a good time but there are many of us that have other priorities. Such as the light bill, food outside of a restaurant setting and too many other things to name.

The many alternatives could include eating a prepared meal at home (do not ask the person who normally does the cooking to cook, unless they volunteer and do not order pizza unless that what BOTH parties want).

Another fun thing is sex.

Yes, I know this site is changing gears but sometimes the only way we can have a clear head is with affection. Some of us can stand to improve our game and others may have lost their way altogether. Loveskills places the fun back in intimacy and the price is less than a bouquet of red roses and the rewards will last much longer.

Happy Love Day!