What is structured data and why do I need it in my website?

Structured data, microdata, microformats, Rich HTML snippets and RDFa. What does all this mean?

The term structured data refers to data that is easily identifiable because it is organized in a structure. The most common form of structured data -- or structured data records (SDR) -- is a database where specific information is stored based on a methodology of columns and rows.

In the context of Search Engine Optimization, structured data is used to assist search engines to identify and properly catalog the information presented on your website. Structured data is defined on a website using RDFa, microformat or microdata markup format. A site that uses structured data properly will generate rich HTML snippets that will provide additional information to the user when your site is displayed in search pages.

Rich HTML Snippets are the few lines of text that appear under every search result and are designed to give users a sense for the content on the page and why it’s relevant to their query.

If Google understands the content on your pages, rich snippets are generated by Google that includes detailed information intended to help users with specific searches. An example would be the snippet for a restaurant website showing the average review and price range. The snippet for a recipe page may show the total preparation time, a photo and the recipe’s review rating. And the snippet for a music album could list songs along with a link to play each song. Rich snippets help users quickly recognize when your website is relevant to their search and encourages more clicks to your pages

HTML5 microdata, microformats and RDFa are markup formats used to produce structured data from the information on your website.

•              The first step is to select from the 3 markup formats and determine which one you are going to use on your site. Google suggests using microdata, but any of the three formats are acceptable.

•              The next step is to markup the code with the selected format.

•              The final step is to use a structured data testing tool to verify the markup is correct.

Once these steps have been completed, Google will discover the structured data the next time your website is crawled. Like all things Google, it may take some time for rich snippets to appear in search results or place pages.

Google supports rich snippets for the following content types: Reviews, People, Products, Business and Organizations, Recipes, Events, and Music. Google also recognizes the markup for video content and uses it to improve search results.

By taking the time to implement structured data on your website users searching relevant search terms will be provided with additional information that will set your site apart from the rest both informationally and visually.

Krista Trovato

Web Designer/Owner

Peerless design inc.

www.peerlessdesigninc.com

Small Business and the NLRB

By David D. Schein, President & General Counsel, 

Claremont Management Group

The National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB”) is an independent Federal agency that regulates the relationship between workers and employers with regard to union activities. Recently, a US Court of Appeals overturned President Obama’s appointment of three members of the five-member NLRB in January 2012. The Court ruled that the US Senate was in session and therefore the President was not authorized to make “recess appointments.” While this sounds like a minor technicality, if this decision is not reversed by the US Supreme Court, it could lead to the vacating of approximately 100 decisions made by the NLRB over the last year.

 Many small businesses do not regard the NLRB as a key concern. In general, this might be true. Unionization is at its lowest level in about 50 years in the United States. Unions often target large businesses since they obtain more members and dues from organizing a 500 employee plant than they would from organizing a 25 employee plant.

 The reason the Court decision is so significant to small business is that these Board members appointed in January 2012 are decidedly pro-union. Their aggressive approach expanded the reach of the NLRB. I note below two special concerns for small business.

 While unions have lost many members, they are not down and out. They have been energized by the recent national elections and the rulings of the NLRB over the last year. Small businesses are not immune from unionization. As an example, a wholesale distribution company with about 50 total employees, including about a dozen truck drivers and a dozen warehouse workers, faced a unionization effort. The workers were divided into two possible bargaining units and the employer lost one election and won the other. The union involved filed 10 Unfair Labor Practice (“ULP”) charges against the employer. Eventually, the NLRB ruled in favor of the union on most of the ULPs and the employer was facing another election in the unit which it had won. Ultimately, the union abandoned its efforts and there is no union at the company today. However, the cost was about two years of disruption and about $50,000 in legal fees and settlement costs.

 Employees do not need to belong to a union, or attempt to unionize, to be protected by the NLRB. Any “concerted action” is protected under the law. The reason this is a special concern is that suppose an employee posts on their Facebook page that they feel their employer is unfair and pays poorly? This employee is acting alone and can generally be disciplined for making inappropriate public comments about their employer. Suppose now that two or three fellow employees respond to the posts and agree with the first employee? This employee is now acting “in concert” with other employees regarding pay and other conditions of employment and may file a complaint with the NLRB if they are disciplined.

 For both reasons, small businesses must stay alert to the risks of unionization and concerted action.

Old Fashioned In-Person Networking: What’s the Use?

Social networks seem to be popping up daily, and LinkedIn is making a name for itself as the premier platform for business networking. But with all these options to like, friend, email, follow, and otherwise engage online, is there any benefit to in-person networking?

The short answer is yes, but understanding why social networking platforms may put you at a disadvantage can help you better understand the world of networking, and where that world is heading. There are still many professionals that abhor or ignore their social media profiles, and even for those immersed in interactive platforms, a personal touch can go a long way.

The Advantages of LinkedIn

There’s no doubt about it: LinkedIn is a tremendous platform for social networking. Whether it’s meeting new people or reestablishing former colleagues from two career changes ago, LinkedIn can help you find new business prospects, experience new opportunities, and lay groundwork for your next career move. You can see many contacts at a glance, learn new information about companies, and comfortably reach out without waiting for just the right opportunity or worrying about making an instant good impression.

Why In-Person Meetings Are Always Best

Despite the advantages of LinkedIn, personal meetings are almost always better. Talking to someone face-to-face gives you a much better read on their body language, a much more open conversation, and far more opportunities to guide the nature of the budding relationship. Not to mention, in person you’ll have opportunities to meet people that aren’t on social platforms, or who may not be found through the digital means available to you.

A Business Card and a Handshake

Many business leaders still appreciate the conservative values of the past, and the irreplaceable tangibility of a firm handshake, a straight look in the eyes, and a business card. First impressions are as priceless as ever, and in most situations, a static image and handy tagline are no replacement for a real world introduction.

http://www.quezmedia.com/

http://www.facebook.com/QuezMedia

https://twitter.com/quezmedia

Using Social Media For Online Business Networking

No matter what generation you claim membership to, if you aren't taking advantage of social media as an online networking opportunity you may be missing valuable connections.

Social media sites such as LinkedIn, Twitter and even Facebook allow professionals the opportunity to by-pass the gatekeeper and develop relationships with prospects and suspects. For example, we have an intern whose dream is to work in Public Relations for the Disney Company. She is a sophomore at a local university and has already developed enough of a LinkedIn profile for future employers to get to know her. Through some careful searches and respectful connection requests, she is now conversing daily with team members in the Public Relations department at DISNEY! Do you think this activity will give her a leg up when intern or direct hiring positions come available? We certainly think so.

Using social media to network is a lot like online dating. The goal is to meet your perfect professional match, get to know each other in the safety of your office (talk about decreasing business expenses!), establish trust, then meet offline to further the professional relationship.

Just like watching how someone conducts themselves on the golf course can be a window into how they will conduct themselves in the board room, conversing with or following someone on social media can be an indicator of personal and professional integrity as a client or strategic partner. You can learn a lot about someone by what they post on social media as a status update or how they interact with you when you ask to connect. (HINT: Sending a sales message to us on LinkedIn right after connecting is a good way to get you un-connected.)

Not convinced? Try it out and let us know what happens. Connect, follow or fan a prospect or suspect on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, then leave a comment about your social media networking success (and not so successful) stories.

8 Networking Tips To Ensure You Make the Right First Impression

Everyone feels a little bit like a fish-out-of-water at their first networking event. There are new faces in a new place and everyone seems to already be getting along just fine. To overcome this, having a few networking tips in your back pocket can give you the confidence you need to be successful at your first networking.

Once you go to a few events and practice using these tips, they’ll become second nature and you won’t even have to think about them.

So, if you want to take the first steps to becoming a networking superstar, keep on reading!

Tip #1. Keep in mind: everyone has started where you are now

No matter how charismatic you are it’s natural to feel a little uncomfortable at your first networking event.

Everyone has been there.

Each person you see working a room like they were born to do so also started out where you are now; they’ve just had the opportunity to practice and attend more events than you have. Now, as a result, they have fine-tuned their networking “routine” and have become comfortable in applying it regularly.

Don’t worry; you’ll get there. Be patient.

Tip #2. Don’t be afraid to take the first step

The hardest part about networking is starting the conversation. Many people find it intimidating to walk up to a person or group of people to interrupt their conversation so that you can join it – especially when it’s your first time meeting them.

Don’t think of it that way.

Every person at any given networking event is there to meet people and broaden their network! You’re a person! You could be a new member of that person’s network!

Therefore, using that logic, every person at any given networking event is essentially there to meet you.

Tip #3. Don’t rely solely on your title when you’re introducing yourself

People associate much of their identity and self worth with their job title, but why?

Job titles can be vague and can often lead to the person with whom you’re speaking to create assumptions about you, your skills, and the work you do based upon their preconceived notions associated with your job title.

Instead of facilitating assumptions being made about the work that you do, make your role clear to that person by stating your one of your specialties.

For example, I might introduce myself using, “Hi, nice to meet you; my name is Kristine. I work for an Internet marketing company based in Columbia, MD and my specialty is online brand and reputation management.”

With this introduction, the person I’m speaking with has a clear understanding of what area it is that I specialize in.  Now, if that person speaks to someone who has a need for online brand and reputation management, specifically, my name will pop into their head.

Tip #4. Always be willing to give something

The whole point of networking is to build mutually beneficial relationships. Doing something to better the person you’re networking with will aid in building the foundation of that relationship!

You know the saying, “You have to give a little to get a little”? Well, it’s true.

If you go into a networking event fully prepared to make yourself a resource for others, they will do the same for you.

If you focus on giving or teaching one thing in your 5-10 minute conversation with every person you talk to at an event, essentially leave them “wanting more,” you have successfully opened the door to start building a relationship beyond the initial introduction.

Tip #5. Know what you’re looking to gain

Have you ever heard of the Reciprocity Principle?

Well, even if you have I’m going to tell you what it is anyway.

The Reciprocity Principle states that people, in most situations, will reciprocate – or give you something back – if you give something to them. Whether it’s the name of a tool that solves a problem they’re having or making an introduction on their behalf to someone they’d like to meet, people appreciate these small tokens.

So much so, that they want to return the favor.

Tip #6. Be A Mensch

Mensch is a Yiddish word that basically means, “all around good person”, so when I say “Be a mensch” I just mean be genuine.

No one likes people who act one way in some scenarios and act another way in others. Similarly, no one likes a greedy person who is only looking out for themselves.

If you’re not networking to better yourself and others, you might want to reconsider networking at all.

Tip #7. Exit Gracefully

Just as entering the conversation is hard, exiting is too.

The goal of networking events is to have as many meaningful conversations with as many people as possible, so it’s a good rule of thumb to keep each conversation between 5 and 10 minutes.

Now, here’s the tricky part – some conversations don’t naturally end after 5-10 minutes, which is where it could get awkward.

So, if you find yourself in one of those types of conversations, you might try one of the following approaches:

1.      Excuse yourself to go get a drink. If you do this though, there is a small chance that person might just follow you. If that happens, get your drink and try one of these other approaches.

2.      Introduce that person to someone else in the room. You want to be able to say something about both parties while you’re introducing them to each other, so be sure that you know enough about each person to do so.

3.      Excuse yourself to take care of something. If you do this, make sure you actually go through the motions. If you said you needed to speak with somebody you just saw, go speak with somebody. If it was to use the restroom, use the restroom. Nothing is more insulting to someone than finding out they were lied to so that you wouldn’t have to talk to them anymore – even if it is in the interest of being able to network more effectively.

Tip #8. End With The Future In Mind

If you’ve been following these tips, by the time you get to the end of an event, you will have given something to someone and, odds are, you have offered to follow up with them in some shape or form.

If this is the case, make it a point to follow through with whatever you committed to doing for that person.

Your actions speak to your character and if you don’t follow through with even something so small as sending an email, that portrays you as either forgetful or neglectful. Either way, it will leave that person with a bad taste in their mouth; no one wants to feel as though they’ve either been forgotten or just downright ignored.

After networking events, some people have an issue sorting out who was who, either because they talk with so many people at a single event or they just have horrible memories.

Whatever the case, if that is something you think could be an issue for you, there is a great networking tip so you can nip it in the bud. When you take a person’s business card at an event, after you’re done talking with that person, take a moment to jot down some notes, such as:

·         What you committed to do – the most important thing, especially if it requires action from you. For example, “need to introduce Bob to Fred” or “send email tomorrow about the event next week.”

·         What you talked about – this is extremely helpful when you’re crafting your follow up email to that person. For example, if the person you’re emailing mentioned during the event that they have two kids or that they’re getting ready for a 2-week vacation to Hawaii, you can bring that up in your email to add a personal tone. Saying things like “how are the kids” or “have a great time in Hawaii, it’s so beautiful,” show that you cared enough about the conversation you had with that person to remember those details.

·         Something notable about their appearance – this will help you remember who was who as you review your cards the next day, which will allow your memories of your conversations and the event in general to be easier to recall.

That’s all Folks

I could probably ramble on and on for hours about networking tips and experiences I’ve had, but I’ll stop so you can start looking for some networking events in your area. It’s your turn to get out there and get some first-hand experience!

Good luck and happy networking!

About Kristine Wilson

Kristine Wilson is the Marketing Director for WebMechanix, an Internet Marketing firm based in Columbia, MD.  She enjoys networking, social media, and helping companies thrive through integrated marketing strategies. Click here to follow Kristine on Twitter.

NETWORKING - IT'S AN ART FORM! from @BareKnuckleMktg

Networking is an art form, you say??  NOT!  

That’s what most people think.  “I’ll go to this event, show up, pass out a few business cards and get back to work or home in time for dinner.”  Well, I beg to differ in a major way about networking, especially using this kind of mindset when approaching a networking event.

Art involves creative and critical thinking.  So does networking.  To be successful in networking the principles are the same: dress the part, create a positive, business mindset, then plan on how to network when at the event.  For example, if you are attending for the first time, go through the guest list (you can usually get access to this if you sign up online) and see if there’s anyone you know that’s going.  Get in touch with this person and see if you can get information on how the event is conducted.  Some events have people introduce themselves and give a short speech on what your business is and what your role is in the business.  The last line of your speech should be something memorable, such as “I’m Joe from HyperSo and I want to do something outrageous today.”  Do you think that line might be memorable?  Of course it is...most people don’t say things like that.  Be as creative or as conservative as you feel comfortable but  make that last line memorable!

For the networking events that are more learning based, you might get there early, get your seat and then walk around and see who you know.  If there is no one there you know, still be sure to smile at people and make it a goal to speak to at least 2-5 people before the session begins.  After the session, you might get a chance to talk with a few people, but I’ve found that if it’s learning based, the best time to network is before the class begins, while getting coffee, a drink or hanging up your coat.  While you walk around, smile and make eye contact, and take a moment to say hello, at the very least.  If the session is beginning and there’s someone you wanted to talk with, let them you that you would like to talk after the session.  Ask them politely if you might speak with them after the event.  They will either say yes or no, I can’t.  And if not, be sure to ask for a business card to get contact information and let them know you will be in touch.  .

Art is about expression.  So is networking.  How you express yourself is the difference between  people understanding what you are trying to say, or express, to them.  For example, if I wanted to talk with Joe from HyperSo, I might begin with a catchy or funny line.  I might say “Hi Joe, from HyperSo, who’s in the know.  AND SMILE!!!  I cannot stress this enough for networking or any meeting you have.  I studied broadcasting and was told to smile whenever you spoke because “people hear you smiling.” And it’s true!  Practice in the mirror or record yourself...say a sentence without a smile and then say it again with a big ol’ grin.  Which one sounds better???  The smiling sentence, of course.  If you want to be approachable (and you do!) wearing a smile is the best way to be perceived as approachable.  A smile is always your best asset!

Now that you’ve arrived early at the event, listened to the speaker and are are getting ready to pack up and leave, look around.  Look at the people that are there and see if there’s someone in close proximity to talk with, briefly, or if there’s someone across the room, make your way over there.  Then, introduce yourself and if they can’t talk, get their contact information - usually a business card.  Try to give them a memorable line, if possible, but if not, be the person that smiles the biggest and they will probably remember you when you contact them later.

Or, sometimes you fly blind and don’t know what you are walking into.  I’ve had this happen and   for me, I use smiling along with memorable lines and friendly chat.  Be genuine in what you say and if you say it with conviction, you have a better chance at being memorable.  Use a witty or funny line and they definitely won’t forget you.  Being their BFF is not the objective.  The objective is to connect with someone, just be yourself and have a plan in mind on how you want to network.  You don’t need to talk with everyone (unless you want to and have the time) but make the most of your time at the event.  And, if you’ve done your research and see someone on the guest list you would like to talk with, be sure to find them, make that introduction and SMILE!

Art is something that makes you feel good and moves you in some way.  Networking is too, or it should be.  Your plan should be who, what, where, when and why.  Those are the things you need to ask yourself in relation to the event - make it part of your plan to be true to yourself, have passion and conviction about your business and how you speak about it.  Lastly, networking is an art because it follows the rules artists follow when thinking about what their next masterpiece is going to do or be.  If you don’t want to be a starving artist, make networking a part of your business life and always think about how to approach each event, each person and memorable lines you want to say.  And, by all means, put a big grin on that kisser!



written by Di Stamper, Account Manager at Bare Knuckle Marketing 2013

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Taking the Dread Out of Networking

There’s lots of great networking advice out there, most of it geared toward surviving while swimming either in a sea of competitors or disinterested, overwhelmed prospects more interested in selling than buying.  Here are three tips to help you eliminate dreading those networking events.

1. Genuinely care about the others. There are two opposing pressures facing most people engaged in networks: the quick sale vs. trust building.  While seeing a speedy ROI for networking fees may be intoxicating, over the long run, you’ll enjoy greater revenue from authentic relationships.
2. Let your strong point of view glow in the dark. In other words—stand for something. Don’t try to “fit in”.  Even in networking groups that exclude competitors in the same industry, the pressure to homogenize and conform to dress, conversation topics, or even business practices can be immense.  While listening to the others is the critical first step to understanding their needs and how you might be able to help them, don’t compromise your perspective in hopes of winning them over. If you’re just giving them more of what they’re already thinking or doing, you’re not helping. You’re just prolonging their agony. Instead, make it clear that what you bring to the table is wildly different and you’re committed to it.  Be prepared to give solid support your point of view but don’t water it down. You’re there to help them do something different, right?
3. Create your own network. If you truly dread attending networking events, perhaps you’re in the wrong place. In fact, the right place for you may not even exist! So what then? Start your own network based on the values and purposes that are meaningful to you. Find others who share those values so going to the networking events becomes one of your favorite things to do. Find a purpose or cause you all can agree on and work together to solve problems. By collaborating with other businesses who share your values, you’ll not only find creative solutions to existing problems but you’ll also be the first person they’ll think of when they need what you sell.

Pam Hausner is the CEO and co-founder of Big Vision Media Group, a branding and marketing agency advancing responsible businesses for a better world.

Life is Filled With Headlines - What's Yours

We live in a world of short, exec summaries.  People have short attention spans so you have to get to the point and grab their attention.  Whether it is a spreadsheet or a sales brochure, a great headline is required. 

But headlines don't just apply to printed material.   We have headlines in all phases of our life.  A good headline is a simple defining statement which clearly extends well beyond the printed page. This idea applies to face to face networking as well.  Your "sound bite" is a headline.   If you can't keep it short and attention grabbing you won't earn the right to continue the conversation. 

Seth Godin  summarized this idea in a terrific post about headlines.   He says:

That person you met at a conference: What's his headline? Are you actually going to spend ten minutes with him before you determine whether or not he's interesting enough to talk with? Of course not. No headline, no communication.

So as you head out the door to your next networking event, take a moment to think about y0ur headline.  It is even worthwhile to spend a few minutes practicing it in the car on your way to the meeting.   Are you saying something which will make people want to learn more and remember you after the event?  

If not, it is time to work on a new headline.  Need a little help?   Order a copy of Confessions of a Networking Junkie, a simple step by step guide to networking.

Marketing strategist Lorraine Ball is the Creative Director for Roundpeg, an Indianapolis digital agency.  

Business Networking Tips from Pixie Dust University

When you think about networking, you probably think about going to an event, handing out your business cards, seeing some folks you know but hopefully some you don’t who will want to do business together some day down the road.  But what about digital networking?  Every single day—literally every hour of the day—we have an opportunity to connect with other people and expand our network thanks to social media.  But how do you use the digital landscape to network effectively?  Here’s a few tips we think work really well:

1. Networking is not a sales presentation.  You don’t go to a networking event and break out the PowerPoint to sell someone right away and you shouldn’t do that online either. Social media connections should be more about the relationship and less about the sale. Work on increasing that “know, like, and trust” factor first and sales will naturally follow.
2. Never “go” anywhere without your contact info. When you go to a networking event, you take your business cards with you and you probably practice your “elevator” speech.  In social media, your profile and your bio does that for you.  Always make sure that people can read more about who you are and what you do and then how do they connect with you.
3. Be clear on who you are and who you serve. When you meet someone new and you exchange information, it’s always best to let them know exactly what you do and who you work with. This gives them a good idea if you’re a good fit but it also allows them to think about who they might introduce you to in the future. Social media works the same way. Be clear and you’ll make it natural for people to share your content and your contact info.
4. Dump the drunken Cinco de Mayo sombrero profile photo. As fun as that night was, it’s not appropriate for a profile photo.  When someone views your profile, this is the first handshake—the first impression.  Make it a good one that lets them know that you’re the kind of person they want to do business with.
5. Engagement is a two way street. If you were at an event and you asked someone a question or made a comment to someone expecting an answer but got none—how would you feel? Yeah—not cool, right? So, if someone takes the time to come “stand” next to you virtually, engage in the conversation with them. Don’t wait 2-3 weeks (or whenever you feel like it) to answer them. If you have trouble remembering to check it, set up alerts to let you know when someone has posted a comment or question.

These are just a few simple ways to make your digital networking go smoothly. As you can see, it’s much like networking out there IRL (in real life).  For more strategies on building relationships on and offline, join us at Pixie Dust University.

Networking and Professionalism – The Secret Recipe

By Clancy Cross

Someone once said, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”  Then someone a bit smarter came along and said, “It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.”  Once again, someone even smarter figured out that, “It’s not who knows you, but what they know about you that matters.”  Contained in these clichés is the following wisdom…

•                Life is about people.
•        Success is about successful relationships with the right people.
•        Professionalism matters!

A friend of mine, a leader in the information technology industry, shared with me his approach to building a team.  His strategy was simple –find the right people and teach them the technical skills they need to be successful.  He was talking about character and the so-called “soft skills.”  Instead of hiring the most technically qualified people and trying to develop their so-called soft skills, he selected people of good character who were skilled in communication, problem solving and creative and strategic thinking. Then if necessary, he helped them upgrade their technical skills.  I recall that one of his “techies” had a performing arts degree.

One day I was visiting my financial advisor and was caught off guard when he asked if I ever considered his business as my next career move.  I laughed.  After apologizing, I explained that I wasn’t qualified to work in his field.  In the coaching moment that followed, he patiently explained that he was looking for someone to fill his shoes when he retired.  He assured me that he could teach me the skills of his industry, but needed “the right kind of person”, someone who shared his professional values.  Being offered an opportunity based on my character and soft skills was a reminder that it’s not who knows you that matters, but what they know about you that does.  In both of these examples, “professionalism trumped technical expertise.”

Although the lesson about professionalism is clear, there’s more – the value in being intentional and proactive toward building professional relationships.  Instead of reacting, why not be proactive?  Regularly devoting a fraction of your time to expand your circle of influence is not only a strategy for finding superstars, it also leads to hidden life and career opportunities.  It took me awhile, but today I believe wholeheartedly in the value and power of strategic networking.  Boy, am I ever thankful!  It was networking and professionalism (“what people know about me”) and perhaps some divine intervention that led my colleague David Wright and me to a strategic partnership with Zig Ziglar’s company.  That story can wait.  Let’s network so I can hear your story!

Clancy Cross is an inspirational teacher, coach, entertainer, business owner
and author of “Professionalism from A to Z.”