On the way into the office today, I was listening to an NPR series part, Michigan’s Hybrid Economy: Helping the Entrepreneurs, and a few things struck me. The first is the comment that the auto industry has continued to suck local investors dry.

“(Entrepreneur’s) main competitors to be honest are automotive based technologies, they’re going to be the big guys.”

It’s frustrating, though understandable, that most Detroit-area investors have sought out auto. Of course, auto has been Detroit’s golden goose, but really? Are we that resistant to change that investors are still drawn to the money pit Detroit auto has become? I’m absolutely all for helping out my hometown’s bread-and-butter, of course I have family deeply embedded, but diversification is an absolute necessity if not inevitable.

To Tweet or not to Tweet? That is the Question.

I get asked everyday “What is Twitter?” and “Why should I use it?”  Twitter is a micr-blogging website where users share tips, ideas, and personal experiences with their “Friends” (AKA followers.)  The message limit is 140 characters so notes are concise and frequently filled with hyperlinks to websites, blogs, etc.  I encourage everyone to find out more by visiting www.twitter.com.  I also found this video on YouTube that is worth a view: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddO9idmax0o

13 Search Engine Optimization Tips for Web Content

No one but the search engine owners know the exact algorithms used to return search findings. However, there are things you an do to increase the chance of your content being found. What’s “content?” Content is the images, copy, and other elements published on your website.

And we’re off!

13 Search Engine Optimization Tips for Web Content

1. Headlines
Headlines are often an afterthought, but are definitely critical in engaging readers. Readers chose their content based on engaging headlines, and notice them based on relevant keywords.

2. Fresh, hot content!
Your husband may not notice a new hair cut, but Google will notice new content. Each time your website or blog updated, a new or updated Google listing is created. This increases your visibility! (Fresh content exemplified in image.)

3. Keywords in content
The key to not making this spammy or awkward is to ONLY use relevant, appropriate keywords. If you have done a keyword analysis, you know which phrases and wording those searching for you are using. Phrase these words in your content as those who are searching for you do.

Example– Keyword: “garden supplies”; your content includes “gardening supplies and tips.” You may want to re-word it to accommodate the singular form (”garden”) instead (”garden supplies and tips”).

If you’re not comfortable doing this, don’t stress. Chances are you’re doing it organically (without realizing) anyway.

This recession provides time for innovation

I am so tired of bad news pertaining to the economy, especially here in metro Detroit. In financially stressed times, innovation is critical. Today, your customers are using different tools to research and purchase everything from books and electronics, to raw materials and machinery. For US retailers and manufacturers it is time to adapt or die.

The “Twipping” Point?

Over the past six months, I’ve become a fan of Twitter. I “tweet” nearly every day, sharing thoughts and optimistic quotes that I hope will inspire my followers and enhance their lives. I’m not a “just had coffee…” or “walking the dog..” kind of poster. I don’t really belive that has any value to anyone other than the stalkers who have nothing better to do than wonder what I’m doing at this exact moment (AKA no one.) Instead, I try to share various news items, tips, and more that I’ve come across during the day. If nothing comes to mind, I’ll find an inspiring quote that I hope will help others reflect on their current situation and realize how great life is.

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