When I talk to small business clients about creating or redesigning their websites, I usually encourage them to include a blog. Many reply with, "We don't see why we need one," or, "We don't have anything to write about," or, "We don't have time for that." I then proceed to describe the many benefits of […]
Many clients ask where they can find images for their websites. Others don't ask, and simply send images they found on Google Images. My experience is that many people aren't familiar with copyright laws. You aren't free to use every image you find on the Web. You may only use images to which you own […]
Manage Your Day-To-Day: Build Your Routine, Find Your Focus, and Sharpen Your Creative Mind by Jocelyn K. Glei My rating: 3 of 5 stars This book tells creatives (designers, writers, artists, etc.) how to better manage their time to give priority to creativity. It's current and practical while still presenting timeless principles. It covers several […]
These are the best WordPress podcasts I've found. They have content for WordPress users (individuals or small businesses), designers, and developers. I prefer those that offer tips, recommendations, and tutorials over those that simply cover WordPress news. I listed them in order of preference. If you like these, you should read my other posts about […]
I led a WordPress for Small Business Websites Q&A panel at WordCamp Grand Rapids 2013. We discussed goals, strategy, content, analytics, speed and performance, social media, SEO, and generally making sites effective. Below is a video of the panel discussion, followed by paraphrased versions of the questions asked by the audience. I'm so thankful for […]
These are the best WordPress podcasts I've found. They have content for WordPress users (individuals or small businesses), designers, and developers. I listed them from most to least favorite. I prefer those that offer tips, recommendations, and tutorials over those that simply cover WordPress news. None of the WP Candy podcasts are active any longer, […]
I had the privilege of speaking to students of a high school for their Career Day 2013. First, an IT pro spoke about IT support and software development. Next, I gave the presentation below, which is an overview of careers in Information Technology (IT). How could I improve this presentation for next time? Tell me […]
I've recently been writing about my favorite podcasts about the business of web design. Here are my favorite business podcasts that aren't about web design, but do have great business content. I’ve listed these from most to least favorite. If you like these, you should read my other posts about podcasts. I’m always looking for […]
Last week I wrote about my favorite podcasts about the business of web design. There are a lot of web design podcasts that aren't specifically about the business of web design, but that occasionally discuss web design business topics. I've included my favorites below, ranked according to frequency of business content. If you like these, […]
These are my favorite podcasts about the business of web design. They frequently cover topics including marketing, pricing, project management, productivity, client relations, entrepreneurship, freelancing, proposals, and contracts and other legal issues. If you like these, you should read my other posts about podcasts. I’m always looking for more, so please add your favorites in […]
The Wealthy Freelancer: 12 Secrets to a Great Income and an Enviable Lifestyle by Steve Slaunwhite My rating: 5 of 5 stars This is definitely the best book on freelancing I’ve read so far! Many freelancers assume that they must choose between a high income and the freedom of freelancing, so they settle for an […]
For my 2013 redesign of OptimWise.com, my primary goal was to better showcase my portfolio. Secondary goals included refining information about the business, making it easier for people to contact me, and making the blog more visually appealing. My Portfolio page has been one of my most visited pages since I added it, so I decided […]
