It's that time of year again! Taxes -- that dreaded T word that's due on April 15 - 13 days and counting! As a self-employed contractor or freelancer, this is the time of year when we hunt for receipts and pray to the IRS gods that we have all our ducks in a row (or maybe that's just me!)
I'm not a tax expert by any means. However, as a freelance copywriter and consultant, I've learned a few tricks over the years when filing my taxes. Some freelancers (especially writers) think that because they don't make a lot of money, they don't have to pay taxes. Even if you freelance on the side and have a 9-5 day job, you still have to claim income earned. Here are a few step-by-step tips for newbies.
#1 Fill out the Schedule C - Form 1040, Profit or Loss from Business (Sole Proprietorship). If you contracted with a company this year and they paid you $600/yearly, the company (by law) has to send you a 1099-MISC form. If you did not receive a 1099, remember to claim all income earned on your Schedule C. You can also use the Schedule C-EZ form but specific criteria applies (i.e. if you don't have employees, expenses are under $5000, no home office deduction, etc.) You can find out everything you need to know about business taxes on the IRS website.
#2 If you can help it, don't fill out forms by hand. It really, really helps (and saves you a LOT of time) to use an online tax preparation program or a tax software program such as Turbo Tax. My taxes are fairly straightforward so I use an easy online prep program called Free Tax USA. There is a small fee to electronically file state taxes but electronic federal filing is free. You can also set up auto deposit. This makes it really easy to get your tax return deposited into your bank account and/or if you have to pay taxes.
#3 Don't forgot to claim ALL expenses. Business expenses include: travel mileage, food/business lunches, coffee meetings, business trainings and seminars (both offline and online), equipment (i.e. that new iPhone you bought this year for business), etc. Claim as many expenses and deductions as you can. If you aren't sure what you can or cannot claim, ask a CPA. Hopefully, you saved all receipts. Keep your receipts organized, especially if you have to work with a CPA. You will need to save your receipts as proof of your business expenses.
#4 Carefully review your taxes before you submit them. The IRS will kick back your forms if there is an error which delays the filing process. Even if you file for an extension, you still need to pay your estimated taxes by the April 15 deadline. If you don't file by that date, you will be penalized. The great thing about online tax prep programs is that they catch the errors for you so you can go back and correct them before filing. After you file, make sure to keep hard copies (or PDFs on your computer) of your returns. You must keep these copies for your records. According to the IRS: Keep records for 3 years from the date you filed your original return or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.You file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad debt deduction; keep records for 7 years.
#5 Hire a licensed CPA to assist you - especially if you don't have time or your taxes are complicated. Also, the IRS has a lot of helpful tips and information on their site for contractors and self-employed business owners.
If you file electronically, make sure to sign your state tax form and keep ALL hard copies in a file folder/cabinet in a safe location. Some business professionals put their tax information in a fire-proof safe which is a smart idea.
May the force be with you and many happy Tax Returns! :)
For California residents, check out:
https://www.ftb.ca.gov/index.shtml?disabled=true
More helpful tax prep links:
http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed
http://taxes.about.com/od/taxsoftware/tp/taxsoftware.htm
http://www.sba.gov/category/navigation-structure/starting-managing-business/starting-business/establishing-business/taxes
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jamie-sutherland/last-minute-tax-tips-for-_1_b_5072966.html
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Monday, February 24, 2014
Social Media Marketing for Cat Lovers: Jackson Galaxy & The Power of Online Product Reviews
As a marketer, I always scour reviews online before I purchase any product or service. However, I seem to find more and more legitimate product reviews through Facebook pages. I'm an animal lover and love my kitties! I have an older rescue cat who has been having some health issues, specifically skin and allergy problems. She's been in and out of the vet for other health problems, including a pricey dental cleaning. She's been itching and biting her fur a lot which has worried me so I went right to the source, the Cat Daddy himself, Jackson Galaxy. Jackson is an awesome animal behaviorist who appears on the Animal Channel ("My Cat From Hell" show). I follow his Facebook page and check out his page for helpful hints about cats, especially concerning cat health issues. As a result, I stumbled upon his natural holistic health products that cat owners really praised. Wow, their personal product testimonials really caught my attention! Jackson merely posted a link to his Spiritual Essence products on his Facebook page. His fans couldn't say enough great things about a particular product (the one I ended up purchasing).
I'm not trying to talk you into using natural health products (a very personal decision) for your pets, but my story shows that online product reviews and testimonials are powerful tools. Testimonials from your fans base/customers can easily help you market services and products - without really trying.
As a result of the rave reviews and browsing through the site (a holistic DMV/vet and Jackson created the product line together so there is a medical/vet backing to the products), I bought two of his natural remedies for my rescue cat, fluffy Blue Eyes. Why did I buy these particular products, especially when there are tons of other brands and cat health remedies I could buy? Because of his active Facebook page AND the genuine testimonials/rave reviews from every day cat owners like myself who are experiencing the same health/skin allergy issues with their cats. My kitty is a "senior" cat so it was even more comforting to know that these cat owners have found success with his products. Yes, I paid more than I normally would but as someone who personally believes in the power of holistic remedies, I feel it's well-worth the investment if it's a good product AND helps my cat feel better.
The moral of the marketing story? If you have a loyal fan base on your social media and they love your products/services, let your fans do the talking (and the reviewing of your products and services) for you. Obviously, Jackson Galaxy has a HUGE following from cat lovers and owners from around the world BUT my personal experience shows the strength of his brand. People trust and believe in his cat/animal behavior advice, knowledge and his products. Jackson Galaxy is another example of a successful branding and marketing story!
I'm anxiously awaiting the arrival of Jackson's products and hopefully, the remedies do the trick for itchy, scratchy Blue Eyes! :)
I'm not trying to talk you into using natural health products (a very personal decision) for your pets, but my story shows that online product reviews and testimonials are powerful tools. Testimonials from your fans base/customers can easily help you market services and products - without really trying.
As a result of the rave reviews and browsing through the site (a holistic DMV/vet and Jackson created the product line together so there is a medical/vet backing to the products), I bought two of his natural remedies for my rescue cat, fluffy Blue Eyes. Why did I buy these particular products, especially when there are tons of other brands and cat health remedies I could buy? Because of his active Facebook page AND the genuine testimonials/rave reviews from every day cat owners like myself who are experiencing the same health/skin allergy issues with their cats. My kitty is a "senior" cat so it was even more comforting to know that these cat owners have found success with his products. Yes, I paid more than I normally would but as someone who personally believes in the power of holistic remedies, I feel it's well-worth the investment if it's a good product AND helps my cat feel better.
The moral of the marketing story? If you have a loyal fan base on your social media and they love your products/services, let your fans do the talking (and the reviewing of your products and services) for you. Obviously, Jackson Galaxy has a HUGE following from cat lovers and owners from around the world BUT my personal experience shows the strength of his brand. People trust and believe in his cat/animal behavior advice, knowledge and his products. Jackson Galaxy is another example of a successful branding and marketing story!
I'm anxiously awaiting the arrival of Jackson's products and hopefully, the remedies do the trick for itchy, scratchy Blue Eyes! :)
Monday, February 3, 2014
Justin Bieber Is Not Newsworthy: Why Twitter Isn't Relevant Anymore
Justin Bieber has been in a lot of hot water lately, but is the Biebs really considered newsworthy? With everything else happening in this world, our crazy weather, etc., my vote is NO! This New York Times article agrees that Twitter isn't about the most important and relevant news anymore. Justin Bieber is definitely NOT considered relevant (big shocker):
Is Twitter really a popularity contest that feed people's inflated egos, and gives them personal validation through "likes"? My vote is a resounding yes. This applies to Facebook as well. Social media is a valuable marketing tool, in my opinion, but some people view and use social media as their own shallow beauty/popularity contest. And that gets old fast.
Do you use Twitter as a social media marketing platform? Do you think that Twitter has gone down the tubes?
According to the article, Twitter really isn't about how many followers you have anymore:"But by far, the most common refrain was something like this: “Why is this news??”The simplest answer is that it wasn’t — at least not the most important news happening on that particular day. But Twitter isn’t really about the most important thing anymore — it stopped being about relevancy a long time ago. Twitter seems to have reached a turning point, a phase in which its contributors have stopped trying to make the service as useful as possible for the crowd, and are instead trying to distinguish themselves from one another. It’s less about drifting down the stream, absorbing what you can while you float, and more about trying to make the flashiest raft to float on, gathering fans and accolades as you go."
"What does matter, however, is how many people notice you, either through retweets, favorites or the holy grail, a retweet by someone extremely well known, like a celebrity. That validation that your contribution is important, interesting or worthy is enough social proof to encourage repetition."This article makes me wonder what's in store for Twitter's future, and social media in general. Will the "tweeting" novelty eventually wear off for the average social media user? Obviously, tweeting is still going strong. Celebrities are always getting in trouble for posting nasty tweets and "questionable" selfies on their Twitter. Is it all just a big publicity stunt these days, especially for celebs and those in the limelight?
Is Twitter really a popularity contest that feed people's inflated egos, and gives them personal validation through "likes"? My vote is a resounding yes. This applies to Facebook as well. Social media is a valuable marketing tool, in my opinion, but some people view and use social media as their own shallow beauty/popularity contest. And that gets old fast.
Do you use Twitter as a social media marketing platform? Do you think that Twitter has gone down the tubes?
Monday, January 27, 2014
5 Outsourcing Tips: How to Effectively Communicate & Work With Contractors and Freelancers
As a freelance copywriter, many times I work with clients who just don't have any idea what they want or need when it comes to their writing objectives. In the copywriting and design world, these strategic instructions are called "creative directives." However, that doesn't mean it's impossible to figure out my clients' needs or wants. I just completed a fast turn-around project, and it was a new industry that was unfamiliar to me. However, the project flowed smoothly and I was able to complete the project quickly. It also helped that it was a former colleague. Since we worked together in the past, we knew each other's work ethic and are both very detail-oriented.
Last year, I took on an outsourced blogging project for a copywriter friend, and it was a seamless project as well. Why were these projects successful? Because they were both very clear with directives and what I needed to do. The blogging project involved a lot of research (also, it was another industry that wasn't familiar territory), and the article angles were very specific. I also work for a fast-paced marketing & design agency with multiple projects and clients. Everyone involved in the project needs to be on the same page in order for projects to succeed, and to make our clients happy.
Even if your project is challenging, that doesn't mean it's impossible to get what you need/want from the contractor. If you have outsourced projects or plan to work with contractors and/or freelancers in the future, here are 5 outsourcing tips you need to know BEFORE hiring independent contractors.
1. Do not expect the contractor/freelancer to read your mind. You need to have somewhat of an idea as to what you want.That's the purpose behind holding initial strategic planning consultations, phone interviews/meetings, etc. For example, don't approach a web developer with: "I need a new website by next month." Why do you need a new website? What's the purpose/objective of your website? Don't answer with the standard "I want more clients, make more money, etc." Who doesn't want to have new clients and make more money? Don't be vague. Be specific about your project goals. Also, don't forget to communicate on a regular basis with your contractors. If you aren't an email person, let the contractor know up front that you would rather talk to them via phone or Skype, etc. or vice versa. Establish SPECIFIC project details from the very start! Contractors aren't mind readers - that's not their job. If you don't understand something, don't be afraid to clarify and ask questions (even if you think they are silly!) Remember to answer contractors' questions in a timely manner. If the contractor has to wait for you to answer their questions, remember that delay holds up YOUR project and THEIR deadlines.
2. Put everything in writing from the very beginning and don't proceed until you have a signed contractual agreement. After sending you a proposal/quote and when you agree to the project details, the contractor usually draws up the contract. However, you can also create your own contract for them to sign. In the contract, outline (point-by-point) the details of the project, fees/rates, and your directives (goals, objectives, etc.). If you are working with multiple contractors on one big project, include a project plan and clearly outline each players' roles, deadlines, etc. in the project. It's important that everyone involved knows what's going on with the project--the left hand needs to talk to the right!
Make sure to include a clause in your contract that states you can "kill" the project at any time and dissolve the contract. Sometimes what looks good on paper doesn't translate in the real world. As a copywriter, I pride myself on completing projects on deadline and communicating effectively - and on a regular basis - with my clients via email, phone, text, and Skype. However, not every freelancer out there is ethical or even qualified. Carefully vet contractors before you hire them, and ask for testimonials and professional references. You want to have an "out" if the contractor just can't meet your goals and/or you have a personality conflict. You will still need to pay a contractor for ALL completed work up until the point you dissolve the contract. If you ever run into a bind with a contract dispute, consult an attorney for assistance.
3. What you see is what you get...or expect to pay more money. If you change your mind about the direction of your project and decide you want a different website design (and the website is in the final stages of completion), be prepared to start from scratch. Most contractors/freelancers are flexible with changes mid-stream (dependent upon contractual agreements), but time is money for independent contractors. If the project is near completion and you decide you want to create a new concept/idea, then you're looking at a brand new project strategy which means a new budget and contract. This seems like a no-brainer, but I've experienced this issue first-hand and it happens quite often.
4. Leave your ego at the door. Don't pretend or think you know MORE than the contractor you hired. This can turn into a nightmare. I actually "fired" clients for this very reason. It works both way. An unhappy contractor can immediately dissolve the contract with you as well. There is a reason you hire a professional that knows more than you do. Let them do their job, and don't be micro-manager or a know-it-all. Obviously, if the contractor gives you a smoke and mirror show and has no clue as to what they're doing, you have a legitimate reason to fire them and hire a more qualified person.
5. Heartfelt compliments and rockin' testimonials don't hurt either. Freelancers and contractors find a lot of their business through word-of-mouth, so if you are pleased with their work please let them know (and let others know too). Testimonials and good references are a huge selling point for independent contractors. Also, if you have it within your means/budget, throwing a few extra dollars their way for a job well done doesn't hurt either. If you need this contractor's services in the future, this is a great way to establish rapport and a solid working relationship. A small bonus is always nice, but even a simple thank you and heartfelt compliments can go a long way.
Last year, I took on an outsourced blogging project for a copywriter friend, and it was a seamless project as well. Why were these projects successful? Because they were both very clear with directives and what I needed to do. The blogging project involved a lot of research (also, it was another industry that wasn't familiar territory), and the article angles were very specific. I also work for a fast-paced marketing & design agency with multiple projects and clients. Everyone involved in the project needs to be on the same page in order for projects to succeed, and to make our clients happy.
Even if your project is challenging, that doesn't mean it's impossible to get what you need/want from the contractor. If you have outsourced projects or plan to work with contractors and/or freelancers in the future, here are 5 outsourcing tips you need to know BEFORE hiring independent contractors.
1. Do not expect the contractor/freelancer to read your mind. You need to have somewhat of an idea as to what you want.That's the purpose behind holding initial strategic planning consultations, phone interviews/meetings, etc. For example, don't approach a web developer with: "I need a new website by next month." Why do you need a new website? What's the purpose/objective of your website? Don't answer with the standard "I want more clients, make more money, etc." Who doesn't want to have new clients and make more money? Don't be vague. Be specific about your project goals. Also, don't forget to communicate on a regular basis with your contractors. If you aren't an email person, let the contractor know up front that you would rather talk to them via phone or Skype, etc. or vice versa. Establish SPECIFIC project details from the very start! Contractors aren't mind readers - that's not their job. If you don't understand something, don't be afraid to clarify and ask questions (even if you think they are silly!) Remember to answer contractors' questions in a timely manner. If the contractor has to wait for you to answer their questions, remember that delay holds up YOUR project and THEIR deadlines.
2. Put everything in writing from the very beginning and don't proceed until you have a signed contractual agreement. After sending you a proposal/quote and when you agree to the project details, the contractor usually draws up the contract. However, you can also create your own contract for them to sign. In the contract, outline (point-by-point) the details of the project, fees/rates, and your directives (goals, objectives, etc.). If you are working with multiple contractors on one big project, include a project plan and clearly outline each players' roles, deadlines, etc. in the project. It's important that everyone involved knows what's going on with the project--the left hand needs to talk to the right!
Make sure to include a clause in your contract that states you can "kill" the project at any time and dissolve the contract. Sometimes what looks good on paper doesn't translate in the real world. As a copywriter, I pride myself on completing projects on deadline and communicating effectively - and on a regular basis - with my clients via email, phone, text, and Skype. However, not every freelancer out there is ethical or even qualified. Carefully vet contractors before you hire them, and ask for testimonials and professional references. You want to have an "out" if the contractor just can't meet your goals and/or you have a personality conflict. You will still need to pay a contractor for ALL completed work up until the point you dissolve the contract. If you ever run into a bind with a contract dispute, consult an attorney for assistance.
3. What you see is what you get...or expect to pay more money. If you change your mind about the direction of your project and decide you want a different website design (and the website is in the final stages of completion), be prepared to start from scratch. Most contractors/freelancers are flexible with changes mid-stream (dependent upon contractual agreements), but time is money for independent contractors. If the project is near completion and you decide you want to create a new concept/idea, then you're looking at a brand new project strategy which means a new budget and contract. This seems like a no-brainer, but I've experienced this issue first-hand and it happens quite often.
4. Leave your ego at the door. Don't pretend or think you know MORE than the contractor you hired. This can turn into a nightmare. I actually "fired" clients for this very reason. It works both way. An unhappy contractor can immediately dissolve the contract with you as well. There is a reason you hire a professional that knows more than you do. Let them do their job, and don't be micro-manager or a know-it-all. Obviously, if the contractor gives you a smoke and mirror show and has no clue as to what they're doing, you have a legitimate reason to fire them and hire a more qualified person.
5. Heartfelt compliments and rockin' testimonials don't hurt either. Freelancers and contractors find a lot of their business through word-of-mouth, so if you are pleased with their work please let them know (and let others know too). Testimonials and good references are a huge selling point for independent contractors. Also, if you have it within your means/budget, throwing a few extra dollars their way for a job well done doesn't hurt either. If you need this contractor's services in the future, this is a great way to establish rapport and a solid working relationship. A small bonus is always nice, but even a simple thank you and heartfelt compliments can go a long way.
Monday, January 13, 2014
The Power of Social Media: How Facebook Helped Solve a Crime
I watched a local news segment on Saturday night about a local businesswoman in Sacramento, Calif. who sells hand crafted artisanal ice cream (Popcycle Creamery) and how her custom bike was stolen, despite it being locked up in a secure location. It was disheartening as the bicycle is used as part of her cart/business, and I felt so bad for her (since this is how she generates her income). One of my friends posted on Facebook to keep an eye out for her bike, and even though I don't live in Sacramento anymore I wanted to follow the story and show my support.
There's a happy ending to her story as her bike was recovered yesterday (luckily, with minimal damage and it's still in good shape to ride) - THANKS to the power of social media and local Sacramento law enforcement!
When you start to become frustrated with social media and think it's a waste of time, think again. Because of social media, a crime was solved and this woman can now return to selling her yummy ice cream.
This is from Popcycle Creamery's Facebook page:
There's a happy ending to her story as her bike was recovered yesterday (luckily, with minimal damage and it's still in good shape to ride) - THANKS to the power of social media and local Sacramento law enforcement!
When you start to become frustrated with social media and think it's a waste of time, think again. Because of social media, a crime was solved and this woman can now return to selling her yummy ice cream.
This is from Popcycle Creamery's Facebook page:
"Good morning POP peeps! I just want to send a special thanks to CBS Sacramento and Sacramento Police Department for their vital roles in recovering my POPcycle!
On Sunday afternoon, 2 officers were in the Del Paso Heights neighborhood taking care of business and one of the officers spotted the POPcycle sitting abandoned in an alley. He recognized the bike from the news segment done on Saturday evening. The other officer recognized it from a Facebook post Cross Fit West Sac on Saturday. The power of social media - wowza!
The thief gave her a few bumps and bruises -- they took the pedals, the seat, the lights, cup holder -- but otherwise the POPcycle is in good shape and will be happy to get a little cosmetic make over on these few items. I am just so thankful that the bike itself was not damaged. She will be getting a good bath and should be rolling soon -- for now she is taking a little rest in a secure undisclosed location,
Although the experience of having it stolen was a bummer -- the amount of love, support and sharing of my story has far outweighed the sadness I felt upon discovering my girl was gone. THANK YOU! Keep on pedalin' - never give up!
p.s. for some reason the post won't let me tag CBS, Sac PD or Cross Fit West Sac - you all have ice cream on the house coming at you!"
On Sunday afternoon, 2 officers were in the Del Paso Heights neighborhood taking care of business and one of the officers spotted the POPcycle sitting abandoned in an alley. He recognized the bike from the news segment done on Saturday evening. The other officer recognized it from a Facebook post Cross Fit West Sac on Saturday. The power of social media - wowza!
The thief gave her a few bumps and bruises -- they took the pedals, the seat, the lights, cup holder -- but otherwise the POPcycle is in good shape and will be happy to get a little cosmetic make over on these few items. I am just so thankful that the bike itself was not damaged. She will be getting a good bath and should be rolling soon -- for now she is taking a little rest in a secure undisclosed location,
Although the experience of having it stolen was a bummer -- the amount of love, support and sharing of my story has far outweighed the sadness I felt upon discovering my girl was gone. THANK YOU! Keep on pedalin' - never give up!
p.s. for some reason the post won't let me tag CBS, Sac PD or Cross Fit West Sac - you all have ice cream on the house coming at you!"
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Smart Tech is Top Online Marketing Trend for 2014
Sorry for the absence. I'm back in time to kick off the New Year with the hottest online marketing trends for 2014.
The 2014 marketing prediction articles are circulating right and left this week. This article by Entrepreneur listed the top 10 hottest trends for the upcoming year. Smart objects take the number two spot on their list. It seems like smart technology took 2013 by storm with companies launching their latest and greatest mobile device, tablet, etc. We saw the launch of the iPhone 5 this year and Apple has announced they will launch their iPhone 6 in the fall.
Technology seems to be leaning towards sci-fi trends such as watches that double as a computer/smart phone. One of the latest trends is Google Glass. Last year, Google launched these funky wearable glasses (which look like space age sunglasses) that double as a basic computer. Google is expected to launch a better and more improved (and less expensive) version this year, but it's not expected to be released until May.
Other hot tech trends that will help online marketers target the mobile/smart crowd:
Keep "smart objects" in mind when developing your online marketing strategy this year. Make sure that your online marketing campaigns and content read well and look good on mobile/smart devices. Build websites that are mobile and user-friendly, and understand how your smart tech audiences think and act. They are busy and on-the-go, and they want information that's quickly accessible. Also, make sure to get on board with a smart device - yes, it's time to get rid of that outdated flip phone and join the 21st century.
Wishing you much success & prosperity in 2014!
-Therese
The 2014 marketing prediction articles are circulating right and left this week. This article by Entrepreneur listed the top 10 hottest trends for the upcoming year. Smart objects take the number two spot on their list. It seems like smart technology took 2013 by storm with companies launching their latest and greatest mobile device, tablet, etc. We saw the launch of the iPhone 5 this year and Apple has announced they will launch their iPhone 6 in the fall.
Technology seems to be leaning towards sci-fi trends such as watches that double as a computer/smart phone. One of the latest trends is Google Glass. Last year, Google launched these funky wearable glasses (which look like space age sunglasses) that double as a basic computer. Google is expected to launch a better and more improved (and less expensive) version this year, but it's not expected to be released until May.
Other hot tech trends that will help online marketers target the mobile/smart crowd:
- iPhones & iPads will have bigger displays
- Smartwatches
- Smartphones to be improved with better high-resolution & curved displays
Keep "smart objects" in mind when developing your online marketing strategy this year. Make sure that your online marketing campaigns and content read well and look good on mobile/smart devices. Build websites that are mobile and user-friendly, and understand how your smart tech audiences think and act. They are busy and on-the-go, and they want information that's quickly accessible. Also, make sure to get on board with a smart device - yes, it's time to get rid of that outdated flip phone and join the 21st century.
Wishing you much success & prosperity in 2014!
-Therese
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
What's the Buzz on Self-Publishing? My Interview with Writer & Author Leigh Hershkovich
The "Buzz" on Book Publicity & Marketing for Self-Published Authors & Writers
- What does take to write and self-publish a book?
- How do you market your book once you self-publish your book?
- Self-publishing vs. traditional publishing? What's the latest scoop?
- How does social media tie into the book publicity and marketing picture?
I answer all these questions and MORE in my interview with talented writer and author, Leigh Hershkovich, who just released her first novel, Shattered Illusions. Read my interview on Leigh's blog!
A huge thanks to Leigh for interviewing me. It was a fun interview with great questions. For mystery/crime readers, check out Leigh's newly released novel--she's an awesome writer!
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