How to Design Engaging Presentations

The lights are dimmed. The auditorium is full. The big screen is filled with bright colors. Then here it comes, the never-ending list of bullet points, which the presenter is reading to you one-by-one. And you? Your eyes are feeling heavy. Your head is dropping slowly, but then jolts up like a yo-yo! Oh, the guilt and shame we feel for falling asleep on what could have been an awesome presentation. We’ve all been there. Once you see the first array of bullets hit the screen, you sink into your seat and brace yourself for a brain-numbing ride. Or maybe this is sounding too familiar. Maybe YOU were the presenter! Queue the dark organ music! Storyboard artists need skills in storytelling and possibly a good background in acting.

But that doesn’t have to be you! Last year, a good friend recommended a book called “Presentation Zen: Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery” by Garr Reynolds. It’s an easy read and it absolutely revolutionized the way I think about presentations, and subsequently design presentations. An engaging presentation is truly an art that requires the right mix of slides with the right presenter. Here are six tips on presentation design that I learned from the book and have put into practice. If you think these tips are helpful, I encourage you to buy the book. It will go deeper into delivery techniques and in-depth design strategies complete with before and after slides. You can get it on Amazon for about $20.

Tip 1: One point, one slide
A single slide shouldn’t carry the weight of the world. You should be able to make your point in about 6 words and perhaps a strong visual. If the visual is strong enough, there is no need for words. And to prevent the scenario in paragraph one of this how-to, don’t write your narrative on the screen…that’s what you are for. Remember that people can’t read and listen at the same time so don’t create an environment that challenges them to do so. If you do need to have more text on a slide, use the 1-7-7 Rule:

Have only one main idea per slide.
Insert only seven lines of text maximum.
Use only seven words per line maximum.

Tip 2: Create a handout
Now that you are down to one point per slide, you are probably wondering how your audience is going to know all there is to know about your topic. Enter the handout. This handout will not be a 3-up or 6-up handout that is generated in PowerPoint. It is a narrative document that contains all of the key facts and figures that you discuss during your presentation. This will allow your audience to pay attention to you and not scramble to take notes that they probably won’t be able to read once they get back to their office.

Tip 3: Go big on imagery
Don’t be afraid to flood the entire page with a single image. It provides depth and visual interest. This will also force you to stick to one point per slide. And each slide doesn’t need to have the same header and footer on every page during a live presentation. This is a presentation after all, not a document. For those of you who are guilty of using PowerPoint Presentations as corporate documents, maybe the next how-to I write will be on designing electronic business documents. Hint: If you’re slide presentation has a lot of content that requires multiple paragraphs and several bullet points, you should probably use a word processor. This’ll ensure that your reader will understand the content, without the presenter being present.

Tip 4: Simplicity is king
The great Leonardo da Vinci said: “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” Think of creative ways to display your charts to help clarify the point, but keep it simple. You don’t need background image fills with a 3-D pie chart fading into the horizon line. A simple flat pie chart can often do the trick. And don’t be afraid of “white space.” Just because you have a lot of space on your slide doesn’t mean that it all has to be used.

Tip 5: You are the main attraction
The center of attention should be the presenter. Be humorous and entertaining. The slides are meant to support what you are saying, and not the other way around. You are the star of the show! You know that you have a powerful and engaging presentation if you can hold your audiences’ attention without slides. If not, you may want to re-plan your presentation. Which leads me to the last tip.

Tip 6: Plan your presentation
People like stories and have learned from parables for centuries. People need to understand facts and figures in context of the larger story. Take some time to plan and prepare your story. Consider using a storyboard to help you lay out the visual idea and key message. I’ve created a simple storyboard for you to print out and write on.

There is much more to say about presentation design, but not enough time to say it in this how-to guide. If you have any questions or would like me to take a look at your presentation, don’t hesitate to send me an email at [email protected].

Buy the Book: “Presentation Zen” on Amazon

_________

Shala W. Graham is the Principal and Creative Director of SW Creatives, LLC. Her strength of character and creative talent has always produced pleasing results, personally and professionally. She specializes in both graphic design and web design. For years, efficient and effective has been her work motto.

SW Creatives is a total solutions communications design firm that offers a broad range of web, print and branding solutions for start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. Founded in 2005 on the Christian principles of integrity and honesty, the minority- and woman-owned firm is based in the Washington, DC area. Through smart strategy, original ideas and spirited collaboration, SW Creatives’ team of experts helps clients develop communications that click with customers. For additional information, visit http://www.swcreatives.com or call (301) 891-0111. Click here an be a part of our team.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Shala_Graham/289879

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2435638

How Much Does Auto Painting Cost?

Professionals generally use paint spray guns to evenly apply automotive paint. It is important that the colors are properly mixed and applied smoothly, and in layers; an auto paint job can include 12-24 coats of paint, or more. To better understand the process of how paint protection is applied onto the car just consult our paint protection Adelaide.

Typical costs:

  • Some shops offer a paint job for about $300-$900. In this price range, a shop typically uses an inexpensive synthetic enamel paint with a minimum number of coats; they might not paint areas like the door jams or inside the hood; and, in some cases, they may simply mask off rather than take off removable trim and parts (which can result in harsh masking edges or paint in unwanted areas). CostHelper readers report paying $400-$875 for a basic auto paint job at an average price of $566; about a third of these readers say they are unhappy with the results.
  • Expect to pay $1,000-$3,500 for a more thorough paint job using higher-quality, brand-name paint, with costs varying depending on the make, model and condition of the vehicle (the amount of rust and number of dents or scratches), and whether any interior or engine-area painting is included. In this price range, the process typically includes additional prep work (sanding, removing rust spots and dents) and ends with three to five applications of clear coat car paint[1] to protect the base paint color and to create a smooth, glossy final look. CostHelper readers report paying $1,000-$1,800 for a mid-quality paint job, at an average cost of $1,316; most are happy with the results.
  • A showroom-quality custom or specialty auto paint job can cost $2,500-$20,000 or more, depending on the make, model and condition of the vehicle, the location, and what is included. This typically includes the highest quality automotive paint (some of which can cost hundreds of dollars a quart); sanding the vehicle down to bare metal, removing any dents, and applying 20-24 layers of paint, including six to eight applications of clear coat; and high-end options such as details by an air brush artist or a two-tone metallic paint job. The process can take up to a month or longer. CostHelper Readers report spending $2,400-$7,500 for high-quality auto painting, with an average cost of $4,975; all report they are satisfied with the final results.

What should be included:

Before painting, the surface of the vehicle should be cleaned, sanded and primed. Professional auto painting is typically done in a well-lit (and sometimes climate-controlled) paint booth, to minimize dust and debris that might mar the paint finish. Precision Restorations in Saint Louis, MO, provides a video demonstration of auto painting techniques[2] in a paint booth inside an auto body repair shop.
Warranties can vary from six months to a year on low-cost paint jobs with basic paint, to five years or a lifetime warranty for custom paint jobs with high-end materials. The warranty terms will vary depending on the shop and the materials used; always ask what is covered.

Discounts:

  • Auto paint shops may periodically offer discounts of $50-$150 or more. For example, One Day Paint posts its monthly discounts online.
  • Some consumers save up to $200-$300 or more by doing the prep work themselves — sanding the vehicle, and removing or masking the parts that aren’t going to be painted. AutoMedia.com has a photo gallery illustrating the steps to prepare a vehicle for painting.
  • Do-it-yourself auto painting is possible, but it can be time-consuming and exacting work. Supplies can cost $100-$1,500, depending on the quality of paint ($100-$1,000) and the need to purchase tools like an automotive paint sprayer ($40-$600) or sander and sandpaper ($40-$250). Mopar Muscle Magazine explains how to paint a car.

Shopping for auto painting:

Auto painting is typically done by shops specializing in auto painting and body work. Many are small, local businesses, although there are regional chains like 1 Day Paint & Body Centers[6] (in California, Nevada and New Mexico), and Maaco Collision Repair & Auto Paint[7] is a national chain of locally-owned franchises (policies and procedures vary between franchise owners). Always check for any complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau[8] for a specific shop or franchise location.
Before selecting a shop, look at recently painted cars in its parking lot, to see the quality of work done; ask which level of work was done on each vehicle. DoItYourself.com lists tips for finding an auto paint shop. Keep your car paint neat with our car paint cleaner, know more by clicking here.

How to Create a Documentary With Public Domain Images and Film Clips

People are fascinated by history documentaries – stories of wars, biographies of important historical figures, everyday life in well known cities, evolution of technology and many other aspects of our rich collective history. This fascination is evident by all the channels on television devoted to this sort of material including The History Channel, The Military Channel and many others. Storyboard artist work with directors to visually interpret TV, advert or film scripts.

And if you watch the documentaries with a critical eye (as opposed to a “be entertained” eye), you will begin to see how they are developed. You will see the way they handle scene transitions, working with still images as well as film clips, how the commentary and the images are weaved together to tell a compelling story. And if you watch enough of them, you would be able to fully extract the formula for creating your own documentary.

And thanks to the deluge of public domain film and photographic material that is now available digitally at no to low cost, acquiring all the pieces for a first rate documentary can be done on anyone’s budget.

It all starts with an idea for a topic.

From this topic, you would next create an outline of the project. This would be done with a storyline or storyboard – basically a sketch of the elements of the documentary and the order in which they would be presented. This storyboard can be created on paper – as was common in times past – or with software. A search on your favorite search engine on the phrase “storyboarding software” will return several packages that can help you with this process. What is nice about the software is that it is easy to rearrange the story pieces as often as you wish to make the story line perfect. (When working with paper, this process is more difficult but can be overcome by working with 3×5 index cards and rearranging them as needed.)

Once the storyboard is complete, the next step is to write your script. The length of the script will be determined by the desired length of the documentary and the speed that the voice talent speaks. If you wish a 60 minute documentary and the voice talent speaks about 150 words a minute, you will need a script that is approximately 9,000 words in length.

One additional note about writing the script that needs to be emphasized is to tone of the reading. You will be handing your script to your voice talent for him or her to record and that talent will need to know what type of tone to use throughout the script. Just like a movie script, there need to be markouts in each section to describe the mood that should be expressed by the voice talent. If you don’t do this, you will most likely end up with a boring monologue that will doom your documentary.

Once you have completed the writing of the script and its markouts, it is time to work with the voice talent to record the script and digitize it for later importation into your video editing program. At this time, you can review the audio of the script and make edits, re-record sections that don’t seem to convey the proper mood, etc.

Now that you know the mechanical requirements of the script, you will link your script to the storyboard by mapping out the start points in each storyboard segment with the equivalent start point in the script. What this does is assign a certain number of words to each storyboard segment (which defines its length.) This will help you determine the approximate amount of visual material you need for each segment.

After the storyboard and script are lined up, it is time to gather the visual materials for each segment and to start laying out everything in your video editing software. This is the part that requires the biggest time investment as you will be working to be sure the length of each segment matches the appropriate ending point for that segment in the audio rendering of the script. You will also need to ensure that all the transitions of material within each segment and between segments is smooth. It takes time and patience but the effort expended here will be the difference between something that is unwatchable and a stellar documentary. Also, at this time you will probably discover that you need to replace some of the voice recordings as they may not convey the exact mood you were looking for as you review the pieces. Just record those segments again and keep iterating back and forth until you get the finished product.

Depending on your specific skills and your ready access to the visual materials and voice talents, you could create your very first documentary in a very short period of time. It really is a very exciting process and a great way to put your mark on a fascinating historic event. And who knows, it might even be good enough to sell to The History Channel. Get ready to become an story artist, most of the film industries need it, click here to learn more.

Are you a fan of the American Civil War?

Do you love reading about its history?

If that describes you, you need to check out The Civil War Omnibus – the most comprehensive digital collection of Civil War works available. The Civil War Omnibus represents 100s of key and hard to find references to the Civil War for any fan of the war.

Satisfy your history bug. We offer 100s of historical collections at The Historical Archive. Check out our entire collection of historical CDs and DVDs at http://www.TheHistoricalArchive.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Steven_Chabotte/6264

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1686307

Our Best Outdoor Catering, BBQ Catering, and Picnic Catering

No issue just how classy an interior function space is, in some cases utilizing the exact same facilities once more and once again on every occasion may be disinteresting. Indoor places utilize artificial illumination as well as venting, whether it is a lunch time gathering or a night time soiree. To include a fresh standpoint to your following party, attempt doing it al fresco. Or (to be much more exact) hold your next household gathering, business operation, or whatever festivity looming on the limit, picnic-style. We have Christmas party ideas to ensure your guests are extra jolly during the most wonderful time of the year.

If you believe barbecues are also casual for your function, assume once again: a picnic, by meaning, is an outside occasion where dishes are eaten. It doesn’t matter if your place is as quaint as the yard lawn or as glamorous as the sprawling grounds of a large manor estate, white-gloved catering and all. Barbecues are advised matched in the course of the summer season, when it is sunny outdoors. The stuffy climate may be an incentive to take dishes in the convenience of a breezy location under the sunlight, preferably a picturesque spot to add a point of passion to the event.

What events, and how barbecues can easily include zest to these events, are reviewed under:

Birthday bashes or Anniversaries

These are, without a doubt, the occasions most excellent for a picnic system. Since these are frequently intimate events among close friends and loved one, a barbecue with possibly a barbeque cookout and outside video games will definitely captivate for hrs on end. A party of this style may quickly be held in the lawn; the laid-back environment of the occasion pairs well with the informal configuration, without the necessity to make a “statement” for the guests.

Business Functions

This is a bit a lot more tough to establish due to the fact that of the more significant amount of participants to fit, as well as being a level more official than, point out, a birthday celebration, for instance. Events are supposed to be enjoyment events; nonetheless superior-subordinate and also collegial connections are still crucial points to be sustained. Therefore, a much larger location would certainly be suitable, like a recreation area or public garden. If appealing views is a slight factor to consider, or if the business has budget restrictions, at that point the outdoor parking lot would certainly be the following finest point. It’s in fact a smart way to bring typically swamped experts collectively, to discuss some things besides the store.

Marriage ceremonies

A marriage ceremony is the event wherein 2 individuals are signed up with as partners for life, which union is venerated in a ceremony. As a result, marriage ceremonies are almost always formal occasions where people are called for to obtain dressy. To match the celebration, a bit of sophistication should exist in a wedding event picnic. As an alternative of a cookout, a respectable caterer might be preferable for the operation. Tables, covered in de rigeur tablecloth ought to seat visitors conveniently, also for something held outdoors. Generally, it’s simply taking the whole entire entourage to eat outdoors as an alternative of in a hotel ballroom or additional costly function room. To conserve the beauty of the occasion, it should be held in a location with a view to attractive views. Here the lakeside with a pavilion close at hand (for the standard after-wedding dances) would definitely suit completely. Some engaged few, though, may alternatively utilize an oceanfront setting up in the afternoon: the sunset will definitely make an exceptional charming background to the barbecue.

Industry Trips

College events outdoors are typically journeys to the zoo or the neighborhood park, and obviously a cookout is following to impossible here due to the itinerant attributes of the task. A barbecue right here is for that reason a short stay at an interesting outside destination, where the children as well as chaperones sit down to consume their pack lunches, or purchase from meals merchants discovered in such places.

No one ever pointed out that barbecues are to be organized days in advance, so any type of family members may take place a barbecue, depending on the caprices of the second. One simply takes his or her plate and heads off to the garden or garden. Whatever the affair, a picnic will add a whole brand-new dimension of entertainment to any type of event. Click here to organized your own bbq party in your home.

Ceramic Pro Sport is Effective Car Paint Protection

Car paint protection Sydney is necessary in restoring your automobile paint to its past magnificence. It additionally secures it so you automobile has great appearance for years to come. Numerous auto treatment products already existing in the marketplace today and all of them claim to offer protection to your vehicle paint. But the honest truth is that not all of these products coincide, similarly not all vehicles are comparable. While every auto could generally acquire you from factor X to Y, there is still a huge distinction between vehicle designs. The same puts on auto wax, paint protection and polishes. Every one of these products give certain quantity of shine, yet that is as comparable as they could obtain.

In this blog post, we enlighten you, whether you are a new automobile proprietor or a not-so-new one, on the crucial facts concerning paint protection products that are readily available in the marketplace. This way, we believe you could make the best choice when selecting the very best defense for your beloved auto.

Are all car paint protection items the same?

Of course they are not. There are many sorts of paint protection products and they have differing high quality and price. When acquiring car paint protection Melbourne folks need to not make the blunder of basing their decision completely on the price of that protection item. Instead, your choice on the sort of security you decide on must be informed by what it is that you want to attain. A product that provides defense against UV rays, bird falling road salt, acid rain and bug deposit all rolled into one is definitely a lot more costly than a product that only gives temporary luster.

Another ordeal is that various products supply varying levels of shine. If you want to purchase a product that provides you a much longer shine yet requires much less maintenance, be readied to pay a few extra dollars for it. Bulk of protectants that are readily available presently provide only restricted amount of defense versus the components discussed over. Many of them do not provide long lasting sparkle and need reapplication. It is extremely crucial that you be mindful of what you pick for your car.

Can car paint protection help keep your vehicle s worth as well as resale value?

The paint work and look of an automobile will certainly assist in keeping not just its worth however likewise resale worth. A vehicle that is well maintained with a mirror finish paint, has an improved resale worth. It also saves you money and time now. With a good paint protection, a great deal of time is saved on washing it given that grime and gunk are quickly gotten rid of. It succeeded t call for waxing to maintain its look.

Just what are several of the things you can expect from an excellent car paint protection?

One of the major benefits of car paint protection is that it adds genuine value to the motor vehicle. A proper paint protection application can offer your vehicle incredible glass shine in addition to preserve its value. For these reasons, people are typically prepared to component with $1000 simply to get excellent paint protection. When done appropriately, there will be much less shaving and the cleaning will certainly be a lot easier in situation your auto get grimy and needs to be washed. This means more cost savings in future.

Can your vehicle s paintwork be ruined by merely bird going down?

The answer is yes. Opportunities that your vehicle is obtaining harmed daily without you most likely noticing are quite real. Lots of people simply believe that the best hazard to their automobile s paintwork is UV rays. While this holds true, the damages comes after a number of years. Bird droppings are nevertheless more instant hazard. They create harm in simply a matter of days.

Bird droppings, as you being aware, are the product of a bird s digestion device. Without going excessive into biology, droppings can have higher degrees of acids which could damage the paintwork.

Many people are surprised by the amount of damages that can arise from a bird dropping. While it could go unnoticed to an inexperienced eye, an expert which understands what he desires in vehicle will effortlessly see it.

Is automobile polishing the very best remedy?

Although car waxing is understood to provide immediate shine, it is not the best solution. The factor it is called wax is due to the fact that it is made of wax. And as you understand, wax will thaw when exposed to heat. When polished paint is used on your auto, it ends up being soft when exposed to heat. This releases luster as well as makes your vehicle much more at risk to alluring impurities. It is remarkable for program cars because these do not rest in the sun for a whole day each day.

By its very nature, wax hardly ever sticks to the car area. In fact, wax can not stick well to any kind of area. Simply try sticking wax to any area and you will certainly see this. Similarly, wax at some point washes off of your vehicle, which will leave your car with much less or no security at all.

What are the various other things that you need to find out about car paint protection?

The have to appropriately look after your car, that is, outlining and cleaning, could not be overemphasised. Picking reputable vehicle clean electrical outlets and detailers is not just imperative however also safeguards your car from harm. Simply put, deal with the paintwork of your vehicle similarly you would look after your skin. Anything that gained t damages your skin gained t harm your auto s paintwork.

One more crucial ordeal is a top quality automobile hair shampoo. This minimises surface area scratching that results from friction when the car is being cleaned. You likewise need a soft pile clean mitt or sponge and it need to be of high quality. If you really want a streak-free drying, you have no choice yet to demand a terry towel or a leather chamois to dry your auto.

Verdict

Just like anything else, you just obtain what you have paid for with car paint protection. As a result, it is very important to decide on the best location to clean or information your auto. This need to be directed by the span of time it requires to clean your car securely and properly. Click here to visit our frequently asked questions about car paint protection.

The Finest Auto Repair Tips On The Web

Learning what you can about auto repair may seem like a lot of work, but you can make it simpler. Learning more about auto repair is a lot. Keep reading to learn how to fix your vehicle yourself instead of money at the expensive mechanic. Leather Protector is an easy-to-apply waterproof treatment designed to soften and protect oiled and waxed leathers without compromising breath ability.

Get a reliable battery charger to keep in your vehicle. Learn how to connect your car to the points where the battery charger connects.

You must wash your car often to avoid rust. Cars are all destined to rust, but you can put off the process by washing off chemicals or salt quickly. Use a good wax for protecting paint jobs as much as possible.

Make sure to have all repair records are kept close. You may want these with you when you go to get repairs done; a great place to store them is the glove compartment. The auto mechanic will need to see your maintenance records before working on your car. This will help them assess the process go more precisely.

Test drive your car before paying for its repairs.

Make sure that you are receiving OEM parts. These means they are parts come from the manufacturer. While generics are much cheaper, you’ll never know how good the quality is. It may cost you more in the amount later as OEM components to begin with.

Keep a spare tire and jack with you all the time. Many newer cars have these. You don’t need to be stuck out in the road and be forced to spend money on a lot for towing. It’s cheaper and easier to do on your own.

Assemble a DIY auto repair tool kit and put it inside of your car. Your car came with equipment needed for changing a tire and other necessary items. A lug wrench and jack are key. You should probably get a Phillips and flat head screwdriver and several types of wrenches.

Speak with friends and family about auto repairs done for some good ideas. They have used mechanics before and can help point you in the right direction if so. You should still do your research on the person they tell you about. Check online reviews about the shop in question.

Be sure you make a note of your oil needs changing. You have to change it regularly get the oil changed to make sure your vehicle runs smoothly. If you don’t change it, your car may not last as long as it could.

Some shops may replace your tired with older ones. They sell your tires and make a profit off of those who do not know enough to check. Mark your tires before taking your car to an auto shop. If the chalk isn’t there, question the shop about what happened.

OEM is the Original Equipment Manufacturer. Remember this when replacing parts replaced. You sound like a knowledgeable person on repairs if you ask your mechanic to use OEM parts. This will lower your chances of getting used components in your vehicle.

If you want to know how to diagnose problems with your vehicle, you can’t recognize if something is going wrong. You might even consider taking a class on auto repair if you are unfamiliar with automobile basics. This is why it’s a good idea to look for problems and address them before they get serious so your car which will help it last longer.

Always ask plenty of questions when speaking with a mechanic. How long does the repair take? What type of work are they doing for you? How much are the cost of the parts? Ask about anything and everything that concerns you about the work being done.

If a mechanic has always done good work for you, make sure to go to them for all your car troubles. You will get discounts because you are loyal.

Put your car on a jack stands if you’re storing it.

Ask any of your friends or family if they know to recommend a good auto-repair service in the local area. This is a great way to locate services because the person’s skills have been recommended by a superb mechanic who has proven their capabilities. This is better than giving your vehicle with mechanics who have no recommendations from trusted individuals.

This will help keep your car safe from mud and dirt. These are a big help during winter seasons or difficult weather patterns.

When your car gets washed, set mats outside and hose them a couple times. Dirt particles can get lodged in the rubber and cause holes to appear. Holes look good and allow the dirt to have a clear path to the carpet beneath.

Determine whether you wish to service cars by the dealership or at a stand-alone shop. Independent garages may cost less, but you could hire a company that’s dishonest.

Don’t fear asking questions when you need to ask a question about car repairs. Any company will be happy to answer all of your questions.

You may not see anything wrong with the vehicle, but it doesn’t hurt to have someone look at it for you. If nothing is wrong, you may need to have a look at your cars dashboard computer.

If a mechanic is trying to convince you that your car requires more work than is recommended by your owners manual, politely let them know that you would rather follow the guide. This can help you save a lot on repairs that are not really necessary.

Familiarize yourself with the various types of mechanic certifications. If you can, try to locate an auto technician that is certified by your state and the A.S.E.

Don’t think that convenience is unnecessary when deciding which repair shop to choose. Some garages or dealerships offer free shuttle services that will take you home after dropping your car off and picking you up when they are done.

Having car trouble doesn’t always have to be a majorly expensive or stress inducing event. Learn how to fix a few things yourself so you do not have to go see a mechanic every time you encounter a minor problem. Keep this information in mind when your car acts up again. If you have any trouble in your car click here.

The Best Places To Find Used Cars

Buying a used car is a popular option for those who would like to save on costs and avoid the rapid depreciation seen when purchasing a brand new car. There are several places where you can buy a used car and checking your options can help you get a good deal and save money. To determine where you should buy your car, think about your priorities. If you have a limited budget, then consider buying from auctions or private sellers. But if you would like the used car to have a warranty and a clear title, then buying from a car dealership may be the best choice for you. In this article, we discuss the places where you can find a used car that will fit your needs and specifications. Use our quality car detailing products to retain the luster and health of your paint.

Private sellers

Many used car buyers who are looking for rare car models or for a cheaper price can opt to buy from a private seller. Buying from a private seller can also allow you to meet the previous owner and obtain the car’s history. The seller might also allow you to take the car for an inspection and test drive. However, private sellers are less regulated. They provide no guarantee of a clear title, which means the buyer has no protection under law if the used car turns out to be stolen or if it has major mechanical problems. Private sellers also do not provide warranty for the used car. It might be cheaper to purchase privately but it also comes with high risks.

If you choose to buy a used car from a private seller, make sure to check the registration certificate and the seller’s driver’s license to identify if the seller is the owner of the vehicle. Also, check that the vehicle identification number or VIN, engine number and other details match the details on the registration certificate. To ensure that the car is not stolen, request your local police station to do a background check and provide them the VIN number, registration number and engine number of the vehicle. Finally, to make sure that the used car is in good condition, ask a qualified mechanic to inspect the vehicle.

Auctions

Attending a used car auction is another great way to find a wide range of car makes and models being sold at a cheaper price. Auctioneers are also required to give buyers a clear title and a REVS certificate, which ensures there is no money owing on the vehicle sold. However, buying a used car from an auction has risks. There is no assurance if the car being auctioned is still in good condition as you cannot thoroughly inspect or test-drive it before purchasing. Auction houses also do not provide warranty for the vehicle.

If you are planning to buy a used car from an auction house, attend a few auctions first so you can observe and get a feel of how it works. It can also help to take someone knowledgeable about cars with you as they can help you make smart choices on which vehicle is a worthwhile investment. Do your research before making your bid so you know what the fair price is for the car model you want. Set your maximum price and do not go over it.

Brokers and wholesalers

If you have a particular make and model in mind but have no time to do the legwork of finding a high quality used car with your specifications, then contact a used car broker. Brokers can do the time consuming task of finding an appropriate car for you, usually by going through dealerships to find the car you have specified. They then charge a commission on the sale of the car.

Wholesalers provide an alternative channel to buying used cars. Like brokers, wholesalers can reduce the legwork of finding the right used car for you. However, buying from wholesalers does not necessarily mean that you will get a wholesale price. Their prices are usually the same as the prices of used cars in dealerships.

Dealerships

Buying from a used car dealership may be more expensive than buying privately or from an auction, but you will get greater protection under the law as dealers are licensed and required to operate under strict regulations. They will provide a guarantee of a clear title and statutory warranty for the car sold. They also provide a one-day cooling period wherein you can take the car for a test drive or for an inspection by a third-party mechanic. This gives you the opportunity to thoroughly check if the used car is still in good condition. A car dealership also provides a wide range of vehicles so you have plenty of options on which used car to purchase.

Buying from a car dealership will require you to sign a legally binding sales contract. Read the contract thoroughly and make sure that you understand all terms, including the fine print. If anything is unclear to you, ask for legal advice or discuss it with the dealer before signing the contract.

Some final words

If you are just starting your search for the right used car, it can help to search online. There are many websites today that advertise and sell cars. You can browse and research on various makes and models without the pressure to buy immediately. Used cars for sale are also advertised through the local paper. Wherever you choose to buy your car from, make sure you are completely satisfied with your purchase. Keep in mind that if you are not happy with a particular used car or if you doubt its condition, then do not buy it. Click here to get started contacting our detailers.

This article was written by Tom Jerrat for Jupiter Motors. Jupiter Motors is one of Australia’s leading regional car dealerships located in Wagga Wagga, NSW. We provide a comprehensive selection of new Subaru, new Mazda, and high quality Wagga used cars. For more information, visit jupitermotors.com.au

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Tom_Jerrat/1101646

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6983742

Things to Consider When Hiring an Electrician or Electrical Contractor

Working as an electrical contractor for the last 20 years I have gained a great many insights and experiences in the electrical field. When you’re selecting your next electrical contractor or electrician for your project I would like to share some of these insights with you to help you make your decision. So let’s get started. one of the first things I touched on above was online reviews. As I hire electricians on a regular basis I have learned a few things about how to find a person that has the qualifications I am looking for. Over the years it was frustrating as electricians would come into my office and tell me everything that I wanted to hear, and only later would I find out that they were completely misleading me. I thought about it and I realized quickly that the best way to find out about a person’s character is to ask someone else. If you are a person with bad character it will probably be pretty difficult to find someone who has nice things to say about you. The same holds true for electricians and businesses such as electrical contracting companies. Online reviews are a great way to hear what your neighbors are saying about the electricians that they’re doing business with. I myself have had customers who were not necessarily happy because we showed up late or the electrician made a mistake. However these customers rarely go online and post a bad review. What that tells me is that if someone has a bad review online it is usually because they did something that really irritated their customer. These are the types of individuals you want to steer clear of. Our electrician Brisbane 24 hours can be on site no matter what time of day or night within the hour.

Presence on the phone or via e-mail. How does the electrician or electrical contractor you are considering hiring sound over the phone? do they sound professional? Are they knowledgeable about your job and the items that you are requesting? Do they sound like they’ve done this 100 times and had this conversation thousand times? Do they demand that they come out a look at the job first before giving you any idea of how much it will cost? If the answer is no to the first question and yes to the second then they are probably someone that you would rather pass over. People who are irritated by normal questions and rude to their customers are probably going to be people that you really don’t want to work with. First impressions mean a lot. If somebody answers the phone hello instead of hello do it right electric how man help you. You know this may be a person who is working out of the back of a pickup truck. Even worse if somebody answers the phone saying what. Just hang up. There is no reason to do business with somebody who cannot even answer the phone professionally. If they can’t answer the phone professionally it is highly unlikely that they can do your electrical job professionally. I have called electricians back who have posted resumes to my site and they answer the phone what or have some crazy music playing when the phone rings. While I don’t necessarily rule them out because of this it is intriguing to me that after they find out it is the person they already called and left a message with about a job, their entire demeanor changes. This basically tells me that they are written to people unless they think that they want something from the person.

Do they have a large advertising budget? My skin crawls when I asked this question. I have seen many customers of mine get quotes of $3000.00 to $4000.00 for a job. They come to me and tell me the company became adding quoted without telling me the dollar amount that they quoted. I already know the large franchise companies with huge advertising budgets that operate in my town. So when they give me the name I already know a ballpark figure of what they’ve been quoted. We usually do the jobs the franchise companies quote for 50% of what they quoted as a general rule of thumb. The reason for this is advertising is extremely expensive. Running advertisements on the television or radio stations can cost you tens of thousand dollars a month. Literally. No kidding. And yes it is that much. Marketers and advertisers know in my opinion that what they are offering is many times not worth what they charge. They have little or no interest in you staying in business, although they may say the contrary. The truth is if you sign a one-year contract to run television or radio station advertising or even a one-month contract and it does not work out for you they will not refund you one thin dime. If you sign up for the Yellow Pages and decide to pay $6000.00 per month for a full-page ad and your phone does not ring adequately to pay for this they again do not care and will not refund one dime of your money. They will furthermore seek litigation and sue you for the contract amount. If you go out of business there are thousands of businesses that go under every week in the United States. As well there are thousands of people who are starting new businesses. The marketers and advertisers simply move on to the next person and the cycle continues. The truth about advertising is that the effectiveness is entirely dependent on your business and the marketplace and form of advertising that you are using. If you’re a large soda pop bottling company and you are selling glorified sugar water your profit margin is extremely high. You can afford a plaster your name all over town. Small brick-and-mortar businesses have a very small profit margin. If they are sinking thousands of dollars into advertising you better believe that their customers are footing the bill.

Are they licensed to do business in the state and city that they’re working in. This may sound like a silly question. After all who would go around doing business in the city where they’re not licensed? Or worse yet doing work statewide with no license. The truth is that we live in a time of economic crisis. That crisis leads people to do things that they would not normally do. Many people can justify the fact that they’re working without a license as a means by which to feed their family. And I can in fact sympathize with this. However you as the consumer do not want a desperate person who is just looking to make a fast buck with no license and no insurance working on your home doing electrical work. This is a recipe for disaster. Electrical fatalities are much higher when it comes to small children. Their small bodies cannot handle the force of electric shock and many times it causes death. Think first and act later when it comes to selecting electrical contractor for your home or business. The liability and the heart ache maybe yours in the long run if you try to save a quick buck.

That topic leads me into the fifth topic. General liability insurance and workers compensation insurance. The way it works when a business hires me as electrical contractor to subcontractors were them is this. They call me up and let me know that they need a certificate of general liability insurance and workers compensation insurance. I then called my insurance agent and he issues the certificate with their name on it. It names them as the insured. With this certificate if anything goes wrong on the job or if one of my workers is injured the customer has proof that they are not liable. You can request the same certificate as a private homeowner or individual.

That leads us into the seven topic are they the lowest bidder? If they are you may want to ask yourself… How did they come up with such a low price? The answer may be that they decided not to buy workers compensation insurance or general liability insurance. It also may be that they’re using substandard work practices, not pulling electrical permits, or using inferior material. I look at this the same way a look at purchasing plane tickets. Many people avoid paying any extra costs associated with traveling on a plane. They don’t want to pay to check the extra bag. They refuse to buy any of the snacks or drinks on the plane, and they search online for the absolute cheapest price possible. This applies pressure to the airlines to turn a profit. When you’re under pressure to turn a profit you start cutting back on business expenses. One of the main expenses for airline is airplane maintenance. I for one do not want to fly on a plane where the airline is under financial pressure and stress. If you do any research into plane crashes you will find that many times the culprit is faulty maintenance, using the wrong screw, and using non-factory parts. The same holds true when you’re hiring an electrician or electrical contractor. When they are the lowest bidder the money you saved has to come from somewhere. Food for thought. Click here for a better to conserve electrical energy.

In summary the eighth item is, do your homework and take your time. Unless you have a small service call the job that you’re doing is usually not an immediate need. Take your time and do a little bit of homework on the person that you’re thinking about spending a week or two of your life with. Make sure that you don’t end up in small claims court ruing the day that you did not do your due diligence in selecting your electrical contractor. Thank you!

Electrical Contractor

Electricians & Considerations

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Thomas_J_Harp/1347349

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7070619

Categories diy

Solid Tips To Help With Car Repairs

It can be overwhelming time when you don’t know much about them.

Get a good battery charger and be sure it is always in your vehicle. Learn to locate the points where the battery charger on your car.

Ask a mechanic any questions you have at the shop. Preventing vehicle issues is a great way of money.

Referrals are a great method for finding an auto mechanic. Ask the people you know and trust who they take their recommendations.You can find out great information about price and level of quality. People will let you what type of experience they had to deal with and whether the mechanic was honest or not.

Make sure that you have all your car records on file. You want these with you when you go to get repairs done; a great place to store them in the glove compartment for easy access. The people repairing your car might need to look over these records. This can make the problem quicker and more precisely.

Test drive your car before paying for its repairs.

Watch out for blatant signs that your mechanic is not up to snuff. If they ignore your questions or talk in circles, they may not be the one you want to work with. You want to be able to trust the person doing your repairs, so don’t be afraid to choose another one.

Know what all the lights on your dash represent. These lights are meant to help alert you to potential problems. Ignoring them for extended periods of time will not make the problem much worse than it already is.

Some unscrupulous body shops replace your tires with even older ones. They sell your tires and make a profit off of your ignorance. Mark your tires before you drop your car to an auto shop. If the chalk isn’t there, you have been victimized.

Not many people bother reading their car’s manual. You should read over the manual and know what you can find things quickly. Your manual contains everything you should know about maintaining your vehicle and performing small repairs yourself.

It may be a recall you didn’t know about. The manufacturer may even fix the problem at no cost to you.

Keep track of all your vehicle repair and maintenance receipts in a file in your car. You can sort them however you like as long as you know what is where.This will also come in handy if you decide to sell your car.

Written proof is helpful if you end up taking the mechanic to court.

If you have a positive experience with an auto repair business, try going to them when you need future work done. You might also receive a loyalty discounts.

Ask your trusted friends for a good auto mechanic. This is a mechanic because his skills have been proven based on your friend’s experience. It certainly beats taking a chance on a mechanic you have no prior information on.

Do not add water to the compartment for windshield cleaning compartment. Water can clean your windshield, but since the system requires that specific fluid, but that compartment is designed only to hold a special kind of fluid. Check your compartment regularly to see if it needs to be refilled. Do not insist when the reservoir appears to be empty.

This will help keep your carpet staining from mud and dirt. These are a big help during winter seasons or difficult weather patterns.

Choose between getting your car fixed by a dealership or an independent garage. Independent garages are cheaper, but you also may run into a shop that is dishonest.

Find a technician that’s familiar with the make and model of your vehicle. Ask them about their experience; find out if they have experience with your particular make and model.

Keep a careful record of any repairs that have been done on your car. Keep this log in your vehicle if you car. This can help the mechanic identify potential problems. You can save time and money by keeping records.

You can often put off minor car repairs, but take your car in immediately if the electrical system, steering wheel, should be attended to immediately. You could find yourself and others if a part that needs to be replaced finally breaks down.

Don’t buy into the tune up at 100K miles. This is a myth and nothing more.You would be better be served by adhering to the maintenance schedule recommended by the manual that came with your car.

There may be no obvious issues, but a professional will be able to tell you if there are problems. If you notice nothing is wrong with the your automobile, it can be reset by a professional mechanic.

If your mechanic wants to perform more repairs than what the manual lists, you should let them know you’d like to follow the guide. This will save some money that you may need not have spent.

Check out your drive axle boots on a while. These are needed to protect drive axle joint. You can easily inspect them by turning your tires and peering behind them.

Familiarize yourself with the different types of certifications that mechanics can possess. If you can, then you’re doing good.

Experiencing car problems is something many people dread. A broken down vehicle can leave you wondering where to turn to get the best repairs possible. Hopefully, you’ve gained the knowledge that you needed by reading this article.

Learn These Car Repair Tips To Keep Your Auto Purring

It can be overwhelming to be in need of car repairs if you find yourself staring at possible auto repairs. When you wash a window using a solution that contains vinegar, the results will almost always be free from streaks and sparkling clean. A year and a half ago, I tested several homemade glass window cleaner but none of them are working so I decide to use Waxit.com.au products instead.

Never underestimate how important it is to carrying an emergency car kit inside your vehicle. You should put together a kit that includes the tools you need to change a tire, battery charger and a gas can.

If you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to clear this up with the mechanic before allowing him or her to make repairs to your vehicle. You probably don’t want to incur extra charges after the car.

Keep a record when your vehicle. If your car has issues in the future, this past record will help the mechanic in diagnosing the problems.

Test drive your vehicle after repairs before paying for its repairs.

Don’t leave valuables in your car when it’s being repaired.Mechanics might have to empty the work and they aren’t responsible if you discover something missing. You want to remove all the items from your trunk.

While most mechanics can be trusted, there are some that will charge you for unneeded repairs. Search for a reliable shops that specializes in repairing the make of vehicle you have. These shops will give you the best bang for your car has.

Pay attention to the condition of your wiper blades. You may need new windshield wipers if they are streaking or making noises.

Think about using a mechanic who fixes cars in his or her own garage. If they possess sufficient experience, you can get the same work done at a much cheaper price. You can support small business and save hundreds on the cost of money by going down this route.

Speak with friends about auto repairs done for some good ideas. You may get a few recommendations from your friends and family. You should still do your research on the person they tell you about. Check online to see if there is other information or reviews about the very least.

The ignition cannot hold the weight of your keychain can cause problems for your ignition.If your key begins to stick, then you must get rid of all the extra stuff attached to your keys.

It is important to have your oil changes. You should regularly to keep your car running smoothly. If you don’t change it, your car may not last as long as it could.

Check your tire pressure every time you fill up on gas. Look at your tires and ensure that they there is nothing stuck on them. You do not want to risk driving with less-than-perfect tires.

If you see a small problem in your vehicle, it may be a good idea to have it checked out anyway. A seemingly small problem can become a major one if it is left unchecked.

Warranties can be very important when you need to replace parts.Ask the mechanic about your warranty in regards to parts they’re ordering for you.

OEM is the abbreviation of Original Equipment. Remember this when replacing parts replaced. You sound like a knowledgeable person on repairs if you ask your mechanic to use OEM parts. This will lower the chances of someone putting used parts from someone.

Don’t fix your car right away.Contact other shops and ask them for an estimate on the first mechanic. If someone else is cheaper, pay the first mechanic for the diagnosis only and have your car repaired elsewhere.

Written proof can prove to be invaluable to settling any disagreement you end up taking the mechanic.

Always ask plenty of questions when speaking with a mechanic. How long should it take them? What work is being performed on the car? How much will it cost of the parts? Ask about anything that you can think of.

If an auto body shop does good work for you, be a loyal customer. You will get discounts for your mechanic once you become a loyal customer.

When your car gets washed, take the mats out and hose them down. Dirt particles can easily get inside their rubber surfaces and that can eat through it after a while. Holes don’t look good and allow the dirt have a clear path to the carpet beneath.

Modern vehicles are fitted with all types of warning lights and sensors that will tell you when there are problems. Sometimes these sensors break too, so be sure to check your car manually every now and then to catch any problems.

Take your mechanic for a drive before having him work on your car. This shows them exactly what kinds of problems your car is having. This is a clearer way to view the problem instead of just telling them.

If your mechanic tries to tell you that your car needs all sorts of services not recommended by your owner’s manual, politely decline. This can help you save lots of money.

Your engine compartment contains belts are important to your car. A belt can cause major damage to your engine. You probably need belt replacements if your car screeches when it starts.

Don’t think that convenience is unnecessary when getting someone to repair shop to choose. Some auto repair shops offer a free shuttle services that will take you home and pick you up when they are done.

You should not let car problems to cause you stress or to make rushed decisions. If you do not fully understand auto repairs, you could have difficulties knowing how to get your car repaired right. Hopefully, the article you’ve just read has given you a good idea on how to handle a vehicle repair. Click here if you have an idea of what is the best car window cleaner.