How-To... by Austin Daily Herald

HOW TO

By Dr. Amy Swain, Audiologist

There are many things to consider when purchasing a hearing aid. The first thing any buyer should know is that it will take time to become comfortable using a hearing aid and getting it set to your listening preferences. Be patient and communicate all of your thoughts about the hearing aid to your audiologist and you will find that you will be more satisfied with your purchase. So what is the first step to take when you are thinking about getting a hearing aid?

1) The first step in purchasing a hearing aid is to

get a thorough hearing test. It is very important that you have your hearing tested by an audiologist. There are a lot of sales professionals who are hearing instrument specialists and hearing instrument dispensers but they are not audiologists. An audiologist is a college educated professional who is trained to diagnose a hearing loss. A diagnosis is important to have so you will know if your hearing loss could be treated medically rather than only with the use of hearing aids. After your hearing loss is diagnosed by an audiologist and hearing aids are recommended, then you can move forward into discussing your options.

2) Where should you purchase your hearing aids? Most importantly you will want to be very comfortable with the person you will be working with when you get your hearing aids. You will need at least 3 or 4 appointments and sometimes more to get the hearing aid set to your needs. Be aware that it takes time to get the hearing aid set for your listening preferences. Rarely will the first fitting session be enough. 3) Seek out a professional that carries more than

one brand. One brand of hearing aid does not fit all people. If the brand of hearing aid they are offering to sell you is the name of their business then you can be fairly certain they only sell one brand. 2

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BUY A HEARING AID

4) You may have been told by a friend of yours that one brand of hearing aid worked well for them but be sure and listen to the audiologist’s recommendation. The audiologist knows about all the different hearing instruments out there and may have some very good reasons for recommending one brand versus another. 5) Ask the audiologist if the hearing instruments

are “locked”. Many brand name hearing aids can only be programmed by an office that specializes in that brand. As a consumer, you want to be able to see a professional at another office if problems should arise. Do not buy locked instruments.

6) Discuss all of your needs with the audiologist who is helping you obtain hearing aids. Information such as how often you are in noisy listening environments is important for an audiologist to know. What kinds of work environment are you in? Do you need to use the phone several times a day? Do you wear an Oxygen tube? All of this information can be helpful in getting the right instrument for you. 7) Discuss all of your options and styles. The au-

diologist should be able to explain the cost differences and why some hearing aids are higher in price than others. Be sure and ask about all the different styles of instruments and not just discuss one type of unit.

8) Ask about the trial period. A consumer has a

right to return hearing instruments that are not working out for them. In the state of Minnesota, the patient has 45 days to wear the hearing aids to make sure they work for their lifestyle. Keep in mind the need to go back for adjustments if things are not working out and don’t just give up on the hearing instruments without discussing any difficulties you are having with your audiologist. Following up with your hearing aids and discussing your needs is important.

9) A hearing aid will never be perfect. Keep in

mind that a hearing instrument will not bring back your hearing and will not be as good as your hearing once was.

There are so many details involved it is easy to get bogged down with too much information. Make a list of questions you want answered when you have an appointment so you get all of them answered and seek out a professional that you feel comfortable with. Asking a friend or family member to go with you when you purchase a hearing aid is also a good idea. This is one way of making sure you understand all the details and get a hearing aid that you can be satisfied with.

TIPS IN BUYING A HEARING AID: 1) See an audiologist for your hearing test first. 2) Take your spouse or a friend with you. 3) Go to an office that sells more than one brand. Franchises primarily sell one brand only. 4) Talk to your audiologist about your lifestyle to determine your needs. 5) Remember you have a 45 day trial on hearing aids in the state of Minnesota. AUSTIN DAILY HERALD • HOW-TO

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE WHAT BRAND WILL WORK BEST FOR YOU! • Receive a complete hearing test free from an Audiologist! • Free look at your own ear with video-otoscopy! • Free consultation! PLEASE MENTION COUPON WHEN CALLING FOR APPOINTMENT.

Amy Swain---Audiologist----Features new hearing aid technology from many different manufacturers! • Siemens • Starkey • Microtech

• Oticon • Widex • Phonak

• Unitron • Sebotek • Resound

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIRE

The tires on your vehicle can affect your safety and your driving enjoyment. Choose tires that match both your vehicle and the way you drive.

are best but others of the same size and type can also provide good results.

Simple fact: In the long run, cheap tires won’t save you money. They won’t last as long as higher quality tires and may result in a rougher ride and inferior handling. Your goal in tire shopping should be to find the highest quality tire that meets your specific needs and your budget.

of your vehicle. If a tire is overworked just carrying the load, it will have little reserve capacity to help your vehicle respond quickly and safely. Do not buy undersized tires. Check your owner’s manual, vehicle door jam or glovebox, to find the size of tire recommended for your vehicle.

How many tires do I need?

A tire has several important functions

What size of tire do I How can I find the best need? value? Tires must be able to carry the weight

All four tires should be identical. If your tires don’t match, you could have handling problems. For instance, one end of your vehicle may not respond as quickly or completely as the other end, making the vehicle more difficult to control. If you just need to replace one tire that has been damaged, replace it with a tire of the same brand type, size and speed rating. A tire that doesn’t match the other three tires on your vehicle could affect your driving safety. If you need to replace two tires and the remaining two have a lot of tread depth left, replace them with tires that match your existing set as closely as possible. Identical new tires 4

FRIDAY, JULY 29, 2011

Steers the Vehicle A tire’s ability to maintain its course affects the vehicle’s ability to drive in a straight path. The tire has to help the vehicle steer regardless of road and weather conditions.

Absorbs Bumps The flexibility of a tire helps it absorb obstacles on uneven road surfaces and provides a stable ride for the driver and passengers while protecting the vehicle. Support the Vehicle A car tire has to carry more than 50 times its own weight.

Transmits Forces Tires transmit the engine’s power to accelerate and the braking force to stop. How well the tire performs these functions depends in part on how well the tire is maintained.

Weather and driving conditions:

Select a tire that suits the driving conditions you face most often: • Snow or ice: snow tires • Heavy traffic: more responsive tires • Winding roads or in the mountains: a tire that handles well • Extensive highway driving: tires with a smooth, quiet ride.

If you are replacing all four tires, you can explore another category of tires. If you want longer lasting tires, better traction or a smoother ride, there are tires that will help you accomplish this. AUSTIN DAILY HERALD • HOW-TO

COOLING SYSTEM FLUSH

OIL CHANGE SPECIAL

Plus $1.00 disposal fee

Limit one coupon per customer. Please present coupon at time of service. Not valid with other offers. Expires 9-1-11

Includes up to 5 quarts of oil. Limit one coupon per customer. Other oil brands available for $2.00 more. For most cars. Diesels extra. Please present coupon at time of service. Not valid with other offers. Expires 9-1-11

Hanson Tire

Service, Inc. 507-433-3419 • 1200 N. Main Austin

TRANSMISSION SERVICE

On Most Domestic Cars & Trucks. Includes Safety Check Expires 9-1-11

Hanson Tire Service, Inc. 507-433-3419 • 1200 N. Main Austin

HOW TO

Those of us who work in Senior Housing are frequently asked, “How do you know when it’s time to look for more support in daily life?” This question is usually posed by a fmaily member concerned or anxious for a loved one’s quality of life and safety.

We’re accustomed to viewing our parents as strong, independent people and tend to resist acknowledgement of changes that signal decline, as well as a reluctance to interfere prematureley or unnecessarily.

It’s essential to look objectively at a loved one’s interest and ability in creating a healthy daily life. Keep in mind that older adults were used to working, traveling, solving problems, coping with social and family issues and dealing with all kinds of people. Sometimes just remembering this may help us recognize changes over time.

The following are signs to be alert for but may be missed because we’re too close to the situation to notice small, day-by-day changes:

• Poor appetite or eating habits; insufficient fluid intake. • Weight loss or gain • Poor color or change in color • Inability to focus or concentrate - bills not paid, clothes not changed, no interest • Sleeping more or just sitting idly - often a sign of depression • Falling, lack of balance, weakness - fear of falling • No socialization, nor an interest in it • Memory loss, or apparent lack of good judgement 6

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• • • •

DETERMINE IF SENIOR LOVED ONES NEED SUPPORT

Poor hygiene - lack of awareness Lack of exercise Poor or no medication management Inability to manage or recognize problems with physical environment

Some of these changes could be identified and resolved with a thorough medical evaluation and recommendations from medical professionals. Family members can also look at these changes and assess underlying causes to address with simple strategies such as assistance with shopping, cleaning, transportation, increased companionship and socialization, etc. The people most closely involved and who should be on a alert for any of these changes are (but not limited to):

• • • • • • • •

Spouse Adult children Grandchildren and other relatives Caregivers (related or not) Neighbors Church visitors or parish nurses Volunteers Trustees, attorneys, and other professionals frequently seen.

If a family agrees that a move is the best option there are many choices to consider. Independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled care facilities welcome visits for those wanting to understand their options.

When the time is right professionals can offer guidance, helping families create plans or make decisions before the emo-

tional impact of a crisis skews their viewpoints and judgements. Planning ahead lets individuals and families make and assess decisions for themselves. Loss of decisionmaking opportunity and ability is one of the greatest fears we face in our lives ... that is truly a loss of independence. A professional can organize and arrange for decisions to be carried out according to these wishes, without delay, misunderstandings, hurt feelings, etc.

It is often necessary to help your loved ones realize what decisions they need to make before the time is upon them and you.

The Staff at The Cedars will work with you and your loved ones to ensure that your needs are met. Safety, a fun atmosphere, and quality of life are our main goals at The Cedars of Austin.

Loss of decision-making opportunity and ability is one of the greatest fears we face in our lives ... that is truly a loss of independence. A professional can organize and arrange for decisions to be carried out according to these wishes...” AUSTIN DAILY HERALD • HOW-TO

HOW TO

Buying a new or used vehicle of any kind (auto, boat, RV, or motorcycle) from a private party or a dealer can be, for most of us, an experience that ranges from frustrating to fun and enjoyable. No matter which end of the spectrum you find yourself on, it will almost certainly be educational. Next to a home, a vehicle is probably going to be one of the most expensive items we will purchase. Do you really need a new vehicle or is it something you would like to have? Do you really need that boat, recreational vehicle, or camper? Why do you need it? Do you need reliable transportation to get to work or do you want that new boat or camper to relax with your family on the weekend?

First, be sure of your needs

Get out a pen and paper and make a numbered list of your answers to the “why” question. Continue until you run out of answers to “why”. Reviewing your list should give you better insight into the type of vehicle you should be looking for - family vehicle, larger camper, larger boat (to catch bigger fish!!), etc. It may also help you decide whether you should be looking at replacing, upgrading, fixing the old one, or doing without for awhile.

Next, do some research -make a plan

If you decide this purchase is important enough for you to proceed, it only makes sense that you need to be comfortable with the process to help insure you will be satisfied with the end results. You will probably have more satisfaction buying a vehicle that you already know is what you want, at the price you can afford and that you know is fairly priced. You will be less likely to purchase on impulse and end up with something you really didn’t want or doesn’t fit your needs.

Once again, take out a pen and paper and list the various categories of vehicle you would like to purchase.

FRIDAY, JULY 29, 2011

BUY A NEW VEHICLE

Now under each category, write down your answer to the following five questions.

1. How many miles or how many times per year am I planning to use it? 2. On average, how much time will I be spending in the vehicle? 3. What type of driving or use will I be giving the vehicle? 4. How much down payment do I have, or how much equity do I have in my trade in, and how much of a monthly payment can I afford? 5. Now, write down all the reasons the vehicle is needed or wanted. Remember, this is the list you worked out when you first decided that a different vehicle was worth looking into. Example: daily commute to work, taking the kids to school, a vacation, increase family time together, etc.

The more comprehensive this list is, the more insight you will get as to which new vehicle is best for you now. Underline the most important points. Match up vehicle groups that fit your profiled needs and cross off the groups that are lagging behind. For example, if one of your underlined needs is carpooling the kids to school and to ball practice afterwards, it makes sense to cross off the sports car category. By process of elimination, you will begin to set your plan. Again, advance work here will save you money and embarrassment. Research your budget and decide what payment your budget is comfortable with. Next, talk to your Accentra Credit Union representative about qualifying for the purchase you desire. We can review your financing options to give you the best loan to suit your needs. We can also compare rebate and leasing options for you as well as giving you the NADA value for your trade in or prospective purchase. Once you have done your homework and gotten your preapproval from Accentra Credit Union, you are able to sit face to face with the dealer confident that you have put yourself in the best position possible to get the best deal and satisfy your needs.

Financing

The last step in the process is to call an insurance agent and compare quotes to determine the monthly insurance premium cost of the vehicle, boat, or camper you plan to purchase. Ask your agent to compare quotes based on varying levels of deductibles as premium amounts can vary greatly. Also, ask what additional discounts may apply if you bundle your home and auto and other insurance needs. Often times when bundled together, these discounts can lead to large savings in the end. Once you have determined the monthly cost of insurance, add that amount to your monthly payment as quoted by your loan officer to determine the true monthly cost of your new purchase.

Insurance

We look forward to helping you! List the various categories of vehicle you would like to purchase:

Auto • • • • • • •

Subcompact / Compact Family Sedan / Station Wagon Minivan Sports Car / Coupe / Convertible Sport Utility Vehicle Full Sized Van Luxury Car

Camper • • • •

Fold Down Hard Side Pull Behind Fifth Wheel Motor Home AUSTIN DAILY HERALD • HOW-TO

Reduced Loan Rates on Vehicles and Other Secured Loans

LIMITED-TIME! 3.99% APR* for 48 Months Required payment $22.57 per thousand borrowed.

*Annual Percentage Rate. Requires credit score of 680 or higher. No other discounts apply.

4.49% APR* for 60 Months Required payment $18.64 per thousand borrowed.

You qualify for membership if you live, work, worship or attend school in Freeborn or Mower counties. www.accentracu.org

HOW TO Our natural environment can be affected by the choices we make everyday. The proper disposal of your common household items will help protect our natural environment locally as well as globally. The Mower County Solid Waste staff is responsible for helping educate the general public on how to properly dispose of most types of common household wastes. Below are some general questions that should help you know how to safely and properly dispose of your wastes.

Q. How can I properly dispose of the different hazardous wastes that I have at home such as old paint, old gasoline, paint thinner, and pesticides.

A. All of these types of materials are considered Household Hazardous Wastes. Mower County has a HHW facility located at 1111 8th Ave. NE in Austin, which accepts these, and other types of dangerous chemicals that you may have in your home. The facility is attached to the north end of the Recycling Center (the door with the blue awning) and is open every Wednesday from 8 am to noon and from 1 pm until 5 pm (not including a 15 minute break at 10 am and 3 pm). The facility will only accept chemicals that are generated by a household from Mower County, please bring a drivers license or other type of identification to prove that you are a County resident. The facility does not accept any business waste (including farm chemicals), used oil or filters, antifreeze, fluorescent bulbs or unidentifiable wastes. 10

FRIDAY, JULY 29, 2011

PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT

Q. How can I properly dispose of fluorescent bulbs?

A. Mower County does not accept these bulbs. There are however two different businesses in Austin that accept fluorescent bulbs, they are: Fox Electric 4337184 and Ace Hardware 437-8261. Please check with them for disposal costs and drop-off times. Incandescent light bulbs can be thrown into the trash.

Q. How can I properly dispose of used oil and used oil filters?

A. Most of the service stations in the County take the used oil and filters from do-it-yourselfers. There is usually a cost associated with the disposal of the filters but most of the service stations will take the oil for free. Check with the service station that you use when having your vehicle maintained and ask them if they take the used oil and filters. Mower County has a list of service stations that take oil and filters, please call 437-9551 for further information.

Q. How do I properly dispose of used appliances?

A. There are three different disposal sites in Mower County for used appliances. There is a disposal fee for each appliance and the cost depends on the type and size of the appliance. The Austin Transfer Station at 437-4606, SKB Landfill at 433-8131 and Veit Landfill at 433-8633. Please call for the charges and hours of operation. You can also contact your garbage hauler to find out if they have a program to pick up your appliance from the curb.

Q. How can I properly dispose of computers and television sets?

A. Computers and television sets can be brought to the Austin Transfer Station. Please call 437-4606 for disposal options and hours operation. There is a disposal fee.

Q. How can I dispose of batteries?

A. There are a number of different types of batteries and they all have different disposal options. All vehicle batteries can be brought to any retailer that sells vehicle batteries. The retailer does not charge for the disposal of the old battery, however if you are purchasing a new vehicle battery you will be charged a $5 core charge on the new one and you can get your $5 back if you bring them a used one, with your receipt, within 30 days of purchase. All rechargeable batteries such as NiCd, Nickel Metal Hydride, Lithium ion and sealed lead acid batteries weighing less than 2 pounds can be brought to Radio Shack for free collection. All alkaline (flashlight) batteries are non hazardous and can be thrown in your regular household garage. Button batteries (watch and hearing aid batteries) can be delivered to the different retailers that sell them such as ShopKo and Target. Please deliver them to the desk within the store where they are sold.

Q. How can I get started recycling?

A. Stop at the Environmental Services building at 1105 1/2 8th Ave NE, in Austin to pick up a free set of bins. We will explain the schedule and give you a list of the acceptable materials, the process takes about 5 minutes and you will be ready to recycle.

Q. How do I know what types of plastics are acceptable at Mower County Recycling Center?

A. The fast and simple rule is that we accept all bottle form plastics with the numbers one PET and two HDPE (inside the chasing arrows) on the bottom of the bottle. We also take the number two HDPE bucket shaped containers (without a metal ring or handle). We do not accept any other types of plastic. And remember that all tops and lids should be removed and thrown in your garbage. AUSTIN DAILY HERALD â&#x20AC;˘ HOW-TO

Please join in and participate in Mower Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Recycling program. As a Mower County resident all you have to do is stop at the Environmental Services Office, 1105 1/2 8th Ave. NE, Austin and pick up a set of three recycling bins. Feel free to call if you have questions about recycling or household hazardous waste call 437-9551.

Make a commitment to protect our environment today!

HOW TO Looking for something fun and new in St. Ansgar? Stop by the 4th Street Coffee Co. and Deli located at 604 E. 4th Street . Delicious homemade bread and buns means mouthwatering sandwiches, Paninis, subs, burgers, fries and more! Maybe you’re in the mood for homemade pizza—it’s fantastic! Fresh salads are also available. The delightful smell of flavored coffees envelops the shop. Perhaps you are a cappuccino, latte, mocha, or espresso fan. They have those too. 4th Street Coffee also offers a special Ice Cream bar. Just about anything you can think of for ice cream is available— Brownie Sundaes, ice cream, fruit smoothies, cones, malts, you name it! Check out our outdoor patio—perfect for summer days and starry nights. Maybe you’re in the mood for a suntan or need a movie rental— Pam can help you with that as well. Don’t forget our convenient drive-thru!

4th Street Coffee Co. & Deli

Paradise Pizza is a family owned restaurant with 4 generations working there. They are open 7 days a week and have daily specials throughout the week. The menu includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, subs, wraps and of course pizza! All their buns are homemade from scratch and baked daily. Paradise Pizza also tries to accommodate every ones needs. If you have a huge party and want to dine in on a Sunday for lunch, just give them a call and they would open up just for you!! (They ask for 30 people or more.) They also do birthday cakes for special occasions. Check out their full menu and daily specials at www.paradisepizzaonline.com.

Paradise Pizza

FRIDAY, JULY 29, 2011

SPEND A DAY IN ST. ANSGAR, IOWA

Maybe antiques are your passion and you have seen the sign that says Side Door Antiques. Time seems to actually slow down to a near halt as you stand and gaze at these items. An old portrait of a stunningly beautiful baby child has grabbed you. The infant, with its beach glass blue eyes is looking at you from centuries ago; "what was she thinking" you wonder? Kathy answers your questions and chats with you about the items that have become her life's passion.

Side Door Antiques

Picket Fence Antiques & Gifts

Antiques, memories, and smiles await you in Picket Fence Antiques & Gifts, St. Ansgar, Ia. Step inside the door and you are greeted with a warm welcome by the owner, Cheryl Lemmon. She encourages you to relax, take your time, and have fun! Every item has a past, present and hopefully, a future in a new home. Cheryl is happy to assist you and answer any questions you might have about any of the amazing variety of unique items that fill 2 floors! She has hunted and gathered for many years and is anxious to share them with you. Wander and ponder until something catches your eye. Something that always catches your eye is the sparkle of fine estate jewelry! Genuine diamonds and many colored gemstones dazzle and delight! To experience the true beauty, you really must try them on! Cheryl has a knack of finding just the right "bauble" to match your style and personality. Great quality at reasonable prices are found in Cheryl's lovely jewelry. You don't want to miss this beautiful shop-it is "Simply Charming".

Bel-Aire Estates winery is a small winery in North Iowa. The company was started and awarded its winery license in 2006 and produced its first bottle for sale spring 2007. Bel-Aire Estates is located two miles west of Saint Ansgar Iowa. Our current hours are daily from 3pm to 6pm. We are also open by appointment so feel free to call us at 641420-7092 or 641-420-7094. If you would like a tasting or tour. The 2009 movie list is now online. Our new tasting room is now open, so feel free to stop by and check it out.

Bel-Aire Estates Winery

Home Sweet Home is located in a restored mercantile building built in 1872. The building orignally served St. Ansgar as a harness and leather reair shop. In 1894, Judy and David purchased the building, and after renovating, opened their business, Home Sweet Home. In 1994, the adjoining storefront, occupied by the local barber, was offered to them. With that addition and with some new construction, today, Home Sweet Home offers nearly 6000 square feet of distinctive American home furnishings and gifts. After celebrating 25 years in business, Judy and David sold Home Sweet Home to their daughter, Kari. She is a familiar face at the store and is excited to continue on the tradition. Home Sweet Home enjoys looking for unique items to enhance their store and their customers’ homes. They want you to enjoy your visit to their store and town. Please stop by and allow them to assist you with personalized service and small town friendliness.

Home Sweet Home

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD • HOW-TO

• PIZZA • SANDWICHES • ICE CREAM

• Open 7 Days a Week • Lunch Specials Daily Tuesday - Saturday 11am-2pm

202 West 4th Street • St. Ansgar, Iowa 641-713-2431 • 800-353-2434

P i c k e t Fe n c e Anti ques We now carry Fine Estate Jewelry

2 Floors Full of Treasures!

244 W. 4th, Bo x 4 9 2 S t. A n s g a r, I A 641-736-Gift Hours : Tu e s d a y - S a t u r d a y 1 0 - 5

HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS

Instead of shooting in the dark with your marketing plan, try putting clear cut goals into writing. The following 6 steps serve as an outline for an extended marketing plan. They may seem simple, but these details are sometimes overlooked.

Beyond producing brilliant advertisements; make yourself available. Build a campaign using all or a combination of media to consistently be in front of your potential customers. Let them know you are here to stay.

1. Generate Awareness

2. Motivate Your Customers To Buy

Give your potential customers a reason to take action toward your products or services. You have two choices: market your products and services as affordable or as the best value. Address their concerns, needs and wants. Find a way to make your products or services available to “testdrive” before they buy. If providing a sample is impossible, use testimonials to demonstrate your expertise. Remember your employees are also your customers and to treat them the same as you would your customers. Word of mouth is best passed by your own staff. Clearly, your customer service techniques are top notch. But you need to earn trust from future customers. Promote your business by demonstrating your expertise: col-

3. Establish Trust

FRIDAY, JULY 29, 2011

lect testimonial documentation from your loyal customers, publish articles you write about your profession and get involved with community business and service groups. Community groups help you to network yourself and your company within the business community. If you have representatives for your company, they should get involved with networking as well.

4. Get a Commitment and More

Whether it is scheduling a free consultation or sending a brochure, you need to ask for the sale or for the follow up appointment. It’s also imperative to offer complimentary products or services. You don’t need to be pushy, but why make the customer research and travel to another location to find something that you offer. Remember that most people buy a washer and dryer together, that is to say from the same store. Are your products and services offered as a package?

Standing still in business is the same as going backwards. Change is constantly upon us and if you don’t prepare for change you can get left behind. Always be looking for new products or services to sell. Always be educating yourself. Always be cross-marketing. Create a strategy for generating referrals and look for new ways to reduce your customers’ perception of risk associated with your products or services.

5. Create Opportunities

Once you have a customer, you need to maintain a positive relationship. You want them to continue to buy from you and to refer their friends and family to buy from you. Send them your newsletter or advice column, give them a courtesy call, invite them to your private open house, or send them new brochures; anything so they remember you. Advertising gets them in the door, you make them your customer.

6. Build a Rapport

Quick Fix Try a new business card. Give someone a reason to hold on to your card by getting creative. Include a full color photo, an inspiring quote, a calendar or anything that is useful or eye catching. And hire a graphic designer, it’s a onetime small expense that can make a huge difference. Change your current advertisements to a consistent campaign. Have the same theme, both with creative elements and the information you share. If the background of a print ad is blue, the background of your online advertisement should be blue, etc. AUSTIN DAILY HERALD • HOW-TO

The Austin Daily Herald is committed to coverage of subjects that are uniquely important to our readers: local issues and those topics with national impacts such as economy, politics, technology, as well as breaking news, crime, education, national and foreign news. Readers throughout Mower County understand that for coverage of the topics that matter most in their lives the place to turn is the Austin Daily Herald and its online home, austindailyherald.com