FROM A TECHNICAL MIND

BUSINESS: FROM A TECHNICAL MIND Getting a Deal on Computers and Printers

by Tyler Hatfield

Now that we are a few months into the new year, the initial round of computer and printer sales and deals that companies often push mostly have ended.

Which brings up an interesting point: When is the best time to buy a new computer or printer?

There are a few times each year when stores put the most expensive items on sale.

However, computers have their own best sales that are usually different from printers, and black Friday is not always the answer.

For laptops, especially, although this sometimes can apply to desktops as well, the end of the year and just into the new year is the best time to get a deal on a computer.

During the months of December and January, stores tend to put computers on end-of-year sales to move them out before the new models come in.

Year-end sales can be a bit finicky since stock is usually limited and unpredictable, but if you keep a close watch on store sales and in-store specials, you can find the best deals.

Printers, on the other hand, do not often go on sale and, when they do, they are not very large sales.

Since models of printers tend to stick around, they often will maintain the same prices year-to-year and will not have year-end sales.

There is still hope for someone looking for a deal on a printer, though.

Printers do eventually move out as newer models come in, so it is best to watch manufacturer and store websites.

While this does take some more work, it is an easy way to catch deals when an old printer model is going on clearance and when stores might offer purchase incentives.

Finally, the back-to-school season is a great time to watch for deals.

While these sales may have smaller discounts and be fewer, it is a great time to watch for any flash sales on electronics.

Tyler Hatfield has a passion for technology that he would like to someday turn into his own business. He runs a small media group, hatsmediagroup.com, and works on computers on the side. He can be contacted with questions and for recommendations at hatsmediagroup@gmail.com

BUSINESS: THE NETWORKER I Feel Rude

by Bob Arnold

We learn a lot about a person simply by shaking hands. For now, that is all gone.

Over the last two weeks, I have attended at least six inperson meetings of two to 10 people. At only one were handshakes exchanged.

We shy away from shaking hands. I feel rude as I walk into a meeting and wave at other attendees and when I do not shake their hands as we part.

I understand the safety aspect and that avoiding contact is something we need to do during the pandemic.

However, I feel like I am missing out on getting to know some people I am meeting for the first time. I mean really getting to know and connect with them.

The physical contact of shaking hands while looking each other in the eye with greetings or salutations is missing. A lot of my deals are sealed with a handshake or used to be.

So, what can we do to get that closeness, yet not shake hands?

There is the fist or elbow bump, but they are not the same. We could wear gloves, but it is not the same, either. What can we do?

Well, there is the chest bump, the salute, the prayer hands, and the foot bump. Oh, I almost forgot the hip bump, the wave, the bow, the peace sign, the fake hat tip, the head nod (when I use this one, I include an eyebrow raise), the nontouch high-five, the non-touch exploding fist bump, an air kiss, or just take a rain check. I would bet that you did not imagine there were so many alternatives. Some have been around for a long time, but are rarely utilized.

My advice: Pick one or two that you are comfortable with and use them or customize them to suit your style. It is one way to get people to remember you and your unique answer to the handshake dilemma.

Long live the handshake! And may it return soon. Till then, a tip of the head to you!

Bob Arnold is the founder of ONward Networking and the international best-selling author of “The Uncanny Power of the Networking Pencil,” which can be purchased at zMore networking tips are available at “Bob’s Pencil Points” blog at http://onwardnetworking.com/ or by contacting Arnold at TheNetworkingPencil@gmail.com