SquidU

Way back when, I attempted a new service in my local area. The idea was to get hair stylists, nail artists, massage therapists, and makeup technicians to promote themselves using the web. At the time, my small community was just getting the hang of using the web period, much less using it for promotion. Today it’s easier than ever using Squidoo, AND perhaps even more important than ever to get online.

It’s easy to see why a hair salon or spa would want a website. They can show off their relaxing space, list their services, communicate with customers, and make potential clients feel at ease about trying them for the first time. In areas like mine, a website is often the only way you’ll connect with a client before they are willing to drive an hour or two to visit you. For those who want an easy solution, Squidoo is the answer.

But why would an independent stylist want to promote their work? Many reasons! Promoting yourself is the first step in taking charge of your own career. Not only will you get more clients this way, your boss will take notice of your proactive attitude. And truth be told, stylists often move from salon to salon, or therapists from spa to spa. Having the reputation of a client-minded professional will go a long way towards ensuring your job security.

These businesses also want the community to know about the variety of talents and personalities in their staff. Maybe a new client wasn’t happy with their haircut. (Bangs are just NOT Sally’s thing.) But knowing they have the option to shop around within the same salon can be a valuable marketing tool.

Join thousands of lensmasters are using Squidoo to promote their businesses by giving lensmaking a try. Once you’ve mastered the basics, the options are limitless. We’ve even given you a head start with a sample lens on how to create a cosmetology lens.

In my town of 4300 there are nine hair studios, not counting spas, massage therapists, nail studios, and other wonderful places to pretty up. Isn’t it important to you to stand out in every way possible?

Go forth, prosper, and be beautiful!
~Kimberly
YOUR Community & Charity Organizer

Ah, what a wonderful day. Some days start out rough, but you know what can make any day better? A great cup of coffee. Who knows how to brew it better than your local coffee shop? That’s why the community coffee shop is the first group we’re featuring for new users we want on Squidoo.

Coffee shops: we want YOU!

“Me? What could I possibly do with a website?”

What do you think about when you think “coffee shop?” Do you think brick walls covered in abstract art, with the hiss of the espresso machine interrupting delightful chatter? Do you think serene walls in teal and cream, with enormous ceramic cappuccino mugs and oversized chairs that wrap you into their folds while you read? Or do you think of your own local coffee shop, with the chalkboard menu you’ve memorized, coveted internet connection, and regulars that appear like clockwork?

Oooh, I’m making myself thirsty.

I may be a little biased when I say that coffee shops are important to Squidoo, but it’s definitely not a stretch to say that Squidoo is important to coffee shops. In my tiny town of 4000, there are over 40 gas stations, restaurants, and convenience stores that sell coffee. You can even get coffee at KMart. Will a visitor know where to find you or what you offer?

Now more than ever, people are mobile, and they have choices. For those that travel, the internet is a lifeline for securing a place to stay, a way to get there, and things to do along the way. If they can’t find you in the planning process, chances are slim to none they’ll fit you into their schedule.

“That’s a great point! I never thought about how important my website could be. Ok, I’m sold. Now what?”

To learn more about using Squidoo as a tool for your website, read our article Help your Friends and Family use Squidoo. If you’re lucky, someone has already printed this and shared it with you, or forwarded it to you via email. It contains our best tips for getting started, and is your cheat sheet for common new user questions. (And if not, never fear. You can make tons of new BFFs at SquidU Forum.)

“Cool, I’ve played with Squidoo and seen what it can do, but what do I need to include for MY shop?”

To give you an idea of what is possible with your Squidoo lens, we’ve created a sample one for you to peek at. My Sample Coffee Shop is the lens we’ve designed to show you how to start creating an awesome lens for your very own java central.

You can get started creating a lens in minutes, and it’s so fun and addicting, you might just end up with a few dozen. Plus we’re sure your regulars will love using it to create their own fan pages.

Coffee shops are one of my favorite places to be in town, and Squidoo is my favorite place to be online. It’s only natural the two will mix to create an awesome combination!

Have fun, prosper, and save a seat for me!
~Kimberly
Community & Charity Organizer