Saturday, March 14, 2020

Best Document Management System for Small Businesses

Best Document Management ordnungsprinzip for Small BusinessesOur 2019 research and analysis of document management ordnungsprinzips leads us to recommend FileHold Express as the best document management ordnungsprinzip for small businesses. We chose FileHold from the dozens of document management systems we considered. To see how we evaluated these solutions and a comprehensive list of document management systems, visit our best picks roundup page.Why FileHold Express?Small businesses dont have the time to implement arduous software or deal with cumbersome training regimens. In addition, cost is a concern for many small businesses. When it comes to document management software, ease of use and a manageable price point are major needs for a lean small business. Thats why we chose FileHold Express as our best document management system for small business.FileHold Express offers an intuitive interface that mimics the familiar filing structure of Windows, which makes it easy for employee s to quickly learn the software without intensive training. There is also a 10-day, full-featured free trial of the software so you and your staff can evaluate the application and see for yourself how it works and how compatible it will be with your small business before buying it. The free trial does not require you to submit credit card information and automatically terminates once the trial period expires.Editors note Looking for a document management system for your business? To help you choose the one thats right for you, use the questionnaire below to have our sister site BuyerZone provide you with information from a variety of vendors for freeEase of UseOne of FileHold Expresss strongest points is its ease of use. For fruchtwein users, its easy to get up and running because the interface is arranged similarly to programs they are likely already accustomed to. The filing structure is based on the same system used by Windows, resulting in a tree of cabinets, drawers, folders an d subfolders that are collapsible and easy to navigate between. It takes a short time to become accustomed to the software, making time-consuming or costly training packages unnecessary.This folder tree keeps things organized on the user interface. Many document management systems quickly become cluttered with screens and popups, but FileHold Express keeps the focus on the document library. Your library appears on the left side of the user interface. This central dashboard is where all your document management activities take place, including filing, searching and reviewing your documents. This makes navigation easy, requiring few clicks and eliminating the need to switch between multiple screens.Located on top of the library is a MyFileHold folder, which contains cabinets and drawers for your most frequently used documents, notifications and alerts, recently accessed documents, and recently added documents. This feature offers a way to quickly access documents that are frequently n eeded or have recently been accessed or edited.You can file documents in the system in multiple ways. You can drag and drop files already saved on your computer or network. Another vorkaufsrecht is scanning documents directly into the system. The Microsoft Office integration allows you to add documents you are working on in Word, Excel, Outlook or PowerPoint with the click of a button.Once in the system, users define a documents metadata attributes and choose the location where it should be filed. FileHold offers many attributes to add to a file, which makes it easier to locate using the search function. For example, attributes for invoices may include the client the invoice is for and the date its due to be paid, while a brochure may have properties like who created it and when it was added to the system.FileHold offers several easy ways to quickly find documents. The easiest vorkaufsrecht is to type in keywords or phrases relating to the document in question into the main search b ar, which is similar to the Google search bar. This searches the entire library of files. However, instead of only bringing back documents with the exact wording you searched for, this option returns results that include synonyms, stemming words and words closely associated with your original search terms. When the results are returned, you can click on a file, and a preview box highlights the words you were searching for, so you can quickly see if its the document you need.You can also conduct advanced searches that allow you to look for files based on metadata attributes, which is especially useful if you maintain a detailed metadata policy within the system.FeaturesFileHold Express features work together seamlessly without complicating the system or confusing users.The built-in search engine makes navigating to specific documents quick and easy. The search function allows users to search for either file name, metadata or both. Users can search document archives or exclude them fr om the search if theyre only querying active documents. In addition, you can tailor your search to either include all versions of documents or only the latest version.For teams that work on documents, FileHold Express offers a number of convenient features. Tools include a check-in and checkout feature that blocks more than one partie from working on the same document at the same time. You can also set alerts that automatically notify co-workers when documents are available (checked in) and unavailable (checked out) or when changes are made to files. The software records a log of everyone who accesses each file and when they do so, and workers can review previous versions of documents after changes have been made.The system features a robust permissions system that allows admins to restrict users access to only the documents that pertain to them in their job roles. There are 11 security roles you can set for documents, and each role varies regarding what the individual can access or change in the system. On one end of the spectrum, there is read-only status, and at the other end, you can grantsystem administrator access. Custom permissionsettings can also be created for each cabinet, drawer, folder and even individual files.Other standard features include a calendar that keeps track of uncompleted tasks, the option to virtually link files in the system, and scanning software with optical character recognition (OCR) that automatically converts the text on typed paper documents into editable and searchable data.FileHold Express offers premium features at an added cost, including workflow capabilities, the option to create guest accounts for read-only users and an electronic signature functionality.PricingThe exact per-license cost of FileHold Express varies depending on the size of your organization and the scope of your needs. However, the companys pricing model offers clients several ways of paying, including methods designed to accommodate small businesses. O ne option is 24 months of interest-free financing (or more depending on the number of users you require) and a monthly subscription option for companies with seven or more users.FileHold Express can also be purchased with a simple one-time license payment. Continued software updates and technical support require an annual subscription renewal fee of 20 percent the original licensure cost each year after the first year of service.FileHold Express is intended for between five and 20 users, which is the average range of users for many small and growing businesses. If youre planning on scaling up in the near future, FileHold Express licenses can be easily converted into FileHold Enterprise licenses, meaning youre geldschrank to start out with Express and then upgrade as needed without a costly or difficult transition to a completely different platform.Customer ServiceWe were very pleased with the customer service we received from FileHold. The preferable way to reach support is through email, though, which could be a minor hindrance. However, email response was quick based on our experience. The FileHold representative answered all our questions in detail, with links to the website with additional information.Once your system is up and running, you can contact FileHolds customer support team by email or by submitting an online help ticket. Unfortunately, phone service is not an option. There are also extensive resources on the companys website, including a series of user guides. In addition, the software includes built-in access to help guides.LimitationsFileHold Express is available on both a datenwolke and on-premises version, but the cloud version requires a third-party host. That means that FileHold isnt the organization storing and managing your data, so youve got to trust the third-party selected either by you or FileHold during the setup process. If you opt for an on-premises solution, you need your own server and an IT expert on hand to maintain it, which can result in additional costs that are prohibitive to many small businesses.Another possible shortcoming is that customer support is available only by email and online. Even though we received an extremely quick response when we emailed, some businesses might be turned off by not being able to call for help.Its also important to note that the on-premises system isnt compatible with Mac computers. If your office is Mac-based, youll need the cloud-based, web internetbrowser version. For an on-premises solution for Macs, you would need to look at another application.Ready to choose a document management system? Heres a breakdown of our complete coverageDocument Management Systems A Buyers GuideBest Document Management Software and Systems 2019Best Low-Cost Document ManagementSystemBest Overall Document Management SystemBest Document Management System for CollaborationAdditional reporting by Chad Brooks and Andreas RiveraEditors note Looking for a document management system for your bu siness? To help you choose the one thats right for you, use the questionnaire below to have our sister site BuyerZone provide you with information from a variety of vendors for free Adam C. Uzialko Adam C. Uzialko, a New Jersey native, graduated from Rutgers University in 2014 with a degree in political science and journalism and media studies. He reviews healthcare information technology, call centers, document management software and employee monitoring software. In addition to his full-time position at Business News Daily and business.com, Adam freelances for several outlets. An indispensable ally of the feline race, Adam is owned by four lovely cats. Start Your Business Business Ideas Business Plans Startup Basics Startup Funding konzessionsverkauf Success Stories Entrepreneurs Grow Your Business Sales absatzwirtschaft Finances Your Team Technology Social Media Security Build Your Career Get the Job Get Ahead Office Life Work-Life Balance Home Office Lead Your Team Leadership Women in Business Managing Strategy Personal Growth Find A Solution HR Solutions Financial Solutions Marketing Solutions Security Solutions Retail Solutions SMB Solutions About Us Contact Us Partner with Us Copyright Policy Terms of Use Privacy Polic y Do Not Sell My Personal Information Advertising Disclosure Sitemap 200 Fifth Avenue, Second FloorWaltham, MA 02451infobusinessnewsdaily.com Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) All Rights Reserved. Company About Us Contact Us Partner with Us Copyright Policy Terms of Use Privacy Policy Do Not Sell My Personal Information Advertising Disclosure Sitemap Network Business.com BuyerZone.com

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Why I Love My Job As A...Sales Development Representative

Why I Love My Job As A...Sales Development RepresentativeWhy I Love My Job As ASales Development RepresentativeAccording to Hallmark and ur Google calendar, February is the month of love. But it doesnt have to beromantic love that were talking about. Some people are lucky enough to fall in love with their job.And thats what were bringing you with ourWhy I Love My Job As A series. Real professionals tell us what their job is, why they love it, andmost importantlyhow people likeyou can excel in the industry like they have.Today, we sat down with Carmel Tavori, a recent graduate of URI who got her first job after college on WayUpat WayUp Shes a Sales Development Representative working to connect new companies with the millions of students on WayUpand she loves her job.What do you do?I am an SDR here at WayUp and I ended up in this role by applying to jobs outside my comfort zone and taking a chance on a different career path. Although in college I majored in Communicative Disorders, com ing into sale has been the best decision Ive made in a long time.What do you love about your job?I love this job because every day presents a different agenda and a new challenge. I love that I can set goals that I can achieve and learning the different methods and tricks that make you a better sales person makes me excited to come in every day.When we do well here, we get rewarded. We get bonuses, shoutouts, andof coursewe get to spin the sales wheel Last time I got a gift card and my co-worker got to pie our HR director in the face. (It was all in good fun, though)What tips do you have for future SDRs?My tip for future SDRs is to always be curious to learn more and to get uncomfortable everyday You can only get better if you take a risk and try new things A good reason to work in this field is that you learn a hr both professional and personally and have an opportunity to learn and act upon your strengths.Favorite memory on the job?I once got a meeting on the calendar by sending a prospect a pizzaBest piece of advice you received on the job?Be a student of your prospects business. Its so important to do your research and be prepared when talking to clientsWant to be like Carmel? WayUp is hiring new SDRs right now.To learn more about working at WayUp, check out our company profile and apply to be an SDR

Sunday, January 5, 2020

Link In to Great Candidates Like LinkedIn

Link In to Great Candidates Like LinkedInHave you noticed all your connections buzzing? If youre wondering why everyone you know is sharing something about social media this week, the answer is obvious. Thats because the last week in September is also Social Media Week. With the movers and shakers of the social media universe getting together to talk about the future of connecting and sharing, it seemed like a good time to look at how social media giants find the best employees to keep innovating their services.On Wednesday we took a look at how Facebook uses its position as the premiere social network to find great employees. Today well be looking at social medias professional older sibling LinkedIn.While you might use Facebook to like your favorite movie or Twitter to tweet to your favorite comedian, LinkedIn is a more serious, or professional, social network. Thats because LinkedIn is focused entirely on the world of professional networking. Over 175 million members use LinkedIn t o connect with coworkers and employers, and to list their professional experience for the world to see.Heres how to hire like LinkedIn to find great employees to keep moving your company forwardPut Current Employees on DisplayPerhaps the best advertisement for your company is your current employees. As a company that is all about the links to coworkers, friends and employers, LinkedIn knows the value of putting a menschenwrdig face on the company. Thats why when you click over to theircareer page youre immediately greeted with a list of current employees and how many links they are away from the person looking at the page. This allows candidates to see how theyre connected to people already working for LinkedIn.Using your current employees as brand ambassadors is a smart move. It shows your workers you care enough about your company to endorse it to other talented candidates. Plus, it puts a human face on your company. Your company isnt a sum total of the products you sell, the serv ices you provide, or even your awesome benefits. Your company is really the great people you have working and innovating. Let talented candidates see this side of your organization as well.Dont Forget To Show Off Your JobsLinkedIns career page has plenty of information about what life is like at the company. But it also has the open positions within the company positioned front and center so interested job seekers can easily find a great opportunity.While its great to show off what your company is all about, you want candidates to actually take the next step in the process. You need to give candidates a call to action by letting them see the top quality jobs available. The Tom Cruise film Jerry Maguire coined the phrase show me the money. If you want candidates to apply, show them the jobs.Create An Innovative CultureLinkedIn has created a culture where employees and business leaders can thrive and try out new ideas. Thats why they advertise their corporate culture heavily to prospe ctive applicants. Among their culture, benefits and perks is a program they call inDays. One Friday a month, the company takes a day to put busy work aside and think creatively instead. This brands them as a company which recognizes the value of forward thinking. Instead of having worker bees droning at their work in the present, LinkedIn has set aside inDays to push employees to look for future innovations and the next great idea.If your company wants big ideas, youll need to create an innovative culture. The best employees dont want to just tread water, they want to leave a lasting impression on their workplace. Let your talent know the company is looking forward right from the application process.Get On FilmThe LinkedIn career page features a few ansprechbar videos touting the benefits of working at the company. These videos paint a clear picture to interested applicants about what life is like at the company. Whether the videos are explaining the concept of inDays or just making a fun music video, getting your company culture on film makes it more attractive.After all, a picture is worth a thousand words. A great recruitment video can tell job seekers where your company is, where its going and the kind of talent you need to get there. Use online video to tell your company story, whether its using a video interview to hire or getting coworkers together to explain your companys core values. This way candidates can quickly see what a day in the life of your company is truly like.LinkedIn might be the most mature of the social networks, but this doesnt mean the company doesnt know how to have fun. By using employees as brand ambassadors, creating a fun culture and sharing it with the power of online video, LinkedIn is attracting the best kind of talent. Your company can too if you connect with these valuable pieces of advice.What are some hiring lessons you can learn from LinkedIn? Share in the commentsIMAGE Courtesy of Flickr byShekhar_Sahu.

Wednesday, January 1, 2020

7 confidence lessons from Ashley Graham that every professional needs to hear

7 confidence lessons from Ashley Graham that every professional needs to hear7 confidence lessons from Ashley Graham that every professional needs to hearAnyone whos remotely familiar with Ashley Graham knows that the 31-year-old model oozes confidence out of every one of zu sich perfect pores. One glance at her podcast, Pretty Big Deal, proves that.Graham spoke about her career and confidence at the Create Cultivate New York conference presented by Mastercard with founder Jaclyn Johnson. Ladders was there to capture Grahams advice on how to make confidence a part of your daily life.Follow Ladders on FlipboardFollow Ladders magazines on Flipboard covering Happiness, Productivity, Job Satisfaction, Neuroscience, and moraAshley Graham says to keep telling yourself youre brilliant until you never even question itBefore a big meeting, Graham will take a moment to remind herself to be confident.Right before I walk out of the bathroom, I look at myself. Im like, You are fine. You are bril liant, and you are beautiful and bold, she said.As it turns out, Grahams current unwavering confidence actually comes from a place of insecurity. Graham explained that she didnt always feel like she was brilliant, beautiful, and bold.I didnt believe it, you guys. I didnt. I didnt understand it. I didnt know why I was worthy to have anything I had, she admitted.By continuously telling herself that she deserved it all, she was able to get to a point where she feels that way every single day.I ingrained it in me. I made it part of my DNA, and now I could whip through any kind of day and know that Ive got that because thats a part of who I am, Graham said.Ashley Graham talks about money and so should youTraditional stereotypes of models paint a picture of a girl whos values lie almost entirely on the outside, with not much going on in her head. Graham and other models, like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (who founded her own digital startup company), are proving that stereotype absolutely wr ong.At the beginning of Grahams career, she would ask models how much they were getting paid for each gig they did. Six years ago, Graham and four other models realized they were all making vastly different amounts of money.We built a whole portfolio based off of how much money we each made and what the plus sized industry was going to do, and how it was going to take off in the next six years, Graham said. These agents were so blown away.By knowing their worth within their industry, the models were able to negotiate fairer pay. Dont be afraid to ask close peers how much theyre making. You might even be helping them out by finding a pay disparity.You can have those conversations because theres nothing wrong about building each other up and talking about how much youre making so that we can all grow up together, Graham said. It is a hard conversation to have.Ashley Graham said dont be afraid to talk about diversityGraham knows that while shes the current face of curvy bodies, women o f color have been embracing their voluptuous figures for generations. Graham acknowledges her white face and demands that diversity isnt something we ignore in regards to this issue.I was talking to Bozoma Saint John and she said, Dont just hide something behind the big D word. Say what you want. Talk about it, Graham said. Thats what we need to be doing.Sometimes Ashley Graham educate the haters, and sometimes she ignores themI want the younger girls to know that you should be standing up for yourself, Graham said. You should be able to say, No, I wanted to wear that, or I dont know why youre talking to me like that. Thank you very much. Have a good day. I blocked you.Sometimes she takes the opportunity to turn hate into teachable moments. Instead of getting upset, shell start a genuine conversation with a hater.Other times, Graham decides its just not worth the time or energy. I do love to block people, Graham said. Ooh, I do. My new thing is muting peoples Instagram stories.Grah am admits that she couldnt do it aloneWhile Graham isnt afraid to take credit for working hard to get where she is today, shes also the first to admit that many ventures wouldnt have been possible without her team. When discussing products that she develops, she revealed that she loves the ability to customize pieces and change the aspects that bother her. That being said, the business success is a credit to the awesome people around her.Theres nobody who has succeeded and who has been absolutely incredible without a team with them, Graham said. So if you feel like youre alone and you feel like, I cant do this alone, youre right. You cant. Find a business partner. Find someone whos your confidant, a mentor, whatever. Ask for help.Ashley Graham sets aside me timeThe one thing that really keeps me centered is waking up and having 15 minutes of quiet timewhether its prayer, meditation, readingjust knowing that thats my time, Graham said. Its not my agents time. Its not my husbands time . Its not the worlds time. Its not my followers time. Its my time.Ashley Graham takes ownership of her bodyWhile Graham is the token plus-size model in the fashion world, she doesnt allow her body to be used in any way that she doesnt approve of. I know that my body isnt a trend, Graham said.While magazines will try to convince you to go on a crazy diet, and social media tells you that your body should look a certain way, Graham begs that you ignore that. This is truly your own journey, Graham said.Part of Grahams larger-than-life confidence comes from her emphasis on health. t doesnt matter what size or shape you are, you can be healthy, Graham said. Its about getting up off the couch, moving your body, choosing healthy options, and knowing that your body is yours, Graham said. Nobody else has ownership over it.You might also enjoyNew neuroscience reveals 4 rituals that will make you happyStrangers know your social class in the first seven words you say, study finds10 lessons from Benjamin Franklins daily schedule that will double your productivityThe worst mistakes you can make in an interview, according to 12 CEOs10 habits of mentally strong people

Friday, December 27, 2019

Apply the lessons of Fred Rogers documentary to our careers

Apply the lessons of Fred Rogers documentary to our careersApply the lessons of Fred Rogers documentary to our careersFred Rogers welches a man who was as genuine in his personal life as he was onscreen to the millions of children and adults who watched his publicly broadcasted show Mister Rogers Neighborhood during the 1960s and 70s.His impact on our culture has endured. The new moving documentary on his worldview and career - Wont You Be My Neighbor? - is out now on iTunes and other streaming services. In it, you watch Rogers, a Presbyterian minister by training, take his lessons to television, creating a show that addressed personal, political and family issues that young children faced with grace and dignity.The film opens with Rogers on his piano, saying that he aimed to help children through the modulations of life as he put it, but by the end of the film, you realize the profound effect he had on adults too.Here are lessons we can apply from the film to our own professional livesTake all the people you work with seriouslyI dont think anyone can grow unless he really is accepted as he is, Rogers says in the film. Watching Rogers patiently wait for a young girl to speak, or sing about acceptance with a young quadriplegic boy in his show, you realize that Rogers respected the dignity of childrens struggles.Its a lesson that we can carry into our own lives to meet people where they are in life, and accept them for where they are in their careers.Diffuse tension by remembering the missionIn one scene, we watch Rogers testify in a 1969 congressional hearing on public funding for shows like his. John Pastore, one of the senators listening, already looks bored and acts dismissive towards Rogers before he has started speaking.But Rogers does not let Pastores skepticism distract him from going forward. He is calm yet confident as he explains what he does I give an expression of care every day to each child. Its a reminder that we can manage our emotions even if other people around us at work cannot manage theirs.He explains the stakes of his message of acceptance by reciting one of his songs What do you do with the militrischer abschirmdienst that you feel / When you feel so mad you could bite?By the end of the speech, his gentle yet firm explanation about why his show matters to children has effectively disarmed the senator and won him over. I think its wonderful, Pastore says at the end. I think its wonderful. Rogers got the $20 million in funding.Use silence to your advantageRogers knew the value of timing and was willing to stay silent to get his message across. In one episode of his show, we watch him run an egg timer for sixty seconds to show children just how long a minute was.Rogers was a methodical teacher who understood the power of silence. As critic David Bianculli points out in the film, Rogers was comfortable with saying little and listening more to guests and children speak. By keeping silent, it would encourage visitors to open up more.If you find yourself rushing to speak in a meeting, try slowing down the pace of a conversation, and make room for pauses and silence.Be gratefulWhen the final credits rolled for my theater and the lights went up, many of the audience members, including myself, were blinking back tears. The ending of the documentary is cathartic and designed to crack open your heart.The scene uses archival footage of Rogerss 2001 commencement speech at Middlebury College as he was near the end of his life. In it, Rogers asks the audience to take a minute of silence to think of the extra special people who cared about you beyond measure and have encouraged you to be true to the best within you. After the minute passes, and our minds are brimming with memories, he says, Whomever youve been thinking about just imagine how grateful they must be that you remember them when you think of your own becoming.The practice of giving thanks is scientifically proven to activate the production of dopa mine and serotonin in our brains and uplift our moods. When we remember to pay attention to good in the world around us, we rewire our brains and expand our hearts.I left the theater grateful for my family and for Rogers, for helping me remember that Its a beautiful day in this neighborhood.

Sunday, December 22, 2019

How to Decide Between Multiple Job Offers

How to Decide Between Multiple Job OffersHow to Decide Between Multiple Job OffersWhile some job seekers struggle to get any offers, other candidates experience the good fortune of several employers wanting to hire them. If you find yourself in this fortuitous situation, carefully evaluate each position before making a final decision.Here are factors both practical and personal to consider when debating between multiple job offersMoney and BenefitsAs tempting as it might be to immediately lean toward the job with the larger paycheck, putting too much stock in numbers can backfire. That said, every person desires fair compensation for work performed and needs to pay bills.Calculate what salary you need to titelblatt current expenses and important future goals (such as a vacation or a better car). If an offer isnt meeting this level, youll need to negotiate for more money or remove the position from consideration.In a similar vein, look at the benefits available for each position and k now what you require. If health insurance is a must, dismiss offers without it.Take a hard look at the overall compensation package. An awesome retirement plan, a generous amount of vacation, and tuition reimbursement may more than make up for slightly lower take-home pay.The Nature of the WorkExamine what each job entails on a daily basis. Which gives you the most opportunity to perform tasks you find exciting? As noted by H.V. MacArthur, author of Low Man on the Totem Pole Stop Begging for a Promotion, Start Selling Your Genius, You will be spending the majority of your time at your job. You will want to make sure the time spent feels enriching vs. draining.Think, too, about how each position fits in to your larger career objectives. Is the job connected to your lifes purpose and passion? Will taking it help you move closer to the role you ultimately hope to hold? Experience and skills gained from one position often influence the next.Location and FlexibilityEvaluate how each job fares in terms of promoting work-life balance. A lengthy or challenging commute definitely could be a strike against certain offers, as might the work schedule.Likewise, companies may score brownie points for offering flexible arrangements such as telecommuting and focusing on deliverables rather than the clock. Flexibility of hours enables you to spend time with your family and friends in a way that enriches those relationships, so look to see how flexible your schedule can be, MacArthur says.CultureMacArthur also stresses the importance of gauging workplace culture. If you are a laid back professional who is looking for a fun and creative environment, dont let the promise of a big paycheck lure you into believing you can handle a buttoned-up culture with lots of checks and balances. You may find it difficult to stay motivated and engaged in a way where your best work comes to the forefront.Think about the vibe of each place. How did it feel to be there? Did you enjoy the people yo u met? When you look at the companys website or read about it on social media, does it sound like a firm which youd be proud to represent?Gut ReactionLastly, remember that for better or for worse, selecting a job isnt a precise science. While spelling out the pros and cons of each offer aids in making a sound decision, dont discount intangibles. That nagging feeling that something isnt quite right with one employer or how another company just keeps sparking your imagination shouldnt be ignored.Looking for some outside perspective?Check Out Our Career Coaching Services

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

How#8217;s Your Elevator Pitch

How8217s Your Elevator Pitch How8217s Your Elevator Pitch Whether youre looking for a job or a promotion or just meeting someone at a restaurant, youre selling yourself all the time.So hows your elevator pitch?They say the most effective listening takes place within the first 30 60 seconds of a conversation. Thats pretty quick. After that, your listener may have already you tuned out. Even before that, experts suggest that as soon as someone lays eyes on you theyve already made an opinion about you.Oh well. So much for unbiased opinions Its up to you to make a great first impression quickly.This natural phenomenon has startling implications for the job seeker unprepared for an interview, the new co-worker making introductions, or the employee late for work and rattling off excuses to upper-management.But heres where the basic tenets of the elevator pitch can help.The traditional elevator pitch is a carefully-crafted (and concise) sales technique used to sell a product or service . The theory behind it can be used just as well to sell yourself during an interview or casual conversation. With elements of the elevator pitch thrown in, anyone can answer the simple yet complicated question Tell me about yourself.Some basic elevator pitch rules to follow1) Be Clear Dont mumble, speak up, measure the tone and flow of your sentences.2) Be Brief Simplify. Less is more.3) Be Evocative Bold words Transform your message with powerful statements.4) Be Targeted Know your audience. Dont say anything inappropriate. Think about who youre talking to and their status position relative to yours.5) Be positive It should go without saying. No one wants hear your depressing drivel.It should be noted that this list also functions as a complementary set of rules that can be used throughout ones career, or even life. If life is sales, then sales is one elevator pitch after another. Start selling.