Knowing the Inclusions in the Articles of Partnership

The "Articles of Partnership" is a document commonly known as partnership agreement or partnership contract. This document is a contract voluntarily formed or agreed upon between two or several partners in a business defining their rights, obligations and / or duties to one another.

This piece of document is necessary in signifying the relationship existing between business partners. It is the written expression of the partners' rights and responsibilities toward their business and to one another.

Agreements in a business partnership that are put in writing are a manifestation that the partners have a legitimate or official document stating their needs in connection with the kind of business and their partnership.

Securing a written partnership contract means that all of the partners involved will have a written account of all the matters agreed upon by every one involved in the partnership. In case there will ever be some questions raised concerning the terms and conditions of agreement, then the partnership contract or agreement, will be the document to serve such purposes as recalling the terms of agreements.

Important issues included in the written partnership contract

o The partnership's nature and rationale - these terms guarantee that the partners involved in the agreement will not turn away from the significant intentions of their business.

o Each partner's capital contributions - this provision ensures that no person or entity could dispute one or more partner's capital contribution to the business being established. The contributions indicated also involve contributions that are not monetary in nature like time, services or goods.

o Allocations with regards to profits and losses - some partnership may have equal allocation in profits and losses but others also have other terms of provision.

o Authority given for each partner - determining the partner/partners who will have the task of regularly running the partnership, how the decisions for the partnership will be completed and how the duties and obligations

o Guidelines in admitting new partners - how the partners would vote in order to allow in new partners in the business

o What to do in case one of the partners dies - coming up with a resolution on what happens to the partnership once one of the partners dies. Some partnerships normally resolve to automatically dissolve and liquidate the partnership. However, it would still depend on every one of the partners' decision.

o Buying one of the partners' share - the contract must outline several circumstances like illegal activity, death or divorce wherein anyone of the partners could buy out another partner's share. They must also include the terms and conditions in executing the shares buyout.

o The signature authority to be used in the partnership's bank accounts - whose signature among the partners would be used or would all the partners signatures be required

o Ways and means of resolving conflicts in the partnership and business - legal solutions and actions in order to resolve disputes in the partnership.

How to Get Signed to a Record Label - Tips in Making Your Demo

Your demo is your key to making a great first impression to the record label and eventually, your ticket on how to get signed to a record label. Therefore, it is important that you make your demo right and appealing as well.   Making a good demo may be an important requirement on how to get signed to a record label, but it does not assure you of any recording contract. Of course, record labels are considering many factors - your kind of music, your appeal and charisma, your versatility and most importantly, the marketability of your music - although you can always get a chance to prove it to them if you impress them with your demo.   Here are some tips on making your demo and sending them out to record labels.   * Making your demo does not have to be very expensive. Although you have to make sure that it is done professionally. Get rid as much as possible of bad recording that may ruin the brilliance of your composition. If you cannot have a good quality recording at home, go to some studios that may not cost too much. Indeed, some record labels may understand that you are just starting out but make sure also that you give your best because not too many have second chances.   * Choose demo songs that will capture the attention of your audience right from the start. Make sure your demo does not bore your listener. Choose something that you think will be a great piece to sell to the market.   * Pick a few demo songs and do not overwhelm the record label with all of your collections since childhood. Carefully select just few tracks that you think are attention-grabber and marketable. Reserve those other tracks if they want to see more.   * Know your music. It is important that you know the genre that you want to pursue. One wise thing you can do before going to all record labels is to have a list of labels. Check out who are most likely to get interested in your type of music. Sending your demo to the right label may save you time and effort.   * Before you send your demo to the label, make sure you know their rules on accepting demos - check the acceptable format or is there a specific person you need to get in touch with or if it is acceptable to send the demo yourself. Other labels may not accept demos directly from new artists, which means you need representation. So you might want to know the guidelines first before going to the label.   * When you send your demo to the record label, make sure you give them your email or phone number. Give them many options to contact you, so don't just leave a number.   Sending your demo may get frustrating at times, especially if you do not get to hear anything in return. You can do a follow-up though, but even if your demo is turned down, always keep a positive attitude. Some famous artists have been turned down the first time they send in their demos, so always be nice and well mannered. Who knows, you might get your second chance.

Plus Size Clothing: Basic Fashion Tips

As the population of the bigger people increase, the demand for gorgeous plus size clothing also flourished which means to say that full - figure people are now getting more and more confident in showing off their stylishness when it comes to fashion without inferiority with their size. If you are one of those women who are blessed with extra curves, you should be proud instead of ashamed as not all are granted the chance to wear fabulous over sized garments.

Also, you don't need to augment your assets like other petite women do to look sexy. With your physical attributes, you just simply need to develop the confident in showcasing your beauty and to do that; you also need voguish plus size clothing. These types of garments are made stylishly for the voluptuous-figured individuals thus you can ensure that they are designed to fit your size. It acts as a support in giving you the sexy look that you want as these clothing are tailored with posh and fashionably stylish.

Although you have the confidence and your closet is full with dashing over sized outfits, being aware of some basic techniques in plus size fashion is an advantage as it can aid you in getting a very impressive look. You can actually find plus size fashion tips by reading magazines or browsing online. It is also best if your try to apply the techniques you learned to improve your ways in dressing with chic plus size clothing.

To start with:

Know your physical attributes well

- Being familiar with your physique allows you to evaluate your body in a way that you will be aware which areas are your strength and which are your shortcomings. Doing so provides the chance is selecting appropriate plus size clothing that conceals the least impressive parts and emphasize your assets.

Get the perfect size

- In selecting plus size clothing, do not assume uniformity in sizes. Ensure that the garments fit you perfectly since tight garments expose your extra fats which are not flattering to see at all. On the other hand, loose apparels are not advisable either as it adds more weight rather than concealing it.

Select the style carefully

- Prints and patterns are very gorgeous to see that sometimes you just tend to grab it without considering if you look good in it. Take note that not all plus size clothing with appealing prints and designed always look good on a certain figure. So, you need to carefully examine and visualize if the patterns compliment your figure. As a tip, select designs and styles that make you appear slimmer and taller.

Vegan Recipes - Ideas

Another popular form of eating growing popular these days is veganism. Today one can find a series of vegan recipes, which will not only tantalise your taste buds. But will also spurt the imagination of those who believe it to be a dull meal.

Some recipe ideas could be:

A Mediterranean Dinner: roasted peppers and eggplant dip served with focaccia. Wild mushroom rice; couscous bean salad with grilled vegetables can be paired with of course some wine.

One such wine would be Pinot Grigio. Its crusty flavour blends with vegetables.

A wholesome Breakfast: hash browns (use soy milk) with greens and beans or scrambled tofu with it. Alternatively, you could opt for oat pancakes with fresh fruits or breakfast burritos with vegetables, bean or tofu stuffing.

A light-hearted Lunch: panini sandwich made from grilled portobello mushrooms, finely sliced zucchini, roasted bell peppers, sun dried tomatoes, and pesto stacked on the bread.

Or there is the tapenade crositin with stewed fruit and corn bread or strawberry sorbet. This can be well combined with Chianti wine. Its earthy favour blends well with olives and sun-dried tomatoes and naturally cuts through the recipes creaminess.

Each of these vegan recipes offer a unique profile, preserving the freshness and subtle flavours of the different ingredients.

These when paired with wines remember to stick to crisp, acidic whites for dishes like grilled vegetables and grains.

For pungent flavours or those made from spices, saffron etc choose medium-bodied red wines.

For herbed dishes with a fairly over tone of oregano mellow wines are a good proposition.

Verizon Tightens Its Hold on the Consumer

Whether you want to buy a used phone as an upgrade to your existing account or simply replace a broken one, it is getting more and more difficult if you are provided service by Verizon. It seems that Verizon has taken steps that are not in the best interest of their customers, almost forcing them to buy brand new phones rather than reactivating used ones.

It is no doubt that cell phones are BIG business and it seems that Verizon might be making some attempts to make it even larger and more profitable for them. Keep in mind that when you "sign up" for service from one of the major carriers you usually sign a 2 year contract. Not too long ago it was only one year. You are also charged an early termination fee if you should happen to break that agreement. The new trend that seems to be employed, most notably by Verizon, is to retire your cell phone once your agreement is up and you choose to move on or upgrade.

So what does "retire" mean? How do you retire an old phone and why should anyone care? First of all, "retire" means disabling the ESN (electronic serial number) that identifies that phone. This means that once the phone has been disabled, it can no longer be re-activated. So again, you might ask, "What's the big deal"? Well, the reasons are two fold.

1. First, and most importantly, that phone is your property. If you should decide to change carriers after your term is up or upgrade to a new phone, you should be able to do what you want with it. It is somewhat similar to your car. Once your payments are up, does the finance company deactivate the VIN thus rendering your automobile useless? Of course not. So how does a large carrier, like Verizon, get away with it? Technology changes so fast that the laws cannot keep up with it. Eventually, a young, new and energetic lawyer will initiate a class action lawsuit that will force the courts to examine the issue. That is similar to what is going on now regarding the early termination fees that the carriers charge for breaking contract. There is Governmental movement to ban the practice. But again, let's not gloss over the ownership rights of the phone. You bought it, that gives you ownership. Ownership grants you the right to do what you want with the phone (within legal boundaries). To have a carrier render the ESN useless could be construed to be nothing less than stealing the phone from you. You are probably thinking, "Why would they do this? How could they benefit from this?" The answer is simple. Revenue. If you cannot reactivate a used Verizon cell phone and you have more time on your contract, then you must buy a brand new one. So the next time you drop your phone one too many times or get it wet and it doesn't work anymore, the likelihood that you will be able to go online and buy a used Verizon cell phone will be slim to none. Get ready to shell out several hundred dollars for a "run-of-the-mill" cell phone. So now you own a useless phone which brings us to the second reason why you should care.

2. The second reason you should care centers around the environment. If you have 1 million Verizon cell phone users over the course of say five years have their cell phone ESN's retired, then what do you think might happen to them? I would venture to say they would not end up at a recycling plant! I doubt anyone will take time out of their day and spend a fortune in gas to drive to a recycling plant to dispose of one or two phones; it just isn't going to happen. They are more likely to find their way into your household garbage which will find its way into our landfills. The problem? Cell phones are highly toxic and enough of them could do serious and irreparable damage to the environment. It is irresponsible for a company of that magnitude to inadvertently encourage people to dump their useless cell phones into the environment, all in the name of the dollar!

That is the fundamental reason behind the creation of cell phone buyback companies, such as SellMyOldCellPhone.com, to help recycle used cell phones and keep them out of the landfills. So that when people broke their phones, they could purchase a lesser expensive alternative used cell phone. Some people simply want to upgrade, but before buying the new one, they want to try a used one first to see if they like it. When carriers render the ESN useless, they cannot do that. People are forced to buy brand new phones. Old useless cell phones end up in the garbage, polluting our environment.

What can you do about it? The best thing to do is just be aware of this. Knowledge is power and power enables people to make change.

1. First and foremost, when you call an agent on the phone or visit one at a local store, do not be surprised when the first thing they tell you is, "It can't be activated." Do not settle for that as an answer. Some agents simply do not know what they are doing. I have encountered that problem numerous times. Insist on another agent until you get one who can handle the problem or request to speak to a supervisor. The ones who may lack knowledge are followed by the ones who were trained to "sell, sell, sell." You can't make a commission if you don't sell service, accessories, or a phone and a store cannot make money if they don't sell service and phones.

2. Do not hesitate one minute to write a letter to the company threatening to cut off your service and go with another carrier. You might think, "Big deal, no one is going to listen to one letter," but you would be surprised what happens when they start getting a stream of letters all threatening to cancel service. Sprint had the worst customer service record of all the carriers for several years recently and eventually culminated into a huge financial loss, thus forcing them to change their practices. They had what appeared to be the highest exit rate in their history. Also, don't be afraid to follow through with your threat. They are a cell phone service provider, not a home or auto loan. There are no legal repercussions. Look for companies that do not engage in these practices. A lot of small, local cell phone carriers (like Pocket PC and Cricket) have these practices. They are month to month with no termination fees.

3. Finally, if you choose to sell your cell phone to a buyback company, such as SellMyOldCellPhone.com, let the carrier know that they must "release" the ESN for reactivation. All release means is that they remove your name from the phone and make it available for re-use. Do not settle for any excuses as to why that cannot be done. You are the customer and the phone is yours as long as you have met your obligations (which might be changing soon, regarding the termination fees).

We let these large companies dictate to us how the rules work, when in reality, without our money, they have no rules. We are all guilty of just accepting what we are told by these giants, but sometime we need to remind them who pays the bills!

The Personality Traits of a Sagittarius Baby

Your Sagittarius Baby...

November 22 - December 21 Young Sagittarians are happy, contented and playful. They can be impulsive and will be the kind of child who says 'hello' to everyone, and they will be despondent if others don't respond. Your child will be active and adventurous, rarely sitting still, but as a result may pick up more bumps and bruises than other children.

Although a Sagittarian child enjoys company, but when she or he is left alone will be content hugging a teddy or blanket. Sagittarians are totally honest and expect to be treated openly and honestly in return. You may find that your child asks endless questions and will demand answers from you.

Most Sagittarians enjoy learning but will take a dislike to any rules that they see as pointless. They are sociable characters who should be allowed to take any opportunity to socialise. Parents should not pressure a Sagittarian child or be possessive over her. A young Sagittarian child may hide her hurts and disappointments and should, therefore, be encouraged to show feelings.

Sagittarians are generous and parents will have to give guidance about money from an early age. These children are restless and freedom loving, but they may need to be taught that there are some social rules that must be obeyed for their own good.

The typical Sagittarian can be a bit clumsy and will pick up knocks and bruises from falling over and bumping into things. From a health viewpoint, the typical Sagittarius may suffer from asthma.

Electrical Contractors - How to Choose the Right One

Choosing an electrical contractor to do work on your home may not seem as if it should be a big deal, but choosing the right one can really make a difference. The process of hiring an electrical contractor involves more than just finding one that is the most economical.

Finding a professional that is qualified to perform and undertake your project is a must. Making sure that a contractor you are considering using is a member of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), with a renowned reputation, is something that can really make a difference in the outcome of your venture.

The NECA is the institute that a good portion of electrical contractors are represented by. It can also be a good idea to ask around to family and friends to see if they advocate anyone to perform your service.

When hiring an electrical contractor you should make sure to check their accreditation. In beginning a relationship with a HVAC company there are many questions that should be asked and guidelines that should be established. You should make sure that your contractor is able to supply you, the customer, with professional counsel in regards to your electrical systems needs.

You should also make sure that if something were to go wrong with the project that the supplier would be able to be reached and willing to return to fix anything that was unsatisfactory. It is necessary to find a contractor who works hard, who conducts business with conviction, in a professional manner, and who is qualified to be performing the job at hand.

The Sales Management Leadership Quiz

Finding the right person to fill the sales management role is a common quandary in most businesses. It can be especially challenging when a decision is based strictly on sales territory performance without regard for the specific skill sets required to lead a sales force. Deciding on the right sales person to promote to sales manager can become a difficult and risky decision..

It is an indisputable fact that different skill sets are required to become a successful sales manager as compared to being a successful sales person. Selling is a profession that requires professionals. Managing a group of professionals with the type of personalities required to succeed in sales is no easy task. Yet, in my humble opinion, it is probably the most important management position you can hold in a company. Sales management holds the key to meeting company objectives. Effective sales management builds the platform for success. Sales people are not the easiest group in the company to manage. If they were they would not be sales people. Selling is not easy. It takes a special talent, self motivation, self discipline, a passion to succeed and the ability to accept rejection. The reality of the situation is simple. The majority of sales people are not managed well.

Have your internal sales manager candidates take the "Sales Manager Quiz" to help you in the decision making process

Sales Management Leadership Quiz

The candidate should answer yes, no or sometimes to the following questions. Calculate the score and then share the results for discussion with your interview team.

Yes Always = 2 points No = 0 points Sometimes = 1 point

Yes No S/T

__ __ __ I always communicate with clarity and people understand me.

__ __ __ I always get things done on time and live up to commitments.

__ __ __ Understand how my responsibilities relate to the big picture.

__ __ __ Listen expertly to others, both subordinates and management.

__ __ __ Connect developments and spot patterns in floor and phone traffic.

__ __ __ Accept risk and take on difficult assignments.

__ __ __ Inspire excellence and commitment in the Designers.

__ __ __ Deep interest in people and exhibit strong social and interpersonal skills

__ __ __ I seek out coaching and mentoring opportunities with all my subordinates.

__ __ __ Focus on results, growth & profitability.

__ __ __ Hold myself and other people accountable.

If the candidate scored 20 or higher ---- sales management potential is high.

If the candidate scored 15 - 19 ----- sales management potential is medium to high but can use some development.

If the candidate scored 12 - 14 ---- the candidate needs personalized training, coaching and mentoring.

If the candidate scored less than twelve ----- keep them focused on selling success and not on management.

If you don't have an internal candidate that scores at least 15 or higher you need to recruit from outside the comapny.

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Consider the following common mistakes and professional sales manager characteristics when interviewing your candidates.

Five Common Mistakes of Sales Management

1. Lack of Structure ---- Policies, procedures and the culture that determines the behavior and success of the sales force. Including:

o How accounts and territories are assigned

o Systems and procedure on walk in traffic

o Compensation & SPIFF design

o Confusing communication channel

2. Lack of Strategy ---- Effective documented sales growth strategy aligned with corporate initiatives.

o Lack of growth initiatives that include penetration, new account and new product development

o Acceptance of status quo without accountability

o Excessive compassion and complacency

3. Lack of Sales Effectiveness Process ---- Process is the tendons and the muscles that link structure and strategy together. Process includes:

o Targeting, goal setting and action planning

o Monthly territory performance discussions

o Sales scorecards

o Coaching & Mentoring

o Effective sales meetings

4. Lack of Formalized Training & Development System

o Standards and benchmarks for performance for both outside and inside sales

o Training Matrix with required support

5. Wrong People ---- According to statistics less than 25% of top performing sales personnel promoted to Sales Manager are successful. 55% of people earning a living in sales should be doing something else. 25% of people with the ability to sell are selling the wrong things. (Herb Greenberg - How To Hire & Develop Top Performers)

o Lack of formalized recruitment program

o Lack of bench strength

o Weak leadership skills

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Characteristics of the Professional Sales Manager

1. Highly Self Motivated

2. Optimistic

3. Excellent Leadership Skills

4. Skilled at Coaching & Mentoring

5. Calculated Risk Taker

6. Listens Well --- 80% of the Time

7. Plans Well

8. Ability to Think Outside the Box Because

9. They Know What Goes on Inside the Box

10. Always Lives Up to Their Commitments

11. Always On Time With Assignments

12. Exceptional Positive Attitude

13. (Does Not Whine or Make Excuses)

14. Excellent Communicator

15. Inspires Excellence in Others

16. Strong Social and Interpersonal Skills

17. Commands a Presence

18. Honesty

19. Integrity

20. Develops Trust and Respect by Showing Trust

and Respect for Employees

21. Embraces Accountability -Self and Sales Personnel