Better Business Bureau Serving Eastern Michigan

Education Key to Stopping Scams and Financial Abuse of Seniors

The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU), a leader in global payment services, and Better Business Bureau (BBB) today announced efforts to promote awareness of scams that target seniors. June 15^th is the United Nations-designated World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

BBB Scam Stopper was jointly launched by BBB and Western Union as a site to help consumers reduce their chances of becoming a victim of a scam.

“Scams are a form of financial abuse. Scammers create an expectation of trust that results in financial loss and considerable distress, especially to older people who fall victim,” said Carrie A. Hurt, president and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “Awareness and education are the best tools we have in the fight against fraud.” 

One prevalent scam that targets seniors involves prizes, sweepstakes and lotteries. Another is the emergency or grandparent scam, where the scammer pretends a family member is in trouble, and requests that money be sent urgently to help.

“Through our BBB partnership, we want to give consumers the resources they need to protect their hard-earned savings,” said Shelley Bernhardt, Director of Consumer Protection at Western Union. “It is one part of our commitment to consumer protection and empowerment.”

BBB Scam Stopper explains the science of scams and how scammers gain their victims’ trust. Visitors can sign up to receive BBB Scam Alerts, weekly emails with the latest scams reported to BBBs across North America. Western Union promotes three basic money transfer “never evers”:

Never use a money transfer service to send money to someone you have not met in person.

Never send money for an emergency situation without verifying that it’s a real emergency; ignore the caller’s plea not to tell others; confirm through other friends and family.

Never send funds received by check until it officially clears in your account, which can take several days, or more.

Information on scams and how to protect yourself is also available at Western Union’s Consumer Protection Center: http://www.westernunion.com/stopfraud.

The Better Business Bureau proactively identifies marketplace practices that are deceptive, misleading, unethical, or should be called into question. The purpose of BBB investigations is to help inform the public about what actions may be taken to avoid fraud and protect against being victimized. Investigations can include in-depth studies of marketplace practices and may or may not result in a public press release or joint investigation reports in the media.

The BBB provides a review product that is unique to the marketplace. While our system works to develop millions of business reviews, assist with thousands of consumer inquiries and complaints; our investigations staff work daily to uncover, verify and report dubious business practices. All of our reviews are based on facts, which is very different from those found on social media sites or other review sources. The information the BBB provides is important knowledge for consumers when they’re considering doing business with a company.

BBB investigations work is often shared with government and legal agencies that can support legal proceedings and assist in the closure of some businesses. FBI, FTC, local law enforcement, Attorney Generals and the US Postal Inspectors have all engaged in BBB investigations’ work.

Results from BBB investigations are found on alerts posted within Business Reviews and on occasion in public press releases on the BBB blog. Consumers turned to BBB 124 million times for Business Review information last year to make their buying decisions, up 27 percent from the previous year.

Do you have information about a deceptive business practice or scam  in Eastern Michigan or the Upper Peninsula?

Tell us about it. Help the Better Business Bureau investigate and warn others by reporting what you know to investigations@emibbb.org. Please provide as much information as necessary to understand the scope of the problem. We may contact you with additional questions.

PLEASE NOTE: If you are a consumer requesting the BBB’s help in resolving a specific dispute with a company, please use our complaint form. Tips sent to investigations@emibbb.org are not treated as formal complaints against a business.

The BBB Code of Business Practices represents sound advertising, selling and customer service practices that enhance customer trust and confidence in business. The Code is built on the BBB Standards for Trust, eight principles that summarize important elements of creating and maintaining trust in business.

This Code also represents standards for business accreditation by BBB. Businesses based in the United States and Canada that meet these standards and complete application procedures will be accredited by BBB.

The first standard that a business must agree to adhere to is Build Trust - which we covered in last month’s post: http://tmblr.co/Z6SJSvl7iIRn  

This month we are highlighting the standard: Advertise Honestly

To meet this standard, an accredited business or organization agrees to adhere to established standards of advertising and selling including:

A. Following federal, state/provincial and local advertising laws.

B. Abiding by the BBB Code of Advertising. Supply, upon request, substantiation for advertising and selling claims. Correct advertising and selling practices, when recommended by BBB.

C. Adhering to applicable BBB industry codes of advertising.

D. Cooperating with BBB self-regulatory programs for the resolution of advertising disputes.

E. Using the BBB name and logos in accordance with BBB policy.

F. Avoiding misleading customers by creating the false impression of sponsorship, endorsement, popularity, trustworthiness, product quality or business size through the misuse of logos, trustmarks, pictures, testimonials, or other means.

If you are a business that upholds these standards and are interested in becoming an accredited business, please click here: http://detroit.bbb.org/bbb-accreditation-application/ or call 248.799.0305.

There are a few things more annoying than junk mail, spam and unsolicited calls and texts messages. Not only are these unwanted communications an annoyance, but they can potentially lead to identity theft.

But how do you stop them? While it’s nearly impossible to completely eliminate junk mail, spam text messages and unwanted phone calls, BBB recommends taking the following steps for getting your inboxes and phone lines under control.

Unwanted mail shouldn’t cost you your identity. Pre-approved credit card offers are an easy target for identity thieves who can steal incoming mail and use these offers to open fraudulent credit accounts. Stopping these pre-screened credit offers can help reduce the chances of identity theft. U.S. consumers can “opt-out” of receiving pre-approved credit card offers for at least five years by calling 1-888-5-OPTOUT (567-8688) or visit: optoutprescreen.com. This service is offered by the three major credit reporting bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Canadian residents can visit fightspam.gc.ca/eic/site/030.nsf/eng/home for more tips.

Stop unwanted direct mail solicitations. To stop most mailings, U.S. consumers can go to dmachoice.org and opt out of mail from members of the Direct Marketing Association. DMA regularly updates its list, but it may take up to six months before solicitations from all DMA members stop. If you live in Canada, register for the Canadian Marketing Association’s Do Not Contact list at the-cma.org.

Has your evening been interrupted by telemarketers? You’re not alone. The U.S. government’s National Do Not Call Registry is a free, easy way to reduce the telemarketing calls you get at home. To register your phone number or to get information about the registry, visit donotcall.gov, or call 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you want to register. You will get fewer telemarketing calls within 31 days of registering your number. Canadian residents can visit lnnte-dncl.gc.ca for opt-out information.

Are you receiving spam text messages? First and foremost, don’t respond. Responding to the text message only confirms a working number and opens the door for more messages. If your number is already on the Do Not Call Registry and you’re still receiving messages and phone calls, file a complaint with the FCC or the Canadian Anti–Fraud Centre and consider PrivacyStar. BBB National Partners AT&T and Verizon have partnered with PrivacyStar to give you back control of your smartphone. The smartphone application, available in the U.S. for Android, BlackBerry and iPhone, lets you block unwanted numbers, look up unknown numbers, and file a complaint with the FTC.

For more tips you can trust, visit www.easternmichiganbbb.org and for the latest, follow us on Facebook  facebook.com/myBBB. 

The BBB Code of Business Practices represents sound advertising, selling and customer service practices that enhance customer trust and confidence in business. The Code is built on the BBB Standards for Trust, eight principles that summarize important elements of creating and maintaining trust in business.

This Code also represents standards for business accreditation by BBB. Businesses based in the United States and Canada that meet these standards and complete application procedures will be accredited by BBB.

The first standard that a business must agree to adhere to is:

Build Trust
Establish and maintain a positive track record in the marketplace.

To meet this standard, an accredited business or organization agrees to:

A. Have been operational (actively selling products or services) in any BBB service area for at least the most recent 12 months, unless the principal(s) previously operated a similar business with an eligible record (one that qualifies for BBB accreditation).

B. Fulfill all licensing and bonding requirements of applicable jurisdictions; provide all license and bonding information upon application for BBB accreditation; and provide periodic updates upon request of BBB.

C. Be free from government action that demonstrates a significant failure to support BBB ethical principles in marketplace transactions (this requires a determination by BBB as to the nature of any
violation, whether it was caused or condoned by management, and actions taken to resolve underlying issues that led to the government action).

D. Be free of an unsatisfactory rating and maintain at least a B rating at the accrediting BBB and the BBB where it is headquartered, if different.

E. In its relationship with BBB:

• meet all applicable standards within this Code of Business Practices
• cooperate with BBB’s activities and efforts to promote voluntary self-regulation within the business’ industry
• honor any settlements, agreements or decisions reached as an outcome of a BBB dispute resolution process
• complete the required application and pay all monetary obligations to BBB in a timely manner

If you are interested in becoming an accredited business, please click here: http://detroit.bbb.org/bbb-accreditation-application/ or call 248.799.0305.

At the BBB, we are working hard to provide new benefits to our accredited businesses through initiatives that add value their companies. We have added low cost advertising opportunities that are a great way to stretch your advertising dollars by leveraging the existing BBB relationships and investments in high profile local outlets.

Below are the some of the new co-op advertising programs the BBB has created with our media partners that give our accredited businesses low cost of entry into print, digital and radio advertising.

BBB/Crain’s Detroit Business  Print Co-Op Ads

• Accredited Businesses can purchase low cost print advertising through the BBB’s existing investment – co-branded with the BBB
• Rate: $673 net per insertion
• Saving thousands on standard rates

BBB/WJR Quality Contractors Radio Advertising Program

• Our accredited contractors can obtain low cost, on-air, radio commercials which leverage your BBB accreditation and our investment in the program
• Participants also receive continuous  online presence on dedicated webpage at www.WJR.com/quality
• Radio spots are offered at a much lower rate than standard rates and web presence extends investment throughout the entire year

BBB/Click On Detroit Online Co-Op Ads

• Accredited Businesses can purchase online display advertising at aggressively reduced rates through the BBB’s existing Channel 4 relationship, on a cost/thousand impression basis. 
• Leaderboard and display ads on ClickOnDetroit can be purchased by accrediation at 30% off the standard rate
• Customized TV packages are also available

In addition, we are also working with the Detroit Media Partnership for some possible future ad opportunities for our accredited businesses.

If you are interested in any of these opportunities or want more information, please email or call Lisa Dilg, 248.799.0326, ldilg@emibbb.org.

Have you ever wondered how sites like Facebook, Foursquare and Twitter can be a major factor in the development of your marketing plan? Are you generating a lot of traffic through Google to your website and capturing hot leads?

Join BBB sponsor, Detroit Media Partnership, for an exciting dive into the world of digital marketing! Learn tips from industry experts on how you can start making changes today, by driving real customers to your website and business.

ATTENDEES WILL TAKE AWAY:

• The latest insights of effective digital and social media advertising
• Powerful and productive social presence tactics through sites like Facebook and Twitter
• Capture leads, convert visitors, and turn fans and followers into customers
• Optimize your website for search engines like Google and Yahoo!
• Increase web traffic and drive conversions through PPC marketing

Plus, everyone who attends gets a FREE Digital Media Audit of your business!

Tuesday, May 21

• 10 – 11 (SOLD OUT) and 2 – 3
• VistTaTech Center
• 18600 Haggerty Rd.
• Livonia, MI 48152

Wednesday, May 22

• 10 – 11 and 2 – 3                                              
• Macomb Community College, John K. Lewis Center
• 1500 E. 12 Mile
• Warren, MI  48088

Cost to attend is $35 per person, but as a member of the Better Business Bureau your registration is FREE.  Simply use the promo code: BBBFree

Register Here

Going green is all the rage these days. Sometimes going green can save you money and other times you just have to think of it as helping to save the environment a little bit at a time, with no monetary savings. Solar panel prices are starting to come down and more consumers are considering installing them on their homes or in their yards. In addition, more businesses are getting into the solar business because of the government subsidies that can be obtained.

Keep in mind that solar energy requires the sun. So find out how many sunny days your area has each year. As with every product or service, comparison shop with several businesses to make sure you are getting the best deal.

BBB offers the following tips for those leasing, buying or installing solar panels themselves:

Talk to your energy (electric) company. 

Most utilities have net metering programs. Net metering measures the difference between what consumers pay for the energy purchased from their utility minus the cost of energy that the consumer provides to the utility collected through the solar panels.

Make sure you meet all standards and codes that are applicable along with local, state/provincial and federal laws.

Ask about the cost of installing a new meter.

Find out about federal and state/provincial tax credits. 

• How much will you receive – for what amount of energy generated?
• Will you be taxed on these tax credits?
• How long (months, years) will you receive tax credits?
• What do you have to do to receive the tax credits? Is there a filing date?

Choosing a business 

• Check out the business with Better Business Bureau, bbb.org
• Will you be leasing or purchasing the solar panels? Compare costs - upfront versus long-term.
• Who receives the government (federal and state) benefits?
• Who pays for maintenance costs of the equipment?
• How long is the contract? 10, 15, 20 or 25 years?
• Is there a cancellation fee?
• If you move will the panels be moved for free? What if your new home will not accommodate the panels? Can you cancel?
• Consider location – on your house or in the yard?
• If the panels are located on your house, what happens if there is damage during installation – who pays to repair?
• If you have to have a new roof replaced (on average every 20 – 25 years) will the company remove and replace the panels for free or a cost?
• If the business promises a percentage savings from your current utility bill – what happens if that savings don’t materialize

Complaints to BBB and ways to avoid these complaints. 

Utility bill is more than promised by the sales person.

Savings are usually based on past years utility bills – which may or may not reflect the weather of the current year.

Obtain savings claims in writing and ask if the business guarantees to make up the difference if the savings claims are not accurate.

Damage was done to roof, gutter, vents or wall during installation

Ask who will pay for damage, if done by the business and make sure that’s written in the contract. Make sure the business is licensed and insured for the work to be done.

Panels were not installed in a timely manner.

Ask for a date of installation in writing. Read the contract to find out when you can cancel if the panels are not installed promptly.

Electrical system in house where panels are to be installed is too outdated to add solar panels/new meter.

The new panels and electric wiring will usually need to be inspected by a licensing authority. If you believe your electrical system is outdated, ask your licensing authority prior to signing a contract if they will approve solar panels being installed.

The business selling or leasing the solar panels says that they are working in conjunction, in partnership with, or in cooperation with your utility.

Verify any partnerships, with your utility company, prior to signing a contract.

Delays in receiving permit, if required.

Check with municipal agencies on current average permit process time to have a realistic project timeline.

For more tips you can trust, visit bbb.org and for the latest, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/myBBB.

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who serve and remember those who have died in war. But sadly, it has also become a key opportunity for scammers to target those who are serving or have served their nation, especially elderly veterans. As Memorial Day approaches, the Better Business Bureau urges consumers and donors to be aware of scammers that feed off the military.

BBB Military Line, the military arm of the Better Business Bureau, provides free resources, such as financial literacy information, access to BBB services and scam alerts, and complaint and dispute resolution for all branches of the U.S. military. BBB warns of the following scams that are directed at service members:

High priced military loans - Advertisements for loans that promise a guarantee, instant approval or no credit check will often come with hidden fees and extremely high interest rates. Remember that legitimate lenders will never guarantee a loan before you apply and loans that require an upfront fee are likely a scam.

Veterans’ benefits buyout plans - This buyout plan will offer a cash payment in exchange for a disabled veteran’s future benefits or pension payments. The cash amount is only about 30-40% of what the veteran is entitled to. These buyout plans can be structured in several different ways, so research thoroughly before signing anything over.

Fake rental properties - Stolen photos of legitimate rental properties are used in advertisements that promise military discounts and other incentives. Service members will have to pay a fee via wire transfer for security payments or a key to the property – in the end they will receive nothing.

Phony jury duty summons - A caller clams to work for the local court system and states that the service member did not show up for jury duty and now has a warrant out for their arrest. When the victim says they never got a summons, the caller will ask for a credit card number or Social Security number to clear up the matter.

Misleading car sales – Websites posting classified ads will offer false discounts for military personnel or claim to be from soldiers who need to sell their vehicle fast since they have been deployed. Upfront fees will be required via wire transfer, or the vehicle will have problems after purchase.

Expensive life insurance policies – Members of the military are often the targets of high pressured sales pitches that offer unnecessary, expensive life insurance policies. Solicitors may make false statements regarding the benefits that these policies offer.

BBB recommends the following tips to avoid scams:

Do your research. Get as much information as you can about a business or charity before you pay. Check out a business’ BBB Business Review at bbb.org or a charity’s Charity Report at give.org.

Don’t wire transfer money to anyone you don’t know. Money sent via wire transfer is practically impossible to track. Pay by credit card whenever possible, since you can dispute charges easily.

Protect your computer. Don’t click on links within unsolicited emails. Don’t enter personal information on unfamiliar websites. Make sure that you have updated anti-virus software installed and use a firewall at all times.

Put an Active Duty alert on your credit reports when deployed. Doing so will minimize the risk of identity theft because creditors and businesses cannot issue or grant credit until verifying identity.

For more tips you can trust, visit bbb.org and for the latest, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/myBBB and facebook.com/Militaryline. 

May is National Moving Month, which kicks off the busiest time of year for Americans changing residencies. It also means unlicensed movers and dishonest scammers are waiting to take advantage of unwary consumers.

In 2012, BBB received over 1.4 million moving-related inquiries and more than 9,300 complaints against movers. Complaints included damaged or missing items, big price increases over originally-quoted estimates, late deliveries, and goods being “held hostage” for additional (disputed) payment.

Better Business Bureau is again joining with the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) to provide important tips on how to avoid scams and find a trustworthy moving company:

Research the company thoroughly. While state regulations vary, all interstate movers must, at minimum, be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. FMCSA assigns a unique motor carrier number that can be verified at protectyourmove.gov.

Get at least three written in-home estimates. Not all price quotes online or over the phone are legitimate, and crooks are not likely to send an estimator to your home in advance. Also, remember that the lowest estimate can sometimes be an unrealistic, low-ball offer, which may cost you more in the end.

Know your rights. Research your rights with either the FMCSA for interstate moves, or with the appropriate state agency for moves just within that state. Interstate movers must give you two booklets detailing your rights. Also, enlist the help of BBB or local law enforcement if the company threatens to hold your belongings hostage.

Consider accepting full value protection. It may cost a few dollars more up front, but it can provide some peace of mind and eliminate headaches after your move. Purchasing full (replacement) value protection from your mover means any lost or damaged articles will be repaired or replaced, or a cash settlement will be made to repair the item or to replace it at its current market value, regardless of age. It’s important to note, for example, that the required minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound would not cover the replacement cost of a flat panel TV if damaged in transit. The cost of full value protection must be included in the initial estimate you receive for an interstate move. FMCSA requires interstate movers to offer arbitration to help settle disputed claims.

To check out a mover near you, and for more consumer information you can trust, visit bbb.org, and AMSA’s moving.org websites. For the latest, follow BBB on Facebook at www.facebook.com/myBBB.

Mother’s Day is one of the biggest holidays for gifts, cards, flowers, candy and phone calls. If you’re showing your love with flowers this year, make sure they are on-time and just right.

In 2012, BBB received more than 3,900 complaints against florists. Many of the complaints were a result of the flowers being late, wrong, or just never delivered. When looking to find a florist, whether online or in person, make sure you’re dealing with a reputable business. BBB recommends the following tips when purchasing flowers:

Ask about guarantees. Request a written receipt for the order and ask about the business’s refund policy if the delivery is late, never arrives or is in bad condition.

Make sure the florist has information on where to reach you. Delivery instructions may need to be confirmed or a driver may need additional directions. Check to see that the flowers can still be delivered even if the recipient is not home. Try to plan the delivery around a time that she will be home to avoid damaged or stolen flowers.

Research florists. Check out a florist’s BBB Business Review to see any history of complaints, and additional details about the company. Ask friends and family which florist they recommend.

Allow time for shipping and delivery. Check with the florist or website to be certain that you have allowed enough time for delivery. Make sure that this date is specified clearly and guaranteed when you order. If you order ahead of time, delivery and other charges will be less than last-minute or overnight shipping. Some florists offer discounts for deliveries a day or two before a major holiday, since that helps them deal with the rush.

Have a back-up plan. Make sure you understand the store’s guarantee. Find out how customer complaints are handled and what recourse you will have if the arrangement is not satisfactory. It’s best to use a credit card when ordering online, because you can dispute charges if the vendor doesn’t come through.

For more tips you can trust, visit bbb.org and for the latest, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/myBBB 

Do you have unclaimed property? If so, how would you know? Is it worth it to pay a service to help you identify unclaimed property?

Unclaimed property describes accounts in financial institutions and companies that have had no activity or account holder contact for one year or more.  This can include savings or checking accounts, refunds, customer overpayments, contents of safe deposit boxes, etc. 

To begin searching for lost property, check legitimate sites like missingmoney.com, which is endorsed by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA).  This site has official records of unclaimed property from every state and most U.S. territories, plus Alberta, British Columbia and Quebec in Canada. Check for property in every jurisdiction in which you have resided.  It is free to search; however, you may have to pay a small fee to obtain the property. 

According to NAUPA, there are many businesses (sometimes called finders or locators) that find legitimate lost property for owners and inform them how to obtain it for a fee, usually a percentage of the total (some states limit the fee to 10 percent). Sometimes, companies will hire these firms to find you before they turn the funds over to the state. Ultimately the finder will ask you to sign a contract.

The majority of firms that provide these services work within the law, but there are also some unclaimed property scams around. Before signing any contract, BBB recommends caution. If you are unsure that the firm is legitimate, contact your BBB or the unclaimed property office in your state for more information.

To prevent accumulating unclaimed property, NAUPA suggests the following tips:

Deposit or cash all checks for dividends, wages, insurance settlements, etc. without delay.

Respond to legitimate requests for confirmation of account balances and stock holder proxies.

• If you have a safe deposit box, record its number, bank name and address, and give the extra key to a trusted person.
• Prepare and file a will detailing the disposition of your assets.

For more information on how to recover unclaimed property, check out unclaimed.org/what/. For additional consumer tips, please visit bbb.org. 

Succeeding in business is about smart relationships - that’s why we created the Office Depot National Commerce Group Program, a loyalty program for businesses that have their orders delivered.  You will receive get great deals every day, award winning customer service and you can shop the way you like (online, by phone, by fax, in-store). 

Please take a moment to review the information and don’t hesitate to call anytime that you have questions.  I know that you will find the Office Depot National Commerce Group Program to be a smart way of taking care of your business.

NATIONAL COMMERCE GROUP PROGRAM INCLUDES

• 30-90% off Everyday low Web price on Select Essentials on the ‘Core List’
• 30% off Everyday low Web price on Office Essentials on the ‘Core List’
• 15% off Everyday low Web price on our Top Selling Papers, Inks, & Toners on the “Core List’
• 5-60% off Everyday low Web price on over 150 cleaning & Break room supplies
• 5% off Everyday low web price on 98% of items sold by Office Depot  not on the “Core List” (Excludes Technology)
• Custom Core Ability to create a custom core of additional savings on items that suit your business needs
• Special Pricing on copy & print (.025¢ b/w copies, .29¢ color copies, 40% off finishing-including laminating, binding, vinyl banners, paper upgrades etc.)
• Employee Purchase Program all of your employees receive a discount card for 5% off of  their personal purchases with Office Depot
• Keurig Coffee specials $12.99 per box of 24 K-Cups
• Free Next Day Delivery * chamber Dedicated Account Manager
• Store Purchasing Card, so you get the same discounts in-store
• Account Billing for flexible 30-day payment options or Credit Card

To learn more about the National Commerce Group Program, contact me directly.

Michelle Trewyn

Territory Development Manager

michelle.trewyn@officedepot.com           

FREE next business-day delivery! Now, that’s SMART.

*Program includes Free next business-day delivery deliveries, for orders under $50 you pay $5.95 for next business-day delivery.  Phone in your supply order by 5 pm or fax it by 3 pm and have it delivered the next business-day, FREE! (most furniture, some technology, oversized items and special order items are excluded.  See your account manager for full details.

Making the decision to advertise your business can be tough and many small businesses aren’t even sure where to start. There are many choices to be made such as:

• Do I really need to advertise?
• Where should I advertise? Digital, social media, print, TV, radio..?
• What kind of advertising is best for my type of company?
• How will I know if its working?
• How much should I spend? Can I afford this?

You are not alone - many companies like yours are struggling to figure this out and end up missing out on opportunities or spending money at the wrong time or in the wrong place.

If you want to learn more, please join the BBB for an interactive panel with local advertising pros who will answer your questions about print, digital, TV and radio advertising. 

MARKETING MASHUP! (Free event!)

May 15, 2013

8:00 – 10:00 am

To register:

Email: events@easternmichiganbbb.org

Call: 248.799.0305

Register online: http://bit.ly/BBBMayEvent 

Where: 

Better Business Bureau

26999 Central Park Blvd.

Suite# 165

Southfield, MI  48076

The panel, moderated by Lisa Dilg, BBB Director of Community Relations will address questions posed by the moderator about advertising issues with which small and medium sized business owners grapple in promoting their businesses.

Panelists include:

• John Cook & Tony Lamerato, Advertising Executives, WDIV-TV4 & ClickOnDetroit.com
• Donald Schuster, Senior Account Executive at NewsTalk 760 WJR Radio
• Jonathan Hart,  Product Marketing Manager,   Detroit Media Partnership

Jonathan Hart:

Jonathan Hart serves as the Product Marketing Manager for Detroit Media Partnership. He is responsible for product alignment across platforms, product communication and administration internally, production of client facing marketing materials, providing client-centered learning events and developing relationships within the business serving community. He enjoys a unique position that allows him daily interaction with multi-media solution providers, content generators, research analysts, artists, production teams and his counterparts in consumer marketing.

Jonathan earned a Bachelor of Arts degree specializing in Business Management from Walsh College. He also serves as an officer on the Board of Trustees for the Rosa Parks Scholarship Foundation, a charity dedicated to awarding scholarships to Michigan high school seniors who demonstrate academic skills, community involvement and economic need.

John Cook:

John Cook is a true Multi-Media Advertising Executive with extensive experience in Broadcast TV, Digital Media, Mobile and Social Marketing, and Direct Mail.

Cook currently holds the position of Key Account Executive at WDIV-TV, Channel 4 and ClickOnDetroit.com.  WDIV is the NBC broadcast affiliate in Detroit, and is the flagship station of Post-Newsweek, the broadcasting division of the Washington Post. ClickOnDetroit.com is the #1 News and Media website in SE Michigan.  Prior to joining WDIV, he was the Regional Vice President for a direct mail company that also marketed online daily deals.Cook sits on the Board of Directors for the Eastern Michigan Better Business Bureau, and also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of the BBB.

Tony Lamerato

Tony is New Business and Digital Sales Manager of WDIV Local 4. He has extensive sales experience and knowledge in both the digital and broadcast mediums. Tony joined WDIV as an account executive in 2009. Previously, he was an Experiential Marketing Manager for GM R* Works, now known as Jack Morton Worldwide of the Interpublic Group, where he worked with Chevrolet Tier 1, 2 and 3 strategy, marketing and sports sponsorships.

Donald Schuster

Donald is currently a Senior Account Executive at NewsTalk 760 WJR Radio. Donald’s radio career started as a long-haired rock ‘n’ roll DJ at Detroit’s W4 Radio 106.7… introducing LP cuts like Stairway To Heaven by Led Zeppelin, the first day that the new album was released. He later went on to be Program Director at W4 Radio, teach at the Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts, and DJ at WTCM Traverse City.

Donald’s sales background includes two tours of duty at Detroit’s WWJ Radio… once as an Account Executive and once as a Sales Manager. Donald was also a five-year Account Executive at Detroit’s NBC-TV affiliate, WDIV-TV. Donald returned to broadcast sales at WJR Radio in 2008 after a 17-year stretch running his own Mobile DJ business, Donald Schuster Productions.

Donald is a graduate of Wayne State University and lives with his wife in Lake Orion.

Can’t make it to one of our in-person events, but you still want to learn how to protect your investments against scams & fraud? Then join the BBB during Money Smart Week for an informative and fun webinar. Danae Hanes, Trade Practices Consultant at the Better Business Bureau will give attendees an in-depth look at how to protect your financial investments against fraud. 

As employees assume more responsibility for retirement planning, investment scams and fraud are on the rise.  Once a person is a victim of a scam, it is almost impossible to recover or receive any form of restitution. The victims of the Bernie Madoff scam only received around 30% of their losses in restitution. Due to these factors, the best method for prevention is a pro-active approach as opposed to a reactive approach.  

In 2005, the U.S. District Court Southern District of New York issued an Order providing for the distribution of investor education funds as a result of a complaint against several investment banks. The FINRA Foundation administers these funds and is now collaborating with partners such as the Better Business Bureau, to deliver an educational training program on fraud prevention in local markets throughout the United States.

Please consider hearing more at our event. Please see the details below.

BBB Money Smart Week Webinar

What:     Protect Your Money Webinar

Think You Couldn’t Fall for a Scam?  Think Again

Learn how to protect your investments against scams & fraud

When:    April 23: 2:00 pm —3:00 pm

Contact: Register here or contact us at events@easternmichiganbbb.org or 248.799.0305 to register & receive dial-in information

BBB Hosts Money Smart Week Events to Help Consumers Protect Their Assets

Southfield, MI – April 9, 2013 – In support of Money Smart Week, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Serving Eastern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula is hosting events throughout the week aimed at arming consumers with information and services to fend of identity theft and other fraudulent activities. The BBB will host both in-person events and an online webinar in order to reach a wide array of consumers. 

The week begins with ‘Secure Your ID’ Day, a shred and recycling event on April 20, 2013. Community members are encouraged to take an important step in identity protection by attending this shred and electronics recycling event, hosted by the BBB and its partners Cintas, Global Electric Electronic Processing, GreenPath Debt Solutions, Etkin Equities and Fox2 News.

Below are details on all of the BBB Money Smart Week Events:

‘Secure Your ID Shred Event Details:

What:     BBB Secure Your ID Day

• FREE Community Shred and Computer/Electronics Recycling event
• Free shredding for the first 3 boxes; $10 donation/after first three
• No limit/charge for computers, hard drives, printers, copiers, etc.

When:    Saturday, April 20; 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. ET                                (Must be in line by 12:30 pm)

Where:   BBB Offices; 26777 Central Park Blvd; Southfield, MI 48076

Contact: events@easternmichiganbbb.org or 248.799.0305

BBB Money Smart Week Webinar

What:     Protect Your Money Webinar

•  Think You Couldn’t Fall for a Scam?  Think Again…
•   Learn how to protect your investments against scams & fraud

When:    April 23: 2:00 pm —3:00 pm

Contact: Register here or contact us at events@easternmichiganbbb.org or 248.799.0305 to register & receive dial-in information

BBB Money Smart Week Business Card & Knowledge Exchange

What:     Protect Your Identity, Your Cash & Your Future Seminar

Come to the BBB for a light breakfast served during a brief networking session followed by three dynamic speakers:

• Challenging Errors in Your Credit Report: Lisa Ross, Michigan Office of Financial & Insurance Regulation
• Tips on Avoiding Investment Scams: Danae Hanes,  Better Business Bureau
• Financial Aid Myths, Mistakes, & Opportunities: Jeff Taylor, College Funding Resources, LLC                     

When:         April 24: 8:00 am —10:00 am

Where:        BBB Offices; 26777 Central Park Blvd; Southfield, MI 48076

Contact:      Register here or contact events@easternmichiganbbb.org or 248.799.0305

The BBB will also have a presence at these Money Smart Week Events:

• 4/22 @ 7:00 am - 11:00 am: Ask-the-Expert call-in program with Fox 2 News. Call in for fraud/scam advice 248.557.2000
• 4/22 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: CEO Melanie Duquesnel to speak at Farmington Community Library; 2737 W. 12 Mile,  Farmington  (RSVP: 248.553.6880)
• 4/25 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm: BBB will provide fraud & scam information at the City of Northville Senior Center: 303 West Main Street, Northville  (RSVP: 248.349.4140)

About The Better Business Bureau Serving Eastern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula

The Better Business Bureau Serving Eastern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula is a non-profit organization with the purpose of promoting trust in the marketplace by assisting in the protection of consumers and businesses from fraud and unethical business practices. In addition to its recognized dispute resolution services, the BBB maintains business reviews on the customer service history of more than 90,000 local businesses and provides consumer education materials on numerous topics. The BBB provides its services free to the public and its service territory stretches across Eastern Michigan from Ann Arbor through Metropolitan Detroit, Lansing, Flint, upward to Alpena, and covers the entire Upper Peninsula of the state.

At our March Business Card and Knowledge Exchange, we were fortunate to have Matt Stephens, an associate at Gerry Weinberg & Associates, speak about how to get the most of your investment at a tradeshow.  His talk was very relevant to the packed room of business owners and marketing professionals who often exhibit at tradeshows. At the beginning, Matt promised at least one piece of advice that would be immediately actionable, but as the feedback surveys showed, attendees got much more than that.

For those who didn’t get a chance to attend or for those who did and would like a recap, below are some of the top items we found most helpful from Matt’s talk.

Prepare for the show 

•  Know why you are there and what you want to get out of the show. Is it hot leads, email addresses for your mailing list, branding, etc?
• Get the attendee list ahead of time and prepare your staff for the types and number of people attending the event.
• Get the list of exhibitors. Know which competitors will be there and what businesses that might be complementary to yours will be there.
• Consider paying extra for premium booth space – closer to the door or bar might be a higher traffic position.
• Invite prospects to come visit you at the show – try to set up appointments ahead of time and give them an incentive to meet you there. Don’t just send emails, send mail and call ahead of the show.

At the Show

• Only bring salespeople to the show – they are the ones most invested in good outcomes
• Dress professionally, but adapt to the crowd. You are the first impression of your company. A good rule of thumb is to dress a little more professionally than your competitors, but not overly so for the crowd. Consider having all of your sales persons dress uniformly.
• Be open and inviting, but do not appear overly eager or “salesy”. 
• You have 3 – 5 seconds to make an impression – make sure your booth clearly conveys what you do and how you’re different
• Do not have all of your literature out for everyone to take. Have it in the back and give to more qualified leads
• Have some special give aways for any current or past customers that come to your booth - something different that others aren’t getting
• Create a unique message. What differentiates you? Why should I buy from you?  Don’t say what everyone else says.  Determine what is UNIQUE about your company and develop one line to use to convey what separates you. Some kind of guarantee, offer, etc. 

Quick Dos and Don’ts at the Show

Don’t

• Sit
• Talk on the phone
• Do unpaid consulting.
• Talk too much. (you should only talk 20 percent of the time)
• Take non salespeople to trade shows.
• Be overly eager or sound salesy.
• Ask “how are you”
• Say anything that’s not true.

 Dos

• Smile (genuinely)
• Have a small mirror at your booth
• Place your name badge on the RIGHT side
• Have solid hand shake
• Make eye contact
• Create an open floor plan
• Have business cards
• Have fun. Make it a game. Enjoy yourself. It shouldn’t be a drag.
• Make notes on the back of cards
• Have a notebook to make important notes from conversations
• Have something to entertain the kids if you expect parents bringing kids to the booth

Collecting contact information and follow up

• Trade show is not a place to make sales – it’s to make connections
• Create a code to be used as a reminder who is a serious lead, or a casual lead and who should be added to the mailing list. Using simple codes such as the letters “A, B, or C” written quickly on the back of the card, along with the salesperson’s name that spoke to the contact are easy ways to segment and distribute leads after the show
• Have questions to ask booth participants & know the questions that are typically asked of you. Questions like, “What brings you to the show” help gauge their interest level
• Ensure your sales people have their calendars with them at the show and encourage them to make appointments
• Consider having two different types of salespersons – up front greeters and others that can handle longer conversations away from the front of the booth
• Be comfortable ending a conversation with a booth visitor that is not a potential lead by thanking them for stopping by and excusing yourself politely.
• Practice active listening.

1. Ask follow up questions based on what the prospect says – which means you really have to listen.
2.  If they say “we are looking to get new windows by spring” ask, “who is we,” “Why do you think you need windows,” “Why before the summer”
3. Listen for emotion words, like, anxious, frustrated, upset, happy and react to those to find pain points

• Good listeners make good salespeople. Great listeners make great salespeople.
•   Make appointment for a phone call follow up.

Our next business card and knowledge exchange will be:

April 24: In-Person Seminar—Protect Your Identity, Your Cash & Your Future

• Three dynamic speakers offer financial advice at the BBB Business Card & Knowledge Exchange
• Time: 8:00 am—10:00 am
• Challenging Errors in Your Credit Report: Lisa Ross, Michigan Office of Financial & Insurance Regulation
• Tips on Avoiding Investment Scams: Danae Hanes,  Better Business Bureau
• Financial Aid Myths, Mistakes, & Opportunities: Jeff Taylor, College Funding Resources, LLC         

If you are interested, please register here.                        

Hope to see you there!