2012 Workshops

2012 Workshops

(Subject to Change)

The Microsoft Series

Sponsored by:

Start a Business using Microsoft products on a Shoestring Budget – BEG/INT

Do you dream of starting a business but think it’s too expensive? Or do you have a business and are looking for a way to stay mobile and still access your business information as if you were at your office? Microsoft created a special package just for you! This session shows how you can create your own website, access your mail messages from anywhere, host a web conference, communicate and share information by video call, instant message and phone calls. You’ll even see how you can access your documents from any computer, mobile phone or iPad device! (Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your laptop.)

Grow your Business using Outlook – BEG/INT

Did you know Outlook is a tool you can use to keep track of your sales? Outlook allows you to keep track of your contacts, all of the activities and follow ups related to them. You can even view any opportunities you may be working on with your contacts too to ultimately grow your business! This session shows you how you can keep track of contacts, know how to follow up on opportunities, and grow your business all from an E-mail program! (Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your laptop.)

Microsoft Windows 7 - BEG

Windows 7 is the latest release of Microsoft Windows, a series of operating systems produced by Microsoft for use on personal computers. This course is designed for any worker, business professional or private individual who needs knowledge in the newest features of this system.

NOTE: This is not a hands-on workshop. (No laptop necessary for this workshop)

Microsoft Office Suite - BEG/INT

These hands-on workshops are for users of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel 2007, who want to get a handle on this whole ribbon thing and just accomplish some basic day-to-day tasks. If you don’t feel all that comfortable in the core applications of Microsoft Office, this is the session for you. Did you really think that you were the only one whose Excel print-out includes pages and pages of that last… trailing… column… of… empty… cells??? In these hands-on sessions, we will look at creating and formatting a basic document/slide show/spreadsheet. So jot down your Personal PowerPoint Peccadilloes and Woeful Word Worries, and bring them along to share and conquer! (No laptops necessary, these sessions will take place in a computer lab.

Word

Microsoft Word is a word processing program that can be used to create various types of documents from letters and memos to calendars and lists. This workshop is intended for individuals who want to gain basic knowledge of working on Word. We will work with the New Features of Word 2010, formatting text and paragraphs, working with tables, columns.

Excel

Microsoft Excel, one of the foundational programs in Microsoft Office, is a wickedly powerful program. Don’t use your calculator when you could build a spreadsheet. This workshop is designed for students who desire to gain the necessary skills to create, edit, format, and print basic Microsoft Office Excel 2010 worksheets.

Intermediate Excel for Business

Microsoft Excel, one of the foundational programs in Microsoft Office, is a wickedly powerful program. This workshop is meant for those desiring to gain advanced skill sets necessary for calculating data using functions and formulas. We will discuss how to use functions to boost your productivity, save you a time, and in general separate the geek women from the geek girls.

PowerPoint

Microsoft PowerPoint is a visual and graphical application, primarily used for creating presentations. On the PowerPoint workshop, we will create slides that combine text, shapes, and pictures.

Intermediate PowerPoint for Business

Microsoft PowerPoint is a visual and graphical application, primarily used for creating presentations. During this workshop you will earn how to edit the master slides, create design templates, move or copy slides between presentations, rehearse timings, and automate slide shows with timings.

Microsoft Small Basic – INT

 

Microsoft Small Basic puts the fun back into computer programming. With a friendly development environment that is very easy to master, it eases both kids and adults into the world of programming.  Small Basic combines a friendly environment with a very simple language and a rich and engaging set of libraries to make your programs and games pop. In a matter of few lines of code, you will be well on your way to creating your very own game!  In this workshop we will look at some recipes in Small Basic, write actual code, and see what it does!  Learn more at http://smallbasic.com.

 

Game Development with XNA – ADV

The mobile gaming industry is predicted to reach $54 Billion by 2015 and 70 – 80% of all mobile downloads are games.  In this workshop we will talk about how students and hobbyists have found success creating and publishing games for Windows Phone using XNA Game Studio.  XNA allows you to create games for Windows, Xbox 360 and Windows Phone.  We will explore XNA Game Studio and create a simple game from scratch using C#.  We will be writing code, so some foundational programming experience is useful.

 

Design, Photoshop and Graphic Imagery Series

Image Editor Smackdown: iPhoto vs. Photoshop Elements vs. Photoshop CS – BEG

Now that you’ve taken a great photo, which image editing program should you use? Do you need to invest in the full version of Photoshop CS or can you get away with using a free program like iPhoto or the friendly and affordable Photoshop Elements? If you’ve ever pondered that question, then this class is for you. You’ll discover what each program can and can’t do in order to make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

iPhoto ’11 Magic – BEG/INT

Learn how to get the most out of iPhoto ’11 in this informative class with Lesa Snider, coauthor of iPhoto ’11: The Missing Manual. Get up to speed importing, organizing, and sharing your photos in a variety of ways. You’ll also glean the secrets to using the Adjust panel to make your photos look their very best! (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

How to Take Better Photos with Any Camera – BEG

Whether you use a point and shoot or a camera that supports interchangeable lenses, this informative and entertaining session will teach you how to achieve more engaging shots in-camera. You’ll learn what file format to shoot in—JPEG or Raw—which scene mode to use when, and two settings that can make or break your images. You’ll also discover the secret to composing more visually pleasing and interesting shots, plus how to capture sharper images. Last but not least, you’ll learn tips for getting those photos out of your camera and into your computer. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Photoshop CS5: The Joy of Combining Images – INT/ADV

One of the most rewarding projects you can tackle in Photoshop is combining images. Whether you’re creating a complex collage or swapping backgrounds, this is where things get fun. In this session, you’ll learn all kinds of advanced yet non-destructive techniques for combining images such as gradient masks, layer blend modes, blending sliders, secrets of the CS5 Refine Edge dialog, how to create selections using Channels, and add vector embellishments.This class is a must for photographers looking to discover more products to sell. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Photoshop CS/Photoshop Elements: Get a Grip on Resolution and Resizing – BEG

Put your best image forward on your print products, web site, and in social media! In this session you’ll learn the truth about resolution and which file format to use when. You’ll discover practical editing skills in both Photoshop CS and Photoshop Elements that will allow you to resize photos for any usage without losing an ounce of quality. Get the scoop on cropping for maximum impact, straightening images, and how to apply these changes to single photos as well as multiple files. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Photoshop CS/Photoshop Elements: Practical Color and Lighting Fixes – BEG/INT

Explore the various ways of fixing color and lighting using powerful yet non-destructive Adjustment layers. Master the Levels adjustment and learn how to easily lighten and/or darken any portion of your photo using the flick of a layer blend mode. You’ll also learn how to use layer masks to hide your changes from the areas of your photo that don’t need fixing. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

The PC Proficiency Series

 

PC Basics – BEG

This Class is designed to take the novice computer user through the Windows Operating system- terminology, tasks, hardware/software and basic maintenance functions to keep your computer healthy and happy. Join us as we show you the ins and outs of personal computers using simplified terms, examples, pictures and videos actually described in easy-to-understand English. (No laptops necessary, these sessions will take place in a computer lab.)

 

PC TuneUp: Maintaining and Troubleshooting your PC – BEG

A basic understanding of preventative maintenance and troubleshooting is essential for every PC user. In this class you will learn effective data backup strategies and how to detect and recover from software problems and minor errors before they become big problems. (Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of a PC, or having taken the PC Basics” workshop. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop as it is a lecture, but you are welcome to bring one.)

 

 

The Apple Proficiency Series

 

iPad for the Beginner - BEG

The iPad is one of the newest tablets out on the market today and one of the most popular devices of 2012. This class will show off the product itself and show off some of the applications and uses that this device can do. Things like word processing, basic image editing and more will be shown during this class and accessories for the product will also be shown. (You do not need to bring an iPad, but if you have one, bring it along)

Mac Basics and Beyond – Intro and Getting Started with Applications - BEG/INT

So you bought a Mac and want to know how to use it, or you have always wondered how a Mac works and what is the difference between PC and Mac. This workshop is perfect for you. It will cover the basics of a Mac, the difference between PC and Mac, some basic information to get started and provide you with a basic understanding of using a Mac. You will learn how to use: finder, system preferences, keyboard shortcuts, etc. We will also review the applications consistent with Mac’s iWork and focusing on Keynote, Pages, Numbers, iTunes and more. You will learn how to use: the iLife/iWork suite of apps. (Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

There’s an App for That! iPhone and iPod Touch Apps for Personal and Business - BEG/INT

Learn about the top applications for the iPhone – for fun and business! From tracking your budget to tracking your diet, There’s an App for that! Find free and paid applications to help you get the most from your iPhone or iPod Touch. (Note: discussion and demonstration only; iPhone or iPod Touch not required for workshop, howevever if you own an iPhone or an iPod Touch, please bring either one of them for this workshop.)

Mac Advanced: Getting to the Core - INT/ADV

Now that you’re comfortable using your Mac computer, take your knowledge to the next level. Learn some basic maintenance tips and troubleshoot potential problems. Protect your data with a backup plan and learn how to recover files. You will learn about: maintenance, troubleshooting, Time Machine, etc. (Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of Mac, or having taken the Mac: Basics” workshop. Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

Maintaining and Troubleshooting your Mac – BEG

A basic understanding of preventative maintenance and troubleshooting is essential for every Mac user. In this class you will learn effective data backup strategies and how to detect and recover from software problems and minor errors before they become big problems. (Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of Mac, or having taken the Mac: Basics” workshop. Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

Organize & Sync Information on Apple Devices with iCloud & More – INT/ADV

First you got an iPhone and synced your contacts and calendars with your home computer. So far so good. But then you got a laptop… an iPod… an iPad. Yikes! This is getting complicated. How do you organize your information across these multiple devices? Is iCloud the answer? Or do you need something more? What about converting from a MobileMe account? This class will outline what iCloud is and what it is not, and will provide clear guidance about the best syncing solution(s) for your needs. (Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of Mac, or having taken the Mac: Basics” workshop. Laptop not required, but you are welcome to bring your Mac laptop.)

 

The Email and Organizational Tools Series

Sponsored by:


Constant Contact: The Three Keys to Email Marketing – BEG

No matter what you passion, it’s only one component of a successful business. Passion, discipline, and commitment can only take you so far. Whether your business started 5 days ago or 5 years ago, you have the same challenge: how are you going to make enough money to pay your overhead and have enough left over to have the life you want to live? You can make a connection with the people who need your products and services, inform them by delivering your message in a professional and cost-effective way, and grow your business to reach your lifestyle goals with The Three Keys to Email Marketing. (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Constant Contact: The Power of E-Mail Marketing Leveraging Social Media – INT

Today, more than ever, marketing is about building relationships and sharing value with people online. Come find out how easy it is to engage your audience, keep them coming back, and spreading the word to their friends. In this seminar, you will learn the best practices for effective email and social media marketing:

  • Attracting an audience of subscribers, fans, and followers
  • Creating valuable content that inspires your audience
  • Encouraging people to spread the word about you
  • Reading metrics and creating targeting follow up campaigns
  • Integrating your online marketing efforts
  • Building new business, sales, and success!

(No computer necessary for this workshop)

Geek Girls Get Organized - BEG/INT

Get your personal and business life in order with easy to use desktop database applications. Learn how to use FileMaker Pro to quickly keep track of clients, contacts, employees, event planning, inventory, budget, and more. Also, save time (and money) by using some FREE software to help you be more efficient and organized. No Excuses! (No computer necessary for this workshop)

The Google Proficiency Series

 

Photo-editing using Google Picasa - BEG

This is an intro level class designed for anyone that wants to learn how to get the most out of their images using a free product from Google called Picasa. By the end of the course students will be comfortable importing, organizing, editing, exporting, printing and posting their images online. Students will learn to use Picasa for general editing i.e., tweaking exposure, white balance, colour saturation, contrast, sharpness etc. We will also learn how to crop and straighten images, apply filters, and make some selective selective edits like removing blemishes. Finally we will look at creative treatments like converting your images to black and white, sepia, desaturated etc. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Google Apps, Part 1 - BEG

Everyone knows about Google as a search engine, but did you know about all the free – yes we said FREE – messaging and collaboration apps they offer as well? IN this class you will learn how to use Gmail, Google Sites, Google Calendar and Google Apps including an intro into the Chrome browser.
(You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Google Apps, Part 2:  BEG/INT

Now that you have a basic understanding of Google we are now going to tackle some of the other wonderful applications Google offers, such as Advanced Search, Google Maps, Chrome and other tools Google uses to measure just how well websites measure up. Prerequisite: Basic understanding of Google or having taken the workshop “Google Apps, Part 1″ (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Google Analytics – INT/ADV

Google Analytics (GA) is a free service offered by Google that generates detailed statistics about the visitors to your website. GA helps you understand how your visitors are finding you and what you can do to potentially improve traffic to your website. Some of the things GA reports on include: the sites and search engines that refer people to your website, the keywords people search on to get to your website, how long people stay on your pages, and what they click on. This information helps you refine your website to attract and keep visitors engaged with your business. The longer people stay on your site, the more likely they are to make contact. Prerequisite: Basic understanding of Google or having taken the workshop “Google Apps, Part 1″ (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

 

 

“So you Want to Build a Website?” Series

 

WordPress – Behind the Dashboard - BEG/INT

WordPress is very flexible. It can look like a traditional web site, a blog or a combination of both. Whether you are going to hire a designer, or do it yourself, it’s easy to keep it updated. In this workshop you’ll learn what decisions you need to make before getting started, get a basic understanding of the dashboard, what are the most important features for you to know, the difference between pages and posts and how to use it as a checklist and planning tool.

Prerequisite: This is class is designed for the person who is looking at getting a new website, working on building a WordPress website or has a WordPress but is new to the dashboard. Knowledge of computers is essential, as well as using a content creator like Microsoft Word. Though this is a beginner WordPress class, it may not be a beginner class for most people.  You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

The Not-So-Secret World of WordPress Plug-ins - INT/ADV

Explore the not-so-secret world of WordPress plug-ins. They can make the difference between just having a site, and having a site that really works for you. We’ll look at some of the most popular plug-ins for SPAM control, SEO Tools, Social Bookmarks, and contact forms. We’ll also review the ones that make working behind the scenes easier and safer: WISIWYG editors, controlling access when you are working, navigation, and automatic back-ups. You’ll learn how to choose the right plug-ins for your needs, see how to install them, and why you need to test them on your site – no matter how many other sites are using them successfully.

Prerequisite: Knowledge of the WordPress Dashboard and currently having a WordPress site is optimal. This workshop is for people who have experience with the WordPress Dashboard and some experience using WordPress. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.

Making WordPress HUM - ADV

One of the great things about WordPress is that you can get a lot of advanced functionality by simply installing a plugin or using widgets provided by your WordPress theme. In this workshop we’ll cover how to install plugins, and put them to good use. We’ll go over the plugin’s that you can’t and shouldn’t live without, and where to search for all the latest and greatest plugins available.

Prerequisite: Knowledge of the WordPress Dashboard and currently having a WordPress site is optimal. This workshop is for people who have experience with the WordPress Dashboard and some experience using WordPress. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)


SEO: How to Get More Hits to Your Website – INT/ADV

Search Engine Optimization, or SEO, is the process of structuring a Web page so that it comes up as high as possible in Search Engine results where it is most visible to your potential customers. Search Engines are one of the primary ways that Internet users find the products and services they’re looking for online. That’s why a Web site with good search engine listings may see a dramatic increase in traffic and sales. Everyone wants to come up higher on the Search Engine results. Unfortunately, many web sites don’t use good search engine optimization techniques and so they appear too low on the Search Engine rankings or they aren’t listed at all.

In this workshop, we’ll cover how SEO works, why it’s critical to getting people to view your site, and how you can implement the best SEO for your website and increase your visibility on Search Engines like Google, Bing, Yahoo!, and others. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

What we’ll do in this workshop:
We’ll take a look at a website that uses SEO effectively and one that does not so that you can see how much SEO makes a difference in the search result and the ultimate visibility of a business online.

We will also cover the following:
• How to find the best keywords
• Why looking at your competitors is important
• How to optimize the key parts of each web page for optimal search
engine results
• Creating sitemaps and submitting to search engines
• Submitting to business and web directories
• SEO for all of your online marketing and other channels (Facebook, blog,
Twitter)

 Web Writing That Works – INT/ADV

Writing for online media poses unique challenges. They way we once wrote for brochures or advertisements no longer captures the fast and furious internet surfer. Online readers scan pages for the information they want, and if they don’t find it, they move on. In this workshop you’ll learn to craft copy that conveys your message in a hierarchy of of information that readers can navigate as easily as they navigate your website, The goal of writing for the web isn’t reducing your message to fit the format, but rather boiling your message down to it’s most powerful ingredients. We’ll learn the places on the page where the reader’s eye spends the most time, and where the eye tends not to go. We’ll look at formats the work well for an online audience, and things you should stay away from.

If you have online content that you’d like use in the workshop, or a website that you’d like us to critique, please let the instructor know when you arrive at the workshop. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

* LOTS OF EXAMPLES *

  • How readers read online – the 5 second rule
  • How the eye travels on a web page – the heat map
  • Make copy actionable
  • Not about us, about YOU
  • Benefit to reader
  • Related to page title
  • How a page is coded and why it matters
  • Some SEO highlights

 

Jump Into jQuery! - INT/ADV

What is jQuery and how will it help my site? Learn how to take advantage of this Javascript library without having to learn a lot of code! From dynamic slideshows to slick navigation, or animated effects for your site, jQuery is a must-see for anyone creating or maintaining a website. Easy to implement, you can start adding jQuery effects to your site in just a few minutes! (Prerequisite: Some understanding of HTML and CSS; some experience with JavaScript helpful. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but are welcome to bring one.)

The Social Media Proficiency Series

Social Media Primer - BEG

Social media is not a fad, it is the way people communicate. Advertising no longer has the impact that a conversation on Facebook or Twitter has. Learn how social media as revolutionized how we communicate and what it means for you and your business. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Marketing Strategies Using Social Media – BEG

Learn how social media has revolutionized how we communicate and what it means for you and your business. This workshop will provide and overview of social media tools to include: search engine optimization (SEO), importance of blogging, social networking (Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Google+, YouTube and Pinterest), Google small business tools, and e-newsletters. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

The Power of Facebook for Your Business - BEG

Facebook is one of the largest networks on earth. With over x active users, Facebook is a powerful tool to learn about customers and to share information about your expertise. This workshop covers the basics of how to use Facebook effectively to gain a following for your product or service. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

The Power of LinkedIn for Your Business - BEG

LinkedIn is a powerful business networking tool that helps you to extend existing business relationships and expand your network. This workshop will cover creating an effective profile, building your network of connections, growing your reputation and using groups. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Twitter for Business - BEG/INT

With over 100 million users, Twitter provides a wealth of opportunities to find and share information. This workshop will cover why twitter is important, how to create an account and how use it to promote your business. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Managing Your Business Social Reputation – BEG/INT

Everyone knows unhappy customer will tell far more people than a happy one.  In today’s mobile world, people are talking before the transaction is complete!  If you aren’t monitoring your business reputation, you’re missing opportunities to turn those unhappy customers into advocates.  Learn what tools can help you monitor what’s being said about your company, brand or products.  We’ll also discuss what you can start doing today to build a reputation people are proud to share. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer or some Social Media knowledge. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Your Social Job Search: Going beyond LinkedIn - BEG/INT

Today a job search isn’t just about building a good resume.  It’s about connecting with people in a whole new way.  Whether you’re currently in a job search or thinking about a job change you may feel like a little fish in a big pond.  Well you are.  In this workshop we’ll talk about techniques beyond LinkedIn you can use to brand yourself so potential employers are calling you instead of you searching for them. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer or some Social Media knowledge and  LinkedIn for Business. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Social Commerce – INT/ADV

Looking for ways to push your local business on a grand scale or just trying to get the best deal for your favorite products/businesses online? Groupon, Living Social, and many other social ecommerce sites are HOT! Learn more about this new industry of social ecommerce and how it is changing how you shop and sell online. This workshop will cover how your business can use social commerce and how you can be a more savvy shopper getting the best deals you possibly can. Fair Warning: It’s totally addicting! (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Using Pinterest for Your Brand – INT/ADV

Pinterest is the hottest app out and everyone is addicted! But did you know you can use Pinterest for your company? Come and along and learn how to use Pinterest correctly, how to be a “community playa”, engage and give others their due.  (Prerequisite: Beginner Social Media. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop)

Facebook for the Business Professional  - INT/ADV

Now that you have your Facebook Page up, what’s next? From running a contest, to engaging with your audience to knowing what content you should be posting are all the necessary tools of being the administrator(s) of a Business Page. we will explore ways in which you can take a ordinary Facebook page and make it into a lead-generation machine, increase engagement and add more loyal followers. (Prerequisites: It is best to already have a published Facebook Page as we as some HTML knowledge for add-ons) (No computer necessary for this workshop)

Social Media Time Management - INT/ADV

One of the biggest concerns with business is time. “How much time to I have to spend doing it?”. In this workshop we will explore time management to successfully get involved in your community and be apart of the conversation.(Prerequisite: Beginner Social Media. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop)

So you want to be an Entrepreneur? What You Need to Know to Get Started INT/ADV

Everyone wants to be an Entrepreneur! And who can blame anyone for creating their own destiny? Have you ever noticed how some entrepreneurs are happy all the time, organized and full of passion, while others complain how badly things are all the time? A lot of this could be from lack of resources, lack of organization, and lack of web 2.0 computer, technical, Internet and marketing skills. This workshop is dedicated to the entrepreneur who has the passion, but needs a plan, is willing to take the initiative and learn some great online resources for helping to streamline their business. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Location, Location, Location: Social Media with Location Apps - INT/ADV

These are the years of “Location”. Social Media Web applications are not just letting you know “What you are doing”; they now want to know where you are doing it. Combining real-time status updates with GPS, Geo-Location, or Location apps, will be the hottest thing for Main Street businesses to engage in to get people in your door. Find out how to use location applications such as Foursquare, Facbook and Yelp!, create a plan to engage your audience, get people to talk about you, have fun, and keep engaged in your community. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Creating a Social Media Strategy Plan - INT/ADV

Social Media fails those who have no plan to follow. Do you have a plan? This workshop will take you through the steps of creating a Social Media Strategy Plan from understanding what “community”, collaboration and engagement are, being transparent, listening, being the resource, selecting the right channels and defining goals. It will also introduce you to strategies, methods and tips to get more out of the little time you have every day on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other apps, with some great, free tools and changing your thinking to being more productive. (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this workshop.)

Social Media Speed Consulting – INT

Do you need to tweak to your business social strategy or some advice on how to start?  Schedule a 15-minute speed consulting session with Catherine Weber, Geek Girl #12 and veteran marketer to get your questions answered and move your strategy forward. Bring your Social Media Speed Consulting Form and a pen and come away with tangible to dos and insight.  (Prerequisite: Social Media Primer. You do not need to have a computer for this session.)

 

The QuickBooks Proficiency Series

 

Intro to QuickBooks - BEG

Learn how to manage essential financial tasks using Simple Start or QuickBooks Pro in a live computer lab with a practice company. Accounting 101, what is the Chart of Accounts, how to write an Income Statement, Balance Sheet. See how QuickBooks can make managing your business easier. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class. All QuickBooks workshops are taught in a computer lab with the software on the PC.)

Top 10 Errors QuickBooks Users Make – and How to Fix Them -BEG/INT

See common errors QuickBooks users make and learn how to avoid them, or easily correct them. Followed with Q&A. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class. All QuickBooks workshops are taught in a computer lab with the software on the PC.)

QuickBooks for Managers - INT

Data entry is only the beginning. Learn how to benefit from Data Analysis. Anyone who has taken the basic class, or if you have an understanding of QuickBooks should take this class. A hands-on lesson practicing how to create, modify and benefit from the many reports QuickBooks offers for analyzing your financial data.  (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class- this will be taught in a computer lab with the software on the PC.)

Introduction to QuickBooks Point of Sale – Retail Management Software - INT/ADV

See Point of Sale in action and learn how it can help make you a more successful retailer. Current POS users welcome to come and bring their questions. (You do not need a computer or QuickBooks software on your laptop for this class, but are welcome to bring one. Lecture.)

Mobile Payment Processing – BEG

Accepting credit cards with your phone, iPad or other mobile device.  Great for everyone from your flea market seller to the Hy-Line snack bar.  How it works, what’s great about, how to do it and how to pick a vendor. We will be exploring using Intuit’s mobile payment system, as well as others like Square.  (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

 Time Tracking – BEG/INT

Using mobile time trackers like Minute7 to help you track and bill your time for service professionals.  Pet sitters, bookkeepers, attorney’s, cleaning services, building companies all need to track time and billable hours.  Entering it directly into QuickBooks isn’t always possible.  Hosted time tracking solutions make that possible for employees both in an office environment and on the road from a mobile device.  Sync it with QuickBooks and you have a powerful solution.  (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Customizing QuickBooks Templates – BEG

Changing the look of your invoice, estimate, sales receipt in QuickBooks in under an hour.  Insert your logo, change your font, alter the lay out, add color, and create a more professional and personal appearance.  (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Using QuickBooks on your iPad for the Savvy – BEG

Intuit says you can and we’ll show you how you can. This ROCKS!  Our favorite use of an iPad for business people who need a mobile accounting solution.  All the advantage of QuickBooks desktop version in a mobile easy to use application.  (You do not need to have an iPad for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

 

The Blogging Proficiency Series


So you want to start a Blog? – BEG

Discover how to start a blog from scratch. Learn about available platforms, the importance of self-hosting, and more.  (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)


How to Blog Effectively – INT

Learn how to use your blog to leverage your brand. Find out what you should blog about, how often you should post, and how to increase your readership. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

How to Find your Authentic Writing Voice – INT

Do your blog posts feel too contrived? Do you feel like your writing is missing one vital component – you? Learn how to find your authentic writing voice in this workshop. (You do not need to have a computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

 

 

The Photo, Video and Podcasting Series

Become a Radio Show Superstar! – BEG

Have you ever dreamed of having your own syndicated radio show? Or are you looking for a way to establish yourself as an expert in your industry by producing podcasts? This show helps you discover how you can be a star!  You’ll see how easy it is to create your own show, how it’s hosted, and how you can make it available for download on iTunes. With a little creativity, you can see your name in lights, establish yourself as an industry expert, and become the next radio star! (No equipment is necessary for this workshop, it is in presentation format)

 

Video 101: Citizen Reporting and the Internet - BEG

You don’t need to get fancy, just get going! Adding Video to your website will give you exposure, and keep your audience coming back for more! We’ll explore the ways to capture and edit video, basic techniques and where to put it once it’s done. This course will use Vimeo, YouTube, Blip.tv and Facebook! (You do not need to have a video camera or computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

What is this YouTube and How do I plug it in? – BEG

Come and learn about the wonders of YouTube! Everything from how to watch Nyan Cat, Upload your own Videos and even edit them on the web! (You do not need to have a video camera or computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Video & Social Media Marketing – INT

Learn how to market yourself better through the marriage of Social Media and Video.Walk through some of the many options you have for video sharing on the web, and some of the best practices for effective video in social media marketing. (You do not need to have a video camera or computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

Using Video Marketing to Grow Your Business – BEG/INT

Are you considering using video in your digital marketing efforts, but don’t know how to get started? Don’t worry, you aren’t alone! This workshop will provide tips on integrating video into your business’ digital marketing plan. You will learn:

·         What equipment is needed

·         New ideas on content creation

·         Tips and strategies for successful recording and editing

·         Successful marketing strategy and distribution methods

Gain the knowledge and confidence needed to create and integrate successful videos into your online marketing strategy.

(You do not need to have a video camera or computer for this workshop, but you are welcome to bring one.)

MORE WORKSHOPS COMING DAILY!!! Check back every day for updates.