In the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, we lost Internet, fax, PC, and power for 2 days, not to mention we had 18 inches of water in the basement and no hot water.

Having? your data backed up doesn’t do much good if you can’t turn on your PC. And my UPS (uninterruptible power supply) kept the PC going for only 20 minutes or so.

That’s why I recommend you get another back-up device for your PC: a portable generator.

Every homeowner reading this should own a generator. The time to buy it is now, before the next power outage. Once disaster strikes, you won’t be able to get one.

Note: You also need a 5-gallon gas can to transport gasoline and several long extension cords. These too will become sold-out and impossible to get when the next crisis comes.

Lately we’ve been hearing about proposals to abolish the United States Postal Service (USPS). Is this a good idea?

Proponents of getting rid of the USPS point out that (1) bills can more cost-effectively be paid electronically, (2) correspondence is sent today via e-mail, not letter, (3) packages can be sent by alternative delivery services including FedEx and United Parcel Service (UPS).

Those who favor keeping the USPS operating point out that not everybody has a PC and an Internet connection. Some people don’t want them and others can’t afford them. Does the federal government have a right to force everyone to buy them?

My Uncle Paul is in? his late 80s and loves to send us letters with newspaper clippings; he doesn’t use a PC. Should he be shut out of communicating with us because he is low tech?

What about greeting cards? Yes, there are electronic greeting cards. But these are difficult to place on the mantel.

Many advertisers depend on direct mail for their business; they cannot get the same response or reach as broad an audience with e-mail marketing.

If it were up to you, would you keep the Post Office operational? Would you downsize it? Or would you close its doors forever?

For an article I am writing, I would like to hear of your experience marketing professional services on LinkedIn.

Specifically:

1. HOW do you use LinkedIn to promote yourself? What tactics are successful?

2. What is your goal? To build relationships? Or do you actually produce leads and sales on LinkedIn?

Thanks!