Remember when we used the term 'Crackberry' to explain people's addition to the Blackberry? Well, it turns out, it wasn't the Blackberry they were addicted to it was communicating to each other. I read that recent studies have shown outlawing texting in cars has actually caused more accidents because people are now texting down at crotch level rather than up at their steering wheels. Apparently they figure the cops won't see this more surreptitious activity.

Let's get this straight people, you should not be texting in your cars, but people are so addicted to it that it seems impossible to prevent unless car manufacturers invent some kind of electronic blanket that prevents smartphones from receiving and sending texts or emails in their cars. Both hands on the steering wheel. Driving is a full-time job.

It drives me crazy watching people in traffic, obviously looking down, texting. At the very least, paint eyeballs on your foreheads to make people think you are looking forward!

As small businesses we're all saying, "How do we get me some O dat chit?" How can what we do be that addictive? How can we make our customers up-sell themselves? This last one I really like. I think it gets tiring for both the salesperson and the customers to have to go through the classic up-sell dance, "You know, that 60" screen is only $1000 more." "But I only need it for the kitchen."

Wouldn't it be way better to offer something at a great value and then get the customer to go, "You know, I would really want more…" service? features? strategy? And be willing to pay for it?

I think it can be done if you package your services. Make them less ambiguous. Be clear about what each package offers and who they are directed towards. Of course, it defeats the purpose if you have 30 of them. And it's also true that many will go for the cheapest solution, but so what, let them. Let them find out later they made the wrong choice. If your offerings are clearly set out you can always point out that they got what they paid for. Let them buy more services later. Don't assume just because you're in a creative business that ambiguity comes with the territory. It does not. You're just setting yourself up for abuse.

Customers like to know what they are getting. By being clear about the offerings and sticking to your guns, it is actually a good thing. Customers appreciate the fact that you look like you know what you are doing. The people who don't? Don't do business with them.