Avoiding the Online Rip-Off

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There is a level of sophistication to the data collection on the Internet that I think most of us cannot fathom. Incisive conclusions can be drawn by the amount of time between purchases or inquiries or any given number of "inputs" that are recorded. This is why I have to take a deep breath whenever a client or potential client or a friend tells me of an intriguing deal that "might make all the difference." I take that deep breath to imagine all the whys and what-ifs that might justify a great deal falling into a talented person's lap like manna from heaven. And then I think of all the why-nots.

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Hey, Creative People, Contracts are Good for You!

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Hey, Creative People, Contracts are Good for You!

Creative people--entrepreneurs, artists, performers, innovators--so often feel themselves gagging when it comes down to signing contracts. And it's not surprising; what's creative or spontaneous or fun about contracts? Huh, absolutely nothing. But unlike war (Good God, y'all), contracts are good for a whole lot of reasons.

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The Life Time Fitness Camp Contract is All That's Wrong With Lawyers in America

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The Life Time Fitness Camp Contract is All That's Wrong With Lawyers in America

Life Time is a model of customer service. And the setup they have for the kids is pretty incredible: a whole long row of computers, a tree house, an indoor basketball court, and a staff of well-trained child care professionals. Life Time Fitness doubles as a wonderful daycare facility, too, which is the real reason I joined. So, of course, I wanted to enroll my kids for a few weeks in their day camp. But I am not sure if I will. Because of one contract clause that makes my blood boil.

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Do "Terms of Use" on a Web Site Even Matter?

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Do "Terms of Use" on a Web Site Even Matter?

When entrepreneurs in the United States start up a new small business, they often focus on launching a web site first. Inevitably, they find themselves wondering if their web site needs "Terms of Use" because they see that link at the bottom of virtually every web site of their potential competitors. Terms of Use can be an important addition to your site, but only if you understand why you have them in the first place.

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