I’m often asked about the standard $10-an-hour pay offering by those advertising for assistants on Craigslist. I must assume that these entrepreneurs get responses because otherwise, they would stop asking.

For my part, I usually respond to this inquiry by saying—they probably got what they paid for.

There probably is a reason that the ad answers are willing to settle for this wage. The bottom line is, they accept $10 an hour because (for whatever reason) they are not able to get someone to pay them more than that.

Even if there are extenuating circumstances, I feel that the small business runner would be taking a big risk. Once a good assistant begins to realize that he/she is being underpaid and is able to command a higher price elsewhere, then the entrepreneur will either have to step up and match the demand or be willing to start all over with someone new and of perhaps a lower quality.

When you own a business, I know that business is you. And you deserve an administrative professional who is capable, experienced, and trustworthy. Not someone purchased at a bargain basement rate.

This is the sixth Getting To Know title that has been recognized with this prize.

Look for their next release, Getting To Know Edgar Degas, soon!

See some of the ones he has already completed at his Facebook profiles blog post.

Do you want one of your own?

• Friend George Berlin on Facebook
• Fan George Berlin on Facebook

When you represent your business, almost every interaction is a sales opportunity. This does not mean giving your pitch to everyone on the street, but it does mean that with everyone you meet, you are making an impression.

Perhaps the new person at the dinner party works with someone who works with someone who needs your product or service?

Or perhaps the mail carrier is aware that someone on his/her route is in need of some help, which just happens to be the kind of assistance your company offers?

But also keep in mind, all this may not come about until months or even years down the road. While no one can be vigilant all the time, an entrepreneur has to be aware of the potentials that are all around.

It will serve you well to develop and project a confidence in yourself and confidence in your ability to do what you do. Learn to communicate your business concisely and with impact.

Leave these positive impressions with those who meet you.

Nikola Jajic’s little story has got some legs. The Big Bad Book, a blue comedy graphic novel about Thor’s bestial sexploits, Loki’s need to humiliate Thor, and the human that got in the way, debuts on 2/17 in comic shops across the country. The book has gone on to debut with one of the strongest openings in Alterna history, especially for a graphic novel priced at $11.99.

The book’s strong debut can be attributed to Nik Jajic (writer/creator) and Mike Czerniawski (layouts/letters/co-artist) tireless promotional efforts. These two creators literally worked around the clock to get their book noticed and to get comic shops interested.

You can meet them for yourself at Alterna’s 4 year anniversary event at Comic Book Jones in Staten Island, NY on February 27th. They will be signing and selling copies of The Big Bad Book and taking part in the day’s celebration which will feature giveaways, a slew of Alterna creators, and more.

For those who do not know, Diamond is the main distributor of comic books and the major supplier of comic book stores. New product must meet their preorder requirements to be available for purchase at all. If the threshold is not reached, Diamond will just drop the title completely.

Fortunately, that is not the fate of The Big Bad Book. Congratulations, fellas! Thanks for letting me be a part of the process.

The news keeps screaming that 2010 is the year of growth and recovery. Regardless of whether this is truth or fiction, opportunities are always out there.

If you find yourself stuck at any time this year, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. When your A to B needs a little help, Detour Services will be ready.