Some Call Me ‘Gadget Girl’
by Penney Rudicil
OSSN Eastern Regional Manager

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Cellular Phone

The other day, I was talking with a man and he had a Bluetooth-compatible cell phone (he was using the wireless headset/earphone). He allowed me to try the earpiece to experience the clarity -- it was amazing! I went to my wireless providers to talk with them about purchasing a headset, and I was told that my phone is not compatible. As I was trying to decide whether I wanted to invest in a new phone, one of the salesmen came over and told me about a new device that will make any phone Bluetooth (wireless technology) compatible. The device was only $49, much less than buying a new phone, and it will work on my existing phone or any other phone or handheld device. This device allows me to have a wireless headset or earpiece, and it eliminates all the cords and cables.

Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)

In the technology survey done by OSSN a couple of months ago, only 19 percent of our members indicated they use a PDA. I use my PDA on a daily basis, since it syncs up with my computer so that I am able to have my contacts, calendar, and even documents available at all times. Many PDAs are Bluetooth compatible so you can send and receive emails or surf the Net. With my PDA, I can download photos from my computer or directly from the memory chip of my camera. I can also download music, audio books or games for entertainment. There are many different types available -- I have seen them advertised for as little as $30, or as much as $500, based on your needs.

Scan Disk or Flash Drive

Another item that is very helpful in my business is a scan disk or flash drive. Even though the name may differ, they work the same -- the unit plugs into any USB drive on your computer to copy documents, files or pictures. You can then plug it into another computer, a printer, or a copier to transfer your data. The size is very small (an average of 1 inch by 3 inches), so you can carry one in your pocket or purse easily. Some people even have one attached to their key ring! No need to carry around a bunch of disks or CDs anymore.

All of the above are very useful tools for running a business; however, there are many other electronic "toys" that can also be useful and a lot of fun. Many of my friends, family, and colleagues call me "gadget girl" because I am forever finding something new that I "just have to have!"

Card Scanner

A few years ago, I was looking for a supplier's business card. You know how frustrating that can be -- we pick them up at trade shows and conferences and put them in a file, but we never take the time to organize them. One day, I decided that I was going to organize them and put them into my MS Outlook contacts list. As I started typing, I realized that this would take me a VERY long time. I began looking for a solution, and I purchased a card scanner. This has saved so much time over the years. It is easy to use -- just install the software, plug into your computer (it uses a USB port), and start scanning. I can now find the name, phone number or email of anyone in a matter of seconds.

Digital Camera

Anyone that knows me knows that I love to take pictures; in fact, on a cruise or fam trip, I average 100 pictures a day. My husband soon realized that I needed a digital camera, since printing photos would get way too expensive. With my digital camera, I can snap away and only print the ones I really want, or transfer them to my computer or a CD and keep a complete diary/photo journal. If you are not going to print larger than 8 inches by 10 inches, a 3.2 megapixel camera works just great. Some of the features available are automatic focus, zoom, video including sound, or a self timer, plus many, many more! Choosing a camera is a personal decision only you can make, based on your wants and needs --but, if you need assistance in learning more about these features, you should consult a professional. Researching on the Internet is a great way to learn more about electronic products, but just as we encourage our clients to "book with a professional," I always recommend talking with and purchasing a camera from a professional. I purchased my newest camera in April and just love it! It is small enough to carry in my purse, easy to use, and takes great shots (even when the operator doesn't know what she is doing!). You never know when you may need to take a picture of a hotel, attraction, or your child's smiling at you!

LCD Projector

Our agency does a lot of group bookings; therefore, we found ourselves going out and doing presentations. Purchasing an LCD projector was something that I put off for a long time because I thought they were too big and bulky to carry around and too expensive. I did some research and found that the cost was very affordable (I found mine for $600, brand new) and it is smaller than my laptop and easy to set up. I can do a slide show of photos or a PowerPoint presentation -- and, by doing this, we have closed more sales and increased our group business.

We have also started doing trainings for our independent contractors, using the projector to show a supplier's Web site or booking engine. And when you have relatives or unwanted company that stays too long, you can break out the family photos. They will be sure to find a quick exit!

Internet Phone Service

I have been doing quite a bit of traveling, escorting fams and seminars at sea over the past couple of years. Therefore, finding a way to keep in touch with clients, the office, and my family is very important. Finding an Internet connection and sending email is great -- but did you know that you can make a call using the Internet? There are a couple of Internet-based calling programs available. I have been using Vonage -- the monthly fees are low, the software is easy to use and, as long as you have a good Internet connection, the clarity is great. You do not have to purchase a special phone; just use a headset that is microphone compatible. I have even used this when cruising in the Caribbean -- when is the last time you were able to conduct a conference call, put out a fire for a client, or wish your children a good night's sleep while aboard a cruise ship? In talking with others, I have learned that there are other comparable products as well (Sunrocket and Skype to name a couple).

I really do enjoy finding new products that help me be more productive in my business as a home-based travel agent, as well as have a little fun. If you have any gadgets that you might like to share, please email me: tnossn@comcast.net. I will do a follow-up article in the months to come.