Blog
October 3 2008
CAN WE GET BACK TO REALITY…
Thank God this bill is passed and signed! I laugh at the notion (and nothing political here) that Senator Obama was the one who carried the day by being the guiding light, as most democrats make it out to be, but the fact is this was a bill that needed to be passed one way or another in order to preserve our ways of life in America and both candidates had little to do with it.
It concerns me that that people around the globe are more aware of what the consequences would have been had it not passed, than our own people. We have been transformed into expectators and parrots of what we hear, as we are more glued to CNN and FOX, instead of being realistic and educating ourselves on the real issues.
I am so tired of this Black and White and Latino crap. It’s not about religion and cultures left behind, much less about Republicans and Democrats. It’s about all of us being here, living in America; and doing what it takes to make our land better.
Senator MaCain cannot run on his history as a Vietnam war prisoner, no more than Senator Obama running on empty promises of some mysterious change that is supposed to take place. It cannot all be about the eight years that President Bush has been in power and this BS of more of the same, but it’s about political history and the real backgrounds.
Senator Obama is suggesting many pretty sounding subjects, from free insurance to education money; and all of it has a socialist tinge to it. The main problem is that most citizens have no idea as to what a socialist society is all about, so how in the devil can these people make an intelligent decision?
Cuba is a socialist (Communistic) society. Perhaps being more pictorial will help my readers understand what socialism is all about. My own country of Costa Rica is a socialist society and when you understand that having a medical condition that will require up to a year in order to get a medical appointment for a simple check up, I wonder if that is the reality of what we want? When one realizes that in order to operate a business, a business owner has to post, before actually starting the operation, a huge amount of funds to protect the employees for social guarantees, vacations and many other situations. This even before knowing if the employees are going to perform to their potential. Waiters are guaranteed their tips, so they really don’t care to perform to the highest standards and much more. In short, socialism disregards the competitive spirit that has made the United States the envy of the world.
MaCain proposes a capitalistic society and that too has perils. The perils are for those that don’t embrace a competitive spirit and want more of a free ride, but if there is a spark of energy within, anyone can live the big dream of making a success of any endeavor.
Which one works better depends on the individual, but there is a very simple indicator if my readers are willing to accept education of world events is a must.
I don’t see many of our citizens desperate to get to India to look for an 8 to 5 job. I don’t see my fellow citizens crossing the river into Mexico, or Guatemala or El Salvador to go and apply for work as a baker, mechanic or gardener. I don’t see a massive migration to Venezuela just because Hugo Chavez speaks wonders of his nation’s virtual might.
No! The fact is people of the world come to and through our borders and fences, no matter what, because this is the “IT !” place. It would be nice if we- that are here in the middle of the process, take the time to learn one thing at minimum- To not take the our country for granted, but to learn to appreciate it as the land of opportunity that it really is. To me, the U.S. is this Hip and In place, where we are not limited by religion, culture or background, but a place filled with opportunity readily available to our ambition and willingness to being creative. October 2, 2008
SUPPOSEDLY CALIFORNIA IS BROKE…! BUT IS IT?
With all this economic turmoil going on, what do we do? We cut on our common perks, stretch going to the hair salon, wipe our cars rather than wash them, eat simpler foods and in the overall- try as much as possible to save money so that we can afford the utilities, and the gasoline we use to reach work and back- Right?
We all do this with the salaries we earn for doing our daily routine, day in and day out. We also pay for our cars, one month a time for whatever the term we have agreed- Right again?
Since we have agreed with these scenarios, why do we allow for the most inefficient group of people to have both- free automobiles (Some times two cars) and free gasoline in a totally un-accountable manner? I am referring to the California lawmakers. Yes, the same bunch that can’t get together to pass a comprehensive budget, have their big sweaty hands in your pocket in order to foot the bill of their work and out of work fuel and auto costs, on top of very respectable salaries.
These law abusers, (Ups- excuuussseee me!)- lawmakers- have made it possible for themselves to circumvent common accountability practices that in other States, or a private company, make it necessary to log your usage and get paid accordingly. They have assigned themselves the true meaning of a free ride and I don’t see the reason why we need to keep quiet about this. It is my opinion that since they don’t care to cut any of us citizens any slack when we owe money to the State, why should we not do the same to these State employees. I reality, they might be elected people that are in Sacramento, supposedly, to do a job for the citizens of the State, but so far all I can see is that they are there to be less than our representatives, but to line their pockets and protect their status.
These (and I refuse, under the circumstances, to call them lawmakers) persons are not above the law, but while we are talking crap about everything else, they are abusing our rights. I don’t have the means to be paying for two cars for people that can very well afford one of their own for their private affairs. It is BS that they are always doing State business. If it were the case, California would be in a much better business and financial condition.
Contact the following office and make your complaint. We are California and we need to help make it better.
Governor’s Office: Tel. 916-445-2941 Fax: 916-558-3160
Or,
Go to CA.GOV (Contacts-Legislative Contacts)
Pick your representative and make your concerns known.
September 29, 2008 Hey Folks. I just added some new photos on my site today. Go check them out. I am going to be running in 5k marathon this December. More info to come soon. I will be posting photos and writing more about my training.
September 10, 2008
More than just “Topic Education”…
As a member of the selling team at a prominent San Fernando Valley auto dealer, I had the obligation to attend an automotive class and at first I felt compelled to take it as a way to further my education of the vehicles I sell, but at the end of the day, I had learned much more than what makes these fab cars tick…
I realized just how important it is to try and see further than our noses at times. Before the class, I observed several of my class mates as they milled around the food tray and with a lot of uuhmms and aahhs, the topic was not longer about the rolls and breads, or the coffee, as it is normal in many gatherings, but about how we go about doing our business. Unlike many other fields, the car business has a common thread; and regardless of the dealer one works for, regardless of the ranking a dealer may have and regardless of the location; the challenge we all face is the same- How do we tell a difficult audience about our cars in a credible and professional manner. That may sound a bit redundant, as it has always been expected to be professional and credible, but today we are dealing with knowledgeable buyers that do a lot of homework before making a choice (Sometime too much…), so it stands to reason we need a much better preparation.
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But there is more… I met sales people from different age brackets, different locations, tall ones, short ones, males and females, different nationalities and backgrounds; and each had a different delivery of the same information. The younger ones have a much more playful way of saying things, middle agers- more of a techno mannerism, the more seasoned generation- a more sophisticated way of putting things out, but all with the same goals and direction. What I came out with is that perhaps the industry needs to accept that some sharp changes are part of future growth, as it is a bit obvious that some dealers want to maintain the same routine that has worked for years without realizing the language has changed, the attitudes have changed, and the receptiveness of information has changed. Prospects no longer want to speak to salespeople, they want consultants.
The prospects trust people that look and act like them (Within reason); and they don’t care for too many rules that the dealers might feel to be important. Will they be willing to meet a manager after being told there is “no obligation”- of course not! Will they be willing to meet a manager if we tell them it’s part of my job to see to it- absolutely yes (If you have created the right rapport). By contacting prospects in a normal everyday manner, the consumer will be better served by the fact we are all in a comfort zone. This zone opens the opportunity to talk technology, features and value in a non-abrasive, non-selling conversational manner that the consumer truly understands. It is common knowledge that consumes distrust coming to the dealer, so let’s make an effort to make the dealer a more welcoming place, by changing the attitude of the process.
Suits and ties will remain a must for managers, but a sportier look will do wonders for the salespeople. Stuffy looks don’t bode well with older consumers that want to feel young, so why force the look of aging on them? Those with a much more relaxed look of sandals and shorts, I’m sure will identify much better with a salesperson wearing a nice Polo style shirt that identifies the brand. In short, to succeed in sales, communicate with the consumer in a language, look and attitude they truly understand.
August 28, 2008
FOR SMART CAR SHOPPERS ONLY
Pssst…! Yeah, you…!
Are you looking for a great deal on a new or pre-owned car? Call me at 818 599 4624 and I’ll give you the word.
Make it fast, easy and save you money…
Be a good type… Tell someone else about this…
August 27, 2008
LET’S PARTY… !
Yes, party animals…! Uncle Orlo is planning some great trips to great destinations at very affordable prices; and if you want to be counted amongst the cool, you’ll stay in touch with me.
No kidding, about this. The spaces will be very limited, as I don’t want the hassle of a million rowdies getting out of hand, but only a handful of rowdies getting out of hand.
We’ll be doing surf trips, all inclusive of air, hotels, local transportation, food and grog, beach parties and free entry to the raffle of the “Custom Uncle Orlo Surf Board”
Also, Spa Getaways, Tennis group travel and much more…
Man…! The sacrifices I make for you… But the fact is I love ya and somebody has to do the dirty work…
STAY TUNED…! August 26, 2008
INTERNET PURCHASING 10 DUH…
No No No- good people…! Buying through the internet is not anywhere near what people think…
Cars and memorable vacations are such items where a consumer has to accept that dealing with a professional is a great move. Automobiles and trips are not cookie cutter items and they need to be dealt with on a one on one basis.
The anonymity of the internet has created a monster within the consumers. An inner demon called “Virtual Guts”. Out of sight and in front of the killer laptop, wearing their flower pajamas and bunny slippers (Pink Bunny Slippers) the consumers view themselves as caped crusaders on a quest to make the business establishment pay for the folly of being able to make money. The consumers are consumed with getting their share of the pie by one way or another without getting the fact that companies that promote crap on the internet already are ahead of the game and know exactly what they are doing; and making a huge profit from it. The consumers are in fact diluted enough to think they got what they wanted when in fact, they got what the web site owners wanted you to think is a great deal to start with at a price they are making profit on.
Wise to the idea what the consumer’s angle in on things- travel agencies that get people asking a million destination questions in order to bypass the agency system when booking, never share accurate information, as they are not in business to create business for someone else. This makes for a dangerous situation for the consumers, as they will with all probability wasting money on something they did not plan for. While buying a car, the consumer wants to buy without actually having seen the car, but find it very easy to blame the dealer when things don’t work out. But why is this nonsense taking place?
INSECURITY!
The consumer has the mentality that every business is out to get them- and the “Not Me” syndrome becomes the mantra we hear over and over, but the fact it that dealing with a professional provider will enhance your choices and your benefit many times over; and accept that you cannot dictate every point of the deal, but must be willing to listen to the other side if what you want is complete satisfaction. The good word being –
NEGOTIATION!
Let’s talk about it! Let me show you what I can do for you! You show me your possibility! Let’s meet in the middle after recognizing each other’s worth to mutual satisfaction. The alternative is for the consumer to think they got a great deal, when in fact- the truth is the other side got rid of something they just needed to, no matter what.
Be smart – Live and let live…!
Tuesday August 19 2008
Respect travels both ways…
People can't count on respect, unless they are willing to give it back.
And stop stereotyping people if you don't want some of the same medicine. When we encounter a salesperson, the word crook comes immediately to mind, but sales people are so jaded by that they no longer see viable buyers, but mooches, roaches, wannabe experts and time wasters. Which side of the equation is right and which is wrong. Sadly the only answer is that both sides are very wrong…
Some companies obligate salespeople to go over the top in trying to make a sale, but the process is made spectacularly worse by the fact consumers read all sorts of nonsense and go to a store to tr and impress the salesperson with their wit. The consumer of today wants to be the buyer and the seller at the same time and for reasons unknown, expect to get every item at the store's cost. Well surprise-surprise! Yes, the stores are entitled to making a profit so that they'll be there for you the next time you need that new gadget.
Consumers today need to grow up and be responsible citizens that take care of business, rather taking advantage. True enough; stores need to be competitive, but not expected to be stupid… Step up to the plate and do your share. The next time you complain about items flowing like water from China and jobs going to Pakistan and India, remember also the last time you were a mooch… You, my friends- are the ones causing the problem…
Monday August 18 2008
Okay, guys…! Listen up…
When buying a car, what's this nonsense of "…we need to sleep on it…"
Have any of you fellas ever taken a look at your wife, girlfriend, and significant other when you utter those words…? It is funny to see your partner's reaction of disapproval for you not having the courage to pull the trigger; and the reality is that there is no real reason for time being wasted- Yours; and the hard working sales person.
I work with ladies that make me proud because prior to arriving at the dealer and taking the salesperson's time, they have done their homework, done plenty of research, know their needs and desires and after picking the car that meets these parameters- if the numbers make sense- they drive home in their new car…
Not the guys….! After much genitalia scratching and almost digging a hole on the scalp, rather than talking deal "they have to sleep on it"- and while snoozing, the car will be sold to a more proactive customer (hopefully female) and so much for that.
What I wonder is, who are these guys trying to kid…? Why come to a dealer on a hot beautiful day, waste everyone's time and leave without the reason you came to the dealer in the first place. Dude…! If you are spending the better part of a beautiful day at a particular dealer and the numbers make sense, this is the deal for you! Sleeping on it is not going to improve it. Take a hint from the ladies. Do research using today's technology. There is no reason to test drive every car ever made. The consumer should be able to pick a couple of similar models that meet the needs and be done with it. Trust me- Buying a car is a very simple process, that most guys turn into a convoluted event for no reason at all…
Always remember that the joy of a new car is in driving it, not spending days buying it.
Wednesday August 13 2008 PLEASE STAY TUNED….
Hello my fellow readers and bloggers. Sorry for the delay in bloging , but I will be back soon with all new blogs and podcasts. Remember this is my first blog and I am getting the hang of the bloging ropes. Please stay tuned and check back soon.
Thank you
Thursday May 15 2008
Hello… My name is Orlando and this is an invitation to join the OrlyConnection through my site. I will be blogging about many topics of interest that impact our daily lives; i.e., cars, both the very exotic and the more earthy types (Hybrids), the state of Real Estate, my passion for entertainment from the view of a writer and actor and the joy of traveling to exotic destinations at affordable prices. I hope you enjoy it and send me your feedback and comments also the travel part of the site will be up later.
HEALTH AND YOUR DAILY LIFE.
September 2001 was a very dramatic year personally and it had nothing to do with the World Trade Center attack at all, but with me having a heart attack and the discovery of Diabetes. Talk about the double whammy, huh…! At any rate, the WTC attack did increase my stress on top of it all, but it also opened up my mind to the fact that once things happen there are two choices. 1. Roll up in a ball and croak, or 2. Face up to the situation and make it better.
I opted to get off my ass and try to improve my stressful situation; and my bad eating habits; and the couch-potato ness that had taken over my life style and become a different person. Almost seven years later, I am dedicated to my medical care, exercise on a regular basis, can now play a mean game of tennis and if I do say so myself, after shedding many pounds, look and feel a lot better.
I encourage all my friends to do the same. Work hard and play hard, have loads of fun, but take care of your responsibilities; and those include being here for your loved ones…
ON THE ROAD TO ANYWHERE
Being a car nut, nothing is more exiting to me than being on the road to any place. While most people see a car as a big pile of metal, rubber and glass that takes you from point A to B, I see it as my personal moving cocoon that allows me to discover all manner of great things just beyond my nose. While many find comfort with a dash full of gadgets, I find looking out the window at the actual world as it develops moment by moment a wonderful thing. I love how the road transmits itself up to the steering wheel and connects me to the outside with every turn. Nothing more magical than some very select tunes filling the background as it connects you with other drivers. A nod here and there, a sly smile and you are in the best moment of your life. I mean, do you really need to program your address to a navigation system in order to find the same house you been going to for the past twenty years? - c’mon, cut it out… Is it really that uncomfortable outside that you need to be in near freezing temperatures inside your car? Shut, are you so boring that you cannot find a great eating place without the aide of a synthetic voice guiding you to some unknown dive. Man, turn that crap off and turn yourself on with the magic of discovery.
DIFFERENT PEOPLE
I have spent most of my life observing people and have come to the conclusion that there are three basic types. The Boring, The Wannabes and The Mavericks. This discovery, for sure, will land me in hot water, but believe me; I’m doing this for you….
The Boring:
Reads labels and subscribe to consumer report magazines. Wants security for everything, have insurance and a one year extended protection plans for every item they purchase. Have sex (Protected, of course) on specific and designated times. They drive Hybrid vehicles and “Fuel” efficient cars. Drive only when necessary. Go crossed-eyed when a new MTA line opens up and can’t wait to go use it. Disney World is the ultimate getaway.
The Wanna-bes:
Wear labels, have consumer reports as a favorite in their computer. Owns every gadget known to man. Buy insurance from the most expensive companies and have longer term, up the whazoo, protection plans to match their other wannabe friends. Makes a fake ceremony when having sex and asks- “How was it?” afterwards. Belong to some crappy tennis club and have little topic of conversation other than themselves. Buy stuff based on store names, rather than in actual usefulness. Drive boring establishment vehicles. Live boring establishment lives. Love to talk about lying near a pool at a swanky hotel anywhere.
The Maverick:
Doesn’t care about labels, has never read a consumer report. Is totally aloof about insurance, although they know they have good coverage. Don’t give a hoot what others do or drive, is dedicated to working hard and having serious fun. Is serious about competition and sex is primeval animal dance. Loves loud music, good food, drink and driving fast. Sets limitations on themselves and are basically winners at all they do. A perfect vacation is hiking in Patagonia, drives Jaguars, Aston Martins, Vipers. Very much people people.
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