Working Hard For Your Money

Some days, I think Donna Summer's "She Works Hard For The Money" is my own personal anthem, but then again, most of us work pretty hard for our money. And we want to see our money working hard for us, too. That's why it drives me crazy that companies are always trying to convince me that they deserve my money more than I do. 

They don't. 

And they don't know my family and our unique needs. That's my area of expertise. 

Back in September, I had the great fortune to share a bit of that expertise and hear from some people who are all experts in their own right. Erica Kloetstra, Melanie Blackmore-Arruda, Jennifer Birnstihl, Greg Lehman, and I all spoke to an intimate and enthusiastic group of people about how we can make great choices with our money—stretching our means to the maximum potential benefit of our families.

I know I learned more about coupons than I thought there was to know, but beyond the coupons, giveaways, price-matching, and discounts provided a powerful undercurrent of important information. Every speaker connected to the theme of "How to Save," by demonstrating the crucial importance of being connected to resources:

• Look for product reviews: Having product knowledge before you buy can help you purchase things that best fit your needs. Bookmark sites, like www.bassgiraffe.com, and search for other sites/blogs that review products for better information before purchasing.

• Take matters into your own hands: Don't expect the information to come to you. Be willing to put in the time, so your buying is organized and mindful. Go to the companies you love—search their sites or email them directly and find coupons, giveaways, and deals for the things you already purchase. 

• Don't pay more than you have to: Ever! Whatever it is, you can almost always get it for less. There are amazing resources, like  http://bargainhuntingmomma.wordpress.com/, that make the best deals out there more accessible.

• Embrace how new technologies can keep us intimately connected to businesses, products, and savings:  www.spikemobile.net/ is one of a growing number of mobile marketers willing to teach us how this technology works to save us money.

• Buy consciously and with conviction, so your money doesn't go to waste: Utilizing Kijiji, cutting out unnecessary luxuries, making things for yourself, and buying natural products (high in active ingredients and low in filler) are all great ways to keep money in your pocket with a modest investment of time.

Above all, invest in your own expertise when it comes to managing your budget! No one knows your family better than you do.