The Internet Has Proven to be a Fast and Convenient Way to Communicate and do Business. Isn't it Time You Got Your Feet Wet? Here's a Good Way to Start.

By Jeanie Swisher 

What is driving the growth of the Internet? Basically, it's the simple fact that everyone wants it to work.

From the aggressive, risk-taking business optimists to the grandpas and grandmas who depend on their grandchildren to show them where to "click," there's something here for everyone. The days of slow, hand-done processes like long division are a thing of the past.

With more than 100 million people logging onto the Internet regularly, the controversy rages with Microsoft over monopolizing the industry. Plus, just released Windows 98 will soon by replaced by on-the-drawing-board Windows 2001.

CONVENIENCE

What I like about the Internet is the speed and convenience. With business associates, family and friends scattered around the world, I can, in seconds, send an electronic message anytime of the day or night. Plus, it will hold on the Internet until the recipient picks it up. Therefore, I don't have to wait for the "right time" in another time zone. 

MONEY SAVED

The money I save is also a big-ticket item. I save on long-distance charges, paper, envelopes, ink and postage. Plus, if we agree to meet in a "chat room" at a specific time, we can have an interactive conversation at no charge. The small charge each month of $19.95 saves me hundreds of dollars throughout the year.

GREATEST FEAR

The greatest fear about the Internet by those over forty is the fear of change. Something new. Something they don't understand.

But remember--Simply "learning" about the Internet is a process. Most of us learned to roller skate before we learned to ride a bicycle. And, most rode a bicycle before they drove a car. So start simple.

START WITH EMAIL

The place to start on the Internet is with something simple like sending electronic mail to a friend. This simple task alone will bring a sense of accomplishment. You will quickly begin to collect the Internet addresses for other friends and family members.

Next, collect the url (Internet address) for your local businesses. May stores, sandwich shops, doctors and attorneys have urls. Many appointments can be made and products can be ordered with a simple email.

One thing I've learned--no one knows "everything" about the Internet or computers. Not the computer guru or the smart-mouthed kid next door. With so many options, it's equal to having 60 TV channels--some we use and some we don't.

Be content to crawl in the beginning. There's no hurry. After all, the Internet is here to stay...

Jeanie Swisher, with more than 30 years of top-notch business experience, has an electronic newsletter. UP-TO-SPEED Business News is packed with articles that will keep you "up-to-speed." Type "subscribe" in the subject line. Or, to submit articles of 300-500 words with your picture, type "submit" in the subject line. You may contact Jeanie Swisher at spectrumpublishers@usa.net