Most of you have heard my business technology mantra "Tasks Over Tools". With holiday gifts to buy and end of year budgets to spend, it's a good time for some practical tips for surviving tech gift madness. Here in the south and especially in Florida we fry our Thanksgiving turkey. Being born in the south (Southern California that is) it was my duty to prepare this southern delicacy. It went off without a hitch, mostly because I have the right tools (plus I read the manual). If a tech tool purchase is in your future, here's some timely tips to make sure you don't burn the house down. Gifts for Others Will they use it? Even large organizations buy tech because it's "cool", or because "everyone else is doing it". Before laying down your credit card, think about how the recipient will use the item. Gifts for Yourself Price is important, but don't overlook the other part of your investment, the time and effort it takes to learn new technology. Also, before you buy a new gadget, clean out that drawer full of abandoned junk you collected this year. Check with your supplier about their cell phone recycling program. Gifts for Your Business As you shop for your end of year tech upgrades you're going to hear all kind of claims and acronyms from tech associates. The only acronym that matters is ROI. Define the task before you choose the tool. Before you commit, get the answers to these important questions:

1. How will this investment help me connect with qualified prospects?
2. How will this investment help me build a better relationship with my loyal clients.

In business, like in turkey frying, it's important to keep your wits about you. Here's wishing you the happest of holidays, and a prosperous New Year! Video Gallery - Turkey Frying

• The Right Way - Cooking With Jerry
• The Wrong Way - Turkey Fryer Gone Wrong

How was your Thanksgiving (add your comment below).