GetEntrepreneurial.comtag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://22008-07-02T23:18:21ZSmall Business Tips and Tricks for the Aspiring EntrepreneurMovable Type 3.35Do You Have The Courage To Be Indiana Jones?tag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22772008-07-02T23:00:38Z2008-07-02T23:18:21Z I’ve always loved the Indiana Jones movies. My all time favorite is Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. When the lastest one came out - Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, I raced to the movies...Lorraine Cohen
I’ve always loved the Indiana Jones movies. My all time favorite is Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. When the lastest one came out - Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, I raced to the movies with high hopes it would be great. After waiting almost 20 years since the last one, I left the movie with a smile. Watching Harrison Ford’s character brilliantly battle his way through seemingly impossible situations and triumphing over his adversaries is not only entertaining, I’m also inspired.
We see Harrison Ford appear as a bookish, mild mannered professor teaching archeology to University student and watch him transform into his Indiana Jones persona with his trademark clothing, hat and bullwhip. The hero of the story had appeared to save the day!
Here are some things Indiana Jones can teach us about courage:
1. Adapt and improvise. In each movie Indie seems to be caught in impossible situations and almost killed dozens on times. (Yes we know he’s the hero and meant to survive, or….maybe not????) Do we see him flinch in fear and resign himself to his doom? No way. His mind races for options and solutions as he improvises and adapts, signaling the invitation for his companions to join with him. His resilience and courage helps him to be victorious.
How often do you retreat and give up when things look bleak and seemingly impossible? Do you have the courage to say, “oh yeah - I don’t accept that” and invite your creative nature to kick in. Do you engage the support of others to be a part of innovative solutions?
2. Stand up and fight for what you believe in. With his trademark hat and bullwhip in hand, archeologist and adventurer Indie stands up to the German army, the Russians, and the Thuggee to defend and save the people he cares about and to protect precious artifacts from falling into the wrong hands. With a strong moral and ethical code, he is steadfast in staying true to his values and who he is despite the temptations and dangers.
How far would you go to protect and defend the people and things you value most? What would you be willing to overcome to champion yourself? What would you say no to or yes to in order to remain true to who you are?
3. Things are not always what they seem. One scene that consistently stands out in my mind that has left the most vivid impression is in my favorite - Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. I’ve heard many people refer to the same scene because of it’s symbology and inspiration. Indie stands on the edge of the mountain looking across a crevice to the doorway to another mountain. He must cross to the other side to find the Holy Grail so that he can save Sean Connery’s life. He must take a leap of faith. He takes a deep breath, closes his eyes, and puts one foot out into nothingness and a wooden plank appears beneath his feet so that he can cross to the other side safely. WOW. What a powerful metaphor!
Are you willing to take a leap of faith without knowing the outcome? Would you surrender and trust because everything inside you says, “Go for it! Do it,” even it if seems crazy?
Dr. Lorraine Cohen, President of Powerfull Living, brings more than 25 years experience in personal and business coaching, psychological counseling, and sales to thousands of spiritually minded business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders from a wide range of industries. Learn more about Lorraine’s services, success products and programs.]]>
How To Improve Your Presentationstag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22832008-07-01T23:00:34Z2008-07-01T23:45:01Z BusinessKnowHow: You've all heard the advice to get to know your audience, make eye contact, don't say "um," check your equipment, and similar public speaking techniques to make your presentations as powerful as they can be. These are great...Steven TeoBusinessKnowHow: You've all heard the advice to get to know your audience, make eye contact, don't say "um," check your equipment, and similar public speaking techniques to make your presentations as powerful as they can be. These are great tips, and you'll hear them over and over, but I've got some lesser-known suggestions for you today that will benefit you and your audience as much as more common advice.
Pointer 1: Take your medications
If your nervousness goes to your gut, by all means take your upset stomach medication. If you get tension headaches, head them off at the pass with your favorite pain reliever. Do what it takes to avoid the physical distractions that will disrupt your performance and keep you from doing your best.
Pointer 2: Start on time
Take charge of the room, take charge of your time, and make the decision to reward the people who are committed and punctual.
Pointer 3: Give the end of your sentences the same energy you give to the beginning of your sentences
This is a simple tool but an effective one. Some people's voices trail off at the ends of sentences, making it hard to hear the last few words they've said. As a speaker, trailing off at the ends of sentences means that your audience might miss something important. Make sure you are emphasizing both ends of your sentences, and your audience will never miss a crucial point or valuable tip!
Three Surprising Tips to Improve Your Presentations [BusinessKnowHow]
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Keep On Your Tracktag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22822008-06-30T23:00:51Z2008-06-30T23:30:02Z Small Business Branding, by Drew McLellan: Have you ever had the experience of driving along, paying attention to something off in the horizon and next thing you know, you’ve driven to that spot? And it wasn’t where you meant...Steven TeoSmall Business Branding, by Drew McLellan: Have you ever had the experience of driving along, paying attention to something off in the horizon and next thing you know, you’ve driven to that spot? And it wasn’t where you meant to go?
The same phenomenon can happen in your business. Most business owners I met pay a lot of attention to what their competition is doing. We definitely need to keep an eye on the competitive landscape. But there’s a very fine line.
The danger in keeping track of the other guys is that you lose track of your own path. We tend to move towards what we pay attention to. And you don’t want to let your competitors determine your marketing strategy. That’s a quick way to:
* Deplete your resources
* Look like you’re playing the “us too” game
* Lose the momentum of your key messages
You want to be the leader in your industry, not follow someone else. The best way to beat your competition isn’t watching what they do. It’s doing what you should be doing.
If you have and follow a marketing plan — you can enjoy the best of both worlds. The marketing plan keeps you on your course. Heading in the direction you have determined. When you know where you’re headed and keep checking the map to see that you’re on course, you can afford to peek at what the competitors are doing.
Just make sure you’re following your course, not theirs.
Is your competition luring you off-track? [Small Business Branding]]]>
Why Hire A Ghostwriter?tag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22602008-06-28T23:00:41Z2008-06-29T09:00:43ZThere’s no question about the many benefits of writing a book and becoming a published author. Writing a book gives you instant credibility with clients and prospects, solidifies your expert status and builds your personal or corporate brand. In fact, studies indicate that, while more than 80% of the population wants to write a book, only tiny 2% will ever actually do it! Why? Most aspiring writers cite lack of time, lack of focus or lack of knowing how to physically undertake such an ambitious project.Lou Bortonehttp://www.LouBortone.com
There’s no question about the many benefits of writing a book and becoming a published author. Writing a book gives you instant credibility with clients and prospects, solidifies your expert status and builds your personal or corporate brand. In fact, studies indicate that, while more than 80% of the population wants to write a book, only tiny 2% will ever actually do it! Why? Most aspiring writers cite lack of time, lack of focus or lack of knowing how to physically undertake such an ambitious project.
Enter ghostwriters. No longer those shadowy figures lurking behind the scenes, ghostwriters today are experienced professionals who help aspiring authors write the book of their dreams. These writers and journalists work with their “authors” for months at a time to make sure their book gets written right. Most executives call upon ghostwriters to write for them simply because they don’t have the time or resources to do it on their own.
The price and quality of ghostwriters span a wide range. Like anything else in life, you usually get what you pay for. You can take your chances and try to find a low-priced freelance writer on Elance.com, but you’re far better off trusting your project to a pro who comes recommended from a trusted source or referral. That said, you can expect to pay a good ghostwriter upwards of $50,000 for a full-length, non-fiction business book.
The writing process can take 4 – 6 months to complete your manuscript, but good ghostwriters also serve as an advisor during the process, making sure that you’re project stays on track and is ultimately marketable. However, most ghostwriters rarely get involved in the actual publishing process.
Ultimately, your book is only going to be as good as the material and creativity you provide to your ghostwriter. You’ve got to stay engaged in the process and provide ongoing feedback in order to end up with the book that you envision. Still, with weekly meetings and timely feedback, the process can go smoothly and quickly.
Remember, not all writers are created equal. Look for a ghostwriter who is professional, dependable, collaborative, discreet, easy to work with and not afraid to tell it like it is. Find the right fit and you’re on your way to becoming one of those elite 2% who actually write their book!
Lou Bortone is an award-winning writer and video producer with over 20 years experience in marketing, branding and promotion. As an online video expert, Lou helps entrepreneurs create video for the web at www.TheOnlineVideoGuy.com. In addition, Lou works as a freelance writer and professional ghostwriter, with a ghostwriting site at www.GhostwriteForYou.com and a blog at www.GhostwriteGuru.com.]]>
Want To Be Rich & Successful? Learn How To Sell!tag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22532008-06-27T23:00:54Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z I always tell people that the number one life skill you must have if you want to be rich and successful is that you must learn to sell. The trouble with a lot of people is, especially those who...Adam Khoo
I always tell people that the number one life skill you must have if you want to be rich and successful is that you must learn to sell.
The trouble with a lot of people is, especially those who are highly educated, with a degree or honours degree say, "I don't sell."
Being a degree holder myself, I think that it is the most stupid thing in the world. If I were to ask you, "Do you know who the world's greatest salesperson is?"
I'll tell you who it is. I would say it's the President of United States or any president or prime minister. You know why? He's got to go out there and he's got to sell himself, in order for you to vote for him.
Do you think it's easy? Look at George Bush for an example, he won his election just narrowly by 51 % of the votes. This means 49% of people, said no to him, they hated him probably.
But do you think he cares? He doesn't care
So if the president of the United States, who is the most powerful man on Earth can sell and take rejection, why can't you?
I believe that the main reason why a lot of people are afraid of selling, is because of ego.
This is especially so for those who have an MBA or Degree. And that's what holds most people back. And that's why, I hate to say this. Most people with a Degree or PHD won't succeed as much in business as to someone who doesn't.
But it doesn't have to be that way. I told myself that although I have a degree I will not let my ego get in the way. You just got to learn how to sell. And if you think about the irony of it, a lot of times we are already selling , we are just not aware of it.
For example, most of us would have probably been on a date, before. If you are on a date, what were you selling? You're selling yourself.
This also applies even if you are a doctor. A lot of doctors in the medical profession, especially those in the GP arena, a lot of them are suffering.
Why? That's because they are good at the technical aspects, but they can't sell themselves, they can't smile at you when you come into their office, they don't know how to market.
So it's the person who knows how to sell that makes the best doctor, the best lawyer, in whatever profession that may be. But again the substance must be there. That presupposed substance must be there and selling is like that huge cherry on top that makes people want to eat your cake.
Adam Khoo is an entrepreneur, a best-selling author and a peak performance trainer. A self-made millionaire by the age of 26, he owns and runs several businesses in education, training, event management and advertising, all with a combined annual turnover of $20 million. His best-selling "Patterns of Excellence" is a complete step-by-step system that will literally program you for success in life.]]>
During a Recession Is Not the Time To Cut The Training Budgettag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22492008-06-26T23:00:24Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z While some guys lose their heads when faced with a tough business environment others stay cool, survive and prosper. OK,Ok, the sky is falling so stop running around and instead use that energy and money to survive and to...Abe WalkingBear SanchezWhile some guys lose their heads when faced with a tough business environment others stay cool, survive and prosper.
OK,Ok, the sky is falling so stop running around and instead use that energy and money to survive and to improve on how things are done and on how to prosper from the coming upturn...yes in time the sky will right itself.
Have you ever seen any business consultant's card that didn't claim that they could lead you to the pot of gold buried under the employees' parking lot? But here's where it gets funny...they can.
In a book he wrote in the early 60s...1960s not 1860s...Bucky Fuller writes that humans adapt quickly to change and soon space out the past. Bucky didn't write this but I think that humans have limited RAM, and that many business managers are overloading the RAM they have ...so they stop thinking about things and fall into habits and patterns...no thinking required. The name of the book? Spaceship Earth.
And to further muddy the water, humans don't operate at their highest potential when stressed.
I'm tempted to start pointing out specific things a business should do during a hard economic time, but I've done that in other articles. This article is about new training and new thinking. The following is from an article I wrote during the last economic downturn.
A sales vice president of an international company had referred me to his region's CFO. He encouraged me to contact this woman and explain the scope of my consulting and training services.
After leaving three messages over a two week period, I got a call from the regional A/R Manager, the CFO's subordinate. I started to explain what I do when the man cut me off. "We just had the very prestigious firm from the U.K., Robem, Blind & Howe, do an evaluation of our business functions and with the exception of a few minor items, they validated our processes" .
On hearing the word "validation" the picture that comes to my mind is finding the right guy to stamp your parking ticket. Or maybe, if you're lucky enough to still have her, calling your Mom for some kind words and reassurance. But to pay a consultant to come in and pat you on the back, or wherever, and tell you you're doing good...never.
School Ties and the Intellectual Gene Pool
Keeping my thoughts to myself I said to the regional A/R guy, "That's great, it's always a good idea for a company to have an outsider come in and take a fresh look at things." I then asked how my firm could participate in providing them with their next evaluation. "Oh no, we're having R.B. & H. back again." , said the regional A/R guy. After a few more minutes of conversation it was clear to me that I was wasting my time. You see, I learned from the A/R guy that his boss, the regional CFO used to work at R.B.& H. and that she was not interested in working with any other consulting or training firm.
When everyone sitting around the conference table went to the same school, has a common life experience and understanding of things; you're not going to get a lot of new ideas, solutions and improvements. In fact, this kind of corporate inbreeding will limit the intellectual gene pool resulting in more of the same thinking. "Insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results."
We Don't Know What We Don't Know
Mohandas K. Gandhi was once accused of having said something that conflicted with a prior statement. His response was something like, "I will not waste my time apologizing for what I've said in the past. I can only seek to be faithful to the truth as it reveals itself to me." We don't know what we don't know.
No matter how smart a manager or management team , there's no way he/she/they know it all. Sometimes the true value of having an outsider review how things are done is that they ask dumb questions, because they don't know how things are done. Hiring a consultant who knows how you do things limits the potential payback. this excerpt is from an article titled "Corporate Inbreeding Hurts Profit"
An other thing to consider is how you spend the training budget, and if you don't have a training budget get one. How to spend the money? Try something new like video training, or teletraining. I still think that the best training takes place face to face but airfares are, excuse the pun, going sky high. And not having to spend time traveling reduces the cost of the training and wear and tear on the trainer. And some of those guys are not as young as they use to be.
Recently a man in Dallas asked if I remembered him , that we had met 17 years before. And then he went on to say, "When we met I had hair and your hair had color." And yes I did remember him...thanks for asking.
By now some of you may think that being that I'm a business trainer and speaker myself I have a vested interest in companies not cutting their training budget and you'd be right...but it's still true.
When things slow down it's time to prune and prepare for the next season. And it's time to see some new faces around the table.
Abe WalkingBear Sanchez is an International Speaker / Trainer / Consultant on the subject of cash flow / sales enhancement and business knowledge organization and use. Founder and President of www.armg-usa.com, WalkingBear has authored hundreds of business articles, has worked with numerous companies in a wide range of industries since 1982 and has spoken at many venues including the Shakespeare Globe Theater in London.]]>
How to Start a Home-Based Virtual Assistant Businesstag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.21682008-06-25T23:00:01Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z This article is by our guest writer Diana Ennen, who is also the Author of Virtual Assistant: The Series, Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA, & The Corel Word Perfect Office Ready Virtual Assistant Solution Pack. She also...Steven TeoThis article is by our guest writer Diana Ennen, who is also the Author of Virtual Assistant: The Series, Become a Highly Successful, Sought After VA, & The Corel Word Perfect Office Ready Virtual Assistant Solution Pack. She also owns a website: http://www.virtualwordpublishing.comSetting up a virtual assistant business is relatively easy, but it's important to have a complete plan of action set out in advance. I'm a firm believer that the initial planning phase of a business is crucial to its success. This ensures that you don't leave any vital steps unaddressed and also prevents any unexpected surprises down the road. Therefore, I recommend first writing a complete business plan for your business. Nothing technical, just how you plan to operate your business including advertising methods, pricing, business hours, equipment and supplies needed, etc.The next step is to select the appropriate name. Take your time here as you want your business name to be an asset by appealing to your potential clients. Your name needs to clearly express what services you provide and not limit you if you choose to expand your business into other areas. Decide on a name that people would want to call if they have virtual assisting needs.
To operate a business you are required by law to have the appropriate licenses. This is your permit to do business locally. It's a simple procedure that doesn't require a considerable amount of time. Contact your city and county officials under occupational licenses for complete details or go online. Most VAs start out initially as a sole proprietorship and then might change later.
Now it's time to set up your bookkeeping. I find that the most important ingredient to keeping good books is keeping it simple. If it's easy to do, and doesn't require a lot of effort, I tend it do it more regularly. You will want to keep track of all your income and expenses. Save all receipts and pay all your expenses out of your business checking account. A software program such as Quickbooks is ideal for our type of business. Not only does it allow you to keep accurate records, but it also enables you to track exactly where the most money is coming from. This enables you to target your marketing efforts more in that area.
Now you must decide how much to charge. Don't undercharge your services. Many make this mistake. They feel if they price their services substantially below everyone else, they'll get more business. That's true--you might get more business, but you'll also be working outrageous hours and not making the kind of income you should. Call others in your area and see what they are charging. The average prices being charge today are between $35.00 and $100.00, depending on the specialty. I personally recommend starting no lower than $35.00/hr.
Now you need to get those clients. The key to successful marketing is to tell clients what benefits they will receive by answering their main question, "What's in it for me?" Keep in mind, you're not selling your services, you're selling the benefits of your services. What can you offer them that would make their business run more successfully? An example of this would be accurate dependable service done on an "as needed" basis.
It is also important to have an impressive marketing piece. Your brochures, letterhead, flyers, business cards, etc., should look sensational. Think back on what has caught your eye in the past. Now design your material with that in mind. The most important requirement is that it must be professional and convey that you are more than someone typing documents. Businesses want to deal with other professionals. They don't want to risk their work, and possibly their clients, on someone who is not. Let them know this is exactly what they will receive when they seek your services. Places such as Vistaprints offer affordable printing.
Once established, word of mouth is your best advertisement. When people get professional, accurate, and friendly service they tell others. If you offer such exceptional service, you can be assured that you will need to advertise only at the onset to get your business started. From then on, your repeat clients, and referrals from them, will keep your business thriving.
Recognition is also a key to success, whether it's through the press releases, articles, message boards, newspapers, chats, your website, radio or TV, when clients see your business repeatedly, they become familiar with your company and when the need arises, they will call you. Therefore consider where you can advertise that can keep your name out there.
Now that you've got the clients, you need to keep them. The best way to do this is to always provide them with more than they ask for. Go the extra mile on all assignments. Let them know that you value their business and are eager to help them succeed.
And finally, enjoy your business. Many start their own business to spend more time with their family. It's the perfect way to stay at home and still make an excellent income. Firmly set your hours and learn to say no. Remember it's your business and often your dream come true. By learning your limitations, you can keep it a wonderful experience that both you and your family will enjoy.
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Take 5 To Improve Listening Skillstag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22502008-06-24T16:35:06Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z This article is contributed by Karen S. Sieczka In the business world, it pays to listen and know how to ask the right questions. Miscommunication and misunderstanding can lead to problems… unhappy customers, lost sales, excess inventory, misunderstood instructions,...Marcel SimThis article is contributed by Karen S. Sieczka
In the business world, it pays to listen and know how to ask the right questions. Miscommunication and misunderstanding can lead to problems… unhappy customers, lost sales, excess inventory, misunderstood instructions, shoddy work, and disgruntled employees … all influencing your company’s bottom line.
Face-to-face communication is still the foundation of many business relationships and good listening skills are an essential part of this communication. Listening skills can open doors and build working relationships. Use verbal cues, eye contact, and positive body language. Draw out information by asking open ended, non-judgmental questions. Reflect what the speaker is saying by restating and reinforcing what is said and asking for clarification if it is not clear. This reassures understanding for both parties. People feel more important when they perceive they are being heard.
A good listener can build trust, empathy, and understanding by practicing and improving listening skills. The ability to listen and actually hear what is being said is becoming rare as we spend more at our computers. Good listening makes for more open communications and prevents many problems before they start.
Here are some simple tips to improve your listening skills:
1. STOP: When someone talks to you, stop and give your full consideration. Focus. When you give your undivided attention, people feel they matter.
2. USE ACTIVE LISTENING: Show you are interested by your body language, using verbal cues, and making eye contact. Make sure your listening to talking ratio is 2:1; listen twice as much as you talk.
3. ASK OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS: Draw out information by asking open ended questions such as: “Why do you think that is?”or ” That’s interesting. Can you tell me more?” Don’t just ask yes or no questions.
4. RESTATE AND REFLECT: Reflect what the speaker is saying by restating what was just said in your own words. Ask for clarification if you are not sure. This reassures understanding for both parties.
5. PRACTICE SKILLS BEFORE PROBLEMS ARISE: The time for improving listening skills is before there are problems. By building a foundation ahead of time, communications flow more freely during times of crisis.
Karen S. Sieczka is a training consultant and founder of Growing Great Ideas.com. Her latest training program is Growing Great Ideas: Unleashing Creativity at Work. The program generates ideas, enthusiasm, and teamwork and can be customized to address particular organizational issues or challenges. She is also writing a book Growing Great Ideas: Unleashing Creativity at Work. The book will be in print in September 2008. ]]>
The High Cost of the Law of Unintended Consequencestag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22552008-06-23T23:00:38Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z For four years I did a conference where I invited business owners to tell us what they right in their business. We picked the top 12 stories and these successful business owners were given an opportunity to tell their...Ron Finklestein
For four years I did a conference where I invited business owners to tell us what they right in their business. We picked the top 12 stories and these successful business owners were given an opportunity to tell their story to up to 300 conference attendees.
While promoting the last conference, I sent faxed invitations to business owners who I thought would enjoy the positive press and would be interested in promoting their company to 300 people.
Several asked that I remove them from the list and I did so.
Four of them engaged a lawyer and filed a law suit.
Apparently there is a law that says you cannot fax someone unless you have written permission. This puzzled me especially since the names and fax numbers came from a public list I acquired from Reference USA.
The law states you cannot sell a product or service via fax without written permission (there is more but that is the highlight).
Since the fax I sent invited the business owner to a networking event where we could talk with them about their story and the role the conference would play in helping them grow their business, we were not in violation of the law.
The Cleveland based lawyer filed the lawsuit for a Cleveland based heating and air conditioning company. Apparently this lawyer files lawsuits when people receive an unwanted fax. As I talked with people about this lawsuit, I learned I was not the only one he has extorted money from. His reputation is less than stellar.
I am sure this lawsuit was not the intent of the fax law and our law makers really should fix this law to prevent this abuse.
According to my lawyer, the lawsuit is “legalized extortion” but his suggested was to settle the suit because of the cost of going to court and the difficulty in counter-suing.
It cost a lot of money and time to run this conference to promote good news in NEO. It cost a lot of money in legal fees to settle this law suit.
It is hard to plead “not guilty” when I clearly broke the law – even though I did not know the law existed. Sometimes we try to do something positive and it backfires. The backfire is what I call the law of unintended consequences.
There are two lessons to be learned: 1. Continue trying to do good but have a good lawyer. If you need a good lawyer let me know (email only please), I have more experience than I care to admit and I would be willing to share the names of the people who helped me. Asking a question to your lawyer before is always easier that dealing with a suit after the fact. 2. It doesn’t say much about our business owners if they cannot pick up the phone and ask to be taken of the list. To file a stupid and frivolous lawsuit to raise money is the ultimate in stupidity. The business owners who filed suit should be taken to the woodshed. It took a while to get my PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) back but I did. The essence of the second lesson is to trust your lawyer and stop worrying. Worrying does no good. All the sleep I lost did not change the outcome of the suit. Not counting legal fees the total settlement was for $750.
I will not reveal this company in this post and I suspect he has more problems that receiving a fax he does not want. He apparently has little regard for his business or his business reputation to get involved in this nonsense. The other four who had their name on this lawsuit did not do their business a favor.
I was bummed for a while about this law suit. I am over it now but I am saddened that our business community has to waste time, energy and money over something this stupid.
Check out the long term consequences with a group of trusted advisors. After all, many minds and many experiences are far more effective in the decision making process than any single mind or experience.
After a successful consulting career, Ron Finklestein has spent the past 6 years building his business AKRIS LLC and helping entrepreneurs and business owners build their businesses by helping them solve the tough problems that hold them back. Ron is called The Small Business Success Expert by his clients because of his passion for their success and his knowledge of business.]]>
Market Your Business Smart And Cheaplytag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22472008-06-21T23:00:48Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z BusinessKnowHow: Most, if not all, small businesses are built on a budget. Available funds must be used to buy technology, additional phone lines and marketing materials such as business cards. In this article you will find ten low cost...Steven TeoBusinessKnowHow: Most, if not all, small businesses are built on a budget. Available funds must be used to buy technology, additional phone lines and marketing materials such as business cards. In this article you will find ten low cost or no cost tips that will help you get your first customer and build your business.
1) Obtain free or low cost business cards at a company such as www.VistaPrint.com.
2) Have a new or rebuilt shopping center opening in your town? Attend the grand opening and chat with the business owners and staff and hand out your free or low cost business cards.
3) Create flyers with your phone number on tear off tabs and place them at the library, grocery store, coffee shops, etc.
4) Hold a contest. People love freebies.
5) Write an article that would appeal to your target audience such as small business owners, add a four to five line biography with your e-mail address and web site address.
6) Create an informative presentation around your topic area and contact your local Chamber of Commerce and offer to speak at a monthly meeting.
7) Create coupons offering a free or discounted product or a free hour of service for every two or three hours of paid service.
8) Use the time you spend sitting in traffic to gain new clients. For less than thirty dollars you can purchase a sign for your car from www.iprint.com or www.webdecal.com.
9) Create a press release announcing the opening of your business or some other milestone event. Send the press release to editors at your local newspaper and to other free area publications.
10) Ask for referrals. Give your business card to your family members, neighbors, hair salon, etc. and ask that they pass them on.
Top Ten Frugal Ways to Market Your Small Business [BusinessKnowHow]]]>
Do You Have The Courage To Be An Extraordinary Leader?tag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22462008-06-20T23:00:59Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z At a recent networking meeting, I had the opportunity to hear Pernille Spiers-Lopez speak. Danish born, Pernille immigrated to the United States about 26 years ago as a young woman. After a few jobs that didn’t pan out for...Lorraine Cohen
At a recent networking meeting, I had the opportunity to hear Pernille Spiers-Lopez speak.
Danish born, Pernille immigrated to the United States about 26 years ago as a young woman. After a few jobs that didn’t pan out for her, she found herself working in the Marketplace at Ikea, an international home furnishings retail chain originating from Sweden. Rising quickly through the company, Pernille was vaulted to become President of Ikea North America in 1997. An innovator and change advocate, she shared that her rise to success and personal life satisfaction was tremendously aided by her commitment to her spiritual and personal growth journey.
I had the privilege to be seated at her table with a small group and immediately recognized a kindred spirit. While she delivered her speech, I sat there and grinned as she echoed many of the things I continually talk and write about.
Here are the keys to success she spoke about:
1. Know your values – what you stand for. Live your life in alignment with your values so that you are being true to who you are.
2. Grow yourself as a person; invest in yourself and your people. As a result of changes she initiated at Ikea that were employee supportive, the chain has shown increases in profits and employee retention. Personally, she credits her own consciousness journey as adding more joy and peace to her life as well as helping her to be an effective leader.
3. Be courageous. As President of Ikea, she initiated multiple company changes that dramatically increased employee retention including: addressing flexibility needs, creating a “quiet room” for nursing mothers, and substantially increasing the number of women and minorities in management She spoke quite a bit about being willing to trust herself in her choices and actions. Knowing who she is gives her courage to make the tough and easier decisions as a leader, wife and mother with compassion and strength.
4. Surround yourself with good people. In addition to building a strong workforce, she mentioned her participation in two business groups gives her additional support in being successful.
5. Embrace innovation and change. She sees possibilities and improvement in the experience of change to be inviting rather than fearing the unknown. Attitude affects how we view things - as a positive or a negative; compelling or repelling. With all of the positive innovations she has initiated at work, she commented with a small laugh that her teams have asked her not to make any more big changes this year. Her pride in what she has accomplished as a leader at Ikea was evident.
6. Be passionate. What makes you feel the most alive, calls to your heart, and brings you the most joy? She acknowledged how her passion fuels her courage and willingness to show up.
7. Take a stand for what you believe in no matter if it’s an unpopular position or meets resistance. Trust in yourself and inner knowing without wavering when you feel solidly clear about something you believe in. Hold onto that power without giving it away to others. Her passion and trust in her instincts and abilities empowers her to stand strong as a leader. She stated she is not afraid to stand up for her values and fight for what she believes is right.
8. Set personal and business boundaries. With her busy schedule, Pernille clearly states that when she’s at work, she is fully focused on the demands of her job. She works 8-5, has no Blackberry, and turns her cell phone off when she’s at home. What keeps her strong is listening to her body and her intuition while having strong work-life balance boundaries. She’s learned to separate her work and home life so that she can be fully present to what matters most in her life.
Dr. Lorraine Cohen, President of Powerfull Living, brings more than 25 years experience in personal and business coaching, psychological counseling, and sales to thousands of spiritually minded business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders from a wide range of industries. Learn more about Lorraine’s services, success products and programs.]]>
Just Do It May Be The Right!tag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22452008-06-19T23:00:19Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z OnStartups: Chances are, if you're reading this article, you are either involved in a startup already, or looking to be involved in one. This article is for the folks in the latter category, the "wannabepreneurs". The ones that have...Steven TeoOnStartups: Chances are, if you're reading this article, you are either involved in a startup already, or looking to be involved in one.
This article is for the folks in the latter category, the "wannabepreneurs". The ones that have always wanted to be entrepreneurs, but haven't quite gotten around to it. The folks still slogging it away in BigCo land waiting for the "right" entrepreneurial opportunity to come along.
Here's my advice: Stop Waiting!
If you've got a passion for startups, you need to be in a startup. Either run with the best idea you have and start your own thing (even if the idea sort of sucks), or join the best people you know that are already doing something. Just get out of the daily slog that is most big businesses. Scratch that itch.
Be an entrepreneur, not a wannabepreneur.
Here are a few quick points to help convince you:
1. You're probably overestimating the risk of leaving that BigCo job. Chances are, that sort of job (or something awfully similar) will be there a year from now if things go miserably.
2. Though nothing compares to doing your own thing, joining a startup team is not bad either. It's a great way to dip your toes in the water. Often, half the battle is just getting out of your comfort zone and being around startup people.
3. Regardless of what your risk tolerance is, you can likely still find opportunities that are more entrepreneurial than what you're doing now. There are startups with really high risk, with nothing but a dream and a developer (or two) all the way to startups that have raised several rounds of funding and are on the IPO path. You should be able to find a startup that meets your risk profile.
4. Unless you have some compelling evidence that things are going to get easier later to do something more entrepreneurial, chances are, they're not (going to get easier). So, if the question is when, not if, then ask yourself "why not sooner, rather than later?"
5. For those that are thinking: "Yeah, this is all easy for you to say, you're not walking in my shoes", I say this: You're right. If you truly don't have the situation or circumstances to take the leap, that's ok. I just implore you to at least think about it and decide for yourself whether your obstacles are real or perceived.
I'll close with a quote that's been on my list of favorites for a while:
"Regret for the things we did can be tempered by time; it is regret for the things we did not do that is inconsolable." -Sydney HarrisTaking The Leap: Don't Just Be A Wannabepreneur [OnStartups]]]>
Recession Proof Your Salestag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22442008-06-19T14:41:39Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z A tale of two companies The contrast couldn't be sharper. Company T had lost it's direction and was sinking fast. Where sales were once $18M, they ultimately plunged to less than $6M. Where they once set the standard in...Brandt SmithA tale of two companies
The contrast couldn't be sharper.
Company T had lost it's direction and was sinking fast. Where sales were once $18M, they ultimately plunged to less than $6M. Where they once set the standard in their industry for customer service, now they were the joke of the town.
Company C was a different breed. It had always been the small respected underdog. At $6M is was a third of company T's size. Where everyone else in the industry had lost over half their business, they were holding fast and had doubled their customer base. They were poised to exit the recession as a dominant player.
Why was company C thriving in the recession while company T (and the rest of the industry) foundered? They had a strong sales focus. They seized the chance to grow market share. They saw the opportunity to eliminate several bottom feeders that constantly drug down prices.
7 Keys to selling during a recession
Go back to basics
When things start spinning out of control it is time to reevaluate. What does a good coach work on when his team is slumping? He goes back to basics.
It isn't exciting, but think back to your early days when you were learning sales.Take a deep breath, step back, and look at sales 101.
Focus on the customer
Business starts and ends with your customer. Identify his needs. This becomes the basis for your products/services. No, that doesn't mean you give away the store. It just means that every aspect of your business needs to support your customer. Anything else is a waste of time and money.
Most businesses focus on their systems and expense control. Their criteria for all decisions is making their own jobs easier. Guess what...the customer doesn't care!
Focus on your niche
This is not the time to try new techniques, find new markets, or launch new products. That is a desperate act that just wastes your time and money. If anything you should actually focus your resources on your top products, services, and markets. Remember, jack of all trades, master of none.
Take a minute and define your focus. What is your niche market? What are their needs? What are you doing now to service them? What could you do better? How can you dominate your niche and grow your market share?
Increase your sales budget
Contrary to what your operations manager says you can't cut your way to a profit. Business starts and ends with the customer. Yes you need to tighten your belt. Expense control is important. Just be smart where you spend your money. Ask the question "will it grow my business?"
Increase your sales expense budget. Spend more on strategic lunches. Give your top salesman a bonus. Reward your sales support team. Thank your top customers for their loyalty and send them a gift.
Compare this to what your competition is doing. Right now they are reigning in their salesman. In fact, they probably just fired a few! You stand out and can take market share if you are smart.
Dump the deadbeats
Fire the bottom 20% of your customers. I can hear the screaming now. "We can't afford to lose any more business." This is bunk. These customers take 80% of your time for 20% of the income. Cut them loose and spend your resources on customers you can satisfy!
Guard your customer base
Right now everyone is hungry. They are eying your customers like a starving wolf eyes a young lamb. Take care of your customer. Give them such value and service that they wouldn't dream of going elsewhere. Build deep relationships with the key decision makers-remember that the buying decision is emotional. Logic is used to justify the decision.
Make a list you your customers and rank them. Focus your time and energy on your stars.
Branch out to new accounts
The flip side of guarding your customers is to go on the attack. Remember that your competition is cutting back on spending. They have let a few salesmen go. The remaining salesmen are overloaded and overworked.
Make a customer wish list. Look at the competition and identify their top customers to target.
Brandt Smith is a sales, marketing, public speaking, and professional development expert. Learn about achieving wealth and life balance through entrepreneurship at Wealth and Wisdom, where he is cofounder and senior editor. Their advice on wealth building, personal development, and life balance can help take you to the next level. You can also read more of his thoughts on his blog.
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7 Steps Of Communicationtag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22352008-06-18T23:00:10Z2008-06-29T09:00:43Z Here are 7 steps of communication, if applied, will allow you to develop your communication skills that can make you a master communicator. Communication can be likened to a step by step process of checking if you really understand...Adam KhooHere are 7 steps of communication, if applied, will allow you to develop your communication skills that can make you a master communicator. Communication can be likened to a step by step process of checking if you really understand another person from your point of view.
First, you need to listen and observe for the level of importance of this topic to the person you are speaking to and calibrate to that person's level of interest. Calibration is so important when communicating, that if you are unable to calibrate or identify whether or not that person is interested, you might just lose that person straight away.
Second, check congruence in communication. What do I mean by congruence? It means that if he says, "Yes." verbally, he shouldnot be shaking his head, "No." That is incongruence.
Number three is to identify incongruence in communication. We need to clarify meanings and terminologies used. This is for a simple fact that we need to understand what the other person means exactly.
Number four, we need to confirm those meanings. So, if someone said, "Oh! When you look at me, you appear to be extremely angry."What you need to do is to confirm, "Oh! How exactly do I look atyou that mean that I am angry?" The confirmation actually gets you the common understanding that both of you need that will propel your communication to the next level.
Number five, explore alternative meanings. What you are doing hereis eliciting a series of counter examples, to see whether thesemeanings fit in with the person's model of the world.
Number six, offers possibilities. If there are no alternatemeanings, what you might want to do is explore possibilities where one thing could mean something else. This is also known as reframing.
Number seven, summarize your personal experience in communicating with this other person, by starting off and saying, "My experience of you is" and so on. This way, both of you understand each other,and nothing is hidden from each other. It is perfectly honest and direct.
We say that communication is a two way process. This means that communication requires clarity to both parties. Until you understand what I am saying, or until I construct my communicationin a way that makes you understand me, we need to ask questionseven more effectively to reach our win-win outcome. These 7 steps are useful and can be applied anytime we are communicating with another person. Adam Khoo is an entrepreneur, a best-selling author and a peak performance trainer. A self-made millionaire by the age of 26, he owns and runs several businesses in education, training, event management and advertising, all with a combined annual turnover of $20 million. His best-selling "Patterns of Excellence" is a complete step-by-step system that will literally program you for success in life.]]>
20 Ways To A Successful Media Interviewtag:www.getentrepreneurial.com,2008://2.22422008-06-17T23:00:12Z2008-06-29T08:41:12Z Our friend at YoungEntrepreneur.com, Evan Carmichael, alerted us to a really insightful post written by Anthony Mora for his weekly Entrepreneur University feature. Its about having 20 ways to have a successful Media Interview. Review the following checklist: 1)...Steven Teo
Our friend at YoungEntrepreneur.com, Evan Carmichael, alerted us to a really insightful post written by Anthony Mora for his weekly Entrepreneur University feature. Its about having 20 ways to have a successful Media Interview.
Review the following checklist:
1) Review the two or three primary points that you want to get across during the interview.
2) Make sure you’ve checked yourself in a mirror before you go on camera. Is your hair in place? Is your tie crooked? Is your lipstick smeared? Give yourself the basic once-over.
3) Remember, you don’t have to force the information; weave your points into the interview. If you spend your time forcing an issue, it will come out sounding strained and stilted.
4) Relax. You are there to have a conversation. Well, at least you want it to look like a conversation.
5) No slouching. Sit erect.
6) Focus on the interviewer. The camera and crew is part of the furniture as far as you’re concerned.
7) Start off with your most important information. Interviews can be very short. If you don’t lead with what’s important, you may have missed your chance.
8) Breathe. People have a tendency to hold their breath when nervous, which only creates more anxiety. Remember to breathe.
9) Smile. I’ve seen more media opportunities ruined by people who have refused to smile during their interviews. Looking grave does not make you appear more profound, it makes you look dull and somber.
10) Listen. Don’t anticipate questions. Don’t think that you know what the interviewer is asking. Wait until the question is asked and then respond.
Learn more for the rest of the 10 ways now at YoungEntrepreneur.com's article: 20 Ways To A Successful Media Interview - Entrepreneur University.]]>
Dr. Lorraine Cohen, President of Powerfull Living, brings more than 25 years experience in personal and business coaching, psychological counseling, and sales to thousands of spiritually minded business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders from a wide range of industries. Learn more about Lorraine’s services, success products and programs.]]>
