Making Connections, Creating Relationships

Do you have a “B Word”?

Posted in: Small Business Tips, Uncategorized On: 08/07/2012 By: Jennifer

Before I even start I can anticipate the eye rolls, like being a child and your mom asks you if you washed your hands after leaving the washroom.

But I am going to ask you a very important question.

One I ask all my clients!

Do you have a “B word“?

A Business Plan?

I know I can hear you now, “Yes I do, it is in my head. I’m the only one that needs to know the info any way right?”

WRONG!!

Your business plan is important for so many reasons!!

Funding- The obvious Reason- if and when you go to the bank or to an investor and want/need funding they will want to know that you have a clear plan of attack. They will want to see that you know what you are doing and that you have put some thought into how you are going to do it.

Selling/ Unexpected Need Time Away- Sometimes things happen unexpectedly, there are deaths in the family, surprise but wonderful pregnancies, illnesses, car accidents etc etc. when these things happen managers often need to be hired at a moments notice with little to no training. Having a written business plan makes it simpler to explain processes and goals in a quick and officiant manner.

Marketing/ Advertising- When I go into a business one of the first questions I ask is “do you have a business plan”? I am not looking for the financial part of the business plan, but I do look over the companies goals, sales processes, target markets, key products, etc etc. All of this information gives me a good foundation for creating a social media plan. Each and every detail provided in this document helps me to see where the business has been and where it is going.

Day to Day  Decisions- Funny how small businesses think it is OK to ignore the business plan, yet the big successful businesses use theirs daily. They use it in their staff meetings. Sales are up 5 %, Cashier #34 needs to speed up (yes they time you and compare you). I am not saying you have to take it to extremes, but let your staff know what the goals are. Let them know what they are working for. Let them be apart of the success.

I could go on and on for reasons to make a business plan. But basically I just want to get you thinking about it. It doesn’t have to be pretty. Doesn’t have to be written in “Lawyer Talk” It just needs to have a clear and concise plan of attack. One that you can refer to on a daily and weekly basis to ensure you are staying on track.

If you implement this one step into your business, you will see a huge difference in your ability to make quick and financially healthy decisions. Your branding, marketing and advertising will stay on track and you will reach your goals so much faster with less effort.

 

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A Bully is a Bully, No Matter What Age

Posted in: Misc Tips, Online Marketing, Reputation Management, Social Media On: 05/01/2012 By: Jennifer

Unless you have had your head in the sand for the last 10 years, we are all very aware of the bullying problems seen in schools and colleges. We are all saddened to turn on the news to see stories of teen suicides, school shootings and violence caused by bullying.

As parents we all gasp, thank the Lord it is not our child, then sit down and talk to our kids about being nice. We tell them we will not put up with bullying and why can’t you just all get along?

Well I want to bring up a serious situation that I have been watching online in the last few months, that really worries me. It is online bullying!!!

And guess what?

It is not kids who are doing it. It is adults, educated business owners and people respected in their communities. It is 30 year old men and women who are name calling, making fun of competitors and banning people from secret clubs online. They are groups of online friends teaming up to make a point and virtually laying a beating on a person.

Well I just want to give my 2 cents on the topic:

For anyone who has taken my class, you all know that I do not like confrontation. I don’t post about politics, religion ect. I make it a point to keep my personal views out of my business. I am known to unfollow people who cause drama.

I know my strategy does not work for everyone and some businesses need to be out there.I am not one bit against standing up for our beliefs. I also am a strong believer in being who you are and not changing for anyone.

BUT

I also believe that we can’t expect our children to learn to get along. To learn to be caring, loving, accepting people unless we model the same behavior.

And if that doesn’t make you think twice, maybe you should stop and think how those actions reflect on your business, employees and industry. Remember the person who is being the bully is not fooling anyone. We all see it. We remember it and it will affect how people react to you in the long run. It may not affect your business initially but eventually it will come back and bite you in the wallet.

“What if the kid you bullied at school, grew up, and turned out to be the only surgeon who could save your life?” 
― Lynette Mather

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How Theo Fleury Helped Me Write My First Book

Posted in: Misc Tips, MY Pursuit of Happiness On: 04/25/2012 By: Jennifer

I fell asleep hard and fast last night after a crazy two days of working the Election, teaching classes and meeting with clients. My kids were sleeping over at their grandparents, my husband was on night shifts so he came home and went to bed so I decided to sleep in. Well who knew that while sleeping I would be hit over the head with an idea.

You see, for some time, I have been talking about writing a kids book series based on traumatic events. These books will walk small children through the after effects of  death, illness, molestation, abuse etc. They would be available at hospitals, crisis centers, schools and funeral homes.

I had been thinking about these books for some time, but recently I went to an amazing business retreat called the Real Growth Retreat, while I was there I met many authors, heard their writing experiences, talked to some of the attendees about my idea and got some great ideas and suggestions which really picked up my interest level.

When I got home I tried to stop thinking about it, hoping to wait a couple years before I start, while I am working on building my business and writing a social media book.

But the universe had a different idea for me.

While I was sleeping, I had a dream about Theo Fleury who I had heard speak at an event I attended recently for the Crisis Center in Red Deer called Passionate Forward. In my dream I met Theo and was chatting with him and talking about making change and helping the kids. My eyes opened, I ran to the living room grabbed my notebook and pen, jumped back in bed and with out even thinking just started writing.

I wrote my first draft about a little boy who had been molested by a family member and how he got through the aftermath of the molestation.

Now I have to decide what to do with it…

Ideas welcome :)

 

Photo provided by www.123rf.com

 

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What’s In My Toolbox?

Posted in: Misc Tips, Small Business Tips On: 04/23/2012 By: Jennifer

I get asked for a list of my resources on a regular basis. Here is a list of the main programs I use on a regular basis:

Newsletters: Constant Contact & Mail Chimp

Blogging/ CMS: WordPress

Suggested WordPress Plugins:

Gravity Forms

SEO Pack for WordPress

Wishlist Member

Website Pop Ups: Popup Domination

Prescheduling : Hootsuite

Link Shortener:  Bitly

Listening Tools: Google Analytics, Google Alerts

Recording Software: Jing and Camtasia

Webinars: Instant Teleseminar

Payment: Paypal

Twitter Tools: Twellow.com, Tweetchat

Resizing Images: Pic Resizer ( Photoshop also offers a free month of use on the Adobe Site)

Screenshots: Pic Pick

Presentations: Prezi and Powerpoint , Slide Share

Royalty Free Images: Istockphoto.com,123RF.com

Domain: Go Daddy

Hosting: Host Papa

What are your favorite business tools? Please share them in the comments below…

Image provided by 123RF.com

 

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Facebook Timeline Covers

Posted in: Facebook, Misc Tips, Social Media On: 04/21/2012 By: Jennifer

New Timeline Covers, What Is and Isn’t Allowed?

According to Facebook, Timelines can NOT contain:

  •  Sale or price ( 10% off or BOGO)
  •  Contact information,address or web address
  •  Call to actions like “sign up today”
  •  They must also represent the page and not be misleading, deceptive or infringe on someone else’s copyright.

So What Should The Timeline Have?

Well, the timeline should be visually appealing, eye catching and branded to your business. Although it is easy to upload any old image as a header, it is worth every cent to have a custom design created to flow with your other branding.

What Content Can You Include In Your Timeline?

  • Business name
  • Tag line
  • Company logo (this could be in your profile image or timeline cover)
  • Images (your most popular products, store front, staff image)

What Size Is The Cover Image?

An ideal timeline image is 851 pixels wide, 315 pixels tall and less than 100 kilobytes.  Your profile picture which is 133 pixels wide by 74 pixels tall, spaced 24 pixels from the left edge of the cover photo, which means your timeline image must be designed to allow for this break.

How Do You Upload The Timeline Cover?

  1. Log into your page
  2. Mouse over your existing timeline image, click on “Change Cover” on the lower right side of image
  3. Select “Upload Image”, browse to where you have saved the image on your computer
  4. Save changes

(If you do not have a timeline yet, click the timeline preview button at the top of your page to activate)

How Often Should You Change Your Timeline Cover Image?

When in business, the goal is to create a strong image that works with your brand and then keep it as long as possible. The only time I would change the image is if the branding changes, people in the photo have changed their look, it features a product or service you no longer provide.

 

 

 

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9 months After My Pursuit of Happiness

Posted in: MY Pursuit of Happiness On: 04/19/2012 By: Jennifer

It has been 9 months since my first blog post with Jenniferbelanger.com called My Pursuit of Happiness.  Honestly if you had told me 9 months ago that I would be where I am now, I would have laughed in your face. Seriously. I am such a different person then I was 9 months ago and am so happy about it. I think Jo Dumont was right when she said 30 was the magic number and even though I am not there yet, I know that I am at a place in my life where I know who I am and what I want and it is amazing!

 

 

In the last 9 months I have:

  1. Created an entire brand for my business around what I love
  2. Taken part in 6 months of business coaching with Gina Bell (best investment I have ever made)
  3. Created 6 custom Social Media classes which I teach on an ongoing basis
  4. Spoke at the Red Deer College, Independent Achievers, Real Growth Retreat, as well as many large direct sales training events (have I told you I was always terrified of speaking in front of people?)
  5. Trained hundreds of people both online and in person to use social media
  6. Have completed 3 webinars with many more coming
  7. Had one of my articles featured in The Rebelpreneur
  8. Stood up to my fear of video and have created 20 training videos to date
  9. Have taken part in a ton of learning opportunities to expand my own knowledge
  10. Built a strong network of women who have become amazing friends as well as business alliances
  11. And have managed to create a second income for my family and I, all while being a homeschooling mom to a hockey playing 8 year old, a mommy to a ever so energetic 3 year old and a wife to an amazingly supportive husband.

What does the next 9 months look like for me?

Well I am continuing to climb my amazing mountain all while enjoying every step. My goal is to continue growing my speaking career, take part in a Joint Venture (not sure what yet), write a book (working on this now), continue working and growing my clients and moving my business more and more online.  Who knows what great side tracks I will take and what great opportunities will appear. All I know is I am ready and waiting for the success and adventures that are coming my way.

Images provided by www.123rf.com

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8 Business Rockstars – Share How Social Media Has Changed The Way They Do Business!

Posted in: Misc Tips, Online Marketing, Small Business Tips, Social Media, Uncategorized On: 02/14/2012 By: Jennifer

 Expectation of Instant Results

“As designers go, I’m long in the tooth. I learned design “old-school” — rubylith and type galleys and paste-up with waxers — the last of a dying breed.

Being online has been changing my industry for over 20 years. I have been lucky in that I’ve been “growing old” with the technology… from early forums and bulletin boards to today’s twitter and video streaming technology… it’s mind blowing if I think about how much it’s changed. What I’ve noticed most, however, is not only our reliance on it, but the expectation of instant results. 

The pace has become frenetic. It’s more of a pressure cooker than ever. When I started in the business, concept was king; now it’s content. Produce more, but with less… less money, less creative, less time, less space. The notion of getting a profound message across in 30 seconds was a challenge 20 years ago… now do it in 140 characters. Gray mares like me can find it pretty exhausting. The fact that I’m writing this at 11 pm after rising at 4 am and working all day should underscore that message.

Freak, I could write an essay on this… I’d better stop now…”

Patricia Simoneau of Grassroots Marketing & Brand Design
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Engage and Build Relationships
“I help moms revitalize their careers and bodies through coaching, workshops, classes and personal training.  When I’m not interacting with clients one-on-one, social networking sites like LinkedIn and Facebook provide an opportunity to share value-added content, tips and resources.   My business, CareerFit Mom (www.careerfitmom.ca), has reached a broader audience through Twitter and I personally learn something amazing from following folks I might not have otherwise had a chance to meet.  Social networking lets me engage others, build relationships and provide support to other moms, but you know what, it is super fun too!”
Beth Yarzab of Career Fit Mom

 

 

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Help Support my Family with my Hobby
“Well first let me introduce my self. I’m a mother to two beautiful twin girls, Izzie and Marley, a wife of 4 years to my wonderful husband Adam, and I just celebrated my 27th birthday. I’am a certified medical office assistant and work 3 days a week. Most people ask me “Where the heck do you have time to fit in a crochet business in your busy life?!” and all I can say is that my husband watches alot of hockey at night!! But on a serious note I could not have a successful home-based business if it wasn’t for the internet, or facebook. I started off with crocheting a few hats one day and I posted a picture of them on facebook and my friends fell in love with my talent. Soon there after I was selling them to friends of friends and acquaintances. A few months later, all those people told their friends and my facebook page started blowing up with fans from all over the world, its so amazing how fast word spreads. I find social media to be a great tool for us busy moms who just don’t have the time to go out shopping or looking for that certain special something, its just as easy now to type in a few key words than hoping in the van and driving into town and browsing all the stores. Thanks to social media I now have a great way to help support my family with my hobby.”

 

Kiley Panziera of Funky Monkey Toques
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Generated Revenue
“Social Media has allowed me to connect with my readers which I feel is a very powerful resource. I receive feedback from my fan base and it allows me to share new information about my site, share promotional contests, new ideas and much more.
Facebook and twitter have increased traffic to my web site and to my newsletter subscriber list. I think it also helps give my business, a face and a story not “just a site”. It also has helped me to better understand my visitors by directly hearing right from them.
In regards to business, twitter has opened many business doors:marketing, promotional opportunities and has helped engage sales as well. Being a small company of one, it has generated revenue to help get my website name out there and it has opened doors for potential clients to see and “hear”who I am.
But the most rewarding I feel is to hear from my readers, which I love as I see my web site statistics are great, but it’s so nice to actually hear from them and it makes you realize all the hard work is worth it!”
Cathy Piso of Kids Vancouver

 

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Reduce Spending
“Social Media has changed the way I do business.
Being online has had an extremely positive impact on my business because  I live in the rural area it has allowed me to reach out and build a community of relationships beyond my backyard. I have been able to significantly reduce the amount I was spending on print media, increase my visibility ,become part of organizations I may not have otherwise known about and has been an incredible tool for seeking out joint venture opportunities. Being online has also increased my productivity by having most information within a clicks reach.
I am pretty confident that my business would not be the same without being online.”
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Tell My Story
“Several years ago, I started a business selling a baby product I’d invented. I paid thousands of dollars for a professionally developed website thinking once I launched the site, orders would come. But they didn’t. I still had to market the product via old-fashioned avenues like public relations and advertising–both of which can be costly. I had no other way to reach the public and eventually closed the doors. But now, with my new business venture, I can barely keep up with the vast and varied ways I can let consumers know what I’m doing. I can blog, tweet, post, link, and pin. And that’s just the beginning. I can digg, stumble, start a channel, and more. Sometimes it’s overwhelming. I’m working now to craft my message for each venue and find out which one creates the most conversion to sales so that I can focus on those opportunities that are most effective. I still have to work just as hard to promote my product, but I don’t have to pay for the opportunity to promote nor do I have to wait for a newspaper or magazine to decide I’m newsworthy. It’s up to me to tell the story.”
Shelley Hunter of  Gift Card GirlFriend
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Building Connections
“The biggest way social media has changed my business is by expanding the connections I have with people I likely would not have met any other way.  These connections have resulted in great conversations, learning, shared resources, being a guest on Blog Talk Radio and teleseminars, being approached for collaborative book writing projects, speaking engagements and new friendships.
I engage via Facebook (http://facebook.com/CreativeWellnesswithLyndaMonk), Twitter (@LifeWriterCoach) and LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndamonk).  I have a lot to learn about how to use each of these amazing tools/platforms/communities to make a greater contribution as a coach, speaker, and writer online.  With the goal of learning in mind, I participated in the Social Media Camp 2011 in Victoria, BC, Canada where over 600 people gathered from Canada, the US, and beyond to explore more about how to use social media in business and in life.
I love connecting with people who inspire online – people who have a positive message and information/tools to share that contribute to individual and collective health, wellness, creativity, personal growth, and success.  My business is Creative Wellness – Awakened Living with Life Source Writing.  I inspire and teach helpers, healers, and others who make a difference to nourish their spirits, prevent burnout, and fill their emotional cups with a holistic reflective writing practice.  Social media is a great place to make a difference with words!”
Lynda Monk of Creative Wellness Works

 

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Promote Others
“I think in answer to your question—the answers are really endless but for me, personally, it is not only a way to promote your products to current and potential users but it is a way to also help the mompreneur community also. We can help promote others. I have found countless guests for my radio show through social media. I have found resources for doing business through LinkedIn, and I have found stores to carry my products through Facebook and Twitter.
Now with Pinterest entering the social media marketplace with a completely different type of platform while using Facebook and Twitter—it is integrated marketing at it’s finest form. One is able to reach so many more people with limited financial resources than ever before.”
Debbie Glickman of FairyTale Wishes Inc

 

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14 Twitter Questions Answered

Posted in: Misc Tips, Online Marketing, Small Business Tips, Social Media, Twitter, Uncategorized On: 02/13/2012 By: Jennifer

1. Why do I want to follow people I don’t know?

Twitter is the online version of a networking meeting. It gives you the prime opportunity to network with people at all hours of the day with no location issues. It helps to build relationships with people online that you can one day hopefully nurture in real life.

2. Should I follow everyone that follows me on Twitter?

No, when choosing who to follow. I ask myself the following questions:

  • Do I want to network with this person?
  • Are they in my target area?
  • Are they of interest to me?
  • Are they a leader in my industry?
  • Can I help them in some way?

If they do not fall into one of these areas, I do not follow them.

3. What is a HashTag?

A Hashtag is a way to easily group and search  tweets with a common topic. They are recognized by the # sign followed by a term Example #RGR2012 is the Hashtag for The Real Growth Retreat and #reddeer is the Hashtag for Tweets related to Red Deer. Anyone who uses this Hashtag will have their tweet added to the subject stream. When you search for a Hashtag rather then getting a bunch of random posts you only get posts that include that Hashtag. Hashtags are a great way to create online communities that are interested in the same topics.

4. Isn’t it rude to jump into a conversation?

Every conversation on Twitter is open to the public. The whole point of Twitter is to network and mingle. Just remember to be polite and you will be fine.

5. How do I find local twitter users?

One great way to find local Twitter users is to use www.twellow.com . It is a service that allows you to search Twitter users by location.

6. How do I search for people I know?

There are a few options when it comes to searching for people on Twitter.

  • Type their name into the Search bar at the top of your Twitter page
  • Type their user name directly into your search engine www.twitter.com/jenni_belanger
  • Do a twitter search from your email account for people already on Twitter

7. What are Twitter Lists and How do I use them?

Twitter Lists give you the ability to separate the people you are following into categories. You can then choose to only view the posts from that one list instead of seeing all following at one time. Some ideas for Lists would include “Local Tweeps”, “Photographers”, “Faves”, “Friends”. These lists can either be made public or private.

8. Can I change my User name on Twitter?

Yes, Twitter Usernames can be changed under settings. This is a good choice when changing company names rather than starting a new account.

9. What is a @reply and @metions?

Whenever you see the @ symbol it applies that ,the message is either directed to that person or is mentioning that person. These messages will appear in that person’s @mentions. You do not need to friend someone to send them a @reply.

10. How do I send a private message on Twitter?

Anything that you post in the Twitter feed will be visible to the public. If you want to send a private message, you click on the Direct Message link at the top right hand corner of your page.

11. Do I use a headshot or a logo?

When it comes to business, the answer to this depends on your social media goal. I prefer to use a head shot since Twitter is a networking platform and I want people to recognize my face and feel like they know me. However there are times when a company will set up a company profile and will have more than one twitter user using the same account, or their goal is to grow company awareness and not a personal brand, then they would use a logo.

12. When and why should I use the location option?

The location option is great when you have a store front, when you are at a tradeshow, community event or networking event. I want to caution people against using the location option when working from home or when at a generic location like Walmart. Unless your tweet specifically has to do with Walmart no one cares you are there.

13. How do I shorten a link to save on Characters for twitter?

When adding a link to Twitter you should always shorten the link to avoid taking up to many unneeded characters. You can use services like www.bitly.com and www.tinyurl.com to shorten the link. Services like Hootsuite also have built in link shorteners.

14. How do I get followers on Twitter?

  1. Start following other people – Use the search functions to follow local Twitter users, Industry Leaders, Those who are in your target market
  2. Get rid of your egg and show your face – Nothing bothers Twitter users more then the sight of the Egg
  3. Write a fun and informative Bio- How does anyone know if they want to follow you if you don’t tell them who you are?
  4. Jump into some conversations- By jumping into conversations people get use to seeing your name and it draws attention to your profile.
  5. Write some fun/interesting posts- When starting out you can add tips for your target market, your favourite quotes, invites to your networking groups, funny images, funny things that happened to you, Recommendations to services such as great places to eat
  6. Avoid sales posts- Social Media users are all tired of sales pitches. Instead of asking for the sale, give them quality reasons to follow you and then you won’t have to sell. They will be contacting you for sales
  7. Retweet useful content- A Retweet is a compliment and a great way to catch someones attention. It can also be a great way to share quality information with your followers
  8. Tweet on a Regular basis- 80% of Twitter users sign on to Twitter use it once and never come back. Don’t be one of those 80% dive in and show us that you are serious about being on Twitter and here to stay.
  9. Don’t use auto responders- Auto Responders are viewed as spam and annoying. Avoid them. Instead send a personalized thank you for following message.
  10. Remember numbers are not as important as quality followers. It doesn’t matter if you have 10,000 followers if none are your target market or interested in you.

Want to learn more about Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn and how to use them successfully. Check Out my upcoming Social Media Boot Camps in Red Deer and Ponoka.

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8 Business Rockstars – Tell Us How They Stay Motivated Working From Home

Posted in: Misc Tips, Small Business Tips, Uncategorized On: 02/06/2012 By: Jennifer

I Love What I Do…
“I stay motivated knowing that I am working my butt off for ME! Nobody else, no other company, I am doing it all because I love what I do and love being an entrepreneur!”
Colette Bell of Funktional Designs
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Making a Difference…

“You know, since I finally had the courage to take a turn in my own life and do the work that I truly love, I no longer have trouble staying motivated.  When I need to focus, though, I think of an imaginary client – a woman who needs my help.  I think of that woman, worn out from disappointment or exhaustion or sorrow at midlife and really in need of a hope injection.  Since I was that woman for a long time, it’s really not too hard to feel her weariness.

Then, I think of what I might do to help her — to offer a whisper of possibility, a glimmer of hope.  And I do that thing.  Because many, many women have helped me in just such a way.  And I honor them and repay them by loving and serving the next woman who needs me.”

Jennifer Boykin of  Life After Tampons

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Prioritize…

“Working from home with two little kids underfoot really isn’t so much about motivation… it’s really about going-with-the-flow…  it’s about learning how to prioritize to get the “must-do” work stuff done and still leave room for the unexpected like someone pooping their pants or dumping an entire box of Corn Pops on the floor!  I have started doing the yucky stuff (administrative, filing, etc…) first thing in the morning and sending e-mails that I need immediate answers to late at night so they are the first e-mails the recipients receive in the morning (usually these transactions involve yucky stuff I would a rather avoid too,lol) thereby getting them off my plate at the start of the day… leaving lots of time for ass wiping and cereal sweeping!”

Kelly Tibbets of Mortgage Mummi

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Being Positive and Knowing Your Why…

“I am very focused and I have a clear picture in my mind where I want to be and what I want to achieve.  I stay positive all the time, if I am in a negative “space” then I work at turning that thought or feeling into a better one, and DO NOTHING with business until you are feeling good and positive again.  Then you take action!  Your inside picture and your outside picture (your goals or where you want to be) must match, so if you are thinking positively all the time, then good things with your business start happening.  I also practice mantras each day, and I listen to lots of webinars….my latest that is absolutely terrific is Train Your Brain, This is a whole series focused on teaching people in the network marketing business how to re-think to the positive and then your business, life whatever you want to see change starts to happen.  I also listen to Darren Hardy and Success Magazine always has great articles on building a successful business and becoming a great leader in your business.   I love working from home, I have a great office and it gives me the opportunity to have balance in my life.  I can be at home and take care of whatever needs taken care and drive my daughter to and from school and dance……and I can work.  It is terrific.  The company I represent has an amazing culture.  It empowers me to offer health and wealth to people and that feeling you get when you are doing something so great for others is what drives me.  I have a pretty huge “Why” as well.  I want to be valued, and this gives me purpose.  I also really want to be able to retire my husband in a couple years from flying heavy jets and I want financial freedom.”

Carrie Hucal of  Juice Plus

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Team Work…

“The best way for us to stay on top of our business responsibilities is each other.  With a quick text reminding one another to check emails, a phone call to see if one of us needs something picked up, a play date to occupy the 5 combined children, that is what keeps our heads above water.  As our business grows we grow along side it, as business partners, as individuals, and as friends.”

Kim Seeley and Amanda Feltham of  Toad in a Tree

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Giving Appreciation…
“In my network marketing business, using a system is crucial to stay on track. Our company (SendOutCards), created a Daily 8 Score Card. It adds  fun, as it encourages us to score 8 points daily, when we do simple yet key functions that over time will  compound successful results. In addition, I have found it very key for myself to have all my contacts in one system, what a time saver! And with my contacts handy, I start out my day on 2 good notes. One is sending out a heartfelt card and then calling 3 people to just reconnect, (no agenda). I find these 2 actions of giving and appreciation, sets my mood for the day.
One new and effective strategy, has been to keep office hours on Monday and Friday, therefore only do 1 on 1 appointments with clients Tuesday to Thursday..”
Jo-Ann Grimwood of Send Out Cards
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Collaboration and Regular Communication…

“Staying on task is really just a matter of discipline and planning. My job is about quality and punctuality. The people who hire me expect exceptional quality delivered on time. If I fall short of those expectations, I’m not likely to get hired again.

At the beginning of the week, I put together my “to do” list. This is prioritized based on deadlines and delivery dates. Checking items off as I complete them is satisfying and very motivating. Collaboration and regular communication with my clients is also a great way for me to stay accountable. They generally hear from me at least once a week. I send them updates on my progress and ask for their feedback. This keeps them involved and informed, and it keeps me on schedule. For me, it’s extremely important that the people I work for never wonder what I’m doing when they aren’t there to keep an eye on me.

During my years as a commercial artist, I’ve learned that work ethic is every bit as important, if not more so, than talent or skill. If you aren’t dependable, people will simply find someone else to do the job.”

Janice Blaine of Painters Block

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To Do List…

“I am always motivated, but there are days where finding the time to devote to my business is difficult.  I’m a part-time entrepreneur and I find that life sometimes gets in the way and throws your best laid plans asunder!  I work best when I develop a “to do” list.  The satisfaction I get from stroking off a task is enormous and I think it helps to have your tasks clearly defined, and set out.  One useful tool I use is to develop a list of things that suck the life out of you – energy vampires.  I learned from a very smart coach that you should create a list comprising of, “do it”, “defer it”, “delegate it” or “ditch it”.  Categorize all your tasks using this quick guide and it will help you not only prioritize, but it will also give you a sense of what you can let go.”

Gloria Christie of  Ultimate Chicktrips Inc

 

Now it is your turn, In the comments below share with us , How do you stay motivated from home?

Compiled by Jennifer Belanger the Social Media Rockstar at www.jenniferbelanger.com

 

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Pinterest- What is it?

Posted in: Misc Tips, Online Marketing, Small Business Tips, Social Media, Social Media Introduction, Uncategorized On: 01/30/2012 By: Jennifer

Unless you have had your head buried in a hole the last few weeks, I am sure you have heard of Pinterest.

Pinterest is the newest social media platform. It is a place to save(pin) images and videos on a board for later use. Your boards are then shared with other Pinterest users who can repin content that they like to their boards. This platform is very visual and is great for creating sharable images.

This platform could be a great tool for interior designers, teachers, artists, photographers, small business owners, anyone who loves DIY projects, crafters, magazines, museums, tourist attractions, SPCA and the list goes on…

How to use Pinterest:

1. Sign up for Pinterest

2. Create Boards- Currently I have a “Homeschooling” board and a “Home Ideas” board but you can name boards anything you want to separate your images just like categories

 

3. Save the Pin It bookmark to your computer- This book mark stays on top of your screen allowing you to easily hit the Pin It button and save the image to the board of your choice

4. You can use the search bar to search other peoples boards for specific keywords.

Why is Pinterest great for business?

1. It is a great way to make content viral!

2.  It always documents the original source of the content on the pin. Which means no matter who pins your content, it will be linked back to your site.

3. It offers great SEO potential

Some great links on how to use Pinterest:

Ideas on how people can use Pinterest : http://www.pcmag.com/slideshow/story/293314/how-do-people-use-pinterest/1

To learn how to use the Pin It Button: http://www.practicalecommerce.com/articles/3297-How-to-Use-Pinterest-for-Your-Ecommerce-Business

Follow Me on Pinterest

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