Top 10 Small Business Resolutions for 2010</h1> <article> <h1>Top 10 Small Business Resolutions for 2010</h1> <p>Melissa Makfinsky — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:39:10 GMT</p> <p>It’s that time of year again when we make resolutions that will help guide us into the New Year. As a small business owner, this is the perfect time to make a list of resolutions of things you can do to help grow and solidify your business in 2010. Think of it as reinforcing your business plan -- or in some cases, rewriting your business plan to take advantage of new opportunities. </p> <p>What will you do this New Year to help your small business grow? What plans can you put in place now to guide you through the coming year? Join the conversation here: <a href="http://www.mysolutionspot.com/tell_us/what-s-on-your-wish-list-for-the-upcoming-year-2191/">http://www.mysolutionspot.com/tell_us/what-s-on-your-wish-list-for-the-upcoming-year-2191/</a></p> <p>To help make 2010 a perfect “10” for you and your business, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 resolutions for small businesses.<br /> <strong><br /> 10. Evaluate what worked</strong><br /> Evaluate what worked for your business and keep doing more of it, stop doing what didn’t. To quote Albert Einstein, “Insanity: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” Achieving your business goals is about having specific goals with deadlines, analyzing what works and what doesn’t, and regularly evaluating your progress against your goals. The biggest difference between businesses that succeed and businesses that don’t is the simple act of making it happen. Don’t linger, take action and move towards your goals. Decide what you want to achieve, and then design a plan to get there.<br /> <br /> <strong>9. Continue to learn and improve</strong><br /> In order to stay successful in business, you must commit to continue to learn and improve. Education is a never-ending process. What you learned before may now be obsolete. Once you’ve learned something new, a new knowledge arises. Surround yourself with useful information and knowledge. Enroll in training courses in the areas you are less experienced in. Participate in seminars and workshops. Find a successful business mentor whom you can emulate, to guide you in your operations. Hire experts and coaches in a particular field to help answer questions. Research new business ventures and ideas. Adapt and learn from other successful businesses, adopt similar techniques. Stay persistent, work hard and continue to learn new ways to improve your skills and abilities.<br /> <br /> <strong>8. Practice good communication skills</strong><br /> Communication is a two-way street. The only way each side can get the desired outcome is by taking the time to specify goals, the associated objectives to meet them and any foreseeable barriers. How you communicate is just as important, if not more so, than the product or service you are trying to sell. As a small business owner, you need to be able to talk with confidence to your customers, vendors and employees and also interpret types of non-verbal communication. This year resolve to (1) be aware of non-verbal cues; (2) take care with electronic communications; (3) communicate confidently; (4) stay connected with employees; and (5) collect customer feedback.<br /> <br /> <strong>7. Treat your employees well</strong><br /> If you have experienced, motivated employees, you are probably already treating them well – paid them competitive salaries and benefits, provided training, acknowledged their contributions. If, on the other hand, you turnover is high and employee morale is low, you should consider changing the way you hire, manage, and reward your staff. Seek to hire employees with drive, dedication and a commitment to working with others to get the job done right. Empower employees by giving them knowledge, resources, authority and managerial support. Reward employees when they provide stellar customer service. By practicing the Golden Rule, treating employees as you would like to be treated, your business will be ultimately rewarded.<br /> <br /> <strong>6. Serve your customers well</strong><br /> Knowing how to meet and, more importantly, exceed expectations will allow you deliver exceptional customer service consistently. Listen to customer feedback and conduct focus groups with your customers to see what they really value. Make training an important part of creating a culture for customer service excellence. Make errors a part of the journey and empower employees to acknowledge and react to them accordingly. Apologize for the problem and really listen. Beyond satisfaction, this will build customer confidence and loyalty.<br /> <br /> <strong>5. Market, market, market</strong><br /> Before you embark on your next marketing campaign, think first what it is you want to achieve. Inform customers and prospects about your company, products, services, website, or other offerings. Persuade your target audience to do something specific in response to your marketing activities. Create in the mind of customers and prospects the perception that there is no other product or service that is quite like yours. Establish a connection, or relationship, with customers. Convince customers and prospects to think positively of you. Announce something positive about your company. Any opportunity you can seize, or create, to further your marketing plan deserves consideration. Be a relentless promoter of your business. Get creative. Have fun! Remember that little things can equal big impressions.<br /> <br /> <strong>4. Get the most out of networking</strong><br /> Take advantage of opportunities to improve business contacts. Networking events and organizations are great ways to meet a group of people with similar interests who are open to opportunities to work together and help each other achieve a common goal. Networking also helps small business leaders talk to prospects and educate potential customers. A valuable network is one that is alive and growing daily. Successful networking really comes down to your approach to networking, your ability to listen and to communicate effectively, and the relationships you build. Make sure that the events and meetings you attend have the potential to help build relationships that will benefit both you and your contacts. <br /> <br /> <strong>3. Regularly back up your data</strong><br /> Backing up data is vital for business. Commit to make better use of technology and backup software that helps keep your business protected from possible failure. Regular data backup doesn’t have to be painful or expensive. Ideally, you should look for new technology that allows for automatic, off-site backups that protect you even further by storing your critical data at another location. Most of these packages are affordable and are worth their weight in gold when disaster strikes.<br /> <br /> <strong>2. Clean up your credit</strong><br /> Improving your credit takes time and practice. Naturally, we tend to focus on what’s important right now. But when it comes to making major financial decisions, like committing to a small business loan, it’s important to learn and take the necessary steps towards improving your credit before it becomes a crisis. Commit to these three best practices: (1) keep revolving credit balances low; (2) pay your bills on time; and (3) check your credit report.<br /> <br /> <strong>1. Set aside a rainy day fund</strong><br /> Managing cash flow for a small business is much like riding a roller coaster. And with today’s economic situation, having cash on hand is more important than ever before. One method to ensure you’re never short is to open a reserve account which can be set aside for emergency use. If possible, try not to use lenders as an emergency cash reserve. Borrowed money will only add to your debt and delay the negative impact of your financial emergency if you’re unable to pay it back immediately. Having a reserve account ensures that you will always have an extra cash cushion.</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>During an Economic Downturn, Small Businesses Still Need to Focus on Marketing</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:59:26 GMT</p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt">Most small business owners will tell you that the past year has been challenging. Due to the economic downturn, many small businesses have seen a decrease in sales, an increase in operational costs, and more limited access to funding. Small businesses, however, still continue to thrive. According to the Small Business Success Index, a joint research effort between Network Solutions and the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, 56% of small businesses made a profit in 2008*. The Small Business Success Index (SBSI) also found that despite the poor economy, most small business owners are optimistic about their business’ future.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt">According to the SBSI, there are six main factors that affect a business’ health and overall success. Small businesses that excel in these six areas are likely to be more competitive, more profitable, and more posed for growth than their counterparts; those that fail to focus on these areas are more likely to not reach important business goals, including growth and profit. The SBSI found that while today’s small businesses have a relatively strong grasp on some of these areas, including customer service and business regulation compliance, other areas are still problematic. In June of 2009, the SBSI found that the average score for small businesses in the area of marketing and innovation was only 70 out of 100, or the equivalent to a C- on a letter-grade scale. Marketing and innovation is a critical area to excel in, yet many small businesses are having trouble doing so. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt">To increase their competitiveness, small businesses must use innovative marketing tactics to appeal to new customers and maintain their current customer base. Unfortunately, limited access to capital and other side effects of the economic downturn have placed restraints on the amount of money small businesses can spend on their marketing efforts. SMB owners are now seeking new, non-traditional alternatives to older marketing strategies. While some businesses have been able to adapt, many still feel lost as to how they can use marketing to drive their business while still staying within a tighter budget. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt">On Tuesday, September 29, Network Solutions® is hosting the GrowSmartBiz Conference in Washington, D.C., that will focus on overcoming the challenges that small businesses are currently facing. The conference will cover ways small businesses can improve their performance in the six areas of the SBSI, including raising capital, growth strategies, and cost-efficient marketing techniques. Attendees will hear the insight and advice of keynote speaker Chris Anderson, editor-in-chief of <i>Wired</i> magazine, as well as get the chance to network with other small business owners. Whether you’re an experienced business owner or a budding entrepreneur, the GrowSmartBiz Conference promises to be educational for all involved in the small business world. </span></p> <div><span style="font-size: 10pt"> </span></div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt">To learn more or register for the GrowSmartBiz Conference, visit <a title="http://www.tinyrul/gsbiz" href="http://www.tinyurl.com/gsbiz">www.tinyurl.com/gsbiz</a>. MySolutionSpot™ members and visitors will receive a 50% discount by entering the code GrowSmartMSS.</span></p> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <p><span><span style="font-size: 10pt">*The Small Business Success Index, an ongoing measurement of the overall health of U.S. small businesses, was commissioned by Network Solutions, LLC and the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. To take the survey yourself, click</span></span> <span><span style="font-size: 10pt"><a target="_blank" href="http://cli.gs/vVyDu3"><span style="color: #0991ac; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none">here</span></a>.</span></span></p> <p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Small Businesses: Wants and Needs</h1> <p>Charles Nagel — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 21:27:44 GMT</p> <p>There is no shortage of software, books, seminars, and social networks for small businesses. Truly, a wide array of distractions and enticements exist for the manager’s attention and affections. In many ways, it’s similar to driving down the highway with a plethora of billboards competing for the entrepreneur’s focus and action. As service providers to small businesses, we have to be able to sort through the sea of distractions and offer services the small business manager will truly value.</p> <p>So as CPAs, consultants, software providers, and even small business owners ourselves, we must ask this question: what do owners, managers, and entrepreneurs really want and need?</p> <p> </p> <p>As a small business consultant and a small business owner for many years, I’ve often had to address this question. In discussion with hundreds of SMB (small and medium business) managers, we compiled the following list which provides insight into the thought/value paradigm of the typical SMB manager.</p> <p>What SMB Managers Value:</p> <ul> <li>Things that are cost-effective to me, bargains.</li> <li>Things that solve my problems or help me avoid mistakes.</li> <li>Things that make my job easier and more manageable. I’m over-whelmed at times.</li> <li>Things I can touch. Things I can control.</li> <li>Things that are dynamic and show movement. I can see light at the end of the tunnel.</li> <li>Things that touch multiple senses yet are easy to use and not complicated.</li> <li>Things that don’t require much reading.</li> <li>Things that have immediate gratification.</li> <li>Things that will make or save me money.</li> </ul> <p>While this list is not exhaustive, it does help us understand the needs and values of the SMB manager. Of course, an offering that violates one or more of these data points, such as a solution that is expensive, difficult to use, or time consuming, is immediately put on the “not valued” list by clients.</p> <p>SMBs are managed by people who are typically the subject matter experts. They “know” the products and services better than anyone else and more importantly, it is actually what they love to do. Anything that takes them from what they love to do is generally place on the “not valued” list. And this is probably as it should be. After all, working in the business as the subject matter expert is likely why they started or purchased the business in the first place. It’s what we call the “entrepreneurial paradigm”. That’s why solutions that allow SMB managers to spend more time in the business instead of on it (bookkeeping, etc) are so valuable to SMBs. Remember, we’re talking about their value perspective, not what we as service providers think their value perspective should be.</p> <p>As an example, I’ll tell you about a solution we’ve developed to address the above issues. This solution is called <a href="http://www.qvinci.com/">Qvinci<sup>®</sup></a>. The application is full of functionality while offering ease of installation and point-and-click usability at an affordable price. Two main components make up the application: first, it displays QuickBooks<sup>®</sup> and Excel<sup>®</sup> data graphically in a simple dashboard. Second, it offers point-and-click tools to do everything from projecting future performance, to lease vs. buy calculators, to setting early warning indicators to monitor things like expenses, etc. Because the dashboard updates automatically as data is added to QuickBooks<sup>®</sup> or Excel<sup>®</sup>, the manager always has the most up to date information at their fingertips—saving time and fostering better decision making.</p> <p>The idea behind the software is to provide small business managers with a tool that meets their wants and needs: a means of aggregating data and displaying it in a usable format, tools to foster better management, and an accessible user interface. Providing this solution in an easy to install and use format and at an affordable price makes this solution more valuable.</p> <p>Especially in these economic times, service providers must re-address their services to clients. It doesn’t matter if you are a CPA, consultant, or software provider, you must answer the small business manager’s wants and needs. It’s the sure way to enhance your unique value to your client and increase client retention. And that’s something that every small business service provider wants and needs.</p> <p>Charles Nagel</p> <p>CEO<br /> Qvinci<sup>®</sup> Software<br /> <a href="http://www.qvinci.com/">www.qvinci.com</a></p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Benefits of a Local Chamber of Commerce - Interview with Vince DeSilva</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:02:08 GMT</p> <p><eta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><eta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><eta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><eta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"> <link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Cjdalton%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" /><style type="text/css">  </style> </eta></eta></eta></eta></p> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Introduce yourself and tell us how long you’ve been a member of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">My name is Vince DeSilva, I’ve been a member of the <a href="http://www.gwinnettchamber.org/ ">Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce</a> for two years and currently hold the position Vice President of Membership Services. Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce services Gwinnett County and Northeast Metro Atlanta.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What is a Chamber of Commerce? What are the primary functions? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">A Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of business and professional women and men who have joined together for the purpose of promoting the interests of business in the community. Chambers are a non-profit, non-sectarian, 501 (c) (6) organizations which are organized to advance the business interests of all segments of a specific economic community. Most chambers focus on promoting integrity and enhancing the business, civic, cultural and educational resources of the city, county or designated area.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Who should belong to a Chamber of Commerce? Are there certain types of businesses that should or shouldn’t join a Chamber? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Usually, any individual, firm, corporation, partnership, association, or other business entity may apply for one or more memberships in a Chamber of Commerce. Each member shall be entitled to nominate one individual to represent such membership for the basic dues. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What value can a business owner expect from a membership in this type of organization? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">From tangible networking leads and discount programs to activities that influence the business environment and create high-quality jobs, the support provided by the Chamber concentrates on getting results. Membership in our chamber, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce rewards your commitment to success and gives you a competitive edge in the marketplace. Here are a few benefits of which our members take advantage: </span></p> <p style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Referrals & Business Exposure</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Member-to-Member Benefits</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Discounts on Key Services</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cost-Saving Resources</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Education/Learning Seminars</span></p> <div style="margin-left: 0.25in;"> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">In addition to these tangible benefits members will also find opportunities to grow networks stay informed and gain knowledge about local news and finally, gain visibility and exposure their company and reputation.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are the typical membership requirements?</span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Most Chambers of Commerce require annual dues or a membership fee. If you ask a member if he or she has had a good return on investment in membership you'll hear an overwhelmingly positive response. It’s surprising to learn that many members claim thousands of dollars worth of free or reduced business services along with significant savings through other Chamber discounts on a variety of services. Some chambers of commerce will have multiple membership options each with different requirements in the way of dues and commitment. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">How can a business owner really make the most out of a Chamber of Commerce membership? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">As a member of the Chamber you will meet many people along the way but you must participate and stay engaged in order to get the most from your Chamber membership. Attend networking opportunities, public policy forums and education seminars as different members attend only one of these. Preparation of a 30 second elevator speech is a must when attending any of these events. Be prepared to say who you are, what you do and what type(s) of leads work for you. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What are normal agenda topics for Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Meetings? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Normal topics include keeping the members connected to what is happening in our county and what we are lobbying for them at the state level under the gold dome. Additionally, we talk about the current economic climate and upcoming Chamber events like sponsorships, opportunities for community involvement, training and progress of various task force and committees. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">How much of a time commitment is belonging to a Chamber of Commerce? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">As little as 1 day a month is all it takes for a member to be fully engaged with the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. However, in order to take full advantage of the benefits of membership participation is a must. In order to stay top of mind and be recommended for your service you’ll want to stay involved by attending events and networking whenever possible.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What has been your most rewarding experience as a member of the Chamber of Commerce?</span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">As a member of the Chamber of Commerce my favorite events are the Ribbon Cuttings & Grand Openings as new businesses open in our area. One of the services offered by our Chamber is assistance with special events. We’ll help to promote your business through personal and on-site assistance with your new opening. We’ve recently celebrated 16 grand openings for new businesses in our area. Although each of these businesses is unique, they are also part of a larger community that stands together supporting and rewarding each other. Most recently we announced the relocation of NCR from Dayton, OH to Duluth, GA creating 1250 jobs for our county.<span style="color: red;"> </span></span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">What has been your most challenging experience? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">During these tough economic times it is difficult to tell everyone that everything is ok. Eventually, everything will but right now it is challenging times and tough times remain ahead of us. “Survive to Thrive” is what we tell our members as we will do what we can in our power to make sure that they succeed through program offerings and countless networking opportunities to gain additional exposure. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Any recommendations for business owners looking to join or get more involved with their local Chamber of Commerce? </span></b></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Don’t wait, get involved today. Simply stated, it may be the best business decision you will ever make. Other than getting involved for your personal benefit you will have a sense of belonging to your community. In Gwinnett County, GA we believe that we are building one of the greatest live, work and play communities in the United States.</span></p> <p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Advice for Networking at Local Events</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:24:08 GMT</p> <p><eta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><eta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><eta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"><eta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"> <link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5Cjdalton%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" /><style type="text/css">  </style> </eta></eta></eta></eta></p> <p><eta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"> <eta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"> <eta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 11"> <eta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 11"> <link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:\DOCUME~1\jdalton\LOCALS~1\Temp\msohtml1\01\clip_filelist.xml" /><style type="text/css">  </style> </eta></eta></eta></eta></p> <p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><u><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Advice for Networking at Local Events<o:p></o:p></span></u></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Networking with your community should play a critical role in your company’s marketing strategy. It is an easy means to getting the word out about your business to people who may purchase and influence others to purchase your service or goods. But just as with any other marketing tactic, we get what we put into it. That being said, local networking events are seeing record turnouts lately, a sign that leads me to believe the networking is paying off. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Local Networking is any organization, which meets on a regular basis to share and receive referrals and leads.</span><b><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Examples of formal Local Networking groups for small and medium sized business include: BNI (Business Networking International), Merchants’ Associations, Chambers of Commerce, and Business Associations. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><u><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Peculiarities of Local Networking Events</span></u></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Although they are essentially in place to accomplish the same result, Local Networking groups can be quite different. BNI has very specific rules for joining their organization, including a yearly fee, a one-industry-per-chapter rule, and a requirement that you attend every week (with a two week exception every few months). Some networking events or organizations will charge a fee, while others do not. There are also groups designed to serve the needs and interests of specific segments of business owners such as women, African Americans, and Hispanics.</span></p> <div style="margin-left: 0.25in;"> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Many local networking attendees always seem to prefer to attend the largest networking events in order to get in front of more people, however, keep in mind the number attending is inversely proportionate to the amount of time one has to explain who they are to the group. Each organization has its own method for increasing attendees awareness of the participants business. Some section off attendees into groups to play team building games that will enable them to remember each other’s business. Most will allow 15-60 seconds to position “your pitch” to the group. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><u><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Tips for Attending Local Networking Events</span></u></p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Before you even think of attending, have your elevator pitch nailed down and perfect (15, 30, 45 and 60 second). The term “elevator pitch” was coined for those entrepreneurs looking for an opportunity to catch a venture capitalist in an elevator. Depending on the height of the building, they needed to have their elevator pitch such that they could sell their idea quickly. Similarly, depending on the size of the group, most Local Networking groups will give 15 to 60 seconds to all attendees to give their elevator pitch.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Don’t forget your business cards. Every local marketing group will ask you for at least one business card. Some will make copies of all business cards and pass it out to the general audience of attendees. When people hear your elevator pitch, they will often refer to this list of business cards to find out more about you, write down your number, etc. </span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Show up early and work the room. A lot of networking occurs prior to the event start time. People do business with (and refer business to) those who make them feel comfortable. You don’t have to be a salesman, just genuine. Regardless if you’re normally an introvert, during this time you must force yourself to be eager to “grip and grin.” It may feel awkward at first, but you must force yourself to stand next to two people talking, if only to introduce yourself to them. Sharing promotional items during your introduction may make this a little easier.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Contribute a “giveaway” or door prize to the event. This can be anything with a value of $10-$20. Chambers have networking groups that are especially interested in keeping the atmosphere fun and involved for the participants (who often pay $5-$15 to attend). If you offer a door prize, you receive twice the recognition because you or your business will be announced as they give it away. At the very least, they will announce your company name. Sometimes you’ll even be given an opportunity to address the crowd a second time.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Bring promotional items for all attendees. An appropriate value for each item is $.50 - $1.50. Most Local Networking groups gratefully accept promotional items because it adds to the general goodwill feel of the environment. Some will even provide a table for these promo items. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can utilize this table to place your brochures or pamphlets on it. People are interested in taking useful items; here are a few things to keep in mind. </span></p> <ol type="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" start="1"> <li><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Any item you give away should include three basic items:</span></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Company name</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Tag line (explanation of what you do)</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Phone number and/or Web Address</span></p> <ol type="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" start="2"> <li><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Pens are most common and may have the longest shelf life</span></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Bring a container filled with pebbles so that they will stand out and be more easily grabbed by attendees</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Place them in front of each chair at the event</span></p> <ol type="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" start="3"> <li><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Small boxes of mints, magnets, bottles of water, etc. have a shorter shelf life, but are more likely to be used, so maximize the opportunity</span></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">In your elevator pitch, consider referring to these items (e.g. “become a magnet for your potential customers” or (holding bottle of water) “replenish, revitalize, and re-energize your business”</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Holding the items in your hand at the time of your elevator pitch is a great way for people to remember who you are later. </span></p> <ol type="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" start="4"> <li><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Bring a visual aid for your elevator pitch (e.g. a sign, a product example, your company name written on a large promo item, etc.)</span></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Psychological studies have demonstrated that there is a statistically significant difference in recall from subjects who hear a name, vs. those who hear and see a name. Figure out how to show your company name at the same time your speaking.</span></p> <p style="margin-left: 1in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><span>-<span style=""> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Recruiting the person (whom you previously didn’t know) sitting next to you to stand up and hold a sign with your name on it is a great way to enable people to remember who you are.</span></p> <div> </div> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Above all, remember that you’re in it for the long haul. Just as bloggers must realize that they need to provide daily attention to their blogs, so must local networkers understand the need to attend as frequently as the networking events are offered. Attending a weekly event once a month is a lot like a weight lifter who works out once a month – he’s just going to make himself sore. Remember, you’re not attending the events just to sell your products or services to the other attendees, although that occurs occasionally; rather you’re there to influence them – to make them feel comfortable enough to pass on your information to their customer bases and circles of influence. And once you start attending you’ll find that the relationships, and even friendships, you’ve established will make you think of these people first when your customers have a need for someone in their fields. <br /> </span></p> <p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Can Your Business Get Too Big?</h1> <p>Nit Sujatanond — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:52:32 GMT</p> <p>The answer to that question is yes. Expanding your business typically requires a rise in your employee count, as well as a larger or additional facility. Consequently, as your business earnings grow, you will spend more on salaries, benefits, office supplies, furniture, equipment, overhead costs and operating costs. In addition, your administrative responsibilities will be amplified. Sometimes, if these changes are too drastic, they can negatively impact your bottom line and your ability to meet your goals.</p> <p>Numerous business owners opt to remain small to avoid the headaches caused by growth. Keeping your business small does not necessarily mean that you are preventing it from succeeding. There are many cost-effective alternatives to hiring more people. <a href="http://www.mysolutionspot.com/industries/">Business resources</a> like MySolutionSpot™ help you stay current on the latest <a href="http://www.mysolutionspot.com/tools.aspx">business tools</a>, equipment and processes that can help you maintain efficiency, enhance profitability and keep your employees happy - all while keeping your expenses low.</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Business901 Launches Duct Tape Marketing EXCELerator Program</h1> <p>Joe Dager — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 04:52:20 GMT</p> <p> Fort Wayne, IN - Joe Dager of <i>Business901</i> will launch an introduction to the Duct Tape Marketing EXCELerator Program this Thursday, November 13 through a special webinar. The <a href="http://www.marketingexcel-erator.com/">Marketing EXCEL-erator</a> program is designed to fulfill all the needs of a part-time marketing department. Dager, an authorized Duct Tape Marketing Coach/Consultant is well versed in these principles. You can sign-up for this event at http://marketingexcelerator.eventbrite.com.<br /><br /> <br /><br /> The <a href="http://www.business901.com/ducttapemarketing/marketingexcelerator.html"> Duct Tape Marketing® EXCELerator Program </a> was created to provide small businesses with everything they could ask for in terms of ongoing marketing support, guidance, accountability and know-how to help them overcome their challenges and finally reach that next level. It contains a mix of products and services and an authorized Duct tape Marketing Coach to walk you through the process. But it does not end with just ONE individual, but includes a whole <b>TEAM of EXPERTS </b>through special teleclasses and an amazing annual <b>three day RETREAT </b>where you will have first hand exposure to a suite of <b>Marketing Experts </b>from fields such as: <br /><br /> · Small Business Marketing Strategy<br />· Effective Writing Skills<br />· Email Marketing<br />· Do It Yourself Graphic Design<br />· Search Engine Optimization<br />· Pay Per Click Campaigns<br />· Lead Conversion<br />· Positioning Yourself As an Expert<br />· Attracting the Media ...and More!<br /><br /> Dager was introduced to the program at the recent Duct Tape Markeitng re-certification training session. "The program needed to be affordable, as well as a combination of powerful resources to truly give a small business a track to run on as they moved from designing their system to building the components, to execution and finally measurement and re-implementation," said Dager. The program consists of 3 parts:<br /><br />First your DTM Coach - one thing to have a marketing consultant, its another to have a highly qualified marketing professional, who ALSO focuses on small business marketing and ALSO knows how to motivate you and hold you accountable along the way</p> <ul> <li>Unlimited email support</li> <li>Quarterly 1 on 1 sessions</li> <li>Monthly Marketing Tutorials </li> </ul> <p> Secondly, Access to Resources and Experts</p> <ul> <li>Duct Tape University</li> <li>Exclusive Member Only Calls</li> <li>Monthly Marketing Tutorials </li> </ul> <p> Thirdly - 3 day Retreat</p> <ul> <li>Hands on training</li> <li>Industry experts.</li> <li>Specialized training</li> </ul> <p> "A unique feature of this offering is that it is a perfect companion or add on the the 12-week Ultimate Marketing System. In fact, it could even be done at the same time but the key is having an ongoing program in place for you to continue your marketing efforts," says Dager. He also added: "This is where working with Duct Tape Marketing organization really comes into play. We provide you with a format for real implantation and when you have questions you have a variety of resources available."<br /><br /> <b>About Business901</b>: Joe Dager is President of Business901, a progressive coaching company providing no-nonsense direction in areas such as target marketing and organized referral marketing. As a certified coach of the Duct Tape Marketing Consulting organization, Joe provides practical, information-rich, immediately applicable direction that profoundly impacts the success of small and mid-sized businesses. His experience includes numerous start-ups, several turnarounds in variety of industries to include manufacturing, retail, and professional services to include marketing.</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Can You Hear the Cannon's Roar?</h1> <p>Dale Collie — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 15:04:23 GMT</p> <p>Is your corporate environment like that of soldiers preparing for battle? Are office-place stress levels pushing the max?<br /><br />The stress found in military units isn't usually as dramatic as that of recruits facing drill sergeants, but the continued training, equipment maintenance, record keeping, and readiness inspections keep stress at very high levels in the military.<br /><br />Even when war seems unlikely, soldiers continually prepare for wartime. Every unit trains for and is constantly evaluated on their combat readiness. Maybe your company is like this - always pushing the competition, always preparing a response to hold onto market share.<br /><br />Throughout the year, combat units practice for and are tested on their individual and unit skills at all levels -- squad, platoon, company, and battalion.<br /><br />The combat-like training prepares soldiers for battle. Tanks roll across difficult terrain and fire their cannons in simulated combat.<br /><br />Pilots are challenged with real and simulated operations in support of ground forces. Artillery troops prepare their big guns and practice both live fire and the maneuvers required to keep up with the forward units.<br /><br />Soldiers have very little time to relax properly, and families feel the strain of Army life in the soldiers' long work hours and frequent absences. You've probably seen this same type strain in your company with families wondering whether life will ever slow down, whether parents will ever get a break from the high pressure of corporate demands.<br /><br />Corporate leders can identify with the soldiers' plight. Few businesses experience the roar of cannon fire, but almost every corporate manager has known the stress of demanding business conditions and the roar of a dissatisfied boss.</p> <p>Survey all employees to find out what they think about stress levels in your business. Use that information to control stress and put dollars on the bottom line.</p> <p><br /><br />Dale's Linked In and Twitter -- see links in right side column </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Control Stress by Caring for Families</h1> <p>Dale Collie — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:51:00 GMT</p> <p>Workplace stress takes its toll on employees just like combat and training stress take a toll on soldiers. Businesses can use the same stress control techniques as the military finds successful for soldiers in these high pressure situations.<br /> <br /> The stress triggers of combat seem obvious, but to the uninitiated, it is difficult to explain just how stressful things can be for soldiers in the peacetime training and unit maintenance environment.<br /> <br /> When soldiers get ready for battle, stress control is so important that trained stress specialists consult with commanders to monitor and control stress levels for both soldiers and their families.<br /> <br /> Knowing that family members are well cared for is a big relief for combat soldiers, so every unit is charged with establishing family support groups to help with every concern.<br /> <br /> These efforts help control stress among deployed soldiers and help families deal with their soldier’s absence.<br /> <br /> Can you identify three things your company can do to help families during the high-stress periods in your organization? You can use this to help control stress among your highly productive, dedicated employees. </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Marketing versus Advertising - Transactional versus Transcendent Relationships</h1> <p>Edward Hampton — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:21:59 GMT</p> <p>Have you ever lost a customer or potential sale? </p> <p>It could have been prevented! - especially if the issue was based upon sustaining or developing the wrong relationship. Before getting into relationships, an exploration of the difference in marketing and advertising will be helpful.</p> <p>In operational terms, marketing is positioning. The intent is to position what one is offering - organization, goods, services - in the hearts and minds of others in such a way that the other person feels positive and open to what is being positioned. There is no overt solicitation of a response from the recipient - although one may be implied.</p> <p>On the other hand, advertising is the offer of a transaction, i.e. a good or service is provided in return for something of value from the recipient. It is communicating that I have something of value which I will provide in return for something of commensurate or fair value.</p> <p>In reality, one rarely does pure marketing or pure advertising. Rather, the two activities form a Venn diagram. In some instances Marketing is the larger domain; in others advertising is. Most people operate in the blended or overlaping union of the two. Still, it is useful to differentiate the two activities; especially when determining the kind of relationship one seeks to maintain with clients, customers or stakeholders. For example, when one networks, one probably starts as marketing. However, if one gets into a conversation that leads to an offer, then one has crossed the line into advertising. Same event, both domains operating.</p> <p>With the above in mind, now lets tie into relationships.</p> <p>Essentially, there are two broad types of relationships with customers or potential customers:</p> <p>Transactional: In a transactional relationship, the focus is on the transaction. </p> <p>Transcendent: In a transcendent relationship, the focus is on the relationship, i.e. the focus transcends the transaction or potential transaction.</p> <p>A good general rule of thumb is to use advertising for transactional relationships and marketing for transcendent relationships.</p> <p>However, in practical terms it is not this cut and dried! Sometimes one starts transcendent and moves to transactional; sometimes the other way around. A better way to look at the situation is to say "I market if I am seeking to build a transcendent relationship; one that I can patiently nurture for a transactional event in the future. I advertise if I am seeking to gain an immediate transaction."</p> <p>In both marketing and advertising, the key ingredient being developed is trust. In marketing it is trust in the brand; in advertising it is trust in the transaction. Trust enables risk taking. Making a purchase or entering into a relationship is risk taking.</p> <p>There are two basic strategies to consider: First, one can be strategic in the sense of building for the long term. In this strategy, one typically markets. The metaphor would be to plant an orchard knowing it might be years before fruit is yielded. In the business world, a professional - consultant, lawyer, coach, might build a relationship over several months or even years in order to build enough trust to gain a transaction. The key word is trust. One is building trust that will serve as a basis for risk taking on the part of the client or customer.</p> <p>The second strategy is to build a relationship thru sustained excellence in transactions. Dr. Christoper Avery states: "Trust is the residue of successful risk taking." Each time s customer takes a risk with you and comes away satisfied or more than satisfied, a residue of trust builds. If enough trust builds, then one should move to transcendent relationship. Think of the restaurant owner who allows a long time patron to use a corner of the restaurant as a meeting room - no charge - on a familial basis.</p> <p>It goes without saying that there is a blended straegy of combining the two strategies.</p> <p>A mistake some businesses make is advertising to a transcendent relationship and/or marketing to a transactional relationship. Advertising cheapens a transcendent relationship as it seems to take advantage of trust. On the other hand, marketing to a transcational relationship causes a "where's the beef" question; i.e. wondering what the point of your action is. So, take care to match marketing or advertising to appropriate relationship - desired or existing. And allow your approach to grow appropriately as your relationship with client or customer changes.</p> <p>Good luck in your marketing and advertising. I think you will find your chances for luck will increase if you emply the proper approach with the appropriate relationship in mind.</p> <p>Ed Hampton</p> <p>Drive On!</p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>How to Give Quality Referrals</h1> <p>Lisa Torres — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 06:05:42 GMT</p> <p><b><i></i></b></p> <ol> <li>Find out who the other person's target customers are</li> <br /><br /> <li>Ask the person who else sells to that target customer</li> <br /><br /> <li>Think about who you know personally, and ask around</li> <br /><br /> <li>Reach out to prospects on behalf of the person you're giving the referral to. Make sure to name drop so that they know that you are a 'friend of a friend'</li> <br /><br /> <li>Ask permission to share the prospect's contact information</li> <br /><br /> <li>Introduce both parties via e-mail</li> <br /><br /> <li>Follow-up with an e-mail and phone call to confirm that they both received your e-mail. Ask when they plan to reach out to the other person, and/or when the other person should reach out to them</li> <br /><br /> <li>Follow-up with an e-mail and phone call to find out what happened</li> </ol> <p><br /><br />I hope this helps.</p> <p> </p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>6 Points of Leverage</h1> <p>Lisa Torres — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 06:00:23 GMT</p> <p>1) <strong>Mentors</strong><br /> <br /> You must have teachers to show you the way. Experience is the best teacher - especially someone else's. Why take lumps when you don't have to? Work smarter, not harder.<br /> <br /> 2) <strong>Team</strong><br /> <br /> Business is a team sport, and teams win. That is what Robert Kiyosaki has taught us. When you put a bunch of determined, independent, competent people together, success happens in uncommon hours.<br /> <br /> 3) <strong>Infinite Network</strong><br /> <br /> When you build your team, the million dollar question is "Who do you know who [sells/buys/etc.]?" This is how you break through to the next level to accomplish your goals.<br /> <br /> 4) <strong>Skills</strong><br /> <br /> Friends, if you take an idiot and you motivate him/her, you will have a motivated idiot. People need to move beyond being motivated, and become competent. Skill development is crucial to business success. The most important skill that one can develop is the skill to sell/persuade. This is when skills pay the bills, folks.<br /> <br /> 5) <strong>Tools</strong><br /> <br /> What separated Neanderthals, from Cro Magnons, and Cro Magnons from Homo Sapiens? The intelligence to employ the use of tools. There is no need to do the heavy lifting. Use tools to get the job done.<br /> <br /> 6) <strong>System</strong><br /> <br /> The authors of this book use system as an acronym - Save Your Self Time Energy [and] Money. You see, your teachers are grooming you. Your team is supporting you. You're meeting people through the infinite network. You have developed some necessary skills. You have tools to make it easier. The system helps you put it all together.<br /> <br /> Do you have a system?<br /> <br /> Here is an analysis of the SendOutCards system. I refer to SendOutCards a lot, because I am rather fond of the company, and it's products have helped me prosper in Corporate America, and in my business.<br /> <br /> Here is my checklist:<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Mentors</span>: Kody Bateman; Jordan Adler; David Frey; Steven Greene; and Phil Barnhardt<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Team</span>: David Steiner; Florence Callendar; and Charmaine Johnson (there are others, but these two are stars)<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Infinite network</span>: Colleagues on the SendOutCards forum and mailing list - whew! Those gals and guys know everybody - they introduced me to Business Network International (BNI), and inspired me to start Grassroots Business Network, LLC<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Skills</span>: BNI; and the members and the experts of Grassroots Business Network<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">Tools</span>: SendOutCards' contact manager and the greeting cards and post cards<br /> <br /> <span style="text-decoration:underline;">System:</span> Step 1 - send one unexpected card each day; Send 2 - Send one DVD and e-mail the online walk through link each day; Step 3 - Set up 1 free gift account a day; Step 4 - You may or may not be interested in this, but there are 3 ways to become a sender of cards. Where do you see yourself getting started (i.e. make a decision)?<br /> <br /> See there, that is is easy-to-follow plan.<br /> <br /> To learn more about SendOutCards and how it could help grow your business, and to take a FREE test-drive of the program, <a href="http://www.tythecardguy.biz/">CLICK HERE</a>.</p><div style="clear:both;"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Maximize Networking ROI</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:30 GMT</p> <p>Networking is one of the most cost effective and productive ways of achieving business goals, but if done haphazardly it can drain money, time, and resources. To network successfully, create a networking strategy that targets market segments that meet your specific goals and objectives. Select and attend networking venues with those market segments in mind. </p> <p>Create a short, attention-grabbing company position statement that informs others of what your company does and how they will benefit from your products and services. The average person needs seven contacts to be remembered, which is a significant investment. Make your company stand out more by creating a professional brand that makes a great first and lasting impression. </p> <p>Use all of the resources available to you, including your employees. Frequently, your employees will be your best public relations representatives. Send employees to networking functions in their specific areas--sales people to network where other sales executives are likely to be, IT people to IT conferences, and so on. Using your employees to expand and promote your business adds value to them on top of their primary positions, and makes employees feel useful and valued. </p> <p>Improve your networking skills by reviewing your performance at the end of every networking event. Write down what you did well and what you would have preferred to have done differently. Keep and rate every business card you collect. Never throw a card out. Creating and owning an expansive list of contacts will make you a powerful business contact that others will want to help them fulfill their business needs, giving you a reputation as a well-connected person. </p> <p>"Maximize Networking ROI" Washington SmartCEO (05/08) Vol. 3, No. 5, P. 57; Savar, Sheila</p> </article> </main></body></html>