http://www.odeo.com/channels/2121416-The-Entrepreneur-Ship-PODCAST-for-Shakers-and-Movers no The Podcast for Shakers and Movers The Podcast for Shakers and Movers Marketing and Management en 40 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 21:29:13 -0700 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 21:29:13 -0700 ©Ryan McKinney Entrepreneur, entrepreneurship, internet marketing, small business owners, small business tips, copy writing, marketing for small business, ebay tips Marketing Entrepreneur small business owners small business tips copy writing ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25419317-TES-18-Micropreneur%E2%80%A6-Defined-PART-I Feel Like You Work Your Butt Off For Nothing? What is a Micropreneur? This Episode and Episode 19 coming out soon highlight a special breed of Enterpreneur, the Micropreneur. This 2 part series is for anyone that wants to know more about running a software business on the side.  Even if you  have no interest in writing code, you’ll get some good stuff from these episodes.  Our interview reveals where to find answers to: How do I Choose a Niche? How do I Get Started and Determine the Costs to an Online Business? Where is the best place to find a V.A.? (it’s not what you think) And Much More… Rob and Mike reveal the goods.  Listen to Episode 18 (that is, Part I) and send in a questions to: ryan(at)meetthemckinneys.com I’ll answer them on Episode 19 (or Part II) just before the cliffhanging wrap up to Episode 18/Part I. Leave a Comment and tell me your thoughts. Feel Like You Work Your Butt Off For Nothing? What is a Micropreneur? This Episode and Episode 19 coming out soon highlight a special breed of Enterpreneur, the Micropreneur. This 2 part series is for anyone that wants to know more about running a software business on the side.  Even if you  have no interest in writing code, you’ll get some good stuff from these episodes.  Our interview reveals where to find answers to: How do I Choose a Niche? How do I Get Started and Determine the Costs to an Online Business? Where is the best place to find a V.A.? (it’s not what you think) And Much More… Rob and Mike reveal the goods.  Listen to Episode 18 (that is, Part I) and send in a questions to: ryan(at)meetthemckinneys.com I’ll answer them on Episode 19 (or Part II) just before the cliffhanging wrap up to Episode 18/Part I. Leave a Comment and tell me your thoughts. Feel Like You Work Your Butt Off For Nothing? What is a Micropreneur? This Episode and Episode 19 coming out soon highlight a special breed of Enterpreneur, the Micropreneur. This 2 part series is for anyone that wants to know more about running a software business on the side.  Even if you  have no interest in writing code, you’ll get some good stuff from these episodes.  Our interview reveals where to find answers to: How do I Choose a Niche? How do I Get Started and Determine the Costs to an Online Business? Where is the best place to find a V.A.? (it’s not what you think) And Much More… Rob and Mike reveal the goods.  Listen to Episode 18 (that is, Part I) and send in a questions to: ryan(at)meetthemckinneys.com I’ll answer them on Episode 19 (or Part II) just before the cliffhanging wrap up to Episode 18/Part I. Leave a Comment and tell me your thoughts. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-31,25419317 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 21:29:13 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes, business basics, Getting Started Online, using a V.A., micropreneur, finding a niche Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25282215-Quick-Blog-Traffic-Low-Hanging-Fruit Quick-Blog-Traffic::Low-Hanging-Fruit Quick 4 Minute Video What Other Ways Do You Get Quick Traffic? Leave a Comment Add Your URL to Your Facebook Profile (right under your picture - see how in the video Add your URL to Your Twitter Page (see how in the video) Add your URL to your email signature Quick-Blog-Traffic::Low-Hanging-Fruit Quick 4 Minute Video What Other Ways Do You Get Quick Traffic? Leave a Comment Add Your URL to Your Facebook Profile (right under your picture - see how in the video Add your URL to Your Twitter Page (see how in the video) Add your URL to your email signature Quick-Blog-Traffic::Low-Hanging-Fruit Quick 4 Minute Video What Other Ways Do You Get Quick Traffic? Leave a Comment Add Your URL to Your Facebook Profile (right under your picture - see how in the video Add your URL to Your Twitter Page (see how in the video) Add your URL to your email signature tag:odeo.com,2009-10-13,25282215 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:04:44 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials, blog traffic, Video Traffic Guide, Traffic Tutorial Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25197036-TES-16-Promoting-Your-Linkedin-Profile Promoting Your Linkedin Profile Linkedin.com is the premier networking site for business people.  Think of it as Facebook for Business folks like yourself.  Getting people to connect there may be more difficult for a few reasons. Professionals are a little more “guarded” when it comes to their Linkedin.com profiles. The rules of linkedin.com require you to already know the person you want to connect with or you must be recommended by an acquaintance of you both. People just don’t know you are there. We’re going to concentrate on the 3rd reason and how you can overcome a LOW visibility problem on linkedin.com. It’s not commonplace for people to immediately look for you on linkedin.com after they met you some where.  It should be and that’s a best practice for you to pick up.  However, people just don’t do it yet.  Something that has worked for me is to direct you new acquantance to your linkedin.com profile with any of your “leave behin... Promoting Your Linkedin Profile Linkedin.com is the premier networking site for business people.  Think of it as Facebook for Business folks like yourself.  Getting people to connect there may be more difficult for a few reasons. Professionals are a little more “guarded” when it comes to their Linkedin.com profiles. The rules of linkedin.com require you to already know the person you want to connect with or you must be recommended by an acquaintance of you both. People just don’t know you are there. We’re going to concentrate on the 3rd reason and how you can overcome a LOW visibility problem on linkedin.com. It’s not commonplace for people to immediately look for you on linkedin.com after they met you some where.  It should be and that’s a best practice for you to pick up.  However, people just don’t do it yet.  Something that has worked for me is to direct you new acquantance to your linkedin.com profile with any of your “leave behind” materials.  These “leave behind” materials could be something as simple as your business card, your companies brochures, or gifts for gate keepers. Here’s how you pull it off. Set up a COMPLETE PROFILE on linkedin.com BEFORE you go to step 2.  This would be like inviting people to a party at your house before you buy the food and drinks. Just make sure it’s complete before you move on.  You’ll need a professional picture (or NO picture at all), your resume details, your interests, and current projects you’re wanting to publicize.  This not make a robust profile, but it will be complete enough to get to step 2.  Actually, your profile will never be fully complete, because it is something you will continually update to keep it fresh. Order a domain name.  Here is the best place to do that. Cheap Domain Names A link will be included in the action steps below as well.  Try to get “yourname.com”.  If your name is taken, try adding your middle initial.  If you do this you’ll want to make sure all of your printed materials from now on contain your middle initial as you build your brand.  If that is taken, think of a phrase that sums up what you do or how you’d like to brand yourself. Point your domain name to your linkedin.com profile page.  Here’s a quick video of how to forward your domain. Buy a Stamp with your new domain name on it.  This is REALLY important because you want to make an impression and create curiosity that COMPELS people to visit your profile.  I chose a stamp that is pretty simple.  It says: “Let’s Connect  RyanDMcKinney.com“.  It fits on the back of my business cards or anything else.  I include it in mail pieces and everywhere else I can stamp it.  Being a stamp makes it easy to use, distribute and most importantly, READ. Add your new domain name to your email signature. These are the best linkedin.com connection improving steps I’ve used so far.  If you have more, leave a comment on this post and share with everyone else. Take Action: Complete the check list above using these links.  The links contain discounts and help support the show.  Everybody wins! Linkedin.com Cheap Domain Names Order a Stamp Promoting Your Linkedin Profile Linkedin.com is the premier networking site for business people.  Think of it as Facebook for Business folks like yourself.  Getting people to connect there may be more difficult for a few reasons. Professionals are a little more “guarded” when it comes to their Linkedin.com profiles. The rules of linkedin.com require you to already know the person you want to connect with or you must be recommended by an acquaintance of you both. People just don’t know you are there. We’re going to concentrate on the 3rd reason and how you can overcome a LOW visibility problem on linkedin.com. It’s not commonplace for people to immediately look for you on linkedin.com after they met you some where.  It should be and that’s a best practice for you to pick up.  However, people just don’t do it yet.  Something that has worked for me is to direct you new acquantance to your linkedin.com profile with any of your “leave behind” materials.  These “leave behind” materials could be something as simple as your business card, your companies brochures, or gifts for gate keepers. Here’s how you pull it off. Set up a COMPLETE PROFILE on linkedin.com BEFORE you go to step 2.  This would be like inviting people to a party at your house before you buy the food and drinks. Just make sure it’s complete before you move on.  You’ll need a professional picture (or NO picture at all), your resume details, your interests, and current projects you’re wanting to publicize.  This not make a robust profile, but it will be complete enough to get to step 2.  Actually, your profile will never be fully complete, because it is something you will continually update to keep it fresh. Order a domain name.  Here is the best place to do that. Cheap Domain Names A link will be included in the action steps below as well.  Try to get “yourname.com”.  If your name is taken, try adding your middle initial.  If you do this you’ll want to make sure all of your printed materials from now on contain your middle initial as you build your brand.  If that is taken, think of a phrase that sums up what you do or how you’d like to brand yourself. Point your domain name to your linkedin.com profile page.  Here’s a quick video of how to forward your domain. Buy a Stamp with your new domain name on it.  This is REALLY important because you want to make an impression and create curiosity that COMPELS people to visit your profile.  I chose a stamp that is pretty simple.  It says: “Let’s Connect  RyanDMcKinney.com“.  It fits on the back of my business cards or anything else.  I include it in mail pieces and everywhere else I can stamp it.  Being a stamp makes it easy to use, distribute and most importantly, READ. Add your new domain name to your email signature. These are the best linkedin.com connection improving steps I’ve used so far.  If you have more, leave a comment on this post and share with everyone else. Take Action: Complete the check list above using these links.  The links contain discounts and help support the show.  Everybody wins! Linkedin.com Cheap Domain Names Order a Stamp tag:odeo.com,2009-09-01,25197036 Tue, 01 Sep 2009 03:00:23 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers LinkedIn, Podcast Episodes, stamp, domain forwarding, linkedin podcast Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076273-TES-15-How-to-Get-Solid-Testimonials TES 15 | How to Get ROCK SOLID Testimonials What’s a GOOD Testimonial? Testimonials add to your credibility.  You may be the best plumber in the world, but if no one knows it, no one will care.  That reminds me of an old saying, “Know one cares how much you know until the know how much you care.” That’s precisely what testimonials do.  The difference is the person giving the testimonial is the one telling your prospect how much YOU care. According to Dr. Sheldon Nix of FrugalMarketing.com , a good Testimonial helps to build trust and is crucial for making a sale or you are marketing your Professional Services. A good testimonial should move fence sitters to buyers and solidify the buyers reasons for their purchase.  Testimonials can also build to repeat buyers, which is what we really like. Testimonials should inform and persuade others to TRUST you and your products or services. Exactly how to get them The process of obtaining testimonials falls into 2 categ... TES 15 | How to Get ROCK SOLID Testimonials What’s a GOOD Testimonial? Testimonials add to your credibility.  You may be the best plumber in the world, but if no one knows it, no one will care.  That reminds me of an old saying, “Know one cares how much you know until the know how much you care.” That’s precisely what testimonials do.  The difference is the person giving the testimonial is the one telling your prospect how much YOU care. According to Dr. Sheldon Nix of FrugalMarketing.com , a good Testimonial helps to build trust and is crucial for making a sale or you are marketing your Professional Services. A good testimonial should move fence sitters to buyers and solidify the buyers reasons for their purchase.  Testimonials can also build to repeat buyers, which is what we really like. Testimonials should inform and persuade others to TRUST you and your products or services. Exactly how to get them The process of obtaining testimonials falls into 2 categories, those that come naturally and those that are asked for.  This episode is about the latter. In your career, you are going to come across those “natural” testimonials every so often and that is just fine.  But we CANNOT wait for them to roll in.  We need to get you testimonials NOW. So, that means we are going to have to ASK for them now.  That’s the only way to assure that you get a list of them right off the bat. For that, your going to need to know the right questions to ask and the right way to ask them. The right questions to get the right answers Ever notice on the law television shows that the attorneys always seem to get the right answers when they are questioning the witnesses?  It’s not just because it’s in the script.  It’s because the attorneys have prepared the “leading” questions.  Leading questions do exactly what they say.  They lead the person being questioned to the right answer. We’re going to do that with our customers to get the answers we need for great testimonials.  The key to getting the testimonials you’ll want is two-fold.  You’re going to ask the right questions and do it at the right time. Here you’re going to get 5 solid tips to generating rock solid testimonials and exactly WHAT to do to get them. 1.)  Asking - It’s true.  You simply need to ask for a testimonial.  The best time is while your client is euphorically satisfied state (they’re happy about what you’ve done for them). 2.)  Guidance -  So you’ve realized that some sales people have tons of testimonials that are great while others have 1 or 2 that are… well… so, so.  The reason is because the person they are giving a testimonial about GUIDED them with how to write a SOLID Testimonial. a.    i.e. i.     Did _______ help you with an issue? If so, was it resolved and how did it make you feel that ______ was on the case? ii.     Would you recommend _______ to a family member or a friend? iii.     In 3 words or so, how would you sum up your interaction with _____. This leads the client to the right conclusion. 3.)  Diligence - Kind of a NO BRAINER, right?  You have to keep this up to be successful at it.  Here’s how I ask for testimonials every time. a.    Mr. Customer, if you are 110% satisfied with your interaction with me, would you mind saying so in a sentence or two?  It helps others know what they can expect from their experience with me.  Here are a few things to keep in mind: i.     Did _______ help you with an issue? If so, was it resolved and how did it make you feel that ______ was on the case? ii.     Would you recommend _______ to a family member or a friend? iii.     In 3 words or so, how would you sum up your interaction with _____. Does this sound familiar?  Good it should.  It’s from the above paragraph about SOLID TESTIMONIALS. 4.)  Permission - Getting permission to redistribute the testimonials is vital.  If you are in a privacy intense profession, you may ask clients if it’s ok to use initials only.  NOTE: initials only will seem less personal, but given an industry like the medical field, people will generally understand. 5.)  Display -  Now that you’ve got testimonials, where will you display them?  Think about your customers and “where” the will be when the buying decision is most pronounced in their minds.  That is precisely the Real Estate you need your testimonials in.  That little reassurance that everything is going to be ok is exactly what your prospects need to pull the trigger. The key to this is asking every person you have a favorable interaction with.  Pay special attention to problems you’ve solved for someone.  Genuine gratitude is a great primer for a SOLID testimonial. TAKE ACTION: 1.    Map out your Testimonial Process Today 2.    Think of the last 5 major problems you solved for customers.  Now call those customers and ask them if they’d mind giving you a testimonial about how you handled the issue. TES 15 | How to Get ROCK SOLID Testimonials What’s a GOOD Testimonial? Testimonials add to your credibility.  You may be the best plumber in the world, but if no one knows it, no one will care.  That reminds me of an old saying, “Know one cares how much you know until the know how much you care.” That’s precisely what testimonials do.  The difference is the person giving the testimonial is the one telling your prospect how much YOU care. According to Dr. Sheldon Nix of FrugalMarketing.com , a good Testimonial helps to build trust and is crucial for making a sale or you are marketing your Professional Services. A good testimonial should move fence sitters to buyers and solidify the buyers reasons for their purchase.  Testimonials can also build to repeat buyers, which is what we really like. Testimonials should inform and persuade others to TRUST you and your products or services. Exactly how to get them The process of obtaining testimonials falls into 2 categories, those that come naturally and those that are asked for.  This episode is about the latter. In your career, you are going to come across those “natural” testimonials every so often and that is just fine.  But we CANNOT wait for them to roll in.  We need to get you testimonials NOW. So, that means we are going to have to ASK for them now.  That’s the only way to assure that you get a list of them right off the bat. For that, your going to need to know the right questions to ask and the right way to ask them. The right questions to get the right answers Ever notice on the law television shows that the attorneys always seem to get the right answers when they are questioning the witnesses?  It’s not just because it’s in the script.  It’s because the attorneys have prepared the “leading” questions.  Leading questions do exactly what they say.  They lead the person being questioned to the right answer. We’re going to do that with our customers to get the answers we need for great testimonials.  The key to getting the testimonials you’ll want is two-fold.  You’re going to ask the right questions and do it at the right time. Here you’re going to get 5 solid tips to generating rock solid testimonials and exactly WHAT to do to get them. 1.)  Asking - It’s true.  You simply need to ask for a testimonial.  The best time is while your client is euphorically satisfied state (they’re happy about what you’ve done for them). 2.)  Guidance -  So you’ve realized that some sales people have tons of testimonials that are great while others have 1 or 2 that are… well… so, so.  The reason is because the person they are giving a testimonial about GUIDED them with how to write a SOLID Testimonial. a.    i.e. i.     Did _______ help you with an issue? If so, was it resolved and how did it make you feel that ______ was on the case? ii.     Would you recommend _______ to a family member or a friend? iii.     In 3 words or so, how would you sum up your interaction with _____. This leads the client to the right conclusion. 3.)  Diligence - Kind of a NO BRAINER, right?  You have to keep this up to be successful at it.  Here’s how I ask for testimonials every time. a.    Mr. Customer, if you are 110% satisfied with your interaction with me, would you mind saying so in a sentence or two?  It helps others know what they can expect from their experience with me.  Here are a few things to keep in mind: i.     Did _______ help you with an issue? If so, was it resolved and how did it make you feel that ______ was on the case? ii.     Would you recommend _______ to a family member or a friend? iii.     In 3 words or so, how would you sum up your interaction with _____. Does this sound familiar?  Good it should.  It’s from the above paragraph about SOLID TESTIMONIALS. 4.)  Permission - Getting permission to redistribute the testimonials is vital.  If you are in a privacy intense profession, you may ask clients if it’s ok to use initials only.  NOTE: initials only will seem less personal, but given an industry like the medical field, people will generally understand. 5.)  Display -  Now that you’ve got testimonials, where will you display them?  Think about your customers and “where” the will be when the buying decision is most pronounced in their minds.  That is precisely the Real Estate you need your testimonials in.  That little reassurance that everything is going to be ok is exactly what your prospects need to pull the trigger. The key to this is asking every person you have a favorable interaction with.  Pay special attention to problems you’ve solved for someone.  Genuine gratitude is a great primer for a SOLID testimonial. TAKE ACTION: 1.    Map out your Testimonial Process Today 2.    Think of the last 5 major problems you solved for customers.  Now call those customers and ask them if they’d mind giving you a testimonial about how you handled the issue. tag:odeo.com,2009-08-20,25076273 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:05:58 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076274-TES-14-Guerrilla-Marketing-Should-Do-These-3-Things Now This IS Remarkable Guerrilla Marketing Should Do These 3 Things GRAB Attention Be Relevant Be Remarkable (easy and interesting enough to TALK about with Friends) Grab Attention Attention is the 1st thing you must gain as a marketer.  If you don’t have someone’s attention, how are they going to decide to buy from you.  Guerrilla Marketing like what Starbucks did with this promotion GRABS your attention because it challenges your notion of normalcy.  Simply put, Good People WON’T let strangers spill coffee all over their cars. So What’s going on in this photo for real? Well Starbucks knew that getting attention is the 1st thing to do in their awareness campaign.  They hired an actor to drive around D.C. with a fake cup of Starbucks (fivebucks) Joe permanently attached to the roof of the car. Notice the color of the car. Red = Danger. How’s This Relevant? Everyone had done what this guy seems to be doing.  It is NO fun to clean your $5 cup of coffee of... Now This IS Remarkable Guerrilla Marketing Should Do These 3 Things GRAB Attention Be Relevant Be Remarkable (easy and interesting enough to TALK about with Friends) Grab Attention Attention is the 1st thing you must gain as a marketer.  If you don’t have someone’s attention, how are they going to decide to buy from you.  Guerrilla Marketing like what Starbucks did with this promotion GRABS your attention because it challenges your notion of normalcy.  Simply put, Good People WON’T let strangers spill coffee all over their cars. So What’s going on in this photo for real? Well Starbucks knew that getting attention is the 1st thing to do in their awareness campaign.  They hired an actor to drive around D.C. with a fake cup of Starbucks (fivebucks) Joe permanently attached to the roof of the car. Notice the color of the car. Red = Danger. How’s This Relevant? Everyone had done what this guy seems to be doing.  It is NO fun to clean your $5 cup of coffee off of your freshly washed car.  So the fact that just about everyone had encountered this problem with coffee the “coffee crowd” will no doubt take interest.  That same “coffee crowd” will not only take notice to this relevant debacle about to happen, but most importantly they’ll TALK about it with their friends. That’s Remarkable Seriously, remarkable means something that evokes us to remark about it. Let’s picture the scene.  You notice this guy in the picture above.  You wave to him. “Hey. You’re coffee is on your car!” you shout.  He looks oblivious and you shout louder and get closer to warn him of his impending doom.  You see the Starbucks brand on the cup now.  You shout again, “hey you’re coffee is on your car”. “I know. Happy Holidays from Starbucks”. Are you gonna tell your friends… over coffee perhaps. Guerrilla Marketing is about meeting people where they are and exposing your brand in a relevant and remarkable way. TAKE ACTION: Brainstorm ideas of how you can expose your companies brand in a relevant and remarkable way.  Then come back to the blog and share them here in the comments. .aweber_formbox { margin:15px auto; border-top:1px solid #e4e4e4; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; width:500px; padding:1px; background-color:#FFF; font-family:Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Arial; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header { padding:4px 0px 0px 15px; font-size:12px; width:255px; color:#000; float:left; } .aweber_formbox p { font-size:14px; padding:15px 15px 0 15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_emailicon { position:relative; top:3px; display:none; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header span { font-size:16px; display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form { padding:10px; font-size:12px; margin-top:10px; float:right; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl { display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl span { /*display:none;*/ } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"] { width:165px; background-color:#e6efef; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; padding:3px; vertical-align:middle; font-style:italic; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"] { background-color: #22be0b; background-image:url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_on.gif); background-image:repeat-x; color:#FFF; border:1px solid #666; padding:4px 5px; margin-top:3px; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"]:hover { background-color: #2096e2; background-image: url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_hover.gif); background-repeat: repeat; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"]:focus { background-color:#FFF; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_element { margin-bottom:5px; margin-left:15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_submit { text-align:left; margin-top:10px; margin-bottom:10px; margin-left:15px; } -- _______________________________________________ Can You Have More Sales, Too? Helping over 61,000 businesses like yours raise profits and build customer relationships using AWeber’s opt-in email marketing software for over 10 years. Take a Free Test Drive today! Now This IS Remarkable Guerrilla Marketing Should Do These 3 Things GRAB Attention Be Relevant Be Remarkable (easy and interesting enough to TALK about with Friends) Grab Attention Attention is the 1st thing you must gain as a marketer.  If you don’t have someone’s attention, how are they going to decide to buy from you.  Guerrilla Marketing like what Starbucks did with this promotion GRABS your attention because it challenges your notion of normalcy.  Simply put, Good People WON’T let strangers spill coffee all over their cars. So What’s going on in this photo for real? Well Starbucks knew that getting attention is the 1st thing to do in their awareness campaign.  They hired an actor to drive around D.C. with a fake cup of Starbucks (fivebucks) Joe permanently attached to the roof of the car. Notice the color of the car. Red = Danger. How’s This Relevant? Everyone had done what this guy seems to be doing.  It is NO fun to clean your $5 cup of coffee off of your freshly washed car.  So the fact that just about everyone had encountered this problem with coffee the “coffee crowd” will no doubt take interest.  That same “coffee crowd” will not only take notice to this relevant debacle about to happen, but most importantly they’ll TALK about it with their friends. That’s Remarkable Seriously, remarkable means something that evokes us to remark about it. Let’s picture the scene.  You notice this guy in the picture above.  You wave to him. “Hey. You’re coffee is on your car!” you shout.  He looks oblivious and you shout louder and get closer to warn him of his impending doom.  You see the Starbucks brand on the cup now.  You shout again, “hey you’re coffee is on your car”. “I know. Happy Holidays from Starbucks”. Are you gonna tell your friends… over coffee perhaps. Guerrilla Marketing is about meeting people where they are and exposing your brand in a relevant and remarkable way. TAKE ACTION: Brainstorm ideas of how you can expose your companies brand in a relevant and remarkable way.  Then come back to the blog and share them here in the comments. .aweber_formbox { margin:15px auto; border-top:1px solid #e4e4e4; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; width:500px; padding:1px; background-color:#FFF; font-family:Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Arial; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header { padding:4px 0px 0px 15px; font-size:12px; width:255px; color:#000; float:left; } .aweber_formbox p { font-size:14px; padding:15px 15px 0 15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_emailicon { position:relative; top:3px; display:none; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header span { font-size:16px; display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form { padding:10px; font-size:12px; margin-top:10px; float:right; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl { display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl span { /*display:none;*/ } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"] { width:165px; background-color:#e6efef; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; padding:3px; vertical-align:middle; font-style:italic; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"] { background-color: #22be0b; background-image:url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_on.gif); background-image:repeat-x; color:#FFF; border:1px solid #666; padding:4px 5px; margin-top:3px; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"]:hover { background-color: #2096e2; background-image: url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_hover.gif); background-repeat: repeat; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"]:focus { background-color:#FFF; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_element { margin-bottom:5px; margin-left:15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_submit { text-align:left; margin-top:10px; margin-bottom:10px; margin-left:15px; } -- _______________________________________________ Can You Have More Sales, Too? Helping over 61,000 businesses like yours raise profits and build customer relationships using AWeber’s opt-in email marketing software for over 10 years. Take a Free Test Drive today! tag:odeo.com,2009-08-01,25076274 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 09:00:53 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes, Latest Post Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24900460-TES-14-Guerrilla-Marketing-Should-Do-These-3-Things Now This IS Remarkable Guerrilla Marketing Should Do These 3 Things GRAB Attention Be Relevant Be Remarkable (easy and interesting enough to TALK about with Friends) Grab Attention Attention is the 1st thing you must gain as a marketer.  If you don’t have someone’s attention, how are they going to decide to buy from you.  Guerrilla Marketing like what Starbucks did with this promotion GRABS your attention because it challenges your notion of normalcy.  Simply put, Good People WON’T let strangers spill coffee all over their cars. So What’s going on in this photo for real? Well Starbucks knew that getting attention is the 1st thing to do in their awareness campaign.  They hired an actor to drive around D.C. with a fake cup of Starbucks (fivebucks) Joe permanently attached to the roof of the car. Notice the color of the car. Red = Danger. How’s This Relevant? Everyone had done what this guy seems to be doing.  It is NO fun to clean your $5 cup of coffee of... Now This IS Remarkable Guerrilla Marketing Should Do These 3 Things GRAB Attention Be Relevant Be Remarkable (easy and interesting enough to TALK about with Friends) Grab Attention Attention is the 1st thing you must gain as a marketer.  If you don’t have someone’s attention, how are they going to decide to buy from you.  Guerrilla Marketing like what Starbucks did with this promotion GRABS your attention because it challenges your notion of normalcy.  Simply put, Good People WON’T let strangers spill coffee all over their cars. So What’s going on in this photo for real? Well Starbucks knew that getting attention is the 1st thing to do in their awareness campaign.  They hired an actor to drive around D.C. with a fake cup of Starbucks (fivebucks) Joe permanently attached to the roof of the car. Notice the color of the car. Red = Danger. How’s This Relevant? Everyone had done what this guy seems to be doing.  It is NO fun to clean your $5 cup of coffee off of your freshly washed car.  So the fact that just about everyone had encountered this problem with coffee the “coffee crowd” will no doubt take interest.  That same “coffee crowd” will not only take notice to this relevant debacle about to happen, but most importantly they’ll TALK about it with their friends. That’s Remarkable Seriously, remarkable means something that evokes us to remark about it. Let’s picture the scene.  You notice this guy in the picture above.  You wave to him. “Hey. You’re coffee is on your car!” you shout.  He looks oblivious and you shout louder and get closer to warn him of his impending doom.  You see the Starbucks brand on the cup now.  You shout again, “hey you’re coffee is on your car”. “I know. Happy Holidays from Starbucks”. Are you gonna tell your friends… over coffee perhaps. Guerrilla Marketing is about meeting people where they are and exposing your brand in a relevant and remarkable way. TAKE ACTION: Brainstorm ideas of how you can expose your companies brand in a relevant and remarkable way.  Then come back to the blog and share them here in the comments. .aweber_formbox { margin:15px auto; border-top:1px solid #e4e4e4; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; width:500px; padding:1px; background-color:#FFF; font-family:Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Arial; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header { padding:4px 0px 0px 15px; font-size:12px; width:255px; color:#000; float:left; } .aweber_formbox p { font-size:14px; padding:15px 15px 0 15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_emailicon { position:relative; top:3px; display:none; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header span { font-size:16px; display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form { padding:10px; font-size:12px; margin-top:10px; float:right; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl { display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl span { /*display:none;*/ } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"] { width:165px; background-color:#e6efef; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; padding:3px; vertical-align:middle; font-style:italic; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"] { background-color: #22be0b; background-image:url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_on.gif); background-image:repeat-x; color:#FFF; border:1px solid #666; padding:4px 5px; margin-top:3px; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"]:hover { background-color: #2096e2; background-image: url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_hover.gif); background-repeat: repeat; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"]:focus { background-color:#FFF; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_element { margin-bottom:5px; margin-left:15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_submit { text-align:left; margin-top:10px; margin-bottom:10px; margin-left:15px; } -- _______________________________________________ Can You Have More Sales, Too? Helping over 61,000 businesses like yours raise profits and build customer relationships using AWeber’s opt-in email marketing software for over 10 years. Take a Free Test Drive today! Now This IS Remarkable Guerrilla Marketing Should Do These 3 Things GRAB Attention Be Relevant Be Remarkable (easy and interesting enough to TALK about with Friends) Grab Attention Attention is the 1st thing you must gain as a marketer.  If you don’t have someone’s attention, how are they going to decide to buy from you.  Guerrilla Marketing like what Starbucks did with this promotion GRABS your attention because it challenges your notion of normalcy.  Simply put, Good People WON’T let strangers spill coffee all over their cars. So What’s going on in this photo for real? Well Starbucks knew that getting attention is the 1st thing to do in their awareness campaign.  They hired an actor to drive around D.C. with a fake cup of Starbucks (fivebucks) Joe permanently attached to the roof of the car. Notice the color of the car. Red = Danger. How’s This Relevant? Everyone had done what this guy seems to be doing.  It is NO fun to clean your $5 cup of coffee off of your freshly washed car.  So the fact that just about everyone had encountered this problem with coffee the “coffee crowd” will no doubt take interest.  That same “coffee crowd” will not only take notice to this relevant debacle about to happen, but most importantly they’ll TALK about it with their friends. That’s Remarkable Seriously, remarkable means something that evokes us to remark about it. Let’s picture the scene.  You notice this guy in the picture above.  You wave to him. “Hey. You’re coffee is on your car!” you shout.  He looks oblivious and you shout louder and get closer to warn him of his impending doom.  You see the Starbucks brand on the cup now.  You shout again, “hey you’re coffee is on your car”. “I know. Happy Holidays from Starbucks”. Are you gonna tell your friends… over coffee perhaps. Guerrilla Marketing is about meeting people where they are and exposing your brand in a relevant and remarkable way. TAKE ACTION: Brainstorm ideas of how you can expose your companies brand in a relevant and remarkable way.  Then come back to the blog and share them here in the comments. .aweber_formbox { margin:15px auto; border-top:1px solid #e4e4e4; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; width:500px; padding:1px; background-color:#FFF; font-family:Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Arial; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header { padding:4px 0px 0px 15px; font-size:12px; width:255px; color:#000; float:left; } .aweber_formbox p { font-size:14px; padding:15px 15px 0 15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_emailicon { position:relative; top:3px; display:none; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_header span { font-size:16px; display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form { padding:10px; font-size:12px; margin-top:10px; float:right; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl { display:block; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_lbl span { /*display:none;*/ } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"] { width:165px; background-color:#e6efef; border:1px solid #e4e4e4; padding:3px; vertical-align:middle; font-style:italic; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"] { background-color: #22be0b; background-image:url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_on.gif); background-image:repeat-x; color:#FFF; border:1px solid #666; padding:4px 5px; margin-top:3px; } .aweber_form input[type="submit"]:hover { background-color: #2096e2; background-image: url(http://www.aweber.com/images/button_hover.gif); background-repeat: repeat; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_form input[type="text"]:focus { background-color:#FFF; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_element { margin-bottom:5px; margin-left:15px; } .aweber_formbox .aweber_submit { text-align:left; margin-top:10px; margin-bottom:10px; margin-left:15px; } -- _______________________________________________ Can You Have More Sales, Too? Helping over 61,000 businesses like yours raise profits and build customer relationships using AWeber’s opt-in email marketing software for over 10 years. Take a Free Test Drive today! tag:odeo.com,2009-08-01,24900460 Sat, 01 Aug 2009 09:00:53 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes, Latest Post Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24831278-TES-13-6-Steps-to-a-Solid-Viral-Marketing-Campaign-and-What-SONY-Did-Wrong Photo by kirstyhall via Flickr.com 6 Steps to a Solid Viral Marketing Campaign and What SONY Did Wrong So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: Define My Target Audience Define My Target Market Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable Find two polar points within the Target Pick a side and Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  Viral ads don’t discriminate.  They spread negative press or positive press to the target audience. If the campaign does in fact go viral, it on... Photo by kirstyhall via Flickr.com 6 Steps to a Solid Viral Marketing Campaign and What SONY Did Wrong So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: Define My Target Audience Define My Target Market Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable Find two polar points within the Target Pick a side and Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  Viral ads don’t discriminate.  They spread negative press or positive press to the target audience. If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example. Metrics are a must in a viral campaign.  A viral ad without good metrics is almost worse than no ad.  Think about it.  If you can’t measure it’s effectiveness (with website hits, coupons redeemed, or email registrations) what good is it? CASE STUDY: Viral Ad campaigns can go either way.  At the suggestion of one of the shows listeners, Eric Jorgenson of Bizica.com a Business Indexing Service, I decided to include both a good and bad viral campaign for “real world” examples. First the successful. Fruit Burst who transformed a billboard, a traditional mass marketing push advertising campaign tool,  into a hugely successful permission based viral ad campaign. Second the “not so successful” ok bad. SONY launched a bogus viral campaign “All I Want for Christmas is my PSP”.  This of course was built on, as Seth Godin would say, an “old marketing” or “meatball” premise and tried to add the “new marketing” or “sundae” premise with the new age viral ad.  If you’ve read the book Meatball Sundae, then you know what mess you’ve got when you mix these two together.  It went viral alright, but only because of how it seemed to try and “trick” a savvy group of geeks (never a good idea… we are just too smart) and they couldn’t help but talk about how much they hated SONY. Back to Success In New Zealand, Pascall’s Fruit Burst made a significantly relevant viral ad that made it’s way into every conversation in New Zealeand.  A Giant Billboard was constructed  with a huge thumb-tack held in place right next to a growing Fruit Burst Filled Strawberry Balloon. A contest was promoted via the billboard and a website where participants could enter (email and name) to win $5000 if they guessed the time and day the Strawberry would Burst. Notice the terminology. Burst. At 13:33 on October 31, the giant strawberry did just that.  What happened next was amazing. Sample Fruit Burst Candies were showered onto the onlookers as the Fruit Burst Bursted.  The winner was announced and promoted (something to talk about) and Fruit Burst was left with thousands of permission-obtained email addresses, something unique and relevant to talk about, and thousands of people talking about the “Bursting Fruit from Fruit Burst”. Read more about it here –> Fruit Burst Viral Marketing Campaign Viral Marketing Tips? In this case we see a few key elements. 1.)    Opt-In Permission Marketing 2.)    Relevant Subject Matter Fruit Burst having a fruit that bursts 3.)    Something remarkable to talk about with others [the entire concept] 4.)    The reason to spread the idea [the contest and the proposition of winning] 5.)    The climax was remarkable to talk about too. Just check out the video recapping this whole thing on youtube.com HOW TO: Although there is no “magic” formula for a viral marketing campaign.  Here are some key elements that stand out in most of the vm campaigns I have reviewed. Know your audience’s language, topical events, and norms.  i.e. Dog Trainers don’t train dogs, they train people to understand their dogs. What is relevant with this audience (short comings, points of pride, uniqueness, etc.) Where does your audience interact with one another? i.e. Harry Potter Readers often meet at book stores for book clubs. What has been considered “remarkable” or a better said, “spreadable” as an idea for your audience in the past. What polar opposites does your audience possess?  Can you favor one side truthfully to spark a remarkable story they can pass along? TAKE ACTION: Tell us what YOU think.  Leave a Comment. Then, find a place where your Niche interacts with one another and use the 6 steps above to ignite a meaningful conversation… of millions. Photo by kirstyhall via Flickr.com 6 Steps to a Solid Viral Marketing Campaign and What SONY Did Wrong So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: Define My Target Audience Define My Target Market Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable Find two polar points within the Target Pick a side and Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  Viral ads don’t discriminate.  They spread negative press or positive press to the target audience. If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example. Metrics are a must in a viral campaign.  A viral ad without good metrics is almost worse than no ad.  Think about it.  If you can’t measure it’s effectiveness (with website hits, coupons redeemed, or email registrations) what good is it? CASE STUDY: Viral Ad campaigns can go either way.  At the suggestion of one of the shows listeners, Eric Jorgenson of Bizica.com a Business Indexing Service, I decided to include both a good and bad viral campaign for “real world” examples. First the successful. Fruit Burst who transformed a billboard, a traditional mass marketing push advertising campaign tool,  into a hugely successful permission based viral ad campaign. Second the “not so successful” ok bad. SONY launched a bogus viral campaign “All I Want for Christmas is my PSP”.  This of course was built on, as Seth Godin would say, an “old marketing” or “meatball” premise and tried to add the “new marketing” or “sundae” premise with the new age viral ad.  If you’ve read the book Meatball Sundae, then you know what mess you’ve got when you mix these two together.  It went viral alright, but only because of how it seemed to try and “trick” a savvy group of geeks (never a good idea… we are just too smart) and they couldn’t help but talk about how much they hated SONY. Back to Success In New Zealand, Pascall’s Fruit Burst made a significantly relevant viral ad that made it’s way into every conversation in New Zealeand.  A Giant Billboard was constructed  with a huge thumb-tack held in place right next to a growing Fruit Burst Filled Strawberry Balloon. A contest was promoted via the billboard and a website where participants could enter (email and name) to win $5000 if they guessed the time and day the Strawberry would Burst. Notice the terminology. Burst. At 13:33 on October 31, the giant strawberry did just that.  What happened next was amazing. Sample Fruit Burst Candies were showered onto the onlookers as the Fruit Burst Bursted.  The winner was announced and promoted (something to talk about) and Fruit Burst was left with thousands of permission-obtained email addresses, something unique and relevant to talk about, and thousands of people talking about the “Bursting Fruit from Fruit Burst”. Read more about it here –> Fruit Burst Viral Marketing Campaign Viral Marketing Tips? In this case we see a few key elements. 1.)    Opt-In Permission Marketing 2.)    Relevant Subject Matter Fruit Burst having a fruit that bursts 3.)    Something remarkable to talk about with others [the entire concept] 4.)    The reason to spread the idea [the contest and the proposition of winning] 5.)    The climax was remarkable to talk about too. Just check out the video recapping this whole thing on youtube.com HOW TO: Although there is no “magic” formula for a viral marketing campaign.  Here are some key elements that stand out in most of the vm campaigns I have reviewed. Know your audience’s language, topical events, and norms.  i.e. Dog Trainers don’t train dogs, they train people to understand their dogs. What is relevant with this audience (short comings, points of pride, uniqueness, etc.) Where does your audience interact with one another? i.e. Harry Potter Readers often meet at book stores for book clubs. What has been considered “remarkable” or a better said, “spreadable” as an idea for your audience in the past. What polar opposites does your audience possess?  Can you favor one side truthfully to spark a remarkable story they can pass along? TAKE ACTION: Tell us what YOU think.  Leave a Comment. Then, find a place where your Niche interacts with one another and use the 6 steps above to ignite a meaningful conversation… of millions. tag:odeo.com,2009-07-08,24831278 Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:35:30 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers articles, Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076275-TES-13-6-Steps-to-a-Solid-Viral-Marketing-Campaign-and-What-SONY-Did-Wrong Photo by kirstyhall via Flickr.com 6 Steps to a Solid Viral Marketing Campaign and What SONY Did Wrong So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: Define My Target Audience Define My Target Market Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable Find two polar points within the Target Pick a side and Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  Viral ads don’t discriminate.  They spread negative press or positive press to the target audience. If the campaign does in fact go viral, it on... Photo by kirstyhall via Flickr.com 6 Steps to a Solid Viral Marketing Campaign and What SONY Did Wrong So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: Define My Target Audience Define My Target Market Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable Find two polar points within the Target Pick a side and Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  Viral ads don’t discriminate.  They spread negative press or positive press to the target audience. If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example. Metrics are a must in a viral campaign.  A viral ad without good metrics is almost worse than no ad.  Think about it.  If you can’t measure it’s effectiveness (with website hits, coupons redeemed, or email registrations) what good is it? CASE STUDY: Viral Ad campaigns can go either way.  At the suggestion of one of the shows listeners, Eric Jorgenson of Bizica.com a Business Indexing Service, I decided to include both a good and bad viral campaign for “real world” examples. First the successful. Fruit Burst who transformed a billboard, a traditional mass marketing push advertising campaign tool,  into a hugely successful permission based viral ad campaign. Second the “not so successful” ok bad. SONY launched a bogus viral campaign “All I Want for Christmas is my PSP”.  This of course was built on, as Seth Godin would say, an “old marketing” or “meatball” premise and tried to add the “new marketing” or “sundae” premise with the new age viral ad.  If you’ve read the book Meatball Sundae, then you know what mess you’ve got when you mix these two together.  It went viral alright, but only because of how it seemed to try and “trick” a savvy group of geeks (never a good idea… we are just too smart) and they couldn’t help but talk about how much they hated SONY. Back to Success In New Zealand, Pascall’s Fruit Burst made a significantly relevant viral ad that made it’s way into every conversation in New Zealeand.  A Giant Billboard was constructed  with a huge thumb-tack held in place right next to a growing Fruit Burst Filled Strawberry Balloon. A contest was promoted via the billboard and a website where participants could enter (email and name) to win $5000 if they guessed the time and day the Strawberry would Burst. Notice the terminology. Burst. At 13:33 on October 31, the giant strawberry did just that.  What happened next was amazing. Sample Fruit Burst Candies were showered onto the onlookers as the Fruit Burst Bursted.  The winner was announced and promoted (something to talk about) and Fruit Burst was left with thousands of permission-obtained email addresses, something unique and relevant to talk about, and thousands of people talking about the “Bursting Fruit from Fruit Burst”. Read more about it here –> Fruit Burst Viral Marketing Campaign Viral Marketing Tips? In this case we see a few key elements. 1.)    Opt-In Permission Marketing 2.)    Relevant Subject Matter Fruit Burst having a fruit that bursts 3.)    Something remarkable to talk about with others [the entire concept] 4.)    The reason to spread the idea [the contest and the proposition of winning] 5.)    The climax was remarkable to talk about too. Just check out the video recapping this whole thing on youtube.com HOW TO: Although there is no “magic” formula for a viral marketing campaign.  Here are some key elements that stand out in most of the vm campaigns I have reviewed. Know your audience’s language, topical events, and norms.  i.e. Dog Trainers don’t train dogs, they train people to understand their dogs. What is relevant with this audience (short comings, points of pride, uniqueness, etc.) Where does your audience interact with one another? i.e. Harry Potter Readers often meet at book stores for book clubs. What has been considered “remarkable” or a better said, “spreadable” as an idea for your audience in the past. What polar opposites does your audience possess?  Can you favor one side truthfully to spark a remarkable story they can pass along? TAKE ACTION: Tell us what YOU think.  Leave a Comment. Then, find a place where your Niche interacts with one another and use the 6 steps above to ignite a meaningful conversation… of millions. Photo by kirstyhall via Flickr.com 6 Steps to a Solid Viral Marketing Campaign and What SONY Did Wrong So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: Define My Target Audience Define My Target Market Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable Find two polar points within the Target Pick a side and Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  Viral ads don’t discriminate.  They spread negative press or positive press to the target audience. If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example. Metrics are a must in a viral campaign.  A viral ad without good metrics is almost worse than no ad.  Think about it.  If you can’t measure it’s effectiveness (with website hits, coupons redeemed, or email registrations) what good is it? CASE STUDY: Viral Ad campaigns can go either way.  At the suggestion of one of the shows listeners, Eric Jorgenson of Bizica.com a Business Indexing Service, I decided to include both a good and bad viral campaign for “real world” examples. First the successful. Fruit Burst who transformed a billboard, a traditional mass marketing push advertising campaign tool,  into a hugely successful permission based viral ad campaign. Second the “not so successful” ok bad. SONY launched a bogus viral campaign “All I Want for Christmas is my PSP”.  This of course was built on, as Seth Godin would say, an “old marketing” or “meatball” premise and tried to add the “new marketing” or “sundae” premise with the new age viral ad.  If you’ve read the book Meatball Sundae, then you know what mess you’ve got when you mix these two together.  It went viral alright, but only because of how it seemed to try and “trick” a savvy group of geeks (never a good idea… we are just too smart) and they couldn’t help but talk about how much they hated SONY. Back to Success In New Zealand, Pascall’s Fruit Burst made a significantly relevant viral ad that made it’s way into every conversation in New Zealeand.  A Giant Billboard was constructed  with a huge thumb-tack held in place right next to a growing Fruit Burst Filled Strawberry Balloon. A contest was promoted via the billboard and a website where participants could enter (email and name) to win $5000 if they guessed the time and day the Strawberry would Burst. Notice the terminology. Burst. At 13:33 on October 31, the giant strawberry did just that.  What happened next was amazing. Sample Fruit Burst Candies were showered onto the onlookers as the Fruit Burst Bursted.  The winner was announced and promoted (something to talk about) and Fruit Burst was left with thousands of permission-obtained email addresses, something unique and relevant to talk about, and thousands of people talking about the “Bursting Fruit from Fruit Burst”. Read more about it here –> Fruit Burst Viral Marketing Campaign Viral Marketing Tips? In this case we see a few key elements. 1.)    Opt-In Permission Marketing 2.)    Relevant Subject Matter Fruit Burst having a fruit that bursts 3.)    Something remarkable to talk about with others [the entire concept] 4.)    The reason to spread the idea [the contest and the proposition of winning] 5.)    The climax was remarkable to talk about too. Just check out the video recapping this whole thing on youtube.com HOW TO: Although there is no “magic” formula for a viral marketing campaign.  Here are some key elements that stand out in most of the vm campaigns I have reviewed. Know your audience’s language, topical events, and norms.  i.e. Dog Trainers don’t train dogs, they train people to understand their dogs. What is relevant with this audience (short comings, points of pride, uniqueness, etc.) Where does your audience interact with one another? i.e. Harry Potter Readers often meet at book stores for book clubs. What has been considered “remarkable” or a better said, “spreadable” as an idea for your audience in the past. What polar opposites does your audience possess?  Can you favor one side truthfully to spark a remarkable story they can pass along? TAKE ACTION: Tell us what YOU think.  Leave a Comment. Then, find a place where your Niche interacts with one another and use the 6 steps above to ignite a meaningful conversation… of millions. tag:odeo.com,2009-07-08,25076275 Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:35:30 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers articles, Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076276-TES-12-eBay-Continuity-Tips-Turn-1-Time-eBay-Customers-Into-Lifetime-Buyers In this episode… Learn what eBay Continuity is and how it can change 1 time eBay customers into a community of lifetime buyers. You’ll get 10 SOLID reason to use eBay as part of your marketing machine. Reasons like: Millions to Market to – Customers are Qualified – Customers are already used to buying via paypal Customers are comfortable with buying from you. Economies of Scale – Community Building – Relationship Building Cash Flow Stabilization – Building a Valuable List of Clients to Market to (refer to tips) eBay Alternative – Why it Sucks What is eBay Continuity? eBay Continuity - What we’re going to cover – eBay Continuity eBay Continuity is pretty simple really. If you’ve heard of continuity in the past, you probably remember it from your physics class or from marketing class as “Forced Continuity”.  Although there are subtle differences in these types of continuity, their impact is tremendous. Continuity – is a continuous flow of something. Sales... In this episode… Learn what eBay Continuity is and how it can change 1 time eBay customers into a community of lifetime buyers. You’ll get 10 SOLID reason to use eBay as part of your marketing machine. Reasons like: Millions to Market to – Customers are Qualified – Customers are already used to buying via paypal Customers are comfortable with buying from you. Economies of Scale – Community Building – Relationship Building Cash Flow Stabilization – Building a Valuable List of Clients to Market to (refer to tips) eBay Alternative – Why it Sucks What is eBay Continuity? eBay Continuity - What we’re going to cover – eBay Continuity eBay Continuity is pretty simple really. If you’ve heard of continuity in the past, you probably remember it from your physics class or from marketing class as “Forced Continuity”.  Although there are subtle differences in these types of continuity, their impact is tremendous. Continuity – is a continuous flow of something. Sales Continuity – is a continuous flow of sales Forced Continuity – refers to a very effective form of marketing. When a customer buys from you, they’re automatically “subscribed” to a list with a free trial. If the customer doesn’t “unsubscribe” they will be charged at the end of the trial period * Can Be Tricky and Backfire is likely * Can come across as underhanded if not done properly * Can be VERY EFFECTIVE if the offer is targeted and high in value * Stay Clear for Beginners * Best suited for customers you have sold to multiple times, not their first edition to your lists eBay Continuity – is turning 1 time eBay customers into lifetime buyers by adding them to a list of email recipients. * You need to know the path your customers are going to travel or your marketing funnel * Avoid lengthy multi-step market funnels that have very few benefits * Reference IBMA regarding the importance of your funnel * Create an experience for buying with you * Think of your customer’s perception.  To them, no matte rwhat you sell on eBay, your a commodity.  The reason is because the eBay experience is rather homogenous by default. ** Delayed Shipping ** All of these have their merit, however today we’re going to focus on why eBay continuity should be apart of your marketing plan and why it builds money making relationships with your customers. Why it’s important to you especially if you are not an eBay seller. Millions to Market to – Customers are Qualified – Customers are already used to buying via paypal Customers are comfortable with buying from you. Economies of Scale – Community Building – Relationship Building Cash Flow Stabilization – Building a Valuable List of Clients to Market to (refer to tips) eBay Alternative – Why it Sucks TAKE ACTION: Get an eBay Account here if you don’t already have one Get a PayPal Account here if you don’t already have one Get an Aweber.com account here if you don’t already have one – What it is and how it works GET the List Builder eBook – Why list building is so important eBay List Building Tips •    Building a list is tough sometimes.  You need to build a compelling offer get it into traffic fast. This eBook is cheap and packs a wallop–>listbuilderpro.com/budurl •    Use adwords account marketed towards your niche and use a landing page that incorporated your eBay offerings •    Use an email follow up system Aweber.com to continually offer valuable information to your list •    Use the tutorials on this site to learn more about how to use these recommended products About the Author Learn more about Ryan at: MeetTheMcKinneys.com In this episode… Learn what eBay Continuity is and how it can change 1 time eBay customers into a community of lifetime buyers. You’ll get 10 SOLID reason to use eBay as part of your marketing machine. Reasons like: Millions to Market to – Customers are Qualified – Customers are already used to buying via paypal Customers are comfortable with buying from you. Economies of Scale – Community Building – Relationship Building Cash Flow Stabilization – Building a Valuable List of Clients to Market to (refer to tips) eBay Alternative – Why it Sucks What is eBay Continuity? eBay Continuity - What we’re going to cover – eBay Continuity eBay Continuity is pretty simple really. If you’ve heard of continuity in the past, you probably remember it from your physics class or from marketing class as “Forced Continuity”.  Although there are subtle differences in these types of continuity, their impact is tremendous. Continuity – is a continuous flow of something. Sales Continuity – is a continuous flow of sales Forced Continuity – refers to a very effective form of marketing. When a customer buys from you, they’re automatically “subscribed” to a list with a free trial. If the customer doesn’t “unsubscribe” they will be charged at the end of the trial period * Can Be Tricky and Backfire is likely * Can come across as underhanded if not done properly * Can be VERY EFFECTIVE if the offer is targeted and high in value * Stay Clear for Beginners * Best suited for customers you have sold to multiple times, not their first edition to your lists eBay Continuity – is turning 1 time eBay customers into lifetime buyers by adding them to a list of email recipients. * You need to know the path your customers are going to travel or your marketing funnel * Avoid lengthy multi-step market funnels that have very few benefits * Reference IBMA regarding the importance of your funnel * Create an experience for buying with you * Think of your customer’s perception.  To them, no matte rwhat you sell on eBay, your a commodity.  The reason is because the eBay experience is rather homogenous by default. ** Delayed Shipping ** All of these have their merit, however today we’re going to focus on why eBay continuity should be apart of your marketing plan and why it builds money making relationships with your customers. Why it’s important to you especially if you are not an eBay seller. Millions to Market to – Customers are Qualified – Customers are already used to buying via paypal Customers are comfortable with buying from you. Economies of Scale – Community Building – Relationship Building Cash Flow Stabilization – Building a Valuable List of Clients to Market to (refer to tips) eBay Alternative – Why it Sucks TAKE ACTION: Get an eBay Account here if you don’t already have one Get a PayPal Account here if you don’t already have one Get an Aweber.com account here if you don’t already have one – What it is and how it works GET the List Builder eBook – Why list building is so important eBay List Building Tips •    Building a list is tough sometimes.  You need to build a compelling offer get it into traffic fast. This eBook is cheap and packs a wallop–>listbuilderpro.com/budurl •    Use adwords account marketed towards your niche and use a landing page that incorporated your eBay offerings •    Use an email follow up system Aweber.com to continually offer valuable information to your list •    Use the tutorials on this site to learn more about how to use these recommended products About the Author Learn more about Ryan at: MeetTheMcKinneys.com tag:odeo.com,2009-07-01,25076276 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:22:54 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076277-TES-11-Frank%E2%80%99s-Competition-Laughed-All-the-Way-to-The-Bank-Until-He-Did-This%E2%80%A6 Website Visibility Frank’s competition was laughing all the way to the bank as Frank’s store died a painful death until he focused on his Core Visibility Measure. So what was it that Frank’s Competition was doing to put him out of business without him knowing it?  TRAFFIC GENERATION.  Sounds simple and it can be. There is one BEEFY way to make sure you rank highly in google as far as your business is concerned. Take Action: Check the Video Out Here —> Add My Business to Google ============================================== LINKS: Learn More About - Ryan McKinney Tips & Tricks Free Business Gift (dot) com Get The Google Local Business Video HERE—> >>Google Local Business Video Tutorial<< Website Visibility Frank’s competition was laughing all the way to the bank as Frank’s store died a painful death until he focused on his Core Visibility Measure. So what was it that Frank’s Competition was doing to put him out of business without him knowing it?  TRAFFIC GENERATION.  Sounds simple and it can be. There is one BEEFY way to make sure you rank highly in google as far as your business is concerned. Take Action: Check the Video Out Here —> Add My Business to Google ============================================== LINKS: Learn More About - Ryan McKinney Tips & Tricks Free Business Gift (dot) com Get The Google Local Business Video HERE—> >>Google Local Business Video Tutorial<< Website Visibility Frank’s competition was laughing all the way to the bank as Frank’s store died a painful death until he focused on his Core Visibility Measure. So what was it that Frank’s Competition was doing to put him out of business without him knowing it?  TRAFFIC GENERATION.  Sounds simple and it can be. There is one BEEFY way to make sure you rank highly in google as far as your business is concerned. Take Action: Check the Video Out Here —> Add My Business to Google ============================================== LINKS: Learn More About - Ryan McKinney Tips & Tricks Free Business Gift (dot) com Get The Google Local Business Video HERE—> >>Google Local Business Video Tutorial<< tag:odeo.com,2009-06-15,25076277 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 19:23:53 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials, Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076278-How-to-Add-a-Gravatar-to-Your-Blog-Comment Adding a Gravatar to Your Blog Comment Gravatar - Globally Recognized Avatar (what it really means- a little picture next to your blog comment… on any blog. It’s just he right thing to do.) How To Leave a Comment TAKE ACTION: Go to http://gravatar.com Create and Account Receive the Confirmation email and click the link to confirm Sign-In (automatic I think) Upload a picture, crop, and save (you’ll see… it’s easy) Come back to http://theentrepreneurship.com/how-to-add-a-gravatar Add a comment to Try it out! GET OUR NEWSLETTER it includes TONS of Tips like these …. Oh and Free eBooks! Adding a Gravatar to Your Blog Comment Gravatar - Globally Recognized Avatar (what it really means- a little picture next to your blog comment… on any blog. It’s just he right thing to do.) How To Leave a Comment TAKE ACTION: Go to http://gravatar.com Create and Account Receive the Confirmation email and click the link to confirm Sign-In (automatic I think) Upload a picture, crop, and save (you’ll see… it’s easy) Come back to http://theentrepreneurship.com/how-to-add-a-gravatar Add a comment to Try it out! GET OUR NEWSLETTER it includes TONS of Tips like these …. Oh and Free eBooks! Adding a Gravatar to Your Blog Comment Gravatar - Globally Recognized Avatar (what it really means- a little picture next to your blog comment… on any blog. It’s just he right thing to do.) How To Leave a Comment TAKE ACTION: Go to http://gravatar.com Create and Account Receive the Confirmation email and click the link to confirm Sign-In (automatic I think) Upload a picture, crop, and save (you’ll see… it’s easy) Come back to http://theentrepreneurship.com/how-to-add-a-gravatar Add a comment to Try it out! GET OUR NEWSLETTER it includes TONS of Tips like these …. Oh and Free eBooks! tag:odeo.com,2009-06-11,25076278 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:52:29 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24692842-How-to-Add-a-Gravatar-to-Your-Blog-Comment Adding a Gravatar to Your Blog Comment Gravatar - Globally Recognized Avatar (what it really means- a little picture next to your blog comment… on any blog. It’s just he right thing to do.) TAKE ACTION: Go to http://gravatar.com Create and Account Receive the Confirmation email and click the link to confirm Sign-In (automatic I think) Upload a picture, crop, and save (you’ll see… it’s easy) Come back to http://theentrepreneurship.com/how-to-add-a-gravatar Add a comment to Try it out! Adding a Gravatar to Your Blog Comment Gravatar - Globally Recognized Avatar (what it really means- a little picture next to your blog comment… on any blog. It’s just he right thing to do.) TAKE ACTION: Go to http://gravatar.com Create and Account Receive the Confirmation email and click the link to confirm Sign-In (automatic I think) Upload a picture, crop, and save (you’ll see… it’s easy) Come back to http://theentrepreneurship.com/how-to-add-a-gravatar Add a comment to Try it out! Adding a Gravatar to Your Blog Comment Gravatar - Globally Recognized Avatar (what it really means- a little picture next to your blog comment… on any blog. It’s just he right thing to do.) TAKE ACTION: Go to http://gravatar.com Create and Account Receive the Confirmation email and click the link to confirm Sign-In (automatic I think) Upload a picture, crop, and save (you’ll see… it’s easy) Come back to http://theentrepreneurship.com/how-to-add-a-gravatar Add a comment to Try it out! tag:odeo.com,2009-06-11,24692842 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:52:29 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076279-TES-10-3-Step-Process-to-BOOST-Your-Closing-Ratio-The-Yes-S-I-R-Method Make sure you read through all of the post. There is an offer to get FREE EYE-POPPING Material to Push you to the Next LEVEL in Your Business ================================================= Have You Ever Said, “Why doesn’t my customer see I’m trying to help?” The Podcast is designed to take the guess work out of “WAKING” that customer up. The Yes S.I.R. Sales Method Before we get in to The Yes S.I.R. Method we need to acknowledge something. If you own a business… you ARE in sales. You may not like sales. Doesn’t matter. You may think all sales people are greazy-haired and pushy salesmen from a bad movie. Doesn’t matter. You ARE one now. So. You have 2 choices. Get really good at it and build a reputation as an honest and fair salesperson or buy some hair gel. So. What the heck is The Yes S.I.R. Method anyway? S.I.R. stands for: Situation Ideal Situations Road Blocks Situations are what prospects are really faced with on a daily... Make sure you read through all of the post. There is an offer to get FREE EYE-POPPING Material to Push you to the Next LEVEL in Your Business ================================================= Have You Ever Said, “Why doesn’t my customer see I’m trying to help?” The Podcast is designed to take the guess work out of “WAKING” that customer up. The Yes S.I.R. Sales Method Before we get in to The Yes S.I.R. Method we need to acknowledge something. If you own a business… you ARE in sales. You may not like sales. Doesn’t matter. You may think all sales people are greazy-haired and pushy salesmen from a bad movie. Doesn’t matter. You ARE one now. So. You have 2 choices. Get really good at it and build a reputation as an honest and fair salesperson or buy some hair gel. So. What the heck is The Yes S.I.R. Method anyway? S.I.R. stands for: Situation Ideal Situations Road Blocks Situations are what prospects are really faced with on a daily basis. Everyday we all find ourselves in situations and some it seems have no way out. Uncovering situations or recognizing situations is both a talent and a skill that can be developed. Some situations business owners find themselves in are obvious. MOST are not (to them). This is where you can come across to your prospect/client as keen on details and helpful with solutions. Pick up on the fact that they have to tell their staff everything to do in the middle of your presentation. Pick up on the fact that they call you every 2 days to examine their books and acknowledge that that takes time… THEIR valuable time. Recognize the fact that they are too busy to know they are paying unnecessary fees and that may be the reason they are so “stressed -out”. Here are a few Situation questions that may help you break the ice: What is your current situation with_____? Tell me about how you do _______ now? How have you changed since you began doing ______? Why? But seeing the situation is only half the battle to winning the prospect/client over to your way of thinking. The next is a little more difficult to get out in the open. The Ideal Situation. I’ve used the following sentences and phrases over the years to help my prospects/clients realize that there is a difference in what they’re doing and what they’d like to be doing. Here they are for your use: What would your ideal _____ situation look like? How would you like to be doing ______? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? Ideally? These make the prospect/client realize you SEE that they are not where they’d like to be, that you don’t want to FEED them your agenda, and most importantly there is a solid reason to listen to more of what you have to say. The next thing that gets you to “Closeville” is the Roadblock. Now I know that sounds backwards, but follow me here. The Roadblock is what you came to remove. You have essentially held the hand of the prospect/client through the thought process. In most cases, the prospect/client didn’t know there was a “Situation”. Nor did they know there was an “Ideal Situation”. The next bomb your drop on them is going to OPEN their eyes to just how off-track they have gotten. The reason I tell you this is because you need to be careful not SLAM your point home, BUT Slam your point home. [subtlety is a virtue not an assett] Here are some Roadblock questions to get you started: What is standing in your way? What can I do to remove some of these obstacles? What can I take out of your way? TONE: I cannot stress how important tone is to your line of questions. You NEED to be conversational to be believable. You need to be inquisitive to show you care. Finally, you need to be blunt and subtle to expose the need and position yourself as the solution. All of these happens without being condescending, without being confrontational, and without being, well, an ass. An example of this might look like this: YOU: “Jim, tell me about your accounts receivable now. How are you getting that done?” JIM: “Well, we have Janice. She gets the expense receipts and calculates them at the same time she does payroll. Then she issues checks on the same day the guys get paid. It’s ok because the guys all cash their checks the same day. That way there isn’t any waiting around for checks to get posted” YOU: “What would you do ideally? Have you thought about direct deposit so your workers don’t miss 2 hours every Friday so they can cash their checks?” JIM: “Never really thought of it that way. I guess the ideal way would be to have that done automatically like the big boys. Probably costs too much though.” YOU: “Well Jim, what’s standing in your way of having your workers get 2 more hours of work done each week and having them paid on Friday morning at 12 AM?” Jim: “Not sure. Do you have an idea?” [Wait for it.... wait for it... BAM. He's on your side or better yet, your on his side. The rest is living up to your commitments.] The Yes S.I.R. method has made a tremendous difference in my sales interactions. The MINUTE that you begin to implement this strategy, yours will too. Remember it’s Yes S.I.R. S = Situation I = Ideal Situations R = Roadblocks TAKE ACTION: Every time a family member, friend, or customers describes a situation, LISTEN UP. Then, ask every person you have a conversation with, “What is the ideal situation with _______? Then ask every person you have a conversation with, “What’ standing in your way?” Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com WE NEED YOUR HELP! — >iTunes: We’re In the Running for #1 Podcast in the “New Business Owner” Category and we need you to head over to: http://budurl.com/itnstes NOW and Write a review! Sample Review: The Podcast is Extremely Helpful. Keep it Up! Make sure you read through all of the post. There is an offer to get FREE EYE-POPPING Material to Push you to the Next LEVEL in Your Business ================================================= Have You Ever Said, “Why doesn’t my customer see I’m trying to help?” The Podcast is designed to take the guess work out of “WAKING” that customer up. The Yes S.I.R. Sales Method Before we get in to The Yes S.I.R. Method we need to acknowledge something. If you own a business… you ARE in sales. You may not like sales. Doesn’t matter. You may think all sales people are greazy-haired and pushy salesmen from a bad movie. Doesn’t matter. You ARE one now. So. You have 2 choices. Get really good at it and build a reputation as an honest and fair salesperson or buy some hair gel. So. What the heck is The Yes S.I.R. Method anyway? S.I.R. stands for: Situation Ideal Situations Road Blocks Situations are what prospects are really faced with on a daily basis. Everyday we all find ourselves in situations and some it seems have no way out. Uncovering situations or recognizing situations is both a talent and a skill that can be developed. Some situations business owners find themselves in are obvious. MOST are not (to them). This is where you can come across to your prospect/client as keen on details and helpful with solutions. Pick up on the fact that they have to tell their staff everything to do in the middle of your presentation. Pick up on the fact that they call you every 2 days to examine their books and acknowledge that that takes time… THEIR valuable time. Recognize the fact that they are too busy to know they are paying unnecessary fees and that may be the reason they are so “stressed -out”. Here are a few Situation questions that may help you break the ice: What is your current situation with_____? Tell me about how you do _______ now? How have you changed since you began doing ______? Why? But seeing the situation is only half the battle to winning the prospect/client over to your way of thinking. The next is a little more difficult to get out in the open. The Ideal Situation. I’ve used the following sentences and phrases over the years to help my prospects/clients realize that there is a difference in what they’re doing and what they’d like to be doing. Here they are for your use: What would your ideal _____ situation look like? How would you like to be doing ______? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? Ideally? These make the prospect/client realize you SEE that they are not where they’d like to be, that you don’t want to FEED them your agenda, and most importantly there is a solid reason to listen to more of what you have to say. The next thing that gets you to “Closeville” is the Roadblock. Now I know that sounds backwards, but follow me here. The Roadblock is what you came to remove. You have essentially held the hand of the prospect/client through the thought process. In most cases, the prospect/client didn’t know there was a “Situation”. Nor did they know there was an “Ideal Situation”. The next bomb your drop on them is going to OPEN their eyes to just how off-track they have gotten. The reason I tell you this is because you need to be careful not SLAM your point home, BUT Slam your point home. [subtlety is a virtue not an assett] Here are some Roadblock questions to get you started: What is standing in your way? What can I do to remove some of these obstacles? What can I take out of your way? TONE: I cannot stress how important tone is to your line of questions. You NEED to be conversational to be believable. You need to be inquisitive to show you care. Finally, you need to be blunt and subtle to expose the need and position yourself as the solution. All of these happens without being condescending, without being confrontational, and without being, well, an ass. An example of this might look like this: YOU: “Jim, tell me about your accounts receivable now. How are you getting that done?” JIM: “Well, we have Janice. She gets the expense receipts and calculates them at the same time she does payroll. Then she issues checks on the same day the guys get paid. It’s ok because the guys all cash their checks the same day. That way there isn’t any waiting around for checks to get posted” YOU: “What would you do ideally? Have you thought about direct deposit so your workers don’t miss 2 hours every Friday so they can cash their checks?” JIM: “Never really thought of it that way. I guess the ideal way would be to have that done automatically like the big boys. Probably costs too much though.” YOU: “Well Jim, what’s standing in your way of having your workers get 2 more hours of work done each week and having them paid on Friday morning at 12 AM?” Jim: “Not sure. Do you have an idea?” [Wait for it.... wait for it... BAM. He's on your side or better yet, your on his side. The rest is living up to your commitments.] The Yes S.I.R. method has made a tremendous difference in my sales interactions. The MINUTE that you begin to implement this strategy, yours will too. Remember it’s Yes S.I.R. S = Situation I = Ideal Situations R = Roadblocks TAKE ACTION: Every time a family member, friend, or customers describes a situation, LISTEN UP. Then, ask every person you have a conversation with, “What is the ideal situation with _______? Then ask every person you have a conversation with, “What’ standing in your way?” Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com WE NEED YOUR HELP! — >iTunes: We’re In the Running for #1 Podcast in the “New Business Owner” Category and we need you to head over to: http://budurl.com/itnstes NOW and Write a review! Sample Review: The Podcast is Extremely Helpful. Keep it Up! tag:odeo.com,2009-05-30,25076279 Sat, 30 May 2009 01:36:32 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24630891-TES-10-3-Step-Process-to-BOOST-Your-Closing-Ratio-The-Yes-S-I-R-Method Make sure you read through all of the post. There is an offer to get FREE EYE-POPPING Material to Push you to the Next LEVEL in Your Business ================================================= Have You Ever Said, “Why doesn’t my customer see I’m trying to help?” The Podcast is designed to take the guess work out of “WAKING” that customer up. The Yes S.I.R. Sales Method Before we get in to The Yes S.I.R. Method we need to acknowledge something. If you own a business… you ARE in sales. You may not like sales. Doesn’t matter. You may think all sales people are greazy-haired and pushy salesmen from a bad movie. Doesn’t matter. You ARE one now. So. You have 2 choices. Get really good at it and build a reputation as an honest and fair salesperson or buy some hair gel. So. What the heck is The Yes S.I.R. Method anyway? S.I.R. stands for: Situation Ideal Situations Road Blocks Situations are what prospects are really faced with on a daily... Make sure you read through all of the post. There is an offer to get FREE EYE-POPPING Material to Push you to the Next LEVEL in Your Business ================================================= Have You Ever Said, “Why doesn’t my customer see I’m trying to help?” The Podcast is designed to take the guess work out of “WAKING” that customer up. The Yes S.I.R. Sales Method Before we get in to The Yes S.I.R. Method we need to acknowledge something. If you own a business… you ARE in sales. You may not like sales. Doesn’t matter. You may think all sales people are greazy-haired and pushy salesmen from a bad movie. Doesn’t matter. You ARE one now. So. You have 2 choices. Get really good at it and build a reputation as an honest and fair salesperson or buy some hair gel. So. What the heck is The Yes S.I.R. Method anyway? S.I.R. stands for: Situation Ideal Situations Road Blocks Situations are what prospects are really faced with on a daily basis. Everyday we all find ourselves in situations and some it seems have no way out. Uncovering situations or recognizing situations is both a talent and a skill that can be developed. Some situations business owners find themselves in are obvious. MOST are not (to them). This is where you can come across to your prospect/client as keen on details and helpful with solutions. Pick up on the fact that they have to tell their staff everything to do in the middle of your presentation. Pick up on the fact that they call you every 2 days to examine their books and acknowledge that that takes time… THEIR valuable time. Recognize the fact that they are too busy to know they are paying unnecessary fees and that may be the reason they are so “stressed -out”. Here are a few Situation questions that may help you break the ice: What is your current situation with_____? Tell me about how you do _______ now? How have you changed since you began doing ______? Why? But seeing the situation is only half the battle to winning the prospect/client over to your way of thinking. The next is a little more difficult to get out in the open. The Ideal Situation. I’ve used the following sentences and phrases over the years to help my prospects/clients realize that there is a difference in what they’re doing and what they’d like to be doing. Here they are for your use: What would your ideal _____ situation look like? How would you like to be doing ______? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? Ideally? These make the prospect/client realize you SEE that they are not where they’d like to be, that you don’t want to FEED them your agenda, and most importantly there is a solid reason to listen to more of what you have to say. The next thing that gets you to “Closeville” is the Roadblock. Now I know that sounds backwards, but follow me here. The Roadblock is what you came to remove. You have essentially held the hand of the prospect/client through the thought process. In most cases, the prospect/client didn’t know there was a “Situation”. Nor did they know there was an “Ideal Situation”. The next bomb your drop on them is going to OPEN their eyes to just how off-track they have gotten. The reason I tell you this is because you need to be careful not SLAM your point home, BUT Slam your point home. [subtlety is a virtue not an assett] Here are some Roadblock questions to get you started: What is standing in your way? What can I do to remove some of these obstacles? What can I take out of your way? TONE: I cannot stress how important tone is to your line of questions. You NEED to be conversational to be believable. You need to be inquisitive to show you care. Finally, you need to be blunt and subtle to expose the need and position yourself as the solution. All of these happens without being condescending, without being confrontational, and without being, well, an ass. An example of this might look like this: YOU: “Jim, tell me about your accounts receivable now. How are you getting that done?” JIM: “Well, we have Janice. She gets the expense receipts and calculates them at the same time she does payroll. Then she issues checks on the same day the guys get paid. It’s ok because the guys all cash their checks the same day. That way there isn’t any waiting around for checks to get posted” YOU: “What would you do ideally? Have you thought about direct deposit so your workers don’t miss 2 hours every Friday so they can cash their checks?” JIM: “Never really thought of it that way. I guess the ideal way would be to have that done automatically like the big boys. Probably costs too much though.” YOU: “Well Jim, what’s standing in your way of having your workers get 2 more hours of work done each week and having them paid on Friday morning at 12 AM?” Jim: “Not sure. Do you have an idea?” [Wait for it.... wait for it... BAM. He's on your side or better yet, your on his side. The rest is living up to your commitments.] The Yes S.I.R. method has made a tremendous difference in my sales interactions. The MINUTE that you begin to implement this strategy, yours will too. Remember it’s Yes S.I.R. S = Situation I = Ideal Situations R = Roadblocks TAKE ACTION: Every time a family member, friend, or customers describes a situation, LISTEN UP. Then, ask every person you have a conversation with, “What is the ideal situation with _______? Then ask every person you have a conversation with, “What’ standing in your way?” Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com WE NEED YOUR HELP! — >iTunes: We’re In the Running for #1 Podcast in the “New Business Owner” Category and we need you to head over to: http://budurl.com/itnstes NOW and Write a review! Sample Review: The Podcast is Extremely Helpful. Keep it Up! Make sure you read through all of the post. There is an offer to get FREE EYE-POPPING Material to Push you to the Next LEVEL in Your Business ================================================= Have You Ever Said, “Why doesn’t my customer see I’m trying to help?” The Podcast is designed to take the guess work out of “WAKING” that customer up. The Yes S.I.R. Sales Method Before we get in to The Yes S.I.R. Method we need to acknowledge something. If you own a business… you ARE in sales. You may not like sales. Doesn’t matter. You may think all sales people are greazy-haired and pushy salesmen from a bad movie. Doesn’t matter. You ARE one now. So. You have 2 choices. Get really good at it and build a reputation as an honest and fair salesperson or buy some hair gel. So. What the heck is The Yes S.I.R. Method anyway? S.I.R. stands for: Situation Ideal Situations Road Blocks Situations are what prospects are really faced with on a daily basis. Everyday we all find ourselves in situations and some it seems have no way out. Uncovering situations or recognizing situations is both a talent and a skill that can be developed. Some situations business owners find themselves in are obvious. MOST are not (to them). This is where you can come across to your prospect/client as keen on details and helpful with solutions. Pick up on the fact that they have to tell their staff everything to do in the middle of your presentation. Pick up on the fact that they call you every 2 days to examine their books and acknowledge that that takes time… THEIR valuable time. Recognize the fact that they are too busy to know they are paying unnecessary fees and that may be the reason they are so “stressed -out”. Here are a few Situation questions that may help you break the ice: What is your current situation with_____? Tell me about how you do _______ now? How have you changed since you began doing ______? Why? But seeing the situation is only half the battle to winning the prospect/client over to your way of thinking. The next is a little more difficult to get out in the open. The Ideal Situation. I’ve used the following sentences and phrases over the years to help my prospects/clients realize that there is a difference in what they’re doing and what they’d like to be doing. Here they are for your use: What would your ideal _____ situation look like? How would you like to be doing ______? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? Ideally? These make the prospect/client realize you SEE that they are not where they’d like to be, that you don’t want to FEED them your agenda, and most importantly there is a solid reason to listen to more of what you have to say. The next thing that gets you to “Closeville” is the Roadblock. Now I know that sounds backwards, but follow me here. The Roadblock is what you came to remove. You have essentially held the hand of the prospect/client through the thought process. In most cases, the prospect/client didn’t know there was a “Situation”. Nor did they know there was an “Ideal Situation”. The next bomb your drop on them is going to OPEN their eyes to just how off-track they have gotten. The reason I tell you this is because you need to be careful not SLAM your point home, BUT Slam your point home. [subtlety is a virtue not an assett] Here are some Roadblock questions to get you started: What is standing in your way? What can I do to remove some of these obstacles? What can I take out of your way? TONE: I cannot stress how important tone is to your line of questions. You NEED to be conversational to be believable. You need to be inquisitive to show you care. Finally, you need to be blunt and subtle to expose the need and position yourself as the solution. All of these happens without being condescending, without being confrontational, and without being, well, an ass. An example of this might look like this: YOU: “Jim, tell me about your accounts receivable now. How are you getting that done?” JIM: “Well, we have Janice. She gets the expense receipts and calculates them at the same time she does payroll. Then she issues checks on the same day the guys get paid. It’s ok because the guys all cash their checks the same day. That way there isn’t any waiting around for checks to get posted” YOU: “What would you do ideally? Have you thought about direct deposit so your workers don’t miss 2 hours every Friday so they can cash their checks?” JIM: “Never really thought of it that way. I guess the ideal way would be to have that done automatically like the big boys. Probably costs too much though.” YOU: “Well Jim, what’s standing in your way of having your workers get 2 more hours of work done each week and having them paid on Friday morning at 12 AM?” Jim: “Not sure. Do you have an idea?” [Wait for it.... wait for it... BAM. He's on your side or better yet, your on his side. The rest is living up to your commitments.] The Yes S.I.R. method has made a tremendous difference in my sales interactions. The MINUTE that you begin to implement this strategy, yours will too. Remember it’s Yes S.I.R. S = Situation I = Ideal Situations R = Roadblocks TAKE ACTION: Every time a family member, friend, or customers describes a situation, LISTEN UP. Then, ask every person you have a conversation with, “What is the ideal situation with _______? Then ask every person you have a conversation with, “What’ standing in your way?” Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com WE NEED YOUR HELP! — >iTunes: We’re In the Running for #1 Podcast in the “New Business Owner” Category and we need you to head over to: http://budurl.com/itnstes NOW and Write a review! Sample Review: The Podcast is Extremely Helpful. Keep it Up! tag:odeo.com,2009-05-30,24630891 Sat, 30 May 2009 01:36:32 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076280-TES-9-Want-the-Stress-Erasing-Secret-for-Customer-Service Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and... Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and here to stay. You can make the most of them by sparking a partnership with people you work with now.  Keep in mind, you don’t need to employ or be employed with someone to have one.  I have a working agreement with my UPS man. He knows that I expect my packages in a certain place and I know he expects me to have my shipments boxed up and placed where he can easily pick them up. Here’s what a working agreement “looks” like. “Martha, doing business together means we’ll need to communicate any concerns with each other. In addition that “working agreement” we have will make it easier for both of us to do business. If for some reason you think I’m not holding my end of the bargain (or vice versa) we’ll come back to that agreement to see how to go forward.  Make sense?” Basically you are outlining your terms and conditions up front.  This does a tremendous job of keeping things running smoothly.  This is not to say that as soon as you have a working agreement in place that all of your woes will disappear. A working agreement gives everyone a “square one” to go back to. 3 things make up the ideal working agreement: 1.  What you expect. 2.  What’s expected of you. 3.  What happens when the system doesn’t work.  Have a plan to handle “exceptions” Having a place to “come back to together” makes it easier to call each other out.  When you have that kind of partnership you begin to know what others expect and what you can expect.  This is a great advantage above your competition. What happens when it doesn’t work? Written working agreements are best, because you can both decide on the desired outcome.  However, I live in the real world just like you.  99.9% of working agreements are verbal and that’s ok for most instances. Here are some air-clearing questions that make it easier to turn the screws on someone. I’m curious about how you perceived this arrangement.  Didn’t we decide in the beginning to do ______? I don’t mind changes, but I do believe they need to be agreed upon in order to work efficiently.  Is this a change that you are willing to put the whole project on hold for? Working WITH someone is much harder than working for someone or someone working for you.  It is real work.  Having an agreement ready to refer to at a moments notice keeps everyone happy. Using a working agreement with a client is a little different  A written one is best for this. You client knows what you are doing and when you plan to update them on the progress of their order.  Think of it as an outline for what’s going to happen.  It allows you to sneak valuable “over-delivery” in on them too.  Their expectations are at a “x” and you deliver not only “x” but “xy & z”. Most of the time with clients it’s the “not knowing” that drives them bonkers.  Working agreements, when followed, rid you of all of that. Some companies have instituted a “Customer Bill Of Rights”.  This is a great idea, but for general expectations.  If the order or project you are completing for them is unique, try using a working agreement to set the stage for what’s going to happen during the process. HAPPY CLICK Finally, An Easy To Use Online eCover and Image Editing Graphic Software That Allows Even The Most Technically Challenged Individual To Create Professional And High-Quality 3D Covers In No Time. All You Need is a Browser and an Internet Connection. Click Here For More Information: http://wealthycenter.com/cart/77jf/2008 TAKE ACTION: Go to this post on the website: Scroll to the bottom to the “leave reply” section Tell us what you think about working agreements.  For example: is there a time when a Working Agreement saved your butt?  Is there a time you wished that you would have had a Working Agreement?  Or do you think this is a load of bologna? Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Get Permission From YOUR Core Clients Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and here to stay. You can make the most of them by sparking a partnership with people you work with now.  Keep in mind, you don’t need to employ or be employed with someone to have one.  I have a working agreement with my UPS man. He knows that I expect my packages in a certain place and I know he expects me to have my shipments boxed up and placed where he can easily pick them up. Here’s what a working agreement “looks” like. “Martha, doing business together means we’ll need to communicate any concerns with each other. In addition that “working agreement” we have will make it easier for both of us to do business. If for some reason you think I’m not holding my end of the bargain (or vice versa) we’ll come back to that agreement to see how to go forward.  Make sense?” Basically you are outlining your terms and conditions up front.  This does a tremendous job of keeping things running smoothly.  This is not to say that as soon as you have a working agreement in place that all of your woes will disappear. A working agreement gives everyone a “square one” to go back to. 3 things make up the ideal working agreement: 1.  What you expect. 2.  What’s expected of you. 3.  What happens when the system doesn’t work.  Have a plan to handle “exceptions” Having a place to “come back to together” makes it easier to call each other out.  When you have that kind of partnership you begin to know what others expect and what you can expect.  This is a great advantage above your competition. What happens when it doesn’t work? Written working agreements are best, because you can both decide on the desired outcome.  However, I live in the real world just like you.  99.9% of working agreements are verbal and that’s ok for most instances. Here are some air-clearing questions that make it easier to turn the screws on someone. I’m curious about how you perceived this arrangement.  Didn’t we decide in the beginning to do ______? I don’t mind changes, but I do believe they need to be agreed upon in order to work efficiently.  Is this a change that you are willing to put the whole project on hold for? Working WITH someone is much harder than working for someone or someone working for you.  It is real work.  Having an agreement ready to refer to at a moments notice keeps everyone happy. Using a working agreement with a client is a little different  A written one is best for this. You client knows what you are doing and when you plan to update them on the progress of their order.  Think of it as an outline for what’s going to happen.  It allows you to sneak valuable “over-delivery” in on them too.  Their expectations are at a “x” and you deliver not only “x” but “xy & z”. Most of the time with clients it’s the “not knowing” that drives them bonkers.  Working agreements, when followed, rid you of all of that. Some companies have instituted a “Customer Bill Of Rights”.  This is a great idea, but for general expectations.  If the order or project you are completing for them is unique, try using a working agreement to set the stage for what’s going to happen during the process. HAPPY CLICK Finally, An Easy To Use Online eCover and Image Editing Graphic Software That Allows Even The Most Technically Challenged Individual To Create Professional And High-Quality 3D Covers In No Time. All You Need is a Browser and an Internet Connection. Click Here For More Information: http://wealthycenter.com/cart/77jf/2008 TAKE ACTION: Go to this post on the website: Scroll to the bottom to the “leave reply” section Tell us what you think about working agreements.  For example: is there a time when a Working Agreement saved your butt?  Is there a time you wished that you would have had a Working Agreement?  Or do you think this is a load of bologna? Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Get Permission From YOUR Core Clients Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! tag:odeo.com,2009-05-15,25076280 Fri, 15 May 2009 03:00:01 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers customer service, Podcast Episodes, joint ventures, ebook covers, working agreements, ecover-go Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24600506-TES-9-Want-the-Stress-Erasing-Secret-for-Customer-Service Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and... Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and here to stay. You can make the most of them by sparking a partnership with people you work with now.  Keep in mind, you don’t need to employ or be employed with someone to have one.  I have a working agreement with my UPS man. He knows that I expect my packages in a certain place and I know he expects me to have my shipments boxed up and placed where he can easily pick them up. Here’s what a working agreement “looks” like. “Martha, doing business together means we’ll need to communicate any concerns with each other. In addition that “working agreement” we have will make it easier for both of us to do business. If for some reason you think I’m not holding my end of the bargain (or vice versa) we’ll come back to that agreement to see how to go forward.  Make sense?” Basically you are outlining your terms and conditions up front.  This does a tremendous job of keeping things running smoothly.  This is not to say that as soon as you have a working agreement in place that all of your woes will disappear. A working agreement gives everyone a “square one” to go back to. 3 things make up the ideal working agreement: 1.  What you expect. 2.  What’s expected of you. 3.  What happens when the system doesn’t work.  Have a plan to handle “exceptions” Having a place to “come back to together” makes it easier to call each other out.  When you have that kind of partnership you begin to know what others expect and what you can expect.  This is a great advantage above your competition. What happens when it doesn’t work? Written working agreements are best, because you can both decide on the desired outcome.  However, I live in the real world just like you.  99.9% of working agreements are verbal and that’s ok for most instances. Here are some air-clearing questions that make it easier to turn the screws on someone. I’m curious about how you perceived this arrangement.  Didn’t we decide in the beginning to do ______? I don’t mind changes, but I do believe they need to be agreed upon in order to work efficiently.  Is this a change that you are willing to put the whole project on hold for? Working WITH someone is much harder than working for someone or someone working for you.  It is real work.  Having an agreement ready to refer to at a moments notice keeps everyone happy. Using a working agreement with a client is a little different  A written one is best for this. You client knows what you are doing and when you plan to update them on the progress of their order.  Think of it as an outline for what’s going to happen.  It allows you to sneak valuable “over-delivery” in on them too.  Their expectations are at a “x” and you deliver not only “x” but “xy & z”. Most of the time with clients it’s the “not knowing” that drives them bonkers.  Working agreements, when followed, rid you of all of that. Some companies have instituted a “Customer Bill Of Rights”.  This is a great idea, but for general expectations.  If the order or project you are completing for them is unique, try using a working agreement to set the stage for what’s going to happen during the process. HAPPY CLICK Finally, An Easy To Use Online eCover and Image Editing Graphic Software That Allows Even The Most Technically Challenged Individual To Create Professional And High-Quality 3D Covers In No Time. All You Need is a Browser and an Internet Connection. Click Here For More Information: http://wealthycenter.com/cart/77jf/2008 TAKE ACTION: Go to this post on the website: Scroll to the bottom to the “leave reply” section Tell us what you think about working agreements.  For example: is there a time when a Working Agreement saved your butt?  Is there a time you wished that you would have had a Working Agreement?  Or do you think this is a load of bologna? Add URL Free Directory Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and here to stay. You can make the most of them by sparking a partnership with people you work with now.  Keep in mind, you don’t need to employ or be employed with someone to have one.  I have a working agreement with my UPS man. He knows that I expect my packages in a certain place and I know he expects me to have my shipments boxed up and placed where he can easily pick them up. Here’s what a working agreement “looks” like. “Martha, doing business together means we’ll need to communicate any concerns with each other. In addition that “working agreement” we have will make it easier for both of us to do business. If for some reason you think I’m not holding my end of the bargain (or vice versa) we’ll come back to that agreement to see how to go forward.  Make sense?” Basically you are outlining your terms and conditions up front.  This does a tremendous job of keeping things running smoothly.  This is not to say that as soon as you have a working agreement in place that all of your woes will disappear. A working agreement gives everyone a “square one” to go back to. 3 things make up the ideal working agreement: 1.  What you expect. 2.  What’s expected of you. 3.  What happens when the system doesn’t work.  Have a plan to handle “exceptions” Having a place to “come back to together” makes it easier to call each other out.  When you have that kind of partnership you begin to know what others expect and what you can expect.  This is a great advantage above your competition. What happens when it doesn’t work? Written working agreements are best, because you can both decide on the desired outcome.  However, I live in the real world just like you.  99.9% of working agreements are verbal and that’s ok for most instances. Here are some air-clearing questions that make it easier to turn the screws on someone. I’m curious about how you perceived this arrangement.  Didn’t we decide in the beginning to do ______? I don’t mind changes, but I do believe they need to be agreed upon in order to work efficiently.  Is this a change that you are willing to put the whole project on hold for? Working WITH someone is much harder than working for someone or someone working for you.  It is real work.  Having an agreement ready to refer to at a moments notice keeps everyone happy. Using a working agreement with a client is a little different  A written one is best for this. You client knows what you are doing and when you plan to update them on the progress of their order.  Think of it as an outline for what’s going to happen.  It allows you to sneak valuable “over-delivery” in on them too.  Their expectations are at a “x” and you deliver not only “x” but “xy & z”. Most of the time with clients it’s the “not knowing” that drives them bonkers.  Working agreements, when followed, rid you of all of that. Some companies have instituted a “Customer Bill Of Rights”.  This is a great idea, but for general expectations.  If the order or project you are completing for them is unique, try using a working agreement to set the stage for what’s going to happen during the process. HAPPY CLICK Finally, An Easy To Use Online eCover and Image Editing Graphic Software That Allows Even The Most Technically Challenged Individual To Create Professional And High-Quality 3D Covers In No Time. All You Need is a Browser and an Internet Connection. Click Here For More Information: http://wealthycenter.com/cart/77jf/2008 TAKE ACTION: Go to this post on the website: Scroll to the bottom to the “leave reply” section Tell us what you think about working agreements.  For example: is there a time when a Working Agreement saved your butt?  Is there a time you wished that you would have had a Working Agreement?  Or do you think this is a load of bologna? Add URL Free Directory tag:odeo.com,2009-05-15,24600506 Fri, 15 May 2009 03:00:01 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes, customer service, joint ventures, ebook covers, working agreements, ecover-go Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24572924-TES-9-Who-Else-Wants-the-Secret-to-Erase-Stress-From-Your-Customer-Service-Interactions Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and... Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and here to stay. You can make the most of them by sparking a partnership with people you work with now.  Keep in mind, you don’t need to employ or be employed with someone to have one.  I have a working agreement with my UPS man. He knows that I expect my packages in a certain place and I know he expects me to have my shipments boxed up and placed where he can easily pick them up. Here’s what a working agreement “looks” like. “Martha, doing business together means we’ll need to communicate any concerns with each other. In addition that “working agreement” we have will make it easier for both of us to do business. If for some reason you think I’m not holding my end of the bargain (or vice versa) we’ll come back to that agreement to see how to go forward.  Make sense?” Basically you are outlining your terms and conditions up front.  This does a tremendous job of keeping things running smoothly.  This is not to say that as soon as you have a working agreement in place that all of your woes will disappear. A working agreement gives everyone a “square one” to go back to. 3 things make up the ideal working agreement: 1.  What you expect. 2.  What’s expected of you. 3.  What happens when the system doesn’t work.  Have a plan to handle “exceptions” Having a place to “come back to together” makes it easier to call each other out.  When you have that kind of partnership you begin to know what others expect and what you can expect.  This is a great advantage above your competition. What happens when it doesn’t work? Written working agreements are best, because you can both decide on the desired outcome.  However, I live in the real world just like you.  99.9% of working agreements are verbal and that’s ok for most instances. Here are some air-clearing questions that make it easier to turn the screws on someone. I’m curious about how you perceived this arrangement.  Didn’t we decide in the beginning to do ______? I don’t mind changes, but I do believe they need to be agreed upon in order to work efficiently.  Is this a change that you are willing to put the whole project on hold for? Working WITH someone is much harder than working for someone or someone working for you.  It is real work.  Having an agreement ready to refer to at a moments notice keeps everyone happy. Using a working agreement with a client is a little different  A written one is best for this. You client knows what you are doing and when you plan to update them on the progress of their order.  Think of it as an outline for what’s going to happen.  It allows you to sneak valuable “over-delivery” in on them too.  Their expectations are at a “x” and you deliver not only “x” but “xy & z”. Most of the time with clients it’s the “not knowing” that drives them bonkers.  Working agreements, when followed, rid you of all of that. Some companies have instituted a “Customer Bill Of Rights”.  This is a great idea, but for general expectations.  If the order or project you are completing for them is unique, try using a working agreement to set the stage for what’s going to happen during the process. HAPPY CLICK Finally, An Easy To Use Online eCover and Image Editing Graphic Software That Allows Even The Most Technically Challenged Individual To Create Professional And High-Quality 3D Covers In No Time. All You Need is a Browser and an Internet Connection. Click Here For More Information: http://wealthycenter.com/cart/77jf/2008 TAKE ACTION: Go to this post on the website: Scroll to the bottom to the “leave reply” section Tell us what you think about working agreements.  For example: is there a time when a Working Agreement saved your butt?  Is there a time you wished that you would have had a Working Agreement?  Or do you think this is a load of bologna? Today you’ll learn the 1 Secret to erasing stress from your projects with others and you’ll get a Happy Click to make eBook Cover design a cinch (it makes a cover in about 60-90 seconds for about $10). AND you’ll get a chance to Tell Us What You think. So let’s jump right in…. shall we? Whether you provide a service or supply a product, you small business can benefit from this 1 explosively important tip.  Begin with a working agreement. Today you’re going to find out what a Working Agreement is and why without a working agreement in place you are doomed. Working agreements are as old as the wheel.  However, most that use them have know “conscious” effort behind them.  In fact, most people don’t know what a working agreement is A working agreement is an agreement between 2 or more people that clearly lays out what actions will take place in a certain situation.  Long, boring story short… working agreements are necessary and here to stay. You can make the most of them by sparking a partnership with people you work with now.  Keep in mind, you don’t need to employ or be employed with someone to have one.  I have a working agreement with my UPS man. He knows that I expect my packages in a certain place and I know he expects me to have my shipments boxed up and placed where he can easily pick them up. Here’s what a working agreement “looks” like. “Martha, doing business together means we’ll need to communicate any concerns with each other. In addition that “working agreement” we have will make it easier for both of us to do business. If for some reason you think I’m not holding my end of the bargain (or vice versa) we’ll come back to that agreement to see how to go forward.  Make sense?” Basically you are outlining your terms and conditions up front.  This does a tremendous job of keeping things running smoothly.  This is not to say that as soon as you have a working agreement in place that all of your woes will disappear. A working agreement gives everyone a “square one” to go back to. 3 things make up the ideal working agreement: 1.  What you expect. 2.  What’s expected of you. 3.  What happens when the system doesn’t work.  Have a plan to handle “exceptions” Having a place to “come back to together” makes it easier to call each other out.  When you have that kind of partnership you begin to know what others expect and what you can expect.  This is a great advantage above your competition. What happens when it doesn’t work? Written working agreements are best, because you can both decide on the desired outcome.  However, I live in the real world just like you.  99.9% of working agreements are verbal and that’s ok for most instances. Here are some air-clearing questions that make it easier to turn the screws on someone. I’m curious about how you perceived this arrangement.  Didn’t we decide in the beginning to do ______? I don’t mind changes, but I do believe they need to be agreed upon in order to work efficiently.  Is this a change that you are willing to put the whole project on hold for? Working WITH someone is much harder than working for someone or someone working for you.  It is real work.  Having an agreement ready to refer to at a moments notice keeps everyone happy. Using a working agreement with a client is a little different  A written one is best for this. You client knows what you are doing and when you plan to update them on the progress of their order.  Think of it as an outline for what’s going to happen.  It allows you to sneak valuable “over-delivery” in on them too.  Their expectations are at a “x” and you deliver not only “x” but “xy & z”. Most of the time with clients it’s the “not knowing” that drives them bonkers.  Working agreements, when followed, rid you of all of that. Some companies have instituted a “Customer Bill Of Rights”.  This is a great idea, but for general expectations.  If the order or project you are completing for them is unique, try using a working agreement to set the stage for what’s going to happen during the process. HAPPY CLICK Finally, An Easy To Use Online eCover and Image Editing Graphic Software That Allows Even The Most Technically Challenged Individual To Create Professional And High-Quality 3D Covers In No Time. All You Need is a Browser and an Internet Connection. Click Here For More Information: http://wealthycenter.com/cart/77jf/2008 TAKE ACTION: Go to this post on the website: Scroll to the bottom to the “leave reply” section Tell us what you think about working agreements.  For example: is there a time when a Working Agreement saved your butt?  Is there a time you wished that you would have had a Working Agreement?  Or do you think this is a load of bologna? tag:odeo.com,2009-05-15,24572924 Fri, 15 May 2009 03:00:01 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes, customer service, joint ventures, ebook covers, working agreements, ecover-go Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24547915-TES-8-Are-You-Missing-these-10-Key-Reasons-You-ABSOLUTELY-NEED-a-Business-Plan Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desi... Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desired outcome of the business. Your business plan is essential for 10 key reasons. For personal commitment To Outline clear and actionable objectives. This makes success or failure measurable. Clearly defines the business purpose and timeline To know when, how, and whom to hire. To give the business a sense of direction To decide when, where, and how to expand or contract your business To show employees the Vision, Mission, and measureable targets To bring on a Partner or sell the business To show how and how much to market To convince bankers, lenders, or investors that your venture is worthwhile Each of these reasons require detailed attention and that’s precisely why most new business owners don’t do a business plan. That may very well be the reason they don’t succeed in finding financing or in making the business venture work. Do yourself a favor, do a solid business plan. There are recommendations for business planning software at www.theentrepreneurship.com or there are free versions you can use. My experience tells me, you get what you pay for. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot. However, if you want to make the process any less painful, get some help. Your local S.C.O.R.E affiliate can help too. There are also SBA sponsored development centers that will help you for free. Some things will have a fee, but again, you get what you pay for. TAKE ACTION: Now what I need you to do is, tell what ways you’ve struggled with a business plan or how you overcame your struggles. Just leave a reply below the post.  It’s that easy. For more details, listen to the full podcast at TheEntrepreneurship.com Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desired outcome of the business. Your business plan is essential for 10 key reasons. For personal commitment To Outline clear and actionable objectives. This makes success or failure measurable. Clearly defines the business purpose and timeline To know when, how, and whom to hire. To give the business a sense of direction To decide when, where, and how to expand or contract your business To show employees the Vision, Mission, and measureable targets To bring on a Partner or sell the business To show how and how much to market To convince bankers, lenders, or investors that your venture is worthwhile Each of these reasons require detailed attention and that’s precisely why most new business owners don’t do a business plan. That may very well be the reason they don’t succeed in finding financing or in making the business venture work. Do yourself a favor, do a solid business plan. There are recommendations for business planning software at www.theentrepreneurship.com or there are free versions you can use. My experience tells me, you get what you pay for. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot. However, if you want to make the process any less painful, get some help. Your local S.C.O.R.E affiliate can help too. There are also SBA sponsored development centers that will help you for free. Some things will have a fee, but again, you get what you pay for. TAKE ACTION: Now what I need you to do is, tell what ways you’ve struggled with a business plan or how you overcame your struggles. Just leave a reply below the post.  It’s that easy. For more details, listen to the full podcast at TheEntrepreneurship.com tag:odeo.com,2009-05-13,24547915 Wed, 13 May 2009 10:56:48 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes, Business Plan, business model Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076281-TES-8-Are-You-Missing-these-10-Key-Reasons-You-ABSOLUTELY-NEED-a-Business-Plan Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desi... Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desired outcome of the business. Your business plan is essential for 10 key reasons. For personal commitment To Outline clear and actionable objectives. This makes success or failure measurable. Clearly defines the business purpose and timeline To know when, how, and whom to hire. To give the business a sense of direction To decide when, where, and how to expand or contract your business To show employees the Vision, Mission, and measureable targets To bring on a Partner or sell the business To show how and how much to market To convince bankers, lenders, or investors that your venture is worthwhile Each of these reasons require detailed attention and that’s precisely why most new business owners don’t do a business plan. That may very well be the reason they don’t succeed in finding financing or in making the business venture work. Do yourself a favor, do a solid business plan. There are recommendations for business planning software at www.theentrepreneurship.com or there are free versions you can use. My experience tells me, you get what you pay for. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot. However, if you want to make the process any less painful, get some help. Your local S.C.O.R.E affiliate can help too. There are also SBA sponsored development centers that will help you for free. Some things will have a fee, but again, you get what you pay for. TAKE ACTION: Now what I need you to do is, tell what ways you’ve struggled with a business plan or how you overcame your struggles. Just leave a reply below the post.  It’s that easy. For more details, listen to the full podcast at TheEntrepreneurship.com Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desired outcome of the business. Your business plan is essential for 10 key reasons. For personal commitment To Outline clear and actionable objectives. This makes success or failure measurable. Clearly defines the business purpose and timeline To know when, how, and whom to hire. To give the business a sense of direction To decide when, where, and how to expand or contract your business To show employees the Vision, Mission, and measureable targets To bring on a Partner or sell the business To show how and how much to market To convince bankers, lenders, or investors that your venture is worthwhile Each of these reasons require detailed attention and that’s precisely why most new business owners don’t do a business plan. That may very well be the reason they don’t succeed in finding financing or in making the business venture work. Do yourself a favor, do a solid business plan. There are recommendations for business planning software at www.theentrepreneurship.com or there are free versions you can use. My experience tells me, you get what you pay for. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot. However, if you want to make the process any less painful, get some help. Your local S.C.O.R.E affiliate can help too. There are also SBA sponsored development centers that will help you for free. Some things will have a fee, but again, you get what you pay for. TAKE ACTION: Now what I need you to do is, tell what ways you’ve struggled with a business plan or how you overcame your struggles. Just leave a reply below the post.  It’s that easy. For more details, listen to the full podcast at TheEntrepreneurship.com Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com tag:odeo.com,2009-05-01,25076281 Fri, 01 May 2009 05:26:48 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Business Plan, Podcast Episodes, business model Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24572925-TES-8-Are-You-Missing-these-10-Key-Reasons-You-ABSOLUTELY-NEED-a-Business-Plan Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desi... Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desired outcome of the business. Your business plan is essential for 10 key reasons. For personal commitment To Outline clear and actionable objectives. This makes success or failure measurable. Clearly defines the business purpose and timeline To know when, how, and whom to hire. To give the business a sense of direction To decide when, where, and how to expand or contract your business To show employees the Vision, Mission, and measureable targets To bring on a Partner or sell the business To show how and how much to market To convince bankers, lenders, or investors that your venture is worthwhile Each of these reasons require detailed attention and that’s precisely why most new business owners don’t do a business plan. That may very well be the reason they don’t succeed in finding financing or in making the business venture work. Do yourself a favor, do a solid business plan. There are recommendations for business planning software at www.theentrepreneurship.com or there are free versions you can use. My experience tells me, you get what you pay for. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot. However, if you want to make the process any less painful, get some help. Your local S.C.O.R.E affiliate can help too. There are also SBA sponsored development centers that will help you for free. Some things will have a fee, but again, you get what you pay for. TAKE ACTION: Now what I need you to do is, tell what ways you’ve struggled with a business plan or how you overcame your struggles. Just leave a reply below the post.  It’s that easy. For more details, listen to the full podcast at TheEntrepreneurship.com Before we can answer that very important question let’s talk about what a Business Plan actually IS. A business plan serves as a guide, a blueprint, a measuring stick, and instructions for you business. Not just for the start-up portion either. For the whole business cycle. There are 10 key reasons you ABSOLUTELY NEED a business plan of some sort. Before we get to that, let’s also talk about what a business plan IS NOT. A business plan does not have to be lengthy. In fact, most “good” plans are not long or short. They are succinct for sure, but length should not concern you. Many times when talking with business owners I get asked if the need a business plan or a business model. Let’s be clear. A business plan and a business model are way different. A business model should be part of your business plan, but it’s been said that a good business model should fit on a bar napkin. What the old saying is trying to tell us is that the model is the “way” the business model produces the desired outcome of the business. Your business plan is essential for 10 key reasons. For personal commitment To Outline clear and actionable objectives. This makes success or failure measurable. Clearly defines the business purpose and timeline To know when, how, and whom to hire. To give the business a sense of direction To decide when, where, and how to expand or contract your business To show employees the Vision, Mission, and measureable targets To bring on a Partner or sell the business To show how and how much to market To convince bankers, lenders, or investors that your venture is worthwhile Each of these reasons require detailed attention and that’s precisely why most new business owners don’t do a business plan. That may very well be the reason they don’t succeed in finding financing or in making the business venture work. Do yourself a favor, do a solid business plan. There are recommendations for business planning software at www.theentrepreneurship.com or there are free versions you can use. My experience tells me, you get what you pay for. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot. However, if you want to make the process any less painful, get some help. Your local S.C.O.R.E affiliate can help too. There are also SBA sponsored development centers that will help you for free. Some things will have a fee, but again, you get what you pay for. TAKE ACTION: Now what I need you to do is, tell what ways you’ve struggled with a business plan or how you overcame your struggles. Just leave a reply below the post.  It’s that easy. For more details, listen to the full podcast at TheEntrepreneurship.com tag:odeo.com,2009-05-01,24572925 Fri, 01 May 2009 05:26:48 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes, Business Plan, business model Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076282-TES-7-How-to-Use-Simple-and-FREE-Blogging-Software-to-Skyrocket-Your-Profits Included in this episode you’ll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You’d Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the Easiest and the Best Plus - Why ? What you DO and DON’T need to know about getting set-up ? What to Include & Exclude about your business for your Business Website. ? Where you can find the resources to pack a real PUNCH… FREE! You’ve Got to Turn Your Customer’s Head When the internet and web marketing were a fairly new concept, all that a business needed to do was post a “billboard” style webpage showing contact information and the business was “Online”. Now you need to do more than have a webpage. You need to create a “Web Presence”. A web presence gives the customer or prospect an interaction and an experience. Gone are the days when you simply put your brand out there more than your competitor and you’d win the business. Customers ... Included in this episode you’ll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You’d Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the Easiest and the Best Plus - Why ? What you DO and DON’T need to know about getting set-up ? What to Include & Exclude about your business for your Business Website. ? Where you can find the resources to pack a real PUNCH… FREE! You’ve Got to Turn Your Customer’s Head When the internet and web marketing were a fairly new concept, all that a business needed to do was post a “billboard” style webpage showing contact information and the business was “Online”. Now you need to do more than have a webpage. You need to create a “Web Presence”. A web presence gives the customer or prospect an interaction and an experience. Gone are the days when you simply put your brand out there more than your competitor and you’d win the business. Customers today expect an experience and because they expect one, they will get it. It might be bad or good, but they’ll get an experience. Business Owners need to be seen to draw traffic in the bricks and mortar world. They need the more than ever now online too. The best website in the world is like the tree falling in the woods. It might make a sound, but no one will hear it. Entrepreneurs, like you, need to establish a pre-emanate position of expertise and authority online before your competitors do. The time is now. Make your business and yourself the “go to” resource for information around your products and you’ll instantly provide value. Example: Would you buy a suit from someone that sold it for 20% off or would you buy it from the store that offered a “Well Put Together Look” with a personal shopping assistant up to date on the latest trends at regular price. This personal shopping assistant is knowledgeable regarding up to date fashions and trained in color coordination. You won’t have to worry about looking good. We do that for you. Easy choice right? You’re dang right. You immediately see the value here and it all lies in the information that accompanies your visit. Not the additional 20% you’d get off the suit at the other store. In this case the suit store will also be gaining a repeat customer that will probably rely on this stores expertise for future buying decisions and will react to recommendations and helpful tips rather than an added sales pitch. About Blogging and Blogging Software Blogging has become the quintessential form of Journalistic expression for two key reasons. It’s in the hands of everyday Joe’s like you and me and it’s easy. Writing a lengthy article isn’t necessary for a successful website either. I’ve seen successfully run websites that take advantage of free blogging software and post a single picture with a small 2 - 3 sentence blurb. They do it on a regular basis and it has become the “Style” of their website. Check out www.blahgirls.com for an example. Because blogging software like Wordpress (WP) is simple to use, free to get, and a heavy hitter when it comes to keeping your website looking professional, it’s done well as a Content Management System (CMS) too. Why You Should Do Your Own Website Hosting Hosting your own website on your own domain is the only way in my book. When you do your own hosting you increase credibility, increase control over Intellectual Property, and it’s CHEAP! Increasing your credibility has never been so easy. Which looks more professional? Contact me: james@rent-a-tux.com or visit: www.rent-a-tux.com Or Contact me: jmanson1274@hotmail.com or visit www.rentatux.wordpress.com Point made. If you’re in business you have to do this. If you have a hobby and sell fruit on Saturdays at the Farmers Market the second option is just fine. Taking Control is another good reason to do your own hosting and leave the free hosting behind. When you do your own hosting you are NOT at the mercy of the hosting provider (Wordpress.com, blogspot.com, etc.) or their ever-changing rules. You OWN the domain name and you are renting the space. Think of it this way. You own the Tuxedo Business Name [Rent A Tux] (a Bricks & Mortar business). Would you borrow space from another retailer and move around the retail floor because their rules and needs change. NO. You’d rent retail space and put the name you OWN above the door. Let’s face it. Your wallet is where your heart is in business. The third reason you need to do your own hosting with your own domain name is because it’s CHEAP! In fact, you could make the argument because you cannot monetize your site on a free hosted wordpress.com platform it will actually COST YOU MORE ON THE FREE HOSTED SITE. It’ll cost you sales and credibility. The company I recommend to my E-Newsletter Recipients is top notch. My E-Newsletter Readers get a discount and step by step instructions on setting up their site. As a matter of fact, you can get a domain name and hosting space for under $60 bucks a year as a recipient of my E-Newsletter. That includes private registration for FREE. Private registration is a premium service with some hosts. It keeps domain ownership private and is a must in today’s domain auction atmosphere present on the web. No Technical Skills Needed People with little to no technical skills can watch my tutorial online, follow simple instructions, and be blogging or producing a professional looking website within a couple of hours. The alternative is to scour the online forums at wordpress.org and hope you find the latest information. Study it. Then learn on a trial and error basis. BE WARNED the trial and error basis can take you days and even weeks of a concentrated effort to get through. My E-Newsletter Readers receive a free link to a handful of tutorials that make this tedious process very simple. If you’re not on the mailing list, all you need to do is sign up and your set. Another excellent reason to use blogging software like WP as your CMS is because they help your site get ranked in search engines like Google.com and Yahoo.com much faster. It used to take up to 6 months to a year to be accepted or ranked by one of these search engines. With WP as your platform, that can be as low as a few hours. This is critical to your credibility and how easy it is to do business with you. Search Engine Optimization SEO Search Engine Optimization or SEO as it is better known, is what you should do to get your site ranked higher in the listings on Google.com Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes. The CODE that your web page is made up of tells your web browser (Internet Explorer, Safari, or Firefox) how to show that code to you. Put simply the code tells your computer how to make the code look “pretty” to you. You want to “talk” to Google in terms that it can understand (CODE) but you don’t know the language. It’s like learning another language. Even if you know how to say “taco” you may or may not know how to order one in Mexican Grocery Store. Talking to Google is the same. You may know what an HTML tag is, but telling Google where to put that may be a little difficult. You Don’t Have To Know That Whew. That was a mouthful. The good part. You don’t have to know any of it! Blogging software like WP does all of that for you. You don’t have to know a single bit of code. I would be lying if I told you that knowing a little code doesn’t help. It does. But it is no longer NECESSARY. Just like ordering a taco. As long as Taco Bell or Del Taco sell them in English, you don’t need to learn Spanish to get one. What Google wants to read (CODE), however, is very important since Google represents roughly 60-70% of online searches globally. The things that get you ranked and their weighted ranking order are all based on relevance of the keyword you use to do your search. Things that get ranked and their order are as follows: 1. Page Title 2. Keywords 3. Description 4. Headings (1) (2) (3) (4) etc 5. Content Google also checks to see if there have been changes to your website. The more often changes are detected, the higher your site will be ranked. WP and other CMS’s do most of this for you by default. They rest of the tweaking can be done with something called a plug-in. What’s A Plug-in? A plug-in is simply a pre-written program or script that is inserted into another software for a specific purpose (SEO) that makes it easy to perform that specific purpose (SEO). The SEO plug-in for example, allows you to simply type in the keywords, title, description, and content in an optimized way so search engines like Google “see” it. You click a button to update and iViolia! Your done. WP Does all of this for you. You do NOT have to know how to write html, php, java script, or any other type of CODE. There is another great reason to use WP. Its FREE. You can use a hosted free version at Wordpress.com where you host the site on Wordpress.com’s server. There are limitations to what you can do on the WP server though. If you ever plan to monetize your site with affiliate links or PayPal buttons you won’t get far. This version is good for learning your way around, but then again, I’ve done all of that for you with the tutorials. Don’t worry. The Self-Hosted version is FREE too. What you’ll be able to do with your own self-hosted website running WP. € Give updates on your business and how you plan to serve your customers with X. € Lure in prospects with great offers € Add affiliate links for income € Sell products directly online € Have people comment and give feedback directly on your site € Rank highly in search engines quickly € Build web pages with a click € Edit SEO factors with Plug-ins € Change the look of your entire site with a few simple steps € Monitor your web traffic € Increase your web traffic € Tell your friends and your enemies you’re a blogger (more on the enemies later) € Show your prospects your there to help A Word About Content A word about content, content management, and content Nazi’s. Remember, when you have a website, you are a content producer not a billboard designer. Whether your content is good or bad you are still a content producer. You need a CMS to effectively handle that. Beware of content Nazi’s. Critiquing someone online is easy, anonymous, and because of that, heartless. Know your audience and produce things that both they and you like. WP has a “Famous Five Minute Install”. It should be “Infamous Five Minute Install”. If you have no, little, or moderate technical experience, it will take you five minutes to figure out how to download it. I’ve created a video tutorial that makes this painless. Registered recipients of my newsletter get access to that for free. If you’re not ready to receive our publication via email, you can buy access to it for $37 Sign up for the FREE E-Newsletter now or purchase access to the WP Install Tutorial and stop wasting time. You can’t afford to wait any longer. Download the links. They walk you through the process step by step from the non-techy point of view. I’m so sure the tutorial will straighten the learning curve for you, I’ll give you my phone number. You can call me 24/7 and I’ll personally walk you through the process if the online video isn’t enough. My number is also included in the first email for protections from spam pirates. Included in this episode you’ll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You’d Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the Easiest and the Best Plus - Why ? What you DO and DON’T need to know about getting set-up ? What to Include & Exclude about your business for your Business Website. ? Where you can find the resources to pack a real PUNCH… FREE! You’ve Got to Turn Your Customer’s Head When the internet and web marketing were a fairly new concept, all that a business needed to do was post a “billboard” style webpage showing contact information and the business was “Online”. Now you need to do more than have a webpage. You need to create a “Web Presence”. A web presence gives the customer or prospect an interaction and an experience. Gone are the days when you simply put your brand out there more than your competitor and you’d win the business. Customers today expect an experience and because they expect one, they will get it. It might be bad or good, but they’ll get an experience. Business Owners need to be seen to draw traffic in the bricks and mortar world. They need the more than ever now online too. The best website in the world is like the tree falling in the woods. It might make a sound, but no one will hear it. Entrepreneurs, like you, need to establish a pre-emanate position of expertise and authority online before your competitors do. The time is now. Make your business and yourself the “go to” resource for information around your products and you’ll instantly provide value. Example: Would you buy a suit from someone that sold it for 20% off or would you buy it from the store that offered a “Well Put Together Look” with a personal shopping assistant up to date on the latest trends at regular price. This personal shopping assistant is knowledgeable regarding up to date fashions and trained in color coordination. You won’t have to worry about looking good. We do that for you. Easy choice right? You’re dang right. You immediately see the value here and it all lies in the information that accompanies your visit. Not the additional 20% you’d get off the suit at the other store. In this case the suit store will also be gaining a repeat customer that will probably rely on this stores expertise for future buying decisions and will react to recommendations and helpful tips rather than an added sales pitch. About Blogging and Blogging Software Blogging has become the quintessential form of Journalistic expression for two key reasons. It’s in the hands of everyday Joe’s like you and me and it’s easy. Writing a lengthy article isn’t necessary for a successful website either. I’ve seen successfully run websites that take advantage of free blogging software and post a single picture with a small 2 - 3 sentence blurb. They do it on a regular basis and it has become the “Style” of their website. Check out www.blahgirls.com for an example. Because blogging software like Wordpress (WP) is simple to use, free to get, and a heavy hitter when it comes to keeping your website looking professional, it’s done well as a Content Management System (CMS) too. Why You Should Do Your Own Website Hosting Hosting your own website on your own domain is the only way in my book. When you do your own hosting you increase credibility, increase control over Intellectual Property, and it’s CHEAP! Increasing your credibility has never been so easy. Which looks more professional? Contact me: james@rent-a-tux.com or visit: www.rent-a-tux.com Or Contact me: jmanson1274@hotmail.com or visit www.rentatux.wordpress.com Point made. If you’re in business you have to do this. If you have a hobby and sell fruit on Saturdays at the Farmers Market the second option is just fine. Taking Control is another good reason to do your own hosting and leave the free hosting behind. When you do your own hosting you are NOT at the mercy of the hosting provider (Wordpress.com, blogspot.com, etc.) or their ever-changing rules. You OWN the domain name and you are renting the space. Think of it this way. You own the Tuxedo Business Name [Rent A Tux] (a Bricks & Mortar business). Would you borrow space from another retailer and move around the retail floor because their rules and needs change. NO. You’d rent retail space and put the name you OWN above the door. Let’s face it. Your wallet is where your heart is in business. The third reason you need to do your own hosting with your own domain name is because it’s CHEAP! In fact, you could make the argument because you cannot monetize your site on a free hosted wordpress.com platform it will actually COST YOU MORE ON THE FREE HOSTED SITE. It’ll cost you sales and credibility. The company I recommend to my E-Newsletter Recipients is top notch. My E-Newsletter Readers get a discount and step by step instructions on setting up their site. As a matter of fact, you can get a domain name and hosting space for under $60 bucks a year as a recipient of my E-Newsletter. That includes private registration for FREE. Private registration is a premium service with some hosts. It keeps domain ownership private and is a must in today’s domain auction atmosphere present on the web. No Technical Skills Needed People with little to no technical skills can watch my tutorial online, follow simple instructions, and be blogging or producing a professional looking website within a couple of hours. The alternative is to scour the online forums at wordpress.org and hope you find the latest information. Study it. Then learn on a trial and error basis. BE WARNED the trial and error basis can take you days and even weeks of a concentrated effort to get through. My E-Newsletter Readers receive a free link to a handful of tutorials that make this tedious process very simple. If you’re not on the mailing list, all you need to do is sign up and your set. Another excellent reason to use blogging software like WP as your CMS is because they help your site get ranked in search engines like Google.com and Yahoo.com much faster. It used to take up to 6 months to a year to be accepted or ranked by one of these search engines. With WP as your platform, that can be as low as a few hours. This is critical to your credibility and how easy it is to do business with you. Search Engine Optimization SEO Search Engine Optimization or SEO as it is better known, is what you should do to get your site ranked higher in the listings on Google.com Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes. The CODE that your web page is made up of tells your web browser (Internet Explorer, Safari, or Firefox) how to show that code to you. Put simply the code tells your computer how to make the code look “pretty” to you. You want to “talk” to Google in terms that it can understand (CODE) but you don’t know the language. It’s like learning another language. Even if you know how to say “taco” you may or may not know how to order one in Mexican Grocery Store. Talking to Google is the same. You may know what an HTML tag is, but telling Google where to put that may be a little difficult. You Don’t Have To Know That Whew. That was a mouthful. The good part. You don’t have to know any of it! Blogging software like WP does all of that for you. You don’t have to know a single bit of code. I would be lying if I told you that knowing a little code doesn’t help. It does. But it is no longer NECESSARY. Just like ordering a taco. As long as Taco Bell or Del Taco sell them in English, you don’t need to learn Spanish to get one. What Google wants to read (CODE), however, is very important since Google represents roughly 60-70% of online searches globally. The things that get you ranked and their weighted ranking order are all based on relevance of the keyword you use to do your search. Things that get ranked and their order are as follows: 1. Page Title 2. Keywords 3. Description 4. Headings (1) (2) (3) (4) etc 5. Content Google also checks to see if there have been changes to your website. The more often changes are detected, the higher your site will be ranked. WP and other CMS’s do most of this for you by default. They rest of the tweaking can be done with something called a plug-in. What’s A Plug-in? A plug-in is simply a pre-written program or script that is inserted into another software for a specific purpose (SEO) that makes it easy to perform that specific purpose (SEO). The SEO plug-in for example, allows you to simply type in the keywords, title, description, and content in an optimized way so search engines like Google “see” it. You click a button to update and iViolia! Your done. WP Does all of this for you. You do NOT have to know how to write html, php, java script, or any other type of CODE. There is another great reason to use WP. Its FREE. You can use a hosted free version at Wordpress.com where you host the site on Wordpress.com’s server. There are limitations to what you can do on the WP server though. If you ever plan to monetize your site with affiliate links or PayPal buttons you won’t get far. This version is good for learning your way around, but then again, I’ve done all of that for you with the tutorials. Don’t worry. The Self-Hosted version is FREE too. What you’ll be able to do with your own self-hosted website running WP. € Give updates on your business and how you plan to serve your customers with X. € Lure in prospects with great offers € Add affiliate links for income € Sell products directly online € Have people comment and give feedback directly on your site € Rank highly in search engines quickly € Build web pages with a click € Edit SEO factors with Plug-ins € Change the look of your entire site with a few simple steps € Monitor your web traffic € Increase your web traffic € Tell your friends and your enemies you’re a blogger (more on the enemies later) € Show your prospects your there to help A Word About Content A word about content, content management, and content Nazi’s. Remember, when you have a website, you are a content producer not a billboard designer. Whether your content is good or bad you are still a content producer. You need a CMS to effectively handle that. Beware of content Nazi’s. Critiquing someone online is easy, anonymous, and because of that, heartless. Know your audience and produce things that both they and you like. WP has a “Famous Five Minute Install”. It should be “Infamous Five Minute Install”. If you have no, little, or moderate technical experience, it will take you five minutes to figure out how to download it. I’ve created a video tutorial that makes this painless. Registered recipients of my newsletter get access to that for free. If you’re not ready to receive our publication via email, you can buy access to it for $37 Sign up for the FREE E-Newsletter now or purchase access to the WP Install Tutorial and stop wasting time. You can’t afford to wait any longer. Download the links. They walk you through the process step by step from the non-techy point of view. I’m so sure the tutorial will straighten the learning curve for you, I’ll give you my phone number. You can call me 24/7 and I’ll personally walk you through the process if the online video isn’t enough. My number is also included in the first email for protections from spam pirates. tag:odeo.com,2009-04-14,25076282 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:42:21 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers hosting, SEO, Podcast Episodes, wordpress, free blog Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24450444-TES-7-How-to-Use-Simple-and-FREE-Blogging-Software-to-Skyrocket-Your-Profits Included in this episode you’ll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You’d Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the [...] Included in this episode you’ll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You’d Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the [...] Included in this episode you’ll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You’d Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the [...] tag:odeo.com,2009-04-14,24450444 Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:42:21 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers hosting, Episodes, SEO, wordpress, free blog Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24447514-TES-7-How-to-Use-Simple-and-FREE-Blogging-Software-to-Skyrocket-Your-Profits Included in this episode you'll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You'd Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the Easiest and the Best Plus - Why ? What you DO and DON'T need to know about getting set-up ? What to Include & Exclude about your business for your Business Website. ? Where you can find the resources to pack a real PUNCH... FREE! Included in this episode you'll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You'd Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the Easiest and the Best Plus - Why ? What you DO and DON'T need to know about getting set-up ? What to Include & Exclude about your business for your Business Website. ? Where you can find the resources to pack a real PUNCH... FREE! Included in this episode you'll get the answers to: ? Why Small Businesses Should Be Online ? Why a Blog Does So Much for Your Profit You'd Be Foolish to NOT Have One ? Why Hosting Your Own Blog/Website Is Important ? What Blogging Platform is the Easiest and the Best Plus - Why ? What you DO and DON'T need to know about getting set-up ? What to Include & Exclude about your business for your Business Website. ? Where you can find the resources to pack a real PUNCH... FREE! tag:odeo.com,2009-04-13,24447514 Mon, 13 Apr 2009 21:00:27 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers hosting, Episodes, SEO, wordpress, free blog Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076283-TES-6-How-to-Use-Cheap-Cameras-and-Twitter-to-Generate-Leads In this episode… PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We’ll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network For Detailed Show Notes, Enter Your Email address on the Register Now Page or at the top right of this page. In this episode… PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We’ll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network For Detailed Show Notes, Enter Your Email address on the Register Now Page or at the top right of this page. In this episode… PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We’ll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network For Detailed Show Notes, Enter Your Email address on the Register Now Page or at the top right of this page. tag:odeo.com,2009-03-30,25076283 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:12:03 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24428877-TES-6-How-to-Use-Cheap-Cameras-and-Twitter-to-Generate-Leads In this episode... 1. PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan 2. Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We'll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. 3. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network In this episode... 1. PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan 2. Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We'll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. 3. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network In this episode... 1. PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan 2. Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We'll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. 3. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network tag:odeo.com,2009-03-30,24428877 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:12:03 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Uncategorized Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24389738-Episode-6-The-Entrepreneurship In this episode… PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We’ll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network For Detailed Show Notes, Enter Your Email address on the Register Now Page or at the top right of this page. In this episode… PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We’ll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network For Detailed Show Notes, Enter Your Email address on the Register Now Page or at the top right of this page. In this episode… PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - What is Twitter and How to Use it in Your PR Plan Show Your Stuff - Exclusive Interview with the Mastermind Behind the GO GIVER TOUR 2009. We’ll talk with Bradley Will of BradleyWill.com and answer the Top 3 Things Entrepreneurs Should Be Doing Online Now to Succeed in Business. What Not To Do - Gaining Sticky Followers on Twitter and How to Use Twitter Well to Grow Your Network For Detailed Show Notes, Enter Your Email address on the Register Now Page or at the top right of this page. tag:odeo.com,2009-03-30,24389738 Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:12:03 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Uncategorized Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076284-TES-5-Necktie-History-SBA-504-Loans-How-to-OWN-a-Bad-Situation In this episode, find out why ties are back in a big way, how to get a Small Business Loan in this economy, and how to “own” a bad situation and come out a winner. What You’re Knot Saying Importance of a Tie Entrepreneurs and Small Business owners have long scorned the tie.  In fact, many entrepreneurs and small business owners went into business so they would have to wear a tie.  So, why in the world would I see fit to write a PR piece about ties. Good question.  Turns out that regardless of the profession you choose, if you are a man, there are going to be several times in your life that wearing a tie is not only appropriate, it is a requirement.  Chamber of Commerce meetings, photo shoots, and Christmas parties are a good example.  You need to know how buy the right tie, how to choose the knot for your tie, and how to care for your tie.  They do cost an arm and a leg so you’ll want to make sure you do destroy them the first time you wear them. The best way... In this episode, find out why ties are back in a big way, how to get a Small Business Loan in this economy, and how to “own” a bad situation and come out a winner. What You’re Knot Saying Importance of a Tie Entrepreneurs and Small Business owners have long scorned the tie.  In fact, many entrepreneurs and small business owners went into business so they would have to wear a tie.  So, why in the world would I see fit to write a PR piece about ties. Good question.  Turns out that regardless of the profession you choose, if you are a man, there are going to be several times in your life that wearing a tie is not only appropriate, it is a requirement.  Chamber of Commerce meetings, photo shoots, and Christmas parties are a good example.  You need to know how buy the right tie, how to choose the knot for your tie, and how to care for your tie.  They do cost an arm and a leg so you’ll want to make sure you do destroy them the first time you wear them. The best way to introduce that is to visit a little history. History of Ties It’s been said that ties originated in France with King Louis XIV.  He noticed that the Croatian Army returned adorned with scarfs or cravats around their necks.  Being one for fashion he quickly picked up the habit of tying one on and his loyal subjects followed suit. Not long after, his English neighbors across the channel picked up the style and no proper English Gentleman would be caught without a tie. Long since, the tie has been associated with business types and well to-dos.  In the 1960’s in this country, the hippies made a brief revolt against wearing ties that did gain a little ground.  Probably because of the “hippie” crowds other  extra-curricular activities, business people wanted to look nothing like a hippie so the revolt to neckwear was over.  In the 1970’s ties took a brief stab at growing in size to be much wider.  The lapel was to blame.  Just check out an old episode of Barnaby Jones (some of you will need to youtube this to get the reference).  Because the lapel shrank in years to follow, so did the ties width. In recent years, there has been a return the revolt of the tie for a “business casual” environment.  Places like Google and Apple have fostered such environments and is suitable for software companies.  Now that revolt is swinging to the other side and many have returned to the wonderful, expression filled necktie for fashion in a dull world of polo’s and t-shirts. Choosing, Buying, and Tying Choosing a tie may just depend on what kind of guy you are.  If you are a business oriented person, I urge you: Not to buy cartoon character ties unless you draw them for a living. Not to buy black silk based ties To learn the proper knot for the proper collar Care for your ties with caution Buy them on sale (they do cost a fortune ya know) Occasion Appropriate Cartoon ties are ok for clowns, but you need to be funny not look funny.  Keep that in mind the next time you think you need to wear a conversation piece.  It’s not good enough to spark conversation.  It needs to be a positive conversation about you and your abilities, not your hilarious choice in a tie. White silk based ties project a cleaner, preppier look that will go a long way.  It really helps your suit to look better longer as well.  Black silk based ties are good for winter wardrobes and are better for dinners out and nights on the town.  For business however, stick with the white based silk ties. You better Knot do that again.  The proper knot  for a tie should be in correlation with the right collar style.  No knot is wrong.  They only look that way of you tie the wrong knot with the wrong collar. Knot—————————————————-Collar Windsor—————————————Spread Collar Half Windsor——————-Spread Collar, Wide Point Four-In———HandPoint Collar, Button Down, Oxford You absolutely should buy ties on sale.  You can find a variety of places that sell them online.  Offline is good too, but you definitely need to wait for a sail.  I have purchased countless ties that retail between $60 and $100 for $15 -$30 and I promised myself I would never pay retail for them.  As long as you look for the types I have described above, you’ll be fine regardless of the brand.  If brand is important to you, remember, no one sees the brand of your tie but you.  If you have a tie that sports the brand on the front, you should get your money back. Business Situations should stick to traditional ties.  Use pattern alternatives not shape to express yourself.  You absolutely need a black tie, a dark red tie, and a dark blue tie in your arsenal.  These seem plain-Jane, but are very versatile.  No NFL knots or short ties.  Just stick to the basics above. Trendy Situations you can get away with a lot more.  If you are an NFL star go with the “I could choke a horse with this knot” look.  It’s ok.  Even if it’s not ok, no one will tell you because your big enough to kill them with your bare hands.  If you are in an 80’s Cover band, go with the “Pretty in Pink” Sock tie.  You’ll be a hit.  Now the “untied” tie is coming into it’s own.  It gives you that coveted “after work” look and is actually in style at the time of this episodes writing.  The skinny tie is too.  These are both acceptable for nights on the town or any casual situation.  Ties to a casual situation.  Yes.  For some reason, if you wear a tie untied to casual situation you look well put together. Or at least you give the impression that you were earlier anyway. Caring for Your Ties When tying your tie, don’t pull the knot tighter to get the point to the right length.  Untie it and tie it again to make the adjustment.  The tighter the knot, the worse it looks.  Also, take the time to untie them each time your wear them. Use the same painstaking measures to untie the gently as you did to get them tied in the first place.  Then roll the up when your take them off.  Rolling them up using your hand as the reel allows the tie to react to its “memory” and will remove the wrinkles over night.  It’s like magic. How to Tie A Tie The follow illustrations should help out. Full Windsor Half Windsor Four In Hand ____________________________________________________________________________ SBA 504 Making a Comeback Small Business Loans There is no need to remind anyone about the current economic situation facing the US Economy right now.  Because the US Economy has been carried by the small businesses of America for centuries, it’s no surprise that small businesses are the first to take a hit in the frozen credit markets. Common knowledge and history shows that more millionaires are made in economic downturns than in prosperous times.  Usually that’s because someone has a great idea, the guts to jump into the deep end, and the financial backing to get a business off the ground or expand during those dark times. The current frozen credit markets have been difficult to navigate at best.  Small business owners and Entrepreneurs are having bank doors slammed in their faces everyday.  What’s behind the mess?  The brief is: Banks don’t want to lend and get even more over extended. Their confidence in both the ability of other banks to pay them back is gone and more importantly the banks confidence is gone concerning small business owners ability to repay the debts. Small Business owners have geared their businesses up based on the growth in the economy and the seemingly never-ending supply of cheap money. We’ve gotten to used to Equity lines of Credit and easily attainable small business credit cards to support a tight cash-flow. As a result, small business loan products are being recalled or diminished at almost as fast of a rate as future credit is drying up. For the last decade, banks and other lenders have been able to provide financing products that are both easy to obtain and affordable to repay.  Those days are gone.  That doesn’t mean that you cannot get financing for your small business.  It means that more traditional methods of obtaining leverage are now rising to the top. Before we move on, we need to define a few terms that will help in both understanding the lingo for these loan products and will be useful in understanding your lender when he/she spews a load of lending jargon in your general direction. LTV - Loan to Value -  This is a ration used to determine the amount of risk that is associated with a loan and the collateral the loan is based on. For example: If you have a building worth $100k and a loan on that building for $80k  your LTV would be 80%. Lendable LTV - The LTV assigned by the loan product guidelines.  For example: 60% Max LTV means on that same building mentioned before, you would be able to lend a maximum of $60k with a Max LTV of 60%. Collateral - The property used to secure a loan. (This is what they will come and get if you don’t repay the loan) Subsidized Loan -  This has to do with the LTV again.  If a lender’s Max LTV = 50% a subsidized loan would pick up the additional value available to lend on. For example: Bank does a loan for 50%, USA Government does the other 50% and you end up with 2 loans. Maximum Loan Debenture - The most a loan can be regardless of the LTV. For example: You have a building worth $3 million but the maximum debenture is only $500,000.  If you do a loan for $500,000 your LTV would only be 16%,  but the lender would only be able to loan $500,000 because that is what they have determined to be the maximum risk they will take, regardless of LTV Exposure. PFS- Personal Financial Statement - Your accountant should be able to provide one of these for you.  If not use the link below the show notes to download a generic one.  This document outlines your personal assets, liabilities, and expenses in a plain language. CDC - Certified Development Company - is a nonprofit corporation set up to contribute to the economic development of its community. Enough Lenderese. Those terms will come in hand as I tell you about the SBA’s heavy hitter.  The 504 loan.  Small business owners have shied away from these in recent years because of the easily obtainable loan products and their ability to satisfy almost any situation.  The SBA 504 is unique because it’s structure minimizes risk on all parties.  The primary lender (usually a bank), the CDC/SBA, and the applicant or small business owner. The lender puts up 50% The CDC/SBA puts up 40% The Borrower puts up 10% (Consider this a down payment.) The lender sets the rate and there are actually 2 different loans.  One to the bank and one to the CDC/SBA.  The lender holds first lien (or will be paid first if you default and your assets are liquidated) and the CDC/SBA gets paid last.  They are happy to take that position, because they are backed by the US Government. There are limitations.  504’s are used for fixed assets.  Land, buildings, machinery, fixtures, etc. There are definitely other types of SBA loans available such as SBA 7(a) and  SBA Express.  The reason I believe the 504 will come back in popularity is because it is attached to a fixed asset and even though the lender is secure as far as LTV is concerned with the other types, lenders prefer to have something that can take away and sell if you default. To get information on how to apply for a SBA 504 loan in your area go to the website and click on the links in the show notes.  You’ll be able to find your local CDC for the SBA and get started ASAP on the bright idea you have. Comments are welcome.  Just go to http://theentrepreneurship.com/e5 , scroll to the bottom of the post and leave a comment.  Your name and website will be posted which means you can get a traffic directed to your site too. ____________________________________________________________________________ I’m Only Authorized to Say I’m Sorry Owning A Bad Situation There was an ad years ago in which an irate customer is complaining about not getting what he was promised.  The clerk said, “I’m sorry” with a smile.  The customer rebutled with “well I’d like to know what you are going to do about it?” “I’m only authorized to say I’m sorry, sir.” She replied. Ever feel that way?  The issue snowballs out of control because of several reasons, but the responsibility, as a business owner, really lies with you.  Not the client.  It’s not easy owning a bad situation.  You have to admit you were wrong after all.  Even if it wasn’t you.  It was Jim down in shipping and receiving and he’s an idiot.  By admitting that the issue at hand is your companies fault, you’ll have to associate yourself as just as much of an idiot as Jim is.  The worse part?  You’re right. Now before you get all sassy about my comment, slow down and think about it.  If you hired Jim and refuse to correct the issues that he creates by being an idiot, is that your customer’s fault?  Sorry to break the bad news, but this one belongs to you. So, how do you OWN a bad situation? Here is a 4 step process I use and it works like magic. * Define the Situation * Restate the issue to clarifying what the other person said and add “I’m sure you have a good reason to be angry. I want to make sure I’m clear on why you’re mad so I can help you and make sure it doesn’t happen again.” * If the origin of the issue is a mistake you made, fess up. Fast. That should sound something like this. “Oh no. This is clearly my (our company’s) fault. What do we need to do right now to fix this. I’ll do everything I within my power to help.”. Then, shut up. Most people just want their feelings to be validated. Once you do that, all of your focus should be on fixing the issue. DO NOT grovel. Simply apologize and refocus on resolving the issue.  Clearly define the actions you’ll take to correct it and ask for permission to proceed.  This shows the client that they have control and their guard will crumble like the Berlin wall. * If the blame belongs to someone else (another company, organization, or person), refrain from assigning it to them right away. Instead, ask “Would you like me to help you contact _______ to get to the bottom of this.” The slight redirection will give them the sense that it isn’t your fault and the sense that you truly want to help them resolve the issue. After the client is gone, consult Jim on what happened and ask him how he’d handle it? In this episode, find out why ties are back in a big way, how to get a Small Business Loan in this economy, and how to “own” a bad situation and come out a winner. What You’re Knot Saying Importance of a Tie Entrepreneurs and Small Business owners have long scorned the tie.  In fact, many entrepreneurs and small business owners went into business so they would have to wear a tie.  So, why in the world would I see fit to write a PR piece about ties. Good question.  Turns out that regardless of the profession you choose, if you are a man, there are going to be several times in your life that wearing a tie is not only appropriate, it is a requirement.  Chamber of Commerce meetings, photo shoots, and Christmas parties are a good example.  You need to know how buy the right tie, how to choose the knot for your tie, and how to care for your tie.  They do cost an arm and a leg so you’ll want to make sure you do destroy them the first time you wear them. The best way to introduce that is to visit a little history. History of Ties It’s been said that ties originated in France with King Louis XIV.  He noticed that the Croatian Army returned adorned with scarfs or cravats around their necks.  Being one for fashion he quickly picked up the habit of tying one on and his loyal subjects followed suit. Not long after, his English neighbors across the channel picked up the style and no proper English Gentleman would be caught without a tie. Long since, the tie has been associated with business types and well to-dos.  In the 1960’s in this country, the hippies made a brief revolt against wearing ties that did gain a little ground.  Probably because of the “hippie” crowds other  extra-curricular activities, business people wanted to look nothing like a hippie so the revolt to neckwear was over.  In the 1970’s ties took a brief stab at growing in size to be much wider.  The lapel was to blame.  Just check out an old episode of Barnaby Jones (some of you will need to youtube this to get the reference).  Because the lapel shrank in years to follow, so did the ties width. In recent years, there has been a return the revolt of the tie for a “business casual” environment.  Places like Google and Apple have fostered such environments and is suitable for software companies.  Now that revolt is swinging to the other side and many have returned to the wonderful, expression filled necktie for fashion in a dull world of polo’s and t-shirts. Choosing, Buying, and Tying Choosing a tie may just depend on what kind of guy you are.  If you are a business oriented person, I urge you: Not to buy cartoon character ties unless you draw them for a living. Not to buy black silk based ties To learn the proper knot for the proper collar Care for your ties with caution Buy them on sale (they do cost a fortune ya know) Occasion Appropriate Cartoon ties are ok for clowns, but you need to be funny not look funny.  Keep that in mind the next time you think you need to wear a conversation piece.  It’s not good enough to spark conversation.  It needs to be a positive conversation about you and your abilities, not your hilarious choice in a tie. White silk based ties project a cleaner, preppier look that will go a long way.  It really helps your suit to look better longer as well.  Black silk based ties are good for winter wardrobes and are better for dinners out and nights on the town.  For business however, stick with the white based silk ties. You better Knot do that again.  The proper knot  for a tie should be in correlation with the right collar style.  No knot is wrong.  They only look that way of you tie the wrong knot with the wrong collar. Knot—————————————————-Collar Windsor—————————————Spread Collar Half Windsor——————-Spread Collar, Wide Point Four-In———HandPoint Collar, Button Down, Oxford You absolutely should buy ties on sale.  You can find a variety of places that sell them online.  Offline is good too, but you definitely need to wait for a sail.  I have purchased countless ties that retail between $60 and $100 for $15 -$30 and I promised myself I would never pay retail for them.  As long as you look for the types I have described above, you’ll be fine regardless of the brand.  If brand is important to you, remember, no one sees the brand of your tie but you.  If you have a tie that sports the brand on the front, you should get your money back. Business Situations should stick to traditional ties.  Use pattern alternatives not shape to express yourself.  You absolutely need a black tie, a dark red tie, and a dark blue tie in your arsenal.  These seem plain-Jane, but are very versatile.  No NFL knots or short ties.  Just stick to the basics above. Trendy Situations you can get away with a lot more.  If you are an NFL star go with the “I could choke a horse with this knot” look.  It’s ok.  Even if it’s not ok, no one will tell you because your big enough to kill them with your bare hands.  If you are in an 80’s Cover band, go with the “Pretty in Pink” Sock tie.  You’ll be a hit.  Now the “untied” tie is coming into it’s own.  It gives you that coveted “after work” look and is actually in style at the time of this episodes writing.  The skinny tie is too.  These are both acceptable for nights on the town or any casual situation.  Ties to a casual situation.  Yes.  For some reason, if you wear a tie untied to casual situation you look well put together. Or at least you give the impression that you were earlier anyway. Caring for Your Ties When tying your tie, don’t pull the knot tighter to get the point to the right length.  Untie it and tie it again to make the adjustment.  The tighter the knot, the worse it looks.  Also, take the time to untie them each time your wear them. Use the same painstaking measures to untie the gently as you did to get them tied in the first place.  Then roll the up when your take them off.  Rolling them up using your hand as the reel allows the tie to react to its “memory” and will remove the wrinkles over night.  It’s like magic. How to Tie A Tie The follow illustrations should help out. Full Windsor Half Windsor Four In Hand ____________________________________________________________________________ SBA 504 Making a Comeback Small Business Loans There is no need to remind anyone about the current economic situation facing the US Economy right now.  Because the US Economy has been carried by the small businesses of America for centuries, it’s no surprise that small businesses are the first to take a hit in the frozen credit markets. Common knowledge and history shows that more millionaires are made in economic downturns than in prosperous times.  Usually that’s because someone has a great idea, the guts to jump into the deep end, and the financial backing to get a business off the ground or expand during those dark times. The current frozen credit markets have been difficult to navigate at best.  Small business owners and Entrepreneurs are having bank doors slammed in their faces everyday.  What’s behind the mess?  The brief is: Banks don’t want to lend and get even more over extended. Their confidence in both the ability of other banks to pay them back is gone and more importantly the banks confidence is gone concerning small business owners ability to repay the debts. Small Business owners have geared their businesses up based on the growth in the economy and the seemingly never-ending supply of cheap money. We’ve gotten to used to Equity lines of Credit and easily attainable small business credit cards to support a tight cash-flow. As a result, small business loan products are being recalled or diminished at almost as fast of a rate as future credit is drying up. For the last decade, banks and other lenders have been able to provide financing products that are both easy to obtain and affordable to repay.  Those days are gone.  That doesn’t mean that you cannot get financing for your small business.  It means that more traditional methods of obtaining leverage are now rising to the top. Before we move on, we need to define a few terms that will help in both understanding the lingo for these loan products and will be useful in understanding your lender when he/she spews a load of lending jargon in your general direction. LTV - Loan to Value -  This is a ration used to determine the amount of risk that is associated with a loan and the collateral the loan is based on. For example: If you have a building worth $100k and a loan on that building for $80k  your LTV would be 80%. Lendable LTV - The LTV assigned by the loan product guidelines.  For example: 60% Max LTV means on that same building mentioned before, you would be able to lend a maximum of $60k with a Max LTV of 60%. Collateral - The property used to secure a loan. (This is what they will come and get if you don’t repay the loan) Subsidized Loan -  This has to do with the LTV again.  If a lender’s Max LTV = 50% a subsidized loan would pick up the additional value available to lend on. For example: Bank does a loan for 50%, USA Government does the other 50% and you end up with 2 loans. Maximum Loan Debenture - The most a loan can be regardless of the LTV. For example: You have a building worth $3 million but the maximum debenture is only $500,000.  If you do a loan for $500,000 your LTV would only be 16%,  but the lender would only be able to loan $500,000 because that is what they have determined to be the maximum risk they will take, regardless of LTV Exposure. PFS- Personal Financial Statement - Your accountant should be able to provide one of these for you.  If not use the link below the show notes to download a generic one.  This document outlines your personal assets, liabilities, and expenses in a plain language. CDC - Certified Development Company - is a nonprofit corporation set up to contribute to the economic development of its community. Enough Lenderese. Those terms will come in hand as I tell you about the SBA’s heavy hitter.  The 504 loan.  Small business owners have shied away from these in recent years because of the easily obtainable loan products and their ability to satisfy almost any situation.  The SBA 504 is unique because it’s structure minimizes risk on all parties.  The primary lender (usually a bank), the CDC/SBA, and the applicant or small business owner. The lender puts up 50% The CDC/SBA puts up 40% The Borrower puts up 10% (Consider this a down payment.) The lender sets the rate and there are actually 2 different loans.  One to the bank and one to the CDC/SBA.  The lender holds first lien (or will be paid first if you default and your assets are liquidated) and the CDC/SBA gets paid last.  They are happy to take that position, because they are backed by the US Government. There are limitations.  504’s are used for fixed assets.  Land, buildings, machinery, fixtures, etc. There are definitely other types of SBA loans available such as SBA 7(a) and  SBA Express.  The reason I believe the 504 will come back in popularity is because it is attached to a fixed asset and even though the lender is secure as far as LTV is concerned with the other types, lenders prefer to have something that can take away and sell if you default. To get information on how to apply for a SBA 504 loan in your area go to the website and click on the links in the show notes.  You’ll be able to find your local CDC for the SBA and get started ASAP on the bright idea you have. Comments are welcome.  Just go to http://theentrepreneurship.com/e5 , scroll to the bottom of the post and leave a comment.  Your name and website will be posted which means you can get a traffic directed to your site too. ____________________________________________________________________________ I’m Only Authorized to Say I’m Sorry Owning A Bad Situation There was an ad years ago in which an irate customer is complaining about not getting what he was promised.  The clerk said, “I’m sorry” with a smile.  The customer rebutled with “well I’d like to know what you are going to do about it?” “I’m only authorized to say I’m sorry, sir.” She replied. Ever feel that way?  The issue snowballs out of control because of several reasons, but the responsibility, as a business owner, really lies with you.  Not the client.  It’s not easy owning a bad situation.  You have to admit you were wrong after all.  Even if it wasn’t you.  It was Jim down in shipping and receiving and he’s an idiot.  By admitting that the issue at hand is your companies fault, you’ll have to associate yourself as just as much of an idiot as Jim is.  The worse part?  You’re right. Now before you get all sassy about my comment, slow down and think about it.  If you hired Jim and refuse to correct the issues that he creates by being an idiot, is that your customer’s fault?  Sorry to break the bad news, but this one belongs to you. So, how do you OWN a bad situation? Here is a 4 step process I use and it works like magic. * Define the Situation * Restate the issue to clarifying what the other person said and add “I’m sure you have a good reason to be angry. I want to make sure I’m clear on why you’re mad so I can help you and make sure it doesn’t happen again.” * If the origin of the issue is a mistake you made, fess up. Fast. That should sound something like this. “Oh no. This is clearly my (our company’s) fault. What do we need to do right now to fix this. I’ll do everything I within my power to help.”. Then, shut up. Most people just want their feelings to be validated. Once you do that, all of your focus should be on fixing the issue. DO NOT grovel. Simply apologize and refocus on resolving the issue.  Clearly define the actions you’ll take to correct it and ask for permission to proceed.  This shows the client that they have control and their guard will crumble like the Berlin wall. * If the blame belongs to someone else (another company, organization, or person), refrain from assigning it to them right away. Instead, ask “Would you like me to help you contact _______ to get to the bottom of this.” The slight redirection will give them the sense that it isn’t your fault and the sense that you truly want to help them resolve the issue. After the client is gone, consult Jim on what happened and ask him how he’d handle it? tag:odeo.com,2009-03-15,25076284 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 03:00:44 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Podcast Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24524644-TES-5-Necktie-History-SBA-504-Loans-How-to-OWN-a-Bad-Situation What do Necktie History, SBA 504 Loans, & How to OWN a Bad Situation have in common? Episode 5 of the The Entrepreneurship. What do Necktie History, SBA 504 Loans, & How to OWN a Bad Situation have in common? Episode 5 of the The Entrepreneurship. What do Necktie History, SBA 504 Loans, & How to OWN a Bad Situation have in common? Episode 5 of the The Entrepreneurship. tag:odeo.com,2009-03-15,24524644 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 03:00:44 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24307954-Episode-5-The-Entrepreneur-Ship What You’re Knot Saying Importance of a Tie Entrepreneurs and Small Business owners have long scorned the tie.  In fact, many entrepreneurs and small business owners went into business so they would have to wear a tie.  So, why in the world would I see fit to write a PR piece about ties. Good question.  Turns out that regardless of the profession you choose, if you are a man, there are going to be several times in your life that wearing a tie is not only appropriate, it is a requirement.  Chamber of Commerce meetings, photo shoots, and Christmas parties are a good example.  You need to know how buy the right tie, how to choose the knot for your tie, and how to care for your tie.  They do cost an arm and a leg so you’ll want to make sure you do destroy them the first time you wear them. The best way to introduce that is to visit a little history. History of Ties It’s been said that ties originated in France with King Louis XIV.  He noticed that the Croatian Army ret... What You’re Knot Saying Importance of a Tie Entrepreneurs and Small Business owners have long scorned the tie.  In fact, many entrepreneurs and small business owners went into business so they would have to wear a tie.  So, why in the world would I see fit to write a PR piece about ties. Good question.  Turns out that regardless of the profession you choose, if you are a man, there are going to be several times in your life that wearing a tie is not only appropriate, it is a requirement.  Chamber of Commerce meetings, photo shoots, and Christmas parties are a good example.  You need to know how buy the right tie, how to choose the knot for your tie, and how to care for your tie.  They do cost an arm and a leg so you’ll want to make sure you do destroy them the first time you wear them. The best way to introduce that is to visit a little history. History of Ties It’s been said that ties originated in France with King Louis XIV.  He noticed that the Croatian Army returned adorned with scarfs or cravats around their necks.  Being one for fashion he quickly picked up the habit of tying one on and his loyal subjects followed suit. Not long after, his English neighbors across the channel picked up the style and no proper English Gentleman would be caught without a tie. Long since, the tie has been associated with business types and well to-dos.  In the 1960’s in this country, the hippies made a brief revolt against wearing ties that did gain a little ground.  Probably because of the “hippie” crowds other  extra-curricular activities, business people wanted to look nothing like a hippie so the revolt to neckwear was over.  In the 1970’s ties took a brief stab at growing in size to be much wider.  The lapel was to blame.  Just check out an old episode of Barnaby Jones (some of you will need to youtube this to get the reference).  Because the lapel shrank in years to follow, so did the ties width. In recent years, there has been a return the revolt of the tie for a “business casual” environment.  Places like Google and Apple have fostered such environments and is suitable for software companies.  Now that revolt is swinging to the other side and many have returned to the wonderful, expression filled necktie for fashion in a dull world of polo’s and t-shirts. Choosing, Buying, and Tying Choosing a tie may just depend on what kind of guy you are.  If you are a business oriented person, I urge you: Not to buy cartoon character ties unless you draw them for a living. Not to buy black silk based ties To learn the proper knot for the proper collar Care for your ties with caution Buy them on sale (they do cost a fortune ya know) Occasion Appropriate Cartoon ties are ok for clowns, but you need to be funny not look funny.  Keep that in mind the next time you think you need to wear a conversation piece.  It’s not good enough to spark conversation.  It needs to be a positive conversation about you and your abilities, not your hilarious choice in a tie. White silk based ties project a cleaner, preppier look that will go a long way.  It really helps your suit to look better longer as well.  Black silk based ties are good for winter wardrobes and are better for dinners out and nights on the town.  For business however, stick with the white based silk ties. You better Knot do that again.  The proper knot  for a tie should be in correlation with the right collar style.  No knot is wrong.  They only look that way of you tie the wrong knot with the wrong collar. Knot—————————————————-Collar Windsor—————————————Spread Collar Half Windsor——————-Spread Collar, Wide Point Four-In———HandPoint Collar, Button Down, Oxford You absolutely should buy ties on sale.  You can find a variety of places that sell them online.  Offline is good too, but you definitely need to wait for a sail.  I have purchased countless ties that retail between $60 and $100 for $15 -$30 and I promised myself I would never pay retail for them.  As long as you look for the types I have described above, you’ll be fine regardless of the brand.  If brand is important to you, remember, no one sees the brand of your tie but you.  If you have a tie that sports the brand on the front, you should get your money back. Business Situations should stick to traditional ties.  Use pattern alternatives not shape to express yourself.  You absolutely need a black tie, a dark red tie, and a dark blue tie in your arsenal.  These seem plain-Jane, but are very versatile.  No NFL knots or short ties.  Just stick to the basics above. Trendy Situations you can get away with a lot more.  If you are an NFL star go with the “I could choke a horse with this knot” look.  It’s ok.  Even if it’s not ok, no one will tell you because your big enough to kill them with your bare hands.  If you are in an 80’s Cover band, go with the “Pretty in Pink” Sock tie.  You’ll be a hit.  Now the “untied” tie is coming into it’s own.  It gives you that coveted “after work” look and is actually in style at the time of this episodes writing.  The skinny tie is too.  These are both acceptable for nights on the town or any casual situation.  Ties to a casual situation.  Yes.  For some reason, if you wear a tie untied to casual situation you look well put together. Or at least you give the impression that you were earlier anyway. Caring for Your Ties When tying your tie, don’t pull the knot tighter to get the point to the right length.  Untie it and tie it again to make the adjustment.  The tighter the knot, the worse it looks.  Also, take the time to untie them each time your wear them. Use the same painstaking measures to untie the gently as you did to get them tied in the first place.  Then roll the up when your take them off.  Rolling them up using your hand as the reel allows the tie to react to its “memory” and will remove the wrinkles over night.  It’s like magic. How to Tie A Tie The follow illustrations should help out. Full Windsor Half Windsor Four In Hand ____________________________________________________________________________ SBA 504 Making a Comeback Small Business Loans There is no need to remind anyone about the current economic situation facing the US Economy right now.  Because the US Economy has been carried by the small businesses of America for centuries, it’s no surprise that small businesses are the first to take a hit in the frozen credit markets. Common knowledge and history shows that more millionaires are made in economic downturns than in prosperous times.  Usually that’s because someone has a great idea, the guts to jump into the deep end, and the financial backing to get a business off the ground or expand during those dark times. The current frozen credit markets have been difficult to navigate at best.  Small business owners and Entrepreneurs are having bank doors slammed in their faces everyday.  What’s behind the mess?  The brief is: Banks don’t want to lend and get even more over extended. Their confidence in both the ability of other banks to pay them back is gone and more importantly the banks confidence is gone concerning small business owners ability to repay the debts. Small Business owners have geared their businesses up based on the growth in the economy and the seemingly never-ending supply of cheap money. We’ve gotten to used to Equity lines of Credit and easily attainable small business credit cards to support a tight cash-flow. As a result, small business loan products are being recalled or diminished at almost as fast of a rate as future credit is drying up. For the last decade, banks and other lenders have been able to provide financing products that are both easy to obtain and affordable to repay.  Those days are gone.  That doesn’t mean that you cannot get financing for your small business.  It means that more traditional methods of obtaining leverage are now rising to the top. Before we move on, we need to define a few terms that will help in both understanding the lingo for these loan products and will be useful in understanding your lender when he/she spews a load of lending jargon in your general direction. LTV - Loan to Value -  This is a ration used to determine the amount of risk that is associated with a loan and the collateral the loan is based on. For example: If you have a building worth $100k and a loan on that building for $80k  your LTV would be 80%. Lendable LTV - The LTV assigned by the loan product guidelines.  For example: 60% Max LTV means on that same building mentioned before, you would be able to lend a maximum of $60k with a Max LTV of 60%. Collateral - The property used to secure a loan. (This is what they will come and get if you don’t repay the loan) Subsidized Loan -  This has to do with the LTV again.  If a lender’s Max LTV = 50% a subsidized loan would pick up the additional value available to lend on. For example: Bank does a loan for 50%, USA Government does the other 50% and you end up with 2 loans. Maximum Loan Debenture - The most a loan can be regardless of the LTV. For example: You have a building worth $3 million but the maximum debenture is only $500,000.  If you do a loan for $500,000 your LTV would only be 16%,  but the lender would only be able to loan $500,000 because that is what they have determined to be the maximum risk they will take, regardless of LTV Exposure. PFS- Personal Financial Statement - Your accountant should be able to provide one of these for you.  If not use the link below the show notes to download a generic one.  This document outlines your personal assets, liabilities, and expenses in a plain language. CDC - Certified Development Company - is a nonprofit corporation set up to contribute to the economic development of its community. Enough Lenderese. Those terms will come in hand as I tell you about the SBA’s heavy hitter.  The 504 loan.  Small business owners have shied away from these in recent years because of the easily obtainable loan products and their ability to satisfy almost any situation.  The SBA 504 is unique because it’s structure minimizes risk on all parties.  The primary lender (usually a bank), the CDC/SBA, and the applicant or small business owner. The lender puts up 50% The CDC/SBA puts up 40% The Borrower puts up 10% (Consider this a down payment.) The lender sets the rate and there are actually 2 different loans.  One to the bank and one to the CDC/SBA.  The lender holds first lien (or will be paid first if you default and your assets are liquidated) and the CDC/SBA gets paid last.  They are happy to take that position, because they are backed by the US Government. There are limitations.  504’s are used for fixed assets.  Land, buildings, machinery, fixtures, etc. There are definitely other types of SBA loans available such as SBA 7(a) and  SBA Express.  The reason I believe the 504 will come back in popularity is because it is attached to a fixed asset and even though the lender is secure as far as LTV is concerned with the other types, lenders prefer to have something that can take away and sell if you default. To get information on how to apply for a SBA 504 loan in your area go to the website and click on the links in the show notes.  You’ll be able to find your local CDC for the SBA and get started ASAP on the bright idea you have. Comments are welcome.  Just go to http://theentrepreneurship.com/e5 , scroll to the bottom of the post and leave a comment.  Your name and website will be posted which means you can get a traffic directed to your site too. ____________________________________________________________________________ I’m Only Authorized to Say I’m Sorry Owning A Bad Situation There was an ad years ago in which an irate customer is complaining about not getting what he was promised.  The clerk said, “I’m sorry” with a smile.  The customer rebutled with “well I’d like to know what you are going to do about it?” “I’m only authorized to say I’m sorry, sir.” She replied. Ever feel that way?  The issue snowballs out of control because of several reasons, but the responsibility, as a business owner, really lies with you.  Not the client.  It’s not easy owning a bad situation.  You have to admit you were wrong after all.  Even if it wasn’t you.  It was Jim down in shipping and receiving and he’s an idiot.  By admitting that the issue at hand is your companies fault, you’ll have to associate yourself as just as much of an idiot as Jim is.  The worse part?  You’re right. Now before you get all sassy about my comment, slow down and think about it.  If you hired Jim and refuse to correct the issues that he creates by being an idiot, is that your customer’s fault?  Sorry to break the bad news, but this one belongs to you. So, how do you OWN a bad situation? Here is a 4 step process I use and it works like magic. * Define the Situation * Restate the issue to clarifying what the other person said and add “I’m sure you have a good reason to be angry. I want to make sure I’m clear on why you’re mad so I can help you and make sure it doesn’t happen again.” * If the origin of the issue is a mistake you made, fess up. Fast. That should sound something like this. “Oh no. This is clearly my (our company’s) fault. What do we need to do right now to fix this. I’ll do everything I within my power to help.”. Then, shut up. Most people just want their feelings to be validated. Once you do that, all of your focus should be on fixing the issue. DO NOT grovel. Simply apologize and refocus on resolving the issue.  Clearly define the actions you’ll take to correct it and ask for permission to proceed.  This shows the client that they have control and their guard will crumble like the Berlin wall. * If the blame belongs to someone else (another company, organization, or person), refrain from assigning it to them right away. Instead, ask “Would you like me to help you contact _______ to get to the bottom of this.” The slight redirection will give them the sense that it isn’t your fault and the sense that you truly want to help them resolve the issue. After the client is gone, consult Jim on what happened and ask him how he’d handle it? What You’re Knot Saying Importance of a Tie Entrepreneurs and Small Business owners have long scorned the tie.  In fact, many entrepreneurs and small business owners went into business so they would have to wear a tie.  So, why in the world would I see fit to write a PR piece about ties. Good question.  Turns out that regardless of the profession you choose, if you are a man, there are going to be several times in your life that wearing a tie is not only appropriate, it is a requirement.  Chamber of Commerce meetings, photo shoots, and Christmas parties are a good example.  You need to know how buy the right tie, how to choose the knot for your tie, and how to care for your tie.  They do cost an arm and a leg so you’ll want to make sure you do destroy them the first time you wear them. The best way to introduce that is to visit a little history. History of Ties It’s been said that ties originated in France with King Louis XIV.  He noticed that the Croatian Army returned adorned with scarfs or cravats around their necks.  Being one for fashion he quickly picked up the habit of tying one on and his loyal subjects followed suit. Not long after, his English neighbors across the channel picked up the style and no proper English Gentleman would be caught without a tie. Long since, the tie has been associated with business types and well to-dos.  In the 1960’s in this country, the hippies made a brief revolt against wearing ties that did gain a little ground.  Probably because of the “hippie” crowds other  extra-curricular activities, business people wanted to look nothing like a hippie so the revolt to neckwear was over.  In the 1970’s ties took a brief stab at growing in size to be much wider.  The lapel was to blame.  Just check out an old episode of Barnaby Jones (some of you will need to youtube this to get the reference).  Because the lapel shrank in years to follow, so did the ties width. In recent years, there has been a return the revolt of the tie for a “business casual” environment.  Places like Google and Apple have fostered such environments and is suitable for software companies.  Now that revolt is swinging to the other side and many have returned to the wonderful, expression filled necktie for fashion in a dull world of polo’s and t-shirts. Choosing, Buying, and Tying Choosing a tie may just depend on what kind of guy you are.  If you are a business oriented person, I urge you: Not to buy cartoon character ties unless you draw them for a living. Not to buy black silk based ties To learn the proper knot for the proper collar Care for your ties with caution Buy them on sale (they do cost a fortune ya know) Occasion Appropriate Cartoon ties are ok for clowns, but you need to be funny not look funny.  Keep that in mind the next time you think you need to wear a conversation piece.  It’s not good enough to spark conversation.  It needs to be a positive conversation about you and your abilities, not your hilarious choice in a tie. White silk based ties project a cleaner, preppier look that will go a long way.  It really helps your suit to look better longer as well.  Black silk based ties are good for winter wardrobes and are better for dinners out and nights on the town.  For business however, stick with the white based silk ties. You better Knot do that again.  The proper knot  for a tie should be in correlation with the right collar style.  No knot is wrong.  They only look that way of you tie the wrong knot with the wrong collar. Knot—————————————————-Collar Windsor—————————————Spread Collar Half Windsor——————-Spread Collar, Wide Point Four-In———HandPoint Collar, Button Down, Oxford You absolutely should buy ties on sale.  You can find a variety of places that sell them online.  Offline is good too, but you definitely need to wait for a sail.  I have purchased countless ties that retail between $60 and $100 for $15 -$30 and I promised myself I would never pay retail for them.  As long as you look for the types I have described above, you’ll be fine regardless of the brand.  If brand is important to you, remember, no one sees the brand of your tie but you.  If you have a tie that sports the brand on the front, you should get your money back. Business Situations should stick to traditional ties.  Use pattern alternatives not shape to express yourself.  You absolutely need a black tie, a dark red tie, and a dark blue tie in your arsenal.  These seem plain-Jane, but are very versatile.  No NFL knots or short ties.  Just stick to the basics above. Trendy Situations you can get away with a lot more.  If you are an NFL star go with the “I could choke a horse with this knot” look.  It’s ok.  Even if it’s not ok, no one will tell you because your big enough to kill them with your bare hands.  If you are in an 80’s Cover band, go with the “Pretty in Pink” Sock tie.  You’ll be a hit.  Now the “untied” tie is coming into it’s own.  It gives you that coveted “after work” look and is actually in style at the time of this episodes writing.  The skinny tie is too.  These are both acceptable for nights on the town or any casual situation.  Ties to a casual situation.  Yes.  For some reason, if you wear a tie untied to casual situation you look well put together. Or at least you give the impression that you were earlier anyway. Caring for Your Ties When tying your tie, don’t pull the knot tighter to get the point to the right length.  Untie it and tie it again to make the adjustment.  The tighter the knot, the worse it looks.  Also, take the time to untie them each time your wear them. Use the same painstaking measures to untie the gently as you did to get them tied in the first place.  Then roll the up when your take them off.  Rolling them up using your hand as the reel allows the tie to react to its “memory” and will remove the wrinkles over night.  It’s like magic. How to Tie A Tie The follow illustrations should help out. Full Windsor Half Windsor Four In Hand ____________________________________________________________________________ SBA 504 Making a Comeback Small Business Loans There is no need to remind anyone about the current economic situation facing the US Economy right now.  Because the US Economy has been carried by the small businesses of America for centuries, it’s no surprise that small businesses are the first to take a hit in the frozen credit markets. Common knowledge and history shows that more millionaires are made in economic downturns than in prosperous times.  Usually that’s because someone has a great idea, the guts to jump into the deep end, and the financial backing to get a business off the ground or expand during those dark times. The current frozen credit markets have been difficult to navigate at best.  Small business owners and Entrepreneurs are having bank doors slammed in their faces everyday.  What’s behind the mess?  The brief is: Banks don’t want to lend and get even more over extended. Their confidence in both the ability of other banks to pay them back is gone and more importantly the banks confidence is gone concerning small business owners ability to repay the debts. Small Business owners have geared their businesses up based on the growth in the economy and the seemingly never-ending supply of cheap money. We’ve gotten to used to Equity lines of Credit and easily attainable small business credit cards to support a tight cash-flow. As a result, small business loan products are being recalled or diminished at almost as fast of a rate as future credit is drying up. For the last decade, banks and other lenders have been able to provide financing products that are both easy to obtain and affordable to repay.  Those days are gone.  That doesn’t mean that you cannot get financing for your small business.  It means that more traditional methods of obtaining leverage are now rising to the top. Before we move on, we need to define a few terms that will help in both understanding the lingo for these loan products and will be useful in understanding your lender when he/she spews a load of lending jargon in your general direction. LTV - Loan to Value -  This is a ration used to determine the amount of risk that is associated with a loan and the collateral the loan is based on. For example: If you have a building worth $100k and a loan on that building for $80k  your LTV would be 80%. Lendable LTV - The LTV assigned by the loan product guidelines.  For example: 60% Max LTV means on that same building mentioned before, you would be able to lend a maximum of $60k with a Max LTV of 60%. Collateral - The property used to secure a loan. (This is what they will come and get if you don’t repay the loan) Subsidized Loan -  This has to do with the LTV again.  If a lender’s Max LTV = 50% a subsidized loan would pick up the additional value available to lend on. For example: Bank does a loan for 50%, USA Government does the other 50% and you end up with 2 loans. Maximum Loan Debenture - The most a loan can be regardless of the LTV. For example: You have a building worth $3 million but the maximum debenture is only $500,000.  If you do a loan for $500,000 your LTV would only be 16%,  but the lender would only be able to loan $500,000 because that is what they have determined to be the maximum risk they will take, regardless of LTV Exposure. PFS- Personal Financial Statement - Your accountant should be able to provide one of these for you.  If not use the link below the show notes to download a generic one.  This document outlines your personal assets, liabilities, and expenses in a plain language. CDC - Certified Development Company - is a nonprofit corporation set up to contribute to the economic development of its community. Enough Lenderese. Those terms will come in hand as I tell you about the SBA’s heavy hitter.  The 504 loan.  Small business owners have shied away from these in recent years because of the easily obtainable loan products and their ability to satisfy almost any situation.  The SBA 504 is unique because it’s structure minimizes risk on all parties.  The primary lender (usually a bank), the CDC/SBA, and the applicant or small business owner. The lender puts up 50% The CDC/SBA puts up 40% The Borrower puts up 10% (Consider this a down payment.) The lender sets the rate and there are actually 2 different loans.  One to the bank and one to the CDC/SBA.  The lender holds first lien (or will be paid first if you default and your assets are liquidated) and the CDC/SBA gets paid last.  They are happy to take that position, because they are backed by the US Government. There are limitations.  504’s are used for fixed assets.  Land, buildings, machinery, fixtures, etc. There are definitely other types of SBA loans available such as SBA 7(a) and  SBA Express.  The reason I believe the 504 will come back in popularity is because it is attached to a fixed asset and even though the lender is secure as far as LTV is concerned with the other types, lenders prefer to have something that can take away and sell if you default. To get information on how to apply for a SBA 504 loan in your area go to the website and click on the links in the show notes.  You’ll be able to find your local CDC for the SBA and get started ASAP on the bright idea you have. Comments are welcome.  Just go to http://theentrepreneurship.com/e5 , scroll to the bottom of the post and leave a comment.  Your name and website will be posted which means you can get a traffic directed to your site too. ____________________________________________________________________________ I’m Only Authorized to Say I’m Sorry Owning A Bad Situation There was an ad years ago in which an irate customer is complaining about not getting what he was promised.  The clerk said, “I’m sorry” with a smile.  The customer rebutled with “well I’d like to know what you are going to do about it?” “I’m only authorized to say I’m sorry, sir.” She replied. Ever feel that way?  The issue snowballs out of control because of several reasons, but the responsibility, as a business owner, really lies with you.  Not the client.  It’s not easy owning a bad situation.  You have to admit you were wrong after all.  Even if it wasn’t you.  It was Jim down in shipping and receiving and he’s an idiot.  By admitting that the issue at hand is your companies fault, you’ll have to associate yourself as just as much of an idiot as Jim is.  The worse part?  You’re right. Now before you get all sassy about my comment, slow down and think about it.  If you hired Jim and refuse to correct the issues that he creates by being an idiot, is that your customer’s fault?  Sorry to break the bad news, but this one belongs to you. So, how do you OWN a bad situation? Here is a 4 step process I use and it works like magic. * Define the Situation * Restate the issue to clarifying what the other person said and add “I’m sure you have a good reason to be angry. I want to make sure I’m clear on why you’re mad so I can help you and make sure it doesn’t happen again.” * If the origin of the issue is a mistake you made, fess up. Fast. That should sound something like this. “Oh no. This is clearly my (our company’s) fault. What do we need to do right now to fix this. I’ll do everything I within my power to help.”. Then, shut up. Most people just want their feelings to be validated. Once you do that, all of your focus should be on fixing the issue. DO NOT grovel. Simply apologize and refocus on resolving the issue.  Clearly define the actions you’ll take to correct it and ask for permission to proceed.  This shows the client that they have control and their guard will crumble like the Berlin wall. * If the blame belongs to someone else (another company, organization, or person), refrain from assigning it to them right away. Instead, ask “Would you like me to help you contact _______ to get to the bottom of this.” The slight redirection will give them the sense that it isn’t your fault and the sense that you truly want to help them resolve the issue. After the client is gone, consult Jim on what happened and ask him how he’d handle it? tag:odeo.com,2009-03-15,24307954 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 03:00:44 -0700 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Uncategorized Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076285-TES-4-The-6-Steps-to-Create-a-Viral-Marketing-Campaign PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thin... PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thinking Detail - Negative Feedback - Positive Feedback Fingernails Negative -This guy wants me to sign where? All I can see are his unclean hands.  He doesn’t have time to take care of his nails… how’s he going to take care of me? | Positive - He/She must have his stuff together if he/she has time to keep this up so well. Hair Negative - His appearance is just not a priority.  I wonder what else falls low on the list?  | Positive - Clean-cut translates into Honest and Trustworthy Shoes Negative - If he knows that people pay attention to a man’s shoes, why wouldn’t he care enough to polish them once in a while?   | Positive - This guy is well put together down to the lowest of details. Nose Hair Negative - Aaaaaggghhh! Cliffhanger!  | Positive - They won’t directly notice that you keep this trimmed.  That’s a good thing. Facial Hair Negative - Is Grizzly Adams selling me my _________.   | Postive - Clean Shaven translates into Honest and Trustworthy. Wrinkled Clothes/Pressed Clothes Negative - I’m was going to ask him about a 30 year fixed mortgage, but I’m going somewhere else.  |  Positive - When you clothes look good, it shows that you feel good about yourself.  That is apart of simple wealth attraction. Detail Tips 1. Subscribe to a style magazine (Details, GQ, or George) 2. Error the side of caution.  If you asked yourself one question about your details, you can bet others ask themselves about you too.  The difference is that they won’t say a word to you about it.  They probably won’t say a word to you at all. 3. Get a Mani/Pedi (yes, guys can get these.  You don’t have to spend all day with cucumbers on your eyes, but if you’ve got claws and not nails, you need to go in. 4. Wax that brow (singular).  Eyebrows only look good in pairs.  This is a painful procedure but can really have an impact on your outward appearance.  If you get this done, do it on the way home.  Don’t go back to the office with swollen red patches on your face. 5. Buy a good set of nail clippers and cuticle care lotion 6. Use Heavy Starch in your shirts. It keeps them looking crispy longer 7. Shave your face.  Facial hair is acceptable, but only if it is well kept.  If you look like Justin Timberlake and you’re not in a boy band, you probably need to shave. _______________________________ What is Viral Marketing and Why Should I Care? Is your current marketing campaign reaching millions at a cost of $0.00?  No?  Well, Viral Marketing can do just that.  I guess that answers the second question, huh?  For the sake of the first question and the Podcast let me dig in a little deeper. Viral Marketing has sparked a ton of debate.  It has been around for years but has exploded with the current boom in social networking on the web.  So, what is it? Viral Marketing is a form of Word of Mouth marketing.  Remember the old tried and true form of advertising?  Dubbed “the best kind of advertising”. Personally, I do think they are very different. However, only relative to the effort involved and reach that they have. Both Viral Marketing and Word of Mouth are spread by people that are really happy about something or really unhappy about something. Word of Mouth takes a gallant effort to spread the word. “Hi Jane. My friend just opened a purple horse store. If you are in the market for a purple horse, you gotta go.” Viral Marketing takes less effort (if any) because the subject matter is fascinating and irresistible to spread to friends and family. Because of how quickly it spreads, the control factor is in the toilet. As all of you know, many companies do their best to “find” that next viral campaign only to have it backfire. Sony did just that with it’s viral campaign: “All I want for Christmas is my PSP” An ad company created a bogus story about a guy who wanted a PSP for Christmas so he creates an elaborate scheme to make it happen.  Problem?  Sony forgot that the people that play PSPs are geeks like us.  Geeks that can actually create a website and printable material.  The ad was spotted as a fake right away by the very people it was meant to excite.  It excited them alright.  Notable lesson.  No one likes being tricked.  Even if it’s funny… especially when its funny. That being said, Viral Marketing existed long before the internet, but because of the easy flow of information on the web people naturally assume Viral Marketing originated on the web. Have you ever received and email FWD that says, “I normally don’t send these, but you gotta see this!”?  Sure you have. Advertisers see the potential in Viral Marketing, but because it’s predictability factor being so low, no one has perfected “planning” a Viral Marketing campaign as of yet.  Countless advertising firms have gotten it wrong.  These ad companies attempt to make something cute or relatable.  Because most of them are not part of their target audience nor do they know the nuances and lingo of that target audience the campaign backfires big-time. Viral Marketing doesn’t discriminate.  It can spread negative press or positive press to the target audience.  If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example.  However, I wouldn’t trust Viral Marketing for the launch of a new brand or the re-invention of an existing brand.  It’s just too hard to overcome a negative connotation of your brand. Another reason Viral Marketing is controversial is because some say it’s not worth the time and effort.  In other words, nobody buys just because it’s a hilarious ad.  There is usually a huge disconnect in a virally charged ad and the product itself or at least purchasing the product itself. So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: * Define My Target Audience * Define My Target Market * Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable * Find two polar points within the Target * Pick a side and * Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous.  Remember Sony’s mistake. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  To ask a question, use the “Ask Ryan” tab on the website at the top and give me your best shot. _______________________________ What Not To Do – E4 Under Promise and Over Deliver As most of you have guessed and some have commented about on the site, WNTD is my little rant & rave section of the Podcast where I see stupid things in everyday business, make fun of them, and show you have to do it the right way. I have to bring this up.  I thought it was a miracle or something the first time it happened but it happens too often to let it go. Situation: I pull up to Kentucky Fried Chicken at about 7PM to order some chicken and sides for the family.  I order and get to the window to hear the lady tell me they canceled my order because they were out of chicken. Whoh!…. What? That’s right, out of freaking chicken… at Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Kentucky Fried Chicken. Being the snappy fellow that I am, I asked, “Is this Kentucky Fried Chicken?” “Yes.” She said calmly. Now, I’m confused. “You don’t close for 2 more hours.  What are going to do?” “I dunno.  We have to stop making it after a certain time or we’ll have too much chicken.” Seriously people.  Kentucky Fried Chicken was out of Chicken.  Here’s a hint.  If chicken is part of your company’s name, don’t ever run out of chicken.  You can forget to pay the power bill and customers will forgive you, but don’t run out of chicken! The point is, Kentucky Fried Chicken over promised and under delivered.  I was left with the fear that if I ever ordered chicken after 6PM that I might be gambling and I’m just not going to do that with my families dinner.  Being that the dinnertime crowd is when Kentucky Fried Chicken makes most of it’s money and they have no breakfast offerings, I’m left with me eating there only for lunch.  Dripping grease on my tie or shirt and going back to work is not an option so I probably won’t eat there much anymore. If your business promises something and you don’t deliver, you could be “not delivering” to someone that reaches a lot of people.  Most don’t have their own Podcast, but a mad person will tell 10 other people.  A happy person may never say a word. I’d like to hear if any of you have had a similar situation.  Either at Kentucky Fried Chicken or elsewhere.  Use the comment link on this show post and let ‘er rip. I curse Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Not because they ran out of chicken, but because I truly believe they put an addictive chemical in it that makes you crave it fortnightly. Tune in for the next show coming out 3/15/2009 where we’ll tell you why neckties are the new status symbol, tell you what S.B.A. is and how to get a loan in a tight credit environment, and show you how to own every bad situation. Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thinking Detail - Negative Feedback - Positive Feedback Fingernails Negative -This guy wants me to sign where? All I can see are his unclean hands.  He doesn’t have time to take care of his nails… how’s he going to take care of me? | Positive - He/She must have his stuff together if he/she has time to keep this up so well. Hair Negative - His appearance is just not a priority.  I wonder what else falls low on the list?  | Positive - Clean-cut translates into Honest and Trustworthy Shoes Negative - If he knows that people pay attention to a man’s shoes, why wouldn’t he care enough to polish them once in a while?   | Positive - This guy is well put together down to the lowest of details. Nose Hair Negative - Aaaaaggghhh! Cliffhanger!  | Positive - They won’t directly notice that you keep this trimmed.  That’s a good thing. Facial Hair Negative - Is Grizzly Adams selling me my _________.   | Postive - Clean Shaven translates into Honest and Trustworthy. Wrinkled Clothes/Pressed Clothes Negative - I’m was going to ask him about a 30 year fixed mortgage, but I’m going somewhere else.  |  Positive - When you clothes look good, it shows that you feel good about yourself.  That is apart of simple wealth attraction. Detail Tips 1. Subscribe to a style magazine (Details, GQ, or George) 2. Error the side of caution.  If you asked yourself one question about your details, you can bet others ask themselves about you too.  The difference is that they won’t say a word to you about it.  They probably won’t say a word to you at all. 3. Get a Mani/Pedi (yes, guys can get these.  You don’t have to spend all day with cucumbers on your eyes, but if you’ve got claws and not nails, you need to go in. 4. Wax that brow (singular).  Eyebrows only look good in pairs.  This is a painful procedure but can really have an impact on your outward appearance.  If you get this done, do it on the way home.  Don’t go back to the office with swollen red patches on your face. 5. Buy a good set of nail clippers and cuticle care lotion 6. Use Heavy Starch in your shirts. It keeps them looking crispy longer 7. Shave your face.  Facial hair is acceptable, but only if it is well kept.  If you look like Justin Timberlake and you’re not in a boy band, you probably need to shave. _______________________________ What is Viral Marketing and Why Should I Care? Is your current marketing campaign reaching millions at a cost of $0.00?  No?  Well, Viral Marketing can do just that.  I guess that answers the second question, huh?  For the sake of the first question and the Podcast let me dig in a little deeper. Viral Marketing has sparked a ton of debate.  It has been around for years but has exploded with the current boom in social networking on the web.  So, what is it? Viral Marketing is a form of Word of Mouth marketing.  Remember the old tried and true form of advertising?  Dubbed “the best kind of advertising”. Personally, I do think they are very different. However, only relative to the effort involved and reach that they have. Both Viral Marketing and Word of Mouth are spread by people that are really happy about something or really unhappy about something. Word of Mouth takes a gallant effort to spread the word. “Hi Jane. My friend just opened a purple horse store. If you are in the market for a purple horse, you gotta go.” Viral Marketing takes less effort (if any) because the subject matter is fascinating and irresistible to spread to friends and family. Because of how quickly it spreads, the control factor is in the toilet. As all of you know, many companies do their best to “find” that next viral campaign only to have it backfire. Sony did just that with it’s viral campaign: “All I want for Christmas is my PSP” An ad company created a bogus story about a guy who wanted a PSP for Christmas so he creates an elaborate scheme to make it happen.  Problem?  Sony forgot that the people that play PSPs are geeks like us.  Geeks that can actually create a website and printable material.  The ad was spotted as a fake right away by the very people it was meant to excite.  It excited them alright.  Notable lesson.  No one likes being tricked.  Even if it’s funny… especially when its funny. That being said, Viral Marketing existed long before the internet, but because of the easy flow of information on the web people naturally assume Viral Marketing originated on the web. Have you ever received and email FWD that says, “I normally don’t send these, but you gotta see this!”?  Sure you have. Advertisers see the potential in Viral Marketing, but because it’s predictability factor being so low, no one has perfected “planning” a Viral Marketing campaign as of yet.  Countless advertising firms have gotten it wrong.  These ad companies attempt to make something cute or relatable.  Because most of them are not part of their target audience nor do they know the nuances and lingo of that target audience the campaign backfires big-time. Viral Marketing doesn’t discriminate.  It can spread negative press or positive press to the target audience.  If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example.  However, I wouldn’t trust Viral Marketing for the launch of a new brand or the re-invention of an existing brand.  It’s just too hard to overcome a negative connotation of your brand. Another reason Viral Marketing is controversial is because some say it’s not worth the time and effort.  In other words, nobody buys just because it’s a hilarious ad.  There is usually a huge disconnect in a virally charged ad and the product itself or at least purchasing the product itself. So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: * Define My Target Audience * Define My Target Market * Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable * Find two polar points within the Target * Pick a side and * Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous.  Remember Sony’s mistake. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  To ask a question, use the “Ask Ryan” tab on the website at the top and give me your best shot. _______________________________ What Not To Do – E4 Under Promise and Over Deliver As most of you have guessed and some have commented about on the site, WNTD is my little rant & rave section of the Podcast where I see stupid things in everyday business, make fun of them, and show you have to do it the right way. I have to bring this up.  I thought it was a miracle or something the first time it happened but it happens too often to let it go. Situation: I pull up to Kentucky Fried Chicken at about 7PM to order some chicken and sides for the family.  I order and get to the window to hear the lady tell me they canceled my order because they were out of chicken. Whoh!…. What? That’s right, out of freaking chicken… at Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Kentucky Fried Chicken. Being the snappy fellow that I am, I asked, “Is this Kentucky Fried Chicken?” “Yes.” She said calmly. Now, I’m confused. “You don’t close for 2 more hours.  What are going to do?” “I dunno.  We have to stop making it after a certain time or we’ll have too much chicken.” Seriously people.  Kentucky Fried Chicken was out of Chicken.  Here’s a hint.  If chicken is part of your company’s name, don’t ever run out of chicken.  You can forget to pay the power bill and customers will forgive you, but don’t run out of chicken! The point is, Kentucky Fried Chicken over promised and under delivered.  I was left with the fear that if I ever ordered chicken after 6PM that I might be gambling and I’m just not going to do that with my families dinner.  Being that the dinnertime crowd is when Kentucky Fried Chicken makes most of it’s money and they have no breakfast offerings, I’m left with me eating there only for lunch.  Dripping grease on my tie or shirt and going back to work is not an option so I probably won’t eat there much anymore. If your business promises something and you don’t deliver, you could be “not delivering” to someone that reaches a lot of people.  Most don’t have their own Podcast, but a mad person will tell 10 other people.  A happy person may never say a word. I’d like to hear if any of you have had a similar situation.  Either at Kentucky Fried Chicken or elsewhere.  Use the comment link on this show post and let ‘er rip. I curse Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Not because they ran out of chicken, but because I truly believe they put an addictive chemical in it that makes you crave it fortnightly. Tune in for the next show coming out 3/15/2009 where we’ll tell you why neckties are the new status symbol, tell you what S.B.A. is and how to get a loan in a tight credit environment, and show you how to own every bad situation. Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com tag:odeo.com,2009-02-28,25076285 Sat, 28 Feb 2009 03:00:45 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers viral marketing, Podcast Episodes, PR, Episode 4, serious 6, attention to details Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24634468-TES-4-The-6-Steps-to-Create-a-Viral-Marketing-Campaign PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thin... PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thinking Detail - Negative Feedback - Positive Feedback Fingernails Negative -This guy wants me to sign where? All I can see are his unclean hands.  He doesn’t have time to take care of his nails… how’s he going to take care of me? | Positive - He/She must have his stuff together if he/she has time to keep this up so well. Hair Negative - His appearance is just not a priority.  I wonder what else falls low on the list?  | Positive - Clean-cut translates into Honest and Trustworthy Shoes Negative - If he knows that people pay attention to a man’s shoes, why wouldn’t he care enough to polish them once in a while?   | Positive - This guy is well put together down to the lowest of details. Nose Hair Negative - Aaaaaggghhh! Cliffhanger!  | Positive - They won’t directly notice that you keep this trimmed.  That’s a good thing. Facial Hair Negative - Is Grizzly Adams selling me my _________.   | Postive - Clean Shaven translates into Honest and Trustworthy. Wrinkled Clothes/Pressed Clothes Negative - I’m was going to ask him about a 30 year fixed mortgage, but I’m going somewhere else.  |  Positive - When you clothes look good, it shows that you feel good about yourself.  That is apart of simple wealth attraction. Detail Tips 1. Subscribe to a style magazine (Details, GQ, or George) 2. Error the side of caution.  If you asked yourself one question about your details, you can bet others ask themselves about you too.  The difference is that they won’t say a word to you about it.  They probably won’t say a word to you at all. 3. Get a Mani/Pedi (yes, guys can get these.  You don’t have to spend all day with cucumbers on your eyes, but if you’ve got claws and not nails, you need to go in. 4. Wax that brow (singular).  Eyebrows only look good in pairs.  This is a painful procedure but can really have an impact on your outward appearance.  If you get this done, do it on the way home.  Don’t go back to the office with swollen red patches on your face. 5. Buy a good set of nail clippers and cuticle care lotion 6. Use Heavy Starch in your shirts. It keeps them looking crispy longer 7. Shave your face.  Facial hair is acceptable, but only if it is well kept.  If you look like Justin Timberlake and you’re not in a boy band, you probably need to shave. _______________________________ What is Viral Marketing and Why Should I Care? Is your current marketing campaign reaching millions at a cost of $0.00?  No?  Well, Viral Marketing can do just that.  I guess that answers the second question, huh?  For the sake of the first question and the Podcast let me dig in a little deeper. Viral Marketing has sparked a ton of debate.  It has been around for years but has exploded with the current boom in social networking on the web.  So, what is it? Viral Marketing is a form of Word of Mouth marketing.  Remember the old tried and true form of advertising?  Dubbed “the best kind of advertising”. Personally, I do think they are very different. However, only relative to the effort involved and reach that they have. Both Viral Marketing and Word of Mouth are spread by people that are really happy about something or really unhappy about something. Word of Mouth takes a gallant effort to spread the word. “Hi Jane. My friend just opened a purple horse store. If you are in the market for a purple horse, you gotta go.” Viral Marketing takes less effort (if any) because the subject matter is fascinating and irresistible to spread to friends and family. Because of how quickly it spreads, the control factor is in the toilet. As all of you know, many companies do their best to “find” that next viral campaign only to have it backfire. Sony did just that with it’s viral campaign: “All I want for Christmas is my PSP” An ad company created a bogus story about a guy who wanted a PSP for Christmas so he creates an elaborate scheme to make it happen.  Problem?  Sony forgot that the people that play PSPs are geeks like us.  Geeks that can actually create a website and printable material.  The ad was spotted as a fake right away by the very people it was meant to excite.  It excited them alright.  Notable lesson.  No one likes being tricked.  Even if it’s funny… especially when its funny. That being said, Viral Marketing existed long before the internet, but because of the easy flow of information on the web people naturally assume Viral Marketing originated on the web. Have you ever received and email FWD that says, “I normally don’t send these, but you gotta see this!”?  Sure you have. Advertisers see the potential in Viral Marketing, but because it’s predictability factor being so low, no one has perfected “planning” a Viral Marketing campaign as of yet.  Countless advertising firms have gotten it wrong.  These ad companies attempt to make something cute or relatable.  Because most of them are not part of their target audience nor do they know the nuances and lingo of that target audience the campaign backfires big-time. Viral Marketing doesn’t discriminate.  It can spread negative press or positive press to the target audience.  If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example.  However, I wouldn’t trust Viral Marketing for the launch of a new brand or the re-invention of an existing brand.  It’s just too hard to overcome a negative connotation of your brand. Another reason Viral Marketing is controversial is because some say it’s not worth the time and effort.  In other words, nobody buys just because it’s a hilarious ad.  There is usually a huge disconnect in a virally charged ad and the product itself or at least purchasing the product itself. So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: * Define My Target Audience * Define My Target Market * Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable * Find two polar points within the Target * Pick a side and * Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous.  Remember Sony’s mistake. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  To ask a question, use the “Ask Ryan” tab on the website at the top and give me your best shot. _______________________________ What Not To Do – E4 Under Promise and Over Deliver As most of you have guessed and some have commented about on the site, WNTD is my little rant & rave section of the Podcast where I see stupid things in everyday business, make fun of them, and show you have to do it the right way. I have to bring this up.  I thought it was a miracle or something the first time it happened but it happens too often to let it go. Situation: I pull up to Kentucky Fried Chicken at about 7PM to order some chicken and sides for the family.  I order and get to the window to hear the lady tell me they canceled my order because they were out of chicken. Whoh!…. What? That’s right, out of freaking chicken… at Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Kentucky Fried Chicken. Being the snappy fellow that I am, I asked, “Is this Kentucky Fried Chicken?” “Yes.” She said calmly. Now, I’m confused. “You don’t close for 2 more hours.  What are going to do?” “I dunno.  We have to stop making it after a certain time or we’ll have too much chicken.” Seriously people.  Kentucky Fried Chicken was out of Chicken.  Here’s a hint.  If chicken is part of your company’s name, don’t ever run out of chicken.  You can forget to pay the power bill and customers will forgive you, but don’t run out of chicken! The point is, Kentucky Fried Chicken over promised and under delivered.  I was left with the fear that if I ever ordered chicken after 6PM that I might be gambling and I’m just not going to do that with my families dinner.  Being that the dinnertime crowd is when Kentucky Fried Chicken makes most of it’s money and they have no breakfast offerings, I’m left with me eating there only for lunch.  Dripping grease on my tie or shirt and going back to work is not an option so I probably won’t eat there much anymore. If your business promises something and you don’t deliver, you could be “not delivering” to someone that reaches a lot of people.  Most don’t have their own Podcast, but a mad person will tell 10 other people.  A happy person may never say a word. I’d like to hear if any of you have had a similar situation.  Either at Kentucky Fried Chicken or elsewhere.  Use the comment link on this show post and let ‘er rip. I curse Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Not because they ran out of chicken, but because I truly believe they put an addictive chemical in it that makes you crave it fortnightly. Tune in for the next show coming out 3/15/2009 where we’ll tell you why neckties are the new status symbol, tell you what S.B.A. is and how to get a loan in a tight credit environment, and show you how to own every bad situation. Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thinking Detail - Negative Feedback - Positive Feedback Fingernails Negative -This guy wants me to sign where? All I can see are his unclean hands.  He doesn’t have time to take care of his nails… how’s he going to take care of me? | Positive - He/She must have his stuff together if he/she has time to keep this up so well. Hair Negative - His appearance is just not a priority.  I wonder what else falls low on the list?  | Positive - Clean-cut translates into Honest and Trustworthy Shoes Negative - If he knows that people pay attention to a man’s shoes, why wouldn’t he care enough to polish them once in a while?   | Positive - This guy is well put together down to the lowest of details. Nose Hair Negative - Aaaaaggghhh! Cliffhanger!  | Positive - They won’t directly notice that you keep this trimmed.  That’s a good thing. Facial Hair Negative - Is Grizzly Adams selling me my _________.   | Postive - Clean Shaven translates into Honest and Trustworthy. Wrinkled Clothes/Pressed Clothes Negative - I’m was going to ask him about a 30 year fixed mortgage, but I’m going somewhere else.  |  Positive - When you clothes look good, it shows that you feel good about yourself.  That is apart of simple wealth attraction. Detail Tips 1. Subscribe to a style magazine (Details, GQ, or George) 2. Error the side of caution.  If you asked yourself one question about your details, you can bet others ask themselves about you too.  The difference is that they won’t say a word to you about it.  They probably won’t say a word to you at all. 3. Get a Mani/Pedi (yes, guys can get these.  You don’t have to spend all day with cucumbers on your eyes, but if you’ve got claws and not nails, you need to go in. 4. Wax that brow (singular).  Eyebrows only look good in pairs.  This is a painful procedure but can really have an impact on your outward appearance.  If you get this done, do it on the way home.  Don’t go back to the office with swollen red patches on your face. 5. Buy a good set of nail clippers and cuticle care lotion 6. Use Heavy Starch in your shirts. It keeps them looking crispy longer 7. Shave your face.  Facial hair is acceptable, but only if it is well kept.  If you look like Justin Timberlake and you’re not in a boy band, you probably need to shave. _______________________________ What is Viral Marketing and Why Should I Care? Is your current marketing campaign reaching millions at a cost of $0.00?  No?  Well, Viral Marketing can do just that.  I guess that answers the second question, huh?  For the sake of the first question and the Podcast let me dig in a little deeper. Viral Marketing has sparked a ton of debate.  It has been around for years but has exploded with the current boom in social networking on the web.  So, what is it? Viral Marketing is a form of Word of Mouth marketing.  Remember the old tried and true form of advertising?  Dubbed “the best kind of advertising”. Personally, I do think they are very different. However, only relative to the effort involved and reach that they have. Both Viral Marketing and Word of Mouth are spread by people that are really happy about something or really unhappy about something. Word of Mouth takes a gallant effort to spread the word. “Hi Jane. My friend just opened a purple horse store. If you are in the market for a purple horse, you gotta go.” Viral Marketing takes less effort (if any) because the subject matter is fascinating and irresistible to spread to friends and family. Because of how quickly it spreads, the control factor is in the toilet. As all of you know, many companies do their best to “find” that next viral campaign only to have it backfire. Sony did just that with it’s viral campaign: “All I want for Christmas is my PSP” An ad company created a bogus story about a guy who wanted a PSP for Christmas so he creates an elaborate scheme to make it happen.  Problem?  Sony forgot that the people that play PSPs are geeks like us.  Geeks that can actually create a website and printable material.  The ad was spotted as a fake right away by the very people it was meant to excite.  It excited them alright.  Notable lesson.  No one likes being tricked.  Even if it’s funny… especially when its funny. That being said, Viral Marketing existed long before the internet, but because of the easy flow of information on the web people naturally assume Viral Marketing originated on the web. Have you ever received and email FWD that says, “I normally don’t send these, but you gotta see this!”?  Sure you have. Advertisers see the potential in Viral Marketing, but because it’s predictability factor being so low, no one has perfected “planning” a Viral Marketing campaign as of yet.  Countless advertising firms have gotten it wrong.  These ad companies attempt to make something cute or relatable.  Because most of them are not part of their target audience nor do they know the nuances and lingo of that target audience the campaign backfires big-time. Viral Marketing doesn’t discriminate.  It can spread negative press or positive press to the target audience.  If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example.  However, I wouldn’t trust Viral Marketing for the launch of a new brand or the re-invention of an existing brand.  It’s just too hard to overcome a negative connotation of your brand. Another reason Viral Marketing is controversial is because some say it’s not worth the time and effort.  In other words, nobody buys just because it’s a hilarious ad.  There is usually a huge disconnect in a virally charged ad and the product itself or at least purchasing the product itself. So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: * Define My Target Audience * Define My Target Market * Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable * Find two polar points within the Target * Pick a side and * Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous.  Remember Sony’s mistake. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  To ask a question, use the “Ask Ryan” tab on the website at the top and give me your best shot. _______________________________ What Not To Do – E4 Under Promise and Over Deliver As most of you have guessed and some have commented about on the site, WNTD is my little rant & rave section of the Podcast where I see stupid things in everyday business, make fun of them, and show you have to do it the right way. I have to bring this up.  I thought it was a miracle or something the first time it happened but it happens too often to let it go. Situation: I pull up to Kentucky Fried Chicken at about 7PM to order some chicken and sides for the family.  I order and get to the window to hear the lady tell me they canceled my order because they were out of chicken. Whoh!…. What? That’s right, out of freaking chicken… at Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Kentucky Fried Chicken. Being the snappy fellow that I am, I asked, “Is this Kentucky Fried Chicken?” “Yes.” She said calmly. Now, I’m confused. “You don’t close for 2 more hours.  What are going to do?” “I dunno.  We have to stop making it after a certain time or we’ll have too much chicken.” Seriously people.  Kentucky Fried Chicken was out of Chicken.  Here’s a hint.  If chicken is part of your company’s name, don’t ever run out of chicken.  You can forget to pay the power bill and customers will forgive you, but don’t run out of chicken! The point is, Kentucky Fried Chicken over promised and under delivered.  I was left with the fear that if I ever ordered chicken after 6PM that I might be gambling and I’m just not going to do that with my families dinner.  Being that the dinnertime crowd is when Kentucky Fried Chicken makes most of it’s money and they have no breakfast offerings, I’m left with me eating there only for lunch.  Dripping grease on my tie or shirt and going back to work is not an option so I probably won’t eat there much anymore. If your business promises something and you don’t deliver, you could be “not delivering” to someone that reaches a lot of people.  Most don’t have their own Podcast, but a mad person will tell 10 other people.  A happy person may never say a word. I’d like to hear if any of you have had a similar situation.  Either at Kentucky Fried Chicken or elsewhere.  Use the comment link on this show post and let ‘er rip. I curse Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Not because they ran out of chicken, but because I truly believe they put an addictive chemical in it that makes you crave it fortnightly. Tune in for the next show coming out 3/15/2009 where we’ll tell you why neckties are the new status symbol, tell you what S.B.A. is and how to get a loan in a tight credit environment, and show you how to own every bad situation. Don’t Miss Anymore Earth Shaking Articles Scroll Down and Get This Free eBook and Receive Our eNewsletter As a Bonus, You’ll Get a Free Audio Presentation TOO! Do YOU Know the 13 Techniques to Flourish Online, Automate Leads, and Gain Permission From YOUR Core Clients? Type Your First Name and A Valid Email Below You’ll INSTANTLY Receive the report and a BONUS We NEVER Share/Sell Your Information. Ever! We Follow A Strict Privacy Policy More Information at: FreeBusinessGift.com tag:odeo.com,2009-02-28,24634468 Sat, 28 Feb 2009 03:00:45 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes, viral marketing, PR, Episode 4, serious 6, attention to details Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24234688-Episode-4-The-Entrepreneur-Ship PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thin... PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thinking Detail - Negative Feedback - Positive Feedback Fingernails Negative -This guy wants me to sign where? All I can see are his unclean hands.  He doesn’t have time to take care of his nails… how’s he going to take care of me? | Positive - He/She must have his stuff together if he/she has time to keep this up so well. Hair Negative - His appearance is just not a priority.  I wonder what else falls low on the list?  | Positive - Clean-cut translates into Honest and Trustworthy Shoes Negative - If he knows that people pay attention to a man’s shoes, why wouldn’t he care enough to polish them once in a while?   | Positive - This guy is well put together down to the lowest of details. Nose Hair Negative - Aaaaaggghhh! Cliffhanger!  | Positive - They won’t directly notice that you keep this trimmed.  That’s a good thing. Facial Hair Negative - Is Grizzly Adams selling me my _________.   | Postive - Clean Shaven translates into Honest and Trustworthy. Wrinkled Clothes/Pressed Clothes Negative - I’m was going to ask him about a 30 year fixed mortgage, but I’m going somewhere else.  |  Positive - When you clothes look good, it shows that you feel good about yourself.  That is apart of simple wealth attraction. Detail Tips 1. Subscribe to a style magazine (Details, GQ, or George) 2. Error the side of caution.  If you asked yourself one question about your details, you can bet others ask themselves about you too.  The difference is that they won’t say a word to you about it.  They probably won’t say a word to you at all. 3. Get a Mani/Pedi (yes, guys can get these.  You don’t have to spend all day with cucumbers on your eyes, but if you’ve got claws and not nails, you need to go in. 4. Wax that brow (singular).  Eyebrows only look good in pairs.  This is a painful procedure but can really have an impact on your outward appearance.  If you get this done, do it on the way home.  Don’t go back to the office with swollen red patches on your face. 5. Buy a good set of nail clippers and cuticle care lotion 6. Use Heavy Starch in your shirts. It keeps them looking crispy longer 7. Shave your face.  Facial hair is acceptable, but only if it is well kept.  If you look like Justin Timberlake and you’re not in a boy band, you probably need to shave. _______________________________ What is Viral Marketing and Why Should I Care? Is your current marketing campaign reaching millions at a cost of $0.00?  No?  Well, Viral Marketing can do just that.  I guess that answers the second question, huh?  For the sake of the first question and the Podcast let me dig in a little deeper. Viral Marketing has sparked a ton of debate.  It has been around for years but has exploded with the current boom in social networking on the web.  So, what is it? Viral Marketing is a form of Word of Mouth marketing.  Remember the old tried and true form of advertising?  Dubbed “the best kind of advertising”. Personally, I do think they are very different. However, only relative to the effort involved and reach that they have. Both Viral Marketing and Word of Mouth are spread by people that are really happy about something or really unhappy about something. Word of Mouth takes a gallant effort to spread the word. “Hi Jane. My friend just opened a purple horse store. If you are in the market for a purple horse, you gotta go.” Viral Marketing takes less effort (if any) because the subject matter is fascinating and irresistible to spread to friends and family. Because of how quickly it spreads, the control factor is in the toilet. As all of you know, many companies do their best to “find” that next viral campaign only to have it backfire. Sony did just that with it’s viral campaign: “All I want for Christmas is my PSP” An ad company created a bogus story about a guy who wanted a PSP for Christmas so he creates an elaborate scheme to make it happen.  Problem?  Sony forgot that the people that play PSPs are geeks like us.  Geeks that can actually create a website and printable material.  The ad was spotted as a fake right away by the very people it was meant to excite.  It excited them alright.  Notable lesson.  No one likes being tricked.  Even if it’s funny… especially when its funny. That being said, Viral Marketing existed long before the internet, but because of the easy flow of information on the web people naturally assume Viral Marketing originated on the web. Have you ever received and email FWD that says, “I normally don’t send these, but you gotta see this!”?  Sure you have. Advertisers see the potential in Viral Marketing, but because it’s predictability factor being so low, no one has perfected “planning” a Viral Marketing campaign as of yet.  Countless advertising firms have gotten it wrong.  These ad companies attempt to make something cute or relatable.  Because most of them are not part of their target audience nor do they know the nuances and lingo of that target audience the campaign backfires big-time. Viral Marketing doesn’t discriminate.  It can spread negative press or positive press to the target audience.  If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example.  However, I wouldn’t trust Viral Marketing for the launch of a new brand or the re-invention of an existing brand.  It’s just too hard to overcome a negative connotation of your brand. Another reason Viral Marketing is controversial is because some say it’s not worth the time and effort.  In other words, nobody buys just because it’s a hilarious ad.  There is usually a huge disconnect in a virally charged ad and the product itself or at least purchasing the product itself. So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: * Define My Target Audience * Define My Target Market * Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable * Find two polar points within the Target * Pick a side and * Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous.  Remember Sony’s mistake. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  To ask a question, use the “Ask Ryan” tab on the website at the top and give me your best shot. _______________________________ What Not To Do – E4 Under Promise and Over Deliver As most of you have guessed and some have commented about on the site, WNTD is my little rant & rave section of the Podcast where I see stupid things in everyday business, make fun of them, and show you have to do it the right way. I have to bring this up.  I thought it was a miracle or something the first time it happened but it happens too often to let it go. Situation: I pull up to Kentucky Fried Chicken at about 7PM to order some chicken and sides for the family.  I order and get to the window to hear the lady tell me they canceled my order because they were out of chicken. Whoh!…. What? That’s right, out of freaking chicken… at Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Kentucky Fried Chicken. Being the snappy fellow that I am, I asked, “Is this Kentucky Fried Chicken?” “Yes.” She said calmly. Now, I’m confused. “You don’t close for 2 more hours.  What are going to do?” “I dunno.  We have to stop making it after a certain time or we’ll have too much chicken.” Seriously people.  Kentucky Fried Chicken was out of Chicken.  Here’s a hint.  If chicken is part of your company’s name, don’t ever run out of chicken.  You can forget to pay the power bill and customers will forgive you, but don’t run out of chicken! The point is, Kentucky Fried Chicken over promised and under delivered.  I was left with the fear that if I ever ordered chicken after 6PM that I might be gambling and I’m just not going to do that with my families dinner.  Being that the dinnertime crowd is when Kentucky Fried Chicken makes most of it’s money and they have no breakfast offerings, I’m left with me eating there only for lunch.  Dripping grease on my tie or shirt and going back to work is not an option so I probably won’t eat there much anymore. If your business promises something and you don’t deliver, you could be “not delivering” to someone that reaches a lot of people.  Most don’t have their own Podcast, but a mad person will tell 10 other people.  A happy person may never say a word. I’d like to hear if any of you have had a similar situation.  Either at Kentucky Fried Chicken or elsewhere.  Use the comment link on this show post and let ‘er rip. I curse Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Not because they ran out of chicken, but because I truly believe they put an addictive chemical in it that makes you crave it fortnightly. Tune in for the next show coming out 3/15/2009 where we’ll tell you why neckties are the new status symbol, tell you what S.B.A. is and how to get a loan in a tight credit environment, and show you how to own every bad situation. PR for the Modern Entrepreneur - Attention to Details Importance of Details Details are the very heart of a positive public image.  From the small piece of dirt under your from a weekend of gardening to the “to be continued” hair on the back of your neck.  Details are the small things that pack a big wallop when it comes to public image.  Your public image and your personal image are intertwined and inseparable.  Letting one little thing go can keep you from landing a client, getting a job, or even finding a wife or husband.  Sure you may think I’m being too serious about details, but that’s because I know you can do a little and it goes a long way.  Not only that, but if you disregard any of the details you’ll hear about today, you might as well give up.  I’ll show you 6 “must hit” details and tell you what people are thinking if you miss. The Serious 6 Fingernails Hair Shoes Nose Hair Facial Hair Wrinkled Clothes What People Are Thinking Detail - Negative Feedback - Positive Feedback Fingernails Negative -This guy wants me to sign where? All I can see are his unclean hands.  He doesn’t have time to take care of his nails… how’s he going to take care of me? | Positive - He/She must have his stuff together if he/she has time to keep this up so well. Hair Negative - His appearance is just not a priority.  I wonder what else falls low on the list?  | Positive - Clean-cut translates into Honest and Trustworthy Shoes Negative - If he knows that people pay attention to a man’s shoes, why wouldn’t he care enough to polish them once in a while?   | Positive - This guy is well put together down to the lowest of details. Nose Hair Negative - Aaaaaggghhh! Cliffhanger!  | Positive - They won’t directly notice that you keep this trimmed.  That’s a good thing. Facial Hair Negative - Is Grizzly Adams selling me my _________.   | Postive - Clean Shaven translates into Honest and Trustworthy. Wrinkled Clothes/Pressed Clothes Negative - I’m was going to ask him about a 30 year fixed mortgage, but I’m going somewhere else.  |  Positive - When you clothes look good, it shows that you feel good about yourself.  That is apart of simple wealth attraction. Detail Tips 1. Subscribe to a style magazine (Details, GQ, or George) 2. Error the side of caution.  If you asked yourself one question about your details, you can bet others ask themselves about you too.  The difference is that they won’t say a word to you about it.  They probably won’t say a word to you at all. 3. Get a Mani/Pedi (yes, guys can get these.  You don’t have to spend all day with cucumbers on your eyes, but if you’ve got claws and not nails, you need to go in. 4. Wax that brow (singular).  Eyebrows only look good in pairs.  This is a painful procedure but can really have an impact on your outward appearance.  If you get this done, do it on the way home.  Don’t go back to the office with swollen red patches on your face. 5. Buy a good set of nail clippers and cuticle care lotion 6. Use Heavy Starch in your shirts. It keeps them looking crispy longer 7. Shave your face.  Facial hair is acceptable, but only if it is well kept.  If you look like Justin Timberlake and you’re not in a boy band, you probably need to shave. _______________________________ What is Viral Marketing and Why Should I Care? Is your current marketing campaign reaching millions at a cost of $0.00?  No?  Well, Viral Marketing can do just that.  I guess that answers the second question, huh?  For the sake of the first question and the Podcast let me dig in a little deeper. Viral Marketing has sparked a ton of debate.  It has been around for years but has exploded with the current boom in social networking on the web.  So, what is it? Viral Marketing is a form of Word of Mouth marketing.  Remember the old tried and true form of advertising?  Dubbed “the best kind of advertising”. Personally, I do think they are very different. However, only relative to the effort involved and reach that they have. Both Viral Marketing and Word of Mouth are spread by people that are really happy about something or really unhappy about something. Word of Mouth takes a gallant effort to spread the word. “Hi Jane. My friend just opened a purple horse store. If you are in the market for a purple horse, you gotta go.” Viral Marketing takes less effort (if any) because the subject matter is fascinating and irresistible to spread to friends and family. Because of how quickly it spreads, the control factor is in the toilet. As all of you know, many companies do their best to “find” that next viral campaign only to have it backfire. Sony did just that with it’s viral campaign: “All I want for Christmas is my PSP” An ad company created a bogus story about a guy who wanted a PSP for Christmas so he creates an elaborate scheme to make it happen.  Problem?  Sony forgot that the people that play PSPs are geeks like us.  Geeks that can actually create a website and printable material.  The ad was spotted as a fake right away by the very people it was meant to excite.  It excited them alright.  Notable lesson.  No one likes being tricked.  Even if it’s funny… especially when its funny. That being said, Viral Marketing existed long before the internet, but because of the easy flow of information on the web people naturally assume Viral Marketing originated on the web. Have you ever received and email FWD that says, “I normally don’t send these, but you gotta see this!”?  Sure you have. Advertisers see the potential in Viral Marketing, but because it’s predictability factor being so low, no one has perfected “planning” a Viral Marketing campaign as of yet.  Countless advertising firms have gotten it wrong.  These ad companies attempt to make something cute or relatable.  Because most of them are not part of their target audience nor do they know the nuances and lingo of that target audience the campaign backfires big-time. Viral Marketing doesn’t discriminate.  It can spread negative press or positive press to the target audience.  If the campaign does in fact go viral, it only promises mass quantities of exposure, good or bad. Many argue that all exposure is good.  I agree for certain cases.  Introducing new products for and established brand can be good, for example.  However, I wouldn’t trust Viral Marketing for the launch of a new brand or the re-invention of an existing brand.  It’s just too hard to overcome a negative connotation of your brand. Another reason Viral Marketing is controversial is because some say it’s not worth the time and effort.  In other words, nobody buys just because it’s a hilarious ad.  There is usually a huge disconnect in a virally charged ad and the product itself or at least purchasing the product itself. So, how can you use a viral marketing in your niche? Tricky question, but good and necessary to answer before you attempt something viral. Creating something that is irresistible to talk about can be difficult. I have had some success when I: * Define My Target Audience * Define My Target Market * Make sure these are both the same or at least enough to make the campaign viable * Find two polar points within the Target * Pick a side and * Then… challenge the other sides beliefs and/or behaviors The controversy will fuel the fire enough to give the campaign traction.  Positioning your product or service as the solution is the next logical step.  It is also the most dangerous.  Remember Sony’s mistake. Viral Marketing is best used within a market or niche that you are a part of.  To ask a question, use the “Ask Ryan” tab on the website at the top and give me your best shot. _______________________________ What Not To Do – E4 Under Promise and Over Deliver As most of you have guessed and some have commented about on the site, WNTD is my little rant & rave section of the Podcast where I see stupid things in everyday business, make fun of them, and show you have to do it the right way. I have to bring this up.  I thought it was a miracle or something the first time it happened but it happens too often to let it go. Situation: I pull up to Kentucky Fried Chicken at about 7PM to order some chicken and sides for the family.  I order and get to the window to hear the lady tell me they canceled my order because they were out of chicken. Whoh!…. What? That’s right, out of freaking chicken… at Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Kentucky Fried Chicken. Being the snappy fellow that I am, I asked, “Is this Kentucky Fried Chicken?” “Yes.” She said calmly. Now, I’m confused. “You don’t close for 2 more hours.  What are going to do?” “I dunno.  We have to stop making it after a certain time or we’ll have too much chicken.” Seriously people.  Kentucky Fried Chicken was out of Chicken.  Here’s a hint.  If chicken is part of your company’s name, don’t ever run out of chicken.  You can forget to pay the power bill and customers will forgive you, but don’t run out of chicken! The point is, Kentucky Fried Chicken over promised and under delivered.  I was left with the fear that if I ever ordered chicken after 6PM that I might be gambling and I’m just not going to do that with my families dinner.  Being that the dinnertime crowd is when Kentucky Fried Chicken makes most of it’s money and they have no breakfast offerings, I’m left with me eating there only for lunch.  Dripping grease on my tie or shirt and going back to work is not an option so I probably won’t eat there much anymore. If your business promises something and you don’t deliver, you could be “not delivering” to someone that reaches a lot of people.  Most don’t have their own Podcast, but a mad person will tell 10 other people.  A happy person may never say a word. I’d like to hear if any of you have had a similar situation.  Either at Kentucky Fried Chicken or elsewhere.  Use the comment link on this show post and let ‘er rip. I curse Kentucky Fried Chicken.  Not because they ran out of chicken, but because I truly believe they put an addictive chemical in it that makes you crave it fortnightly. Tune in for the next show coming out 3/15/2009 where we’ll tell you why neckties are the new status symbol, tell you what S.B.A. is and how to get a loan in a tight credit environment, and show you how to own every bad situation. tag:odeo.com,2009-02-28,24234688 Sat, 28 Feb 2009 03:00:45 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes, viral marketing, PR, Episode 4, serious 6, attention to details Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076286-TES-3-How-to-Project-%E2%80%9CCEO%E2%80%9D-Without-Screaming-Startup-Take-Back-Your-Inbox-and-PART-2-of-Creating-Power-Dripping-Joint-Ventures On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO!... On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO! How do they know? •    Your business card says CEO and the name on your shirt does not. (poke, jab) •    You introduce yourself as CEO.  Unless your company’s name is a household name, they won’t believe you. (By the way, real CEOs don’t do this.  Someone else introduces them) •    CEOs don’t wear t-shirts to work (excluding Apple and Google) When is it ok to use the title CEO? •    Typically, it’s not unless: •    You have a board of directors •    You have a CFO or COO ( if you don’t know what these are stick to “owner”) •    You are hired into a CEO position or build your company to the point of needing a CEO. Why is this so bad? Using the title CEO and or President for a small business of 10 or less people sends the wrong message.  What you are trying to say is: •    I’m important. •    I own this business. •    I am powerful. •    I am more important than you (or I want you to believe that) •    I watch too much tv. •    I am a fan of Dallas and Dynasty. •    (None of these have to do with who is most important to your customer, them) Seriously, let’s dig into a several real reasons this is so bad. 1.    Pretending is never good unless you are Peter Pan.  It’s good to envision what you’d like to be and you should.  Pretending can hurt your image and make it take longer to “really” reach that place you’d like to be… the top. 2.    Using CEO as your title in this situation lowers the perceived value of your input.  If a people pick up on the fact that you’re a pretender (and they will), they won’t believe you either.  Especially when you hand them an outrageous quote. (it will always seem outrageous coming from the CEO)  They’ll get the idea that you over promise and under deliver. 3.    Using CEO as you title gives the customer no one else to go to.  You’ll have to make decisions on the spot and create undo pressure for yourself.  This can have a huge impact on profits. 4.    People’s expectations are raised to an almost impossible to meet standard when you use CEO.  People expect to see “shirt & tie” when the these three letters, CEO, are used together.  The fact is, your everyday dress may disappoint them.  Is someone going to say to you, “You aren’t the CEO dressed like that, are you?”. No.  The fact is, they won’t say anything to you at all.  They might get a little chuckle when you’re not there, but that’s not what you were going for, was it? 5.    The final reason is because when you use CEO as your title when it’s not applicable, you lose your inner focus.  Your inner focus, by the way, should be on the work itself not who you’ll be when you get to the top.  Stay focused on what makes you excited and yields you real dollars. So, How Can You Get the Attention You Need or Want? 1.    Name yourself a “lesser title” and deliver a CEO experience.  Here’s where you can draw off of that J.R. Ewing presence you so desire.  This will also not make you the last stop in decisions and can relieve some pressure. i.    Example: Brenda, I’d love to be able to tell you to go with the $2000 advertising plan, but I’m just the director.  I’ll check with my higher ups and let you know where we can meet on the advertising budget. ii.    Nice to be the little guy now, huh? 2.    Dress, Walk, Talk, Eat, Sleep and… (well you get the idea) like a CEO.  Don’t dress for the job you have.  Dress for the job you want.  You’ll get noticed. 3.    Let your actions speak louder than words. 4.    Do things it takes for others to introduce you and set the stage.  This will frame the power and presence you want.  Then it’s up to you.  Don’t blow it. 5.    Hang out with other business owners and entrepreneurs.  Get a mentorship and/or mastermind group going with people you’d like to emulate.  Be picky. Your image and future depend on it. To sum it up, be what you want to be.  Don’t say what you want to be. _________________________________________________________________ Inbox Sanctuary Your overwhelmed with your inbox aren’t you?  The sheer volume at which you receive email is enough to crash your computer sometimes.  Just imagine what that kind of information overload is doing to you brain.  Carrying that kind of stress around is not good.  You need some peace and quiet in that “high school lunch room” of an inbox you have. Your Email Is Out Of Control Here are some key facts that are bogging inboxes around the world down.  If we can name the demons, we can rid ourselves of them and return inner Zen to our inbox. 1.    People are receiving between 10 – 30 emails per day that have no relevance to them. 2.    Setting up elaborate filter and folder systems doesn’t work most of the time because there are no rules to how they are created.  No format to managing the flow of traffic that is bulldozing it’s way into your life with the click of a thousand mouses. 3.    Spam filters rarely work (unless you own a MAC like me) when they do work, they aren’t supposed to and vice versa. 4.    The average person spends between 1 – 2 hours per day checking and responding to email.  (no wonder the only Neilson ratings that are up are Family Guy) Getting Control When it comes to getting control of your email inbox there are 3 key areas to address.  Time management or how often you check your email, content management or how you handle the content that comes your way, and setup or how you will receive the content that comes your way.  That’s a mouthful, but it sums up getting control nicely. Time Management Take a look at how often you check your email.  Do you check it constantly?  If you answered yes, then you are not alone.  76% of people check their email as soon as it is delivered or as soon as the can access it.  The rest of the people rarely check it at all.  We need to change the rules a bit if we are going to wrestle this one down. First, for constant checkers, what you are doing is ok.  What? Yes. That’s right. Checking your email as soon as it comes in is ok.  But only if you have a system to manage the content.  We’ll look at that in depth a little later. Constant checkers are employees that are at their work terminal or jet setters with their Blackberrys or iPhones. For those that don’t check it at all, it’s obviously not a problem and I won’t devote much time to them here, because, quite frankly they aren’t going to read this either. I have a better idea.  It’s called batching and it takes its name from baking.  You wouldn’t spend an hour making cookie dough, adding chips and baking all for one cookie would you?  Of course not.  That’s not yummy enough.  You’d make a lot of cookies right?  You get the idea.  This is actually a midpoint between non-checkers and constant checkers.  You are just going to give a little structure to when you check your email. That’s all. I suggest you check your email twice daily.  Use a time that is not the first thing in the morning and allows you some time to work through the mess that is your inbox.  9 – 10AM is a good time and an hour our so before you hit the road at night.  I do this for two reasons.  First because it allows me to get into work and plan my day. Checking your email first thing is setting your day up as reactionary and that is all you will ever be.  Taking control of the first part of  your day is liberating and effective.  The reason I check it an hour or so before I leave for the day is because it gives me time to go through the mess that is my email inbox and tackle the things that I’ll need to do first thing the next day. You will have to make some changes to your habits.  Right now most of your habits have been handed to you.  Changing your email checking schedule will vastly improve your effectiveness.  You will however have to let some people know about it to make it really work.  After all, when Jane sends you an email with a flame on it asking for the report by 5pm at ten after 1pm and you don’t check it until 4pm that could scream panic. Try an email signature that lets people know how often you respond to email or at what times.  Include a phone number for urgent matters.  If Jane wants to push her work off on you, she’ll have to make a phone call.  Get the idea?  Here’s an example Example Signature: Thank you for your understanding. Due to high work volume and my appointment load, I may be away from my email throughout the day.  I currently check email between 9am – 10am and between 4pm-5pm.  If your matter is urgent, please call me at 888-555-1212. Then they can leave you a voicemail. (that’s a whole other show) Most of all, stick to your guns.  As soon as you bend the rules for Karen, Karen will ask you to break them.  And they’re your rules! Content Management Delete it.  I do this first.  A quick skim of the inbox and check off each email that  I find no value in.  Select all that are junk and swing the axe.  It feels so good.  Don’t worry about the possibility of deleting a “very important” email.  If it is very important, somebody has a copy of it.  Swing the axe and move on. Do It. Can you do it in 2 minutes? (Sound Familiar? David Allen made a career out of smart content management. See the sight for a special offer on his book) If yes, do it.  If no, print it out and put it into your system to process. Defer it to someone else.  This should be used if you are not the best person to do the job or task.  If you are the best person but you don’t have the time you are not the best person. (hint) Delegate it to someone and put it in your waiting folder.  See more details on the book. Setup Setting up the system to handle email inbox content and time management can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.  Analyze your inbox before your purge.  See any major categories or themes that keep reoccurring? Examples: ?    Newsletters ?    New Free Account Signups ?    Bills & Statements ?    Friends & Family ?    Social Media Notifications ?    eBay questions and notifications Email accounts are free.  Set up one for each category if you are the “keep things separate” kind of person. Change email account of record for these mail generators Unsubscribe from newsletters and emails you don’t read.  These are stealing your time.  If the information is worth it, go to the website and read it.  Planning to read is not enough and putting it off taxes our system. CUT THE CORD. Forward each new address to your main account that you only give to trusted people. GMAIL allows you to create a filter for specific emails and it will automatically categorize your email inbox If you receive email via Blackberry or iPhone you simply set up the master email and you’re receive the email as it rolls in.  Then utilize the content management from earlier. Take it Back It’s your inbox.  Take it back.  If you let it get out of control, you’ll be the one that reigns it in.  So take a few hours now and invest it in your future.  Entrepreneurs tell me all the time the one thing the do not have enough of is time.  Give yourself 5-10 hours a week back by being smart.  Control your email inbox or it will control you. _________________________________________________________________ What Not To Do – Joint Ventures PART 2 Ways to SWOT a Good Joint Venture & 2 Things To Consider SWOT That’s right.  SWOT.  A tried and true method of getting a general feel for your companies core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.  Using SWOT analysis is a little cliché but it’s power is enormous, especially in determining who to team up with. With all good SWOTs you have to be painfully honest with yourself or they are worthless or worse, harmful. Strengths What you bring to the table that another business can benefit from.  What are you good at? What do others say you do well? What do you have a natural talent for?  What relationships can you leverage?  These are some good starters. Weaknesses What do you need the most help doing in your business or which product/service needs the most help getting some legs?  What do you consistently lack in?  Are there any services that you are currently paying for because you “don’t do that”?  Don’t beat yourself up, but get some clear weaknesses on paper.  If you don’t have any, you are not being truthful and you need to start over. Opportunities What advantages do you see facing your product/service in the near term?  Can you offer these as a good reason for a joint venture?  Do business forecasters predict a surge in your market or sector?  Can you leverage that to someone for a joint venture?  You get the idea.  Approach this in an honest way, but don’t be too modest either.  You need to let your prospective joint venture know what they can expect and what you expect from them. Threats Sometimes you competition can be your best ally. Maybe geography is your biggest enemy and teaming up with your competition can bring in extra clients.  Customers really like collaboration and the sense of fair play.  It works best when you and your competition have a common enemy.  In today’s economy the economy it self is the enemy.  Joining forces in the short term will help two struggling companies weather the storm against a larger more established competitor or in this case, the economy.  Playground politics, I know, but it’s never the less true. Timing Timing is everything in business.  Where joint ventures are concerned, think about when the products/services you offer will be used.  What other products or services are used at the same time?  That may lead you to some previously un thought of combinations. Emotional State at the Time of Use Full circle.  The veterinary/taxidermy I hope is a bad joke, but I’ve seen some really awful combinations out there.  Most of the bad ones combine two emotionally polar ideas in one business.  Killing two birds with one stone is good and It can even be cost effective, but combining the wrong to businesses can be fatal. Thanks for tuning in today.  Feel free to come to the website at TheEntrepreneurShip.com and leave a comment or ask a question.  Get exclusive content and updates sent to you by registering at the website (http://theentrepreneurship.com/register-now). Coming up on TheEntrepreneurShip Podcast coming out 2/15/2009, learn how to project “CEO” with out screaming “Start-Up”, how to avoid the email invasion and keep your inbox as clean as a whistle, and see how Coach handbags was a penny wise and a pound foolish. Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll. On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO! How do they know? •    Your business card says CEO and the name on your shirt does not. (poke, jab) •    You introduce yourself as CEO.  Unless your company’s name is a household name, they won’t believe you. (By the way, real CEOs don’t do this.  Someone else introduces them) •    CEOs don’t wear t-shirts to work (excluding Apple and Google) When is it ok to use the title CEO? •    Typically, it’s not unless: •    You have a board of directors •    You have a CFO or COO ( if you don’t know what these are stick to “owner”) •    You are hired into a CEO position or build your company to the point of needing a CEO. Why is this so bad? Using the title CEO and or President for a small business of 10 or less people sends the wrong message.  What you are trying to say is: •    I’m important. •    I own this business. •    I am powerful. •    I am more important than you (or I want you to believe that) •    I watch too much tv. •    I am a fan of Dallas and Dynasty. •    (None of these have to do with who is most important to your customer, them) Seriously, let’s dig into a several real reasons this is so bad. 1.    Pretending is never good unless you are Peter Pan.  It’s good to envision what you’d like to be and you should.  Pretending can hurt your image and make it take longer to “really” reach that place you’d like to be… the top. 2.    Using CEO as your title in this situation lowers the perceived value of your input.  If a people pick up on the fact that you’re a pretender (and they will), they won’t believe you either.  Especially when you hand them an outrageous quote. (it will always seem outrageous coming from the CEO)  They’ll get the idea that you over promise and under deliver. 3.    Using CEO as you title gives the customer no one else to go to.  You’ll have to make decisions on the spot and create undo pressure for yourself.  This can have a huge impact on profits. 4.    People’s expectations are raised to an almost impossible to meet standard when you use CEO.  People expect to see “shirt & tie” when the these three letters, CEO, are used together.  The fact is, your everyday dress may disappoint them.  Is someone going to say to you, “You aren’t the CEO dressed like that, are you?”. No.  The fact is, they won’t say anything to you at all.  They might get a little chuckle when you’re not there, but that’s not what you were going for, was it? 5.    The final reason is because when you use CEO as your title when it’s not applicable, you lose your inner focus.  Your inner focus, by the way, should be on the work itself not who you’ll be when you get to the top.  Stay focused on what makes you excited and yields you real dollars. So, How Can You Get the Attention You Need or Want? 1.    Name yourself a “lesser title” and deliver a CEO experience.  Here’s where you can draw off of that J.R. Ewing presence you so desire.  This will also not make you the last stop in decisions and can relieve some pressure. i.    Example: Brenda, I’d love to be able to tell you to go with the $2000 advertising plan, but I’m just the director.  I’ll check with my higher ups and let you know where we can meet on the advertising budget. ii.    Nice to be the little guy now, huh? 2.    Dress, Walk, Talk, Eat, Sleep and… (well you get the idea) like a CEO.  Don’t dress for the job you have.  Dress for the job you want.  You’ll get noticed. 3.    Let your actions speak louder than words. 4.    Do things it takes for others to introduce you and set the stage.  This will frame the power and presence you want.  Then it’s up to you.  Don’t blow it. 5.    Hang out with other business owners and entrepreneurs.  Get a mentorship and/or mastermind group going with people you’d like to emulate.  Be picky. Your image and future depend on it. To sum it up, be what you want to be.  Don’t say what you want to be. _________________________________________________________________ Inbox Sanctuary Your overwhelmed with your inbox aren’t you?  The sheer volume at which you receive email is enough to crash your computer sometimes.  Just imagine what that kind of information overload is doing to you brain.  Carrying that kind of stress around is not good.  You need some peace and quiet in that “high school lunch room” of an inbox you have. Your Email Is Out Of Control Here are some key facts that are bogging inboxes around the world down.  If we can name the demons, we can rid ourselves of them and return inner Zen to our inbox. 1.    People are receiving between 10 – 30 emails per day that have no relevance to them. 2.    Setting up elaborate filter and folder systems doesn’t work most of the time because there are no rules to how they are created.  No format to managing the flow of traffic that is bulldozing it’s way into your life with the click of a thousand mouses. 3.    Spam filters rarely work (unless you own a MAC like me) when they do work, they aren’t supposed to and vice versa. 4.    The average person spends between 1 – 2 hours per day checking and responding to email.  (no wonder the only Neilson ratings that are up are Family Guy) Getting Control When it comes to getting control of your email inbox there are 3 key areas to address.  Time management or how often you check your email, content management or how you handle the content that comes your way, and setup or how you will receive the content that comes your way.  That’s a mouthful, but it sums up getting control nicely. Time Management Take a look at how often you check your email.  Do you check it constantly?  If you answered yes, then you are not alone.  76% of people check their email as soon as it is delivered or as soon as the can access it.  The rest of the people rarely check it at all.  We need to change the rules a bit if we are going to wrestle this one down. First, for constant checkers, what you are doing is ok.  What? Yes. That’s right. Checking your email as soon as it comes in is ok.  But only if you have a system to manage the content.  We’ll look at that in depth a little later. Constant checkers are employees that are at their work terminal or jet setters with their Blackberrys or iPhones. For those that don’t check it at all, it’s obviously not a problem and I won’t devote much time to them here, because, quite frankly they aren’t going to read this either. I have a better idea.  It’s called batching and it takes its name from baking.  You wouldn’t spend an hour making cookie dough, adding chips and baking all for one cookie would you?  Of course not.  That’s not yummy enough.  You’d make a lot of cookies right?  You get the idea.  This is actually a midpoint between non-checkers and constant checkers.  You are just going to give a little structure to when you check your email. That’s all. I suggest you check your email twice daily.  Use a time that is not the first thing in the morning and allows you some time to work through the mess that is your inbox.  9 – 10AM is a good time and an hour our so before you hit the road at night.  I do this for two reasons.  First because it allows me to get into work and plan my day. Checking your email first thing is setting your day up as reactionary and that is all you will ever be.  Taking control of the first part of  your day is liberating and effective.  The reason I check it an hour or so before I leave for the day is because it gives me time to go through the mess that is my email inbox and tackle the things that I’ll need to do first thing the next day. You will have to make some changes to your habits.  Right now most of your habits have been handed to you.  Changing your email checking schedule will vastly improve your effectiveness.  You will however have to let some people know about it to make it really work.  After all, when Jane sends you an email with a flame on it asking for the report by 5pm at ten after 1pm and you don’t check it until 4pm that could scream panic. Try an email signature that lets people know how often you respond to email or at what times.  Include a phone number for urgent matters.  If Jane wants to push her work off on you, she’ll have to make a phone call.  Get the idea?  Here’s an example Example Signature: Thank you for your understanding. Due to high work volume and my appointment load, I may be away from my email throughout the day.  I currently check email between 9am – 10am and between 4pm-5pm.  If your matter is urgent, please call me at 888-555-1212. Then they can leave you a voicemail. (that’s a whole other show) Most of all, stick to your guns.  As soon as you bend the rules for Karen, Karen will ask you to break them.  And they’re your rules! Content Management Delete it.  I do this first.  A quick skim of the inbox and check off each email that  I find no value in.  Select all that are junk and swing the axe.  It feels so good.  Don’t worry about the possibility of deleting a “very important” email.  If it is very important, somebody has a copy of it.  Swing the axe and move on. Do It. Can you do it in 2 minutes? (Sound Familiar? David Allen made a career out of smart content management. See the sight for a special offer on his book) If yes, do it.  If no, print it out and put it into your system to process. Defer it to someone else.  This should be used if you are not the best person to do the job or task.  If you are the best person but you don’t have the time you are not the best person. (hint) Delegate it to someone and put it in your waiting folder.  See more details on the book. Setup Setting up the system to handle email inbox content and time management can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.  Analyze your inbox before your purge.  See any major categories or themes that keep reoccurring? Examples: ?    Newsletters ?    New Free Account Signups ?    Bills & Statements ?    Friends & Family ?    Social Media Notifications ?    eBay questions and notifications Email accounts are free.  Set up one for each category if you are the “keep things separate” kind of person. Change email account of record for these mail generators Unsubscribe from newsletters and emails you don’t read.  These are stealing your time.  If the information is worth it, go to the website and read it.  Planning to read is not enough and putting it off taxes our system. CUT THE CORD. Forward each new address to your main account that you only give to trusted people. GMAIL allows you to create a filter for specific emails and it will automatically categorize your email inbox If you receive email via Blackberry or iPhone you simply set up the master email and you’re receive the email as it rolls in.  Then utilize the content management from earlier. Take it Back It’s your inbox.  Take it back.  If you let it get out of control, you’ll be the one that reigns it in.  So take a few hours now and invest it in your future.  Entrepreneurs tell me all the time the one thing the do not have enough of is time.  Give yourself 5-10 hours a week back by being smart.  Control your email inbox or it will control you. _________________________________________________________________ What Not To Do – Joint Ventures PART 2 Ways to SWOT a Good Joint Venture & 2 Things To Consider SWOT That’s right.  SWOT.  A tried and true method of getting a general feel for your companies core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.  Using SWOT analysis is a little cliché but it’s power is enormous, especially in determining who to team up with. With all good SWOTs you have to be painfully honest with yourself or they are worthless or worse, harmful. Strengths What you bring to the table that another business can benefit from.  What are you good at? What do others say you do well? What do you have a natural talent for?  What relationships can you leverage?  These are some good starters. Weaknesses What do you need the most help doing in your business or which product/service needs the most help getting some legs?  What do you consistently lack in?  Are there any services that you are currently paying for because you “don’t do that”?  Don’t beat yourself up, but get some clear weaknesses on paper.  If you don’t have any, you are not being truthful and you need to start over. Opportunities What advantages do you see facing your product/service in the near term?  Can you offer these as a good reason for a joint venture?  Do business forecasters predict a surge in your market or sector?  Can you leverage that to someone for a joint venture?  You get the idea.  Approach this in an honest way, but don’t be too modest either.  You need to let your prospective joint venture know what they can expect and what you expect from them. Threats Sometimes you competition can be your best ally. Maybe geography is your biggest enemy and teaming up with your competition can bring in extra clients.  Customers really like collaboration and the sense of fair play.  It works best when you and your competition have a common enemy.  In today’s economy the economy it self is the enemy.  Joining forces in the short term will help two struggling companies weather the storm against a larger more established competitor or in this case, the economy.  Playground politics, I know, but it’s never the less true. Timing Timing is everything in business.  Where joint ventures are concerned, think about when the products/services you offer will be used.  What other products or services are used at the same time?  That may lead you to some previously un thought of combinations. Emotional State at the Time of Use Full circle.  The veterinary/taxidermy I hope is a bad joke, but I’ve seen some really awful combinations out there.  Most of the bad ones combine two emotionally polar ideas in one business.  Killing two birds with one stone is good and It can even be cost effective, but combining the wrong to businesses can be fatal. Thanks for tuning in today.  Feel free to come to the website at TheEntrepreneurShip.com and leave a comment or ask a question.  Get exclusive content and updates sent to you by registering at the website (http://theentrepreneurship.com/register-now). Coming up on TheEntrepreneurShip Podcast coming out 2/15/2009, learn how to project “CEO” with out screaming “Start-Up”, how to avoid the email invasion and keep your inbox as clean as a whistle, and see how Coach handbags was a penny wise and a pound foolish. Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll. tag:odeo.com,2009-02-15,25076286 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 03:00:47 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers email, Podcast Episodes, content management, joint ventures, CEO Image, Email Control Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24634469-TES-3-How-to-Project-%E2%80%9CCEO%E2%80%9D-Without-Screaming-Startup-Take-Back-Your-Inbox-and-PART-2-of-Creating-Power-Dripping-Joint-Ventures On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO!... On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO! How do they know? •    Your business card says CEO and the name on your shirt does not. (poke, jab) •    You introduce yourself as CEO.  Unless your company’s name is a household name, they won’t believe you. (By the way, real CEOs don’t do this.  Someone else introduces them) •    CEOs don’t wear t-shirts to work (excluding Apple and Google) When is it ok to use the title CEO? •    Typically, it’s not unless: •    You have a board of directors •    You have a CFO or COO ( if you don’t know what these are stick to “owner”) •    You are hired into a CEO position or build your company to the point of needing a CEO. Why is this so bad? Using the title CEO and or President for a small business of 10 or less people sends the wrong message.  What you are trying to say is: •    I’m important. •    I own this business. •    I am powerful. •    I am more important than you (or I want you to believe that) •    I watch too much tv. •    I am a fan of Dallas and Dynasty. •    (None of these have to do with who is most important to your customer, them) Seriously, let’s dig into a several real reasons this is so bad. 1.    Pretending is never good unless you are Peter Pan.  It’s good to envision what you’d like to be and you should.  Pretending can hurt your image and make it take longer to “really” reach that place you’d like to be… the top. 2.    Using CEO as your title in this situation lowers the perceived value of your input.  If a people pick up on the fact that you’re a pretender (and they will), they won’t believe you either.  Especially when you hand them an outrageous quote. (it will always seem outrageous coming from the CEO)  They’ll get the idea that you over promise and under deliver. 3.    Using CEO as you title gives the customer no one else to go to.  You’ll have to make decisions on the spot and create undo pressure for yourself.  This can have a huge impact on profits. 4.    People’s expectations are raised to an almost impossible to meet standard when you use CEO.  People expect to see “shirt & tie” when the these three letters, CEO, are used together.  The fact is, your everyday dress may disappoint them.  Is someone going to say to you, “You aren’t the CEO dressed like that, are you?”. No.  The fact is, they won’t say anything to you at all.  They might get a little chuckle when you’re not there, but that’s not what you were going for, was it? 5.    The final reason is because when you use CEO as your title when it’s not applicable, you lose your inner focus.  Your inner focus, by the way, should be on the work itself not who you’ll be when you get to the top.  Stay focused on what makes you excited and yields you real dollars. So, How Can You Get the Attention You Need or Want? 1.    Name yourself a “lesser title” and deliver a CEO experience.  Here’s where you can draw off of that J.R. Ewing presence you so desire.  This will also not make you the last stop in decisions and can relieve some pressure. i.    Example: Brenda, I’d love to be able to tell you to go with the $2000 advertising plan, but I’m just the director.  I’ll check with my higher ups and let you know where we can meet on the advertising budget. ii.    Nice to be the little guy now, huh? 2.    Dress, Walk, Talk, Eat, Sleep and… (well you get the idea) like a CEO.  Don’t dress for the job you have.  Dress for the job you want.  You’ll get noticed. 3.    Let your actions speak louder than words. 4.    Do things it takes for others to introduce you and set the stage.  This will frame the power and presence you want.  Then it’s up to you.  Don’t blow it. 5.    Hang out with other business owners and entrepreneurs.  Get a mentorship and/or mastermind group going with people you’d like to emulate.  Be picky. Your image and future depend on it. To sum it up, be what you want to be.  Don’t say what you want to be. _________________________________________________________________ Inbox Sanctuary Your overwhelmed with your inbox aren’t you?  The sheer volume at which you receive email is enough to crash your computer sometimes.  Just imagine what that kind of information overload is doing to you brain.  Carrying that kind of stress around is not good.  You need some peace and quiet in that “high school lunch room” of an inbox you have. Your Email Is Out Of Control Here are some key facts that are bogging inboxes around the world down.  If we can name the demons, we can rid ourselves of them and return inner Zen to our inbox. 1.    People are receiving between 10 – 30 emails per day that have no relevance to them. 2.    Setting up elaborate filter and folder systems doesn’t work most of the time because there are no rules to how they are created.  No format to managing the flow of traffic that is bulldozing it’s way into your life with the click of a thousand mouses. 3.    Spam filters rarely work (unless you own a MAC like me) when they do work, they aren’t supposed to and vice versa. 4.    The average person spends between 1 – 2 hours per day checking and responding to email.  (no wonder the only Neilson ratings that are up are Family Guy) Getting Control When it comes to getting control of your email inbox there are 3 key areas to address.  Time management or how often you check your email, content management or how you handle the content that comes your way, and setup or how you will receive the content that comes your way.  That’s a mouthful, but it sums up getting control nicely. Time Management Take a look at how often you check your email.  Do you check it constantly?  If you answered yes, then you are not alone.  76% of people check their email as soon as it is delivered or as soon as the can access it.  The rest of the people rarely check it at all.  We need to change the rules a bit if we are going to wrestle this one down. First, for constant checkers, what you are doing is ok.  What? Yes. That’s right. Checking your email as soon as it comes in is ok.  But only if you have a system to manage the content.  We’ll look at that in depth a little later. Constant checkers are employees that are at their work terminal or jet setters with their Blackberrys or iPhones. For those that don’t check it at all, it’s obviously not a problem and I won’t devote much time to them here, because, quite frankly they aren’t going to read this either. I have a better idea.  It’s called batching and it takes its name from baking.  You wouldn’t spend an hour making cookie dough, adding chips and baking all for one cookie would you?  Of course not.  That’s not yummy enough.  You’d make a lot of cookies right?  You get the idea.  This is actually a midpoint between non-checkers and constant checkers.  You are just going to give a little structure to when you check your email. That’s all. I suggest you check your email twice daily.  Use a time that is not the first thing in the morning and allows you some time to work through the mess that is your inbox.  9 – 10AM is a good time and an hour our so before you hit the road at night.  I do this for two reasons.  First because it allows me to get into work and plan my day. Checking your email first thing is setting your day up as reactionary and that is all you will ever be.  Taking control of the first part of  your day is liberating and effective.  The reason I check it an hour or so before I leave for the day is because it gives me time to go through the mess that is my email inbox and tackle the things that I’ll need to do first thing the next day. You will have to make some changes to your habits.  Right now most of your habits have been handed to you.  Changing your email checking schedule will vastly improve your effectiveness.  You will however have to let some people know about it to make it really work.  After all, when Jane sends you an email with a flame on it asking for the report by 5pm at ten after 1pm and you don’t check it until 4pm that could scream panic. Try an email signature that lets people know how often you respond to email or at what times.  Include a phone number for urgent matters.  If Jane wants to push her work off on you, she’ll have to make a phone call.  Get the idea?  Here’s an example Example Signature: Thank you for your understanding. Due to high work volume and my appointment load, I may be away from my email throughout the day.  I currently check email between 9am – 10am and between 4pm-5pm.  If your matter is urgent, please call me at 888-555-1212. Then they can leave you a voicemail. (that’s a whole other show) Most of all, stick to your guns.  As soon as you bend the rules for Karen, Karen will ask you to break them.  And they’re your rules! Content Management Delete it.  I do this first.  A quick skim of the inbox and check off each email that  I find no value in.  Select all that are junk and swing the axe.  It feels so good.  Don’t worry about the possibility of deleting a “very important” email.  If it is very important, somebody has a copy of it.  Swing the axe and move on. Do It. Can you do it in 2 minutes? (Sound Familiar? David Allen made a career out of smart content management. See the sight for a special offer on his book) If yes, do it.  If no, print it out and put it into your system to process. Defer it to someone else.  This should be used if you are not the best person to do the job or task.  If you are the best person but you don’t have the time you are not the best person. (hint) Delegate it to someone and put it in your waiting folder.  See more details on the book. Setup Setting up the system to handle email inbox content and time management can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.  Analyze your inbox before your purge.  See any major categories or themes that keep reoccurring? Examples: ?    Newsletters ?    New Free Account Signups ?    Bills & Statements ?    Friends & Family ?    Social Media Notifications ?    eBay questions and notifications Email accounts are free.  Set up one for each category if you are the “keep things separate” kind of person. Change email account of record for these mail generators Unsubscribe from newsletters and emails you don’t read.  These are stealing your time.  If the information is worth it, go to the website and read it.  Planning to read is not enough and putting it off taxes our system. CUT THE CORD. Forward each new address to your main account that you only give to trusted people. GMAIL allows you to create a filter for specific emails and it will automatically categorize your email inbox If you receive email via Blackberry or iPhone you simply set up the master email and you’re receive the email as it rolls in.  Then utilize the content management from earlier. Take it Back It’s your inbox.  Take it back.  If you let it get out of control, you’ll be the one that reigns it in.  So take a few hours now and invest it in your future.  Entrepreneurs tell me all the time the one thing the do not have enough of is time.  Give yourself 5-10 hours a week back by being smart.  Control your email inbox or it will control you. _________________________________________________________________ What Not To Do – Joint Ventures PART 2 Ways to SWOT a Good Joint Venture & 2 Things To Consider SWOT That’s right.  SWOT.  A tried and true method of getting a general feel for your companies core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.  Using SWOT analysis is a little cliché but it’s power is enormous, especially in determining who to team up with. With all good SWOTs you have to be painfully honest with yourself or they are worthless or worse, harmful. Strengths What you bring to the table that another business can benefit from.  What are you good at? What do others say you do well? What do you have a natural talent for?  What relationships can you leverage?  These are some good starters. Weaknesses What do you need the most help doing in your business or which product/service needs the most help getting some legs?  What do you consistently lack in?  Are there any services that you are currently paying for because you “don’t do that”?  Don’t beat yourself up, but get some clear weaknesses on paper.  If you don’t have any, you are not being truthful and you need to start over. Opportunities What advantages do you see facing your product/service in the near term?  Can you offer these as a good reason for a joint venture?  Do business forecasters predict a surge in your market or sector?  Can you leverage that to someone for a joint venture?  You get the idea.  Approach this in an honest way, but don’t be too modest either.  You need to let your prospective joint venture know what they can expect and what you expect from them. Threats Sometimes you competition can be your best ally. Maybe geography is your biggest enemy and teaming up with your competition can bring in extra clients.  Customers really like collaboration and the sense of fair play.  It works best when you and your competition have a common enemy.  In today’s economy the economy it self is the enemy.  Joining forces in the short term will help two struggling companies weather the storm against a larger more established competitor or in this case, the economy.  Playground politics, I know, but it’s never the less true. Timing Timing is everything in business.  Where joint ventures are concerned, think about when the products/services you offer will be used.  What other products or services are used at the same time?  That may lead you to some previously un thought of combinations. Emotional State at the Time of Use Full circle.  The veterinary/taxidermy I hope is a bad joke, but I’ve seen some really awful combinations out there.  Most of the bad ones combine two emotionally polar ideas in one business.  Killing two birds with one stone is good and It can even be cost effective, but combining the wrong to businesses can be fatal. Thanks for tuning in today.  Feel free to come to the website at TheEntrepreneurShip.com and leave a comment or ask a question.  Get exclusive content and updates sent to you by registering at the website (http://theentrepreneurship.com/register-now). Coming up on TheEntrepreneurShip Podcast coming out 2/15/2009, learn how to project “CEO” with out screaming “Start-Up”, how to avoid the email invasion and keep your inbox as clean as a whistle, and see how Coach handbags was a penny wise and a pound foolish. Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll. On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO! How do they know? •    Your business card says CEO and the name on your shirt does not. (poke, jab) •    You introduce yourself as CEO.  Unless your company’s name is a household name, they won’t believe you. (By the way, real CEOs don’t do this.  Someone else introduces them) •    CEOs don’t wear t-shirts to work (excluding Apple and Google) When is it ok to use the title CEO? •    Typically, it’s not unless: •    You have a board of directors •    You have a CFO or COO ( if you don’t know what these are stick to “owner”) •    You are hired into a CEO position or build your company to the point of needing a CEO. Why is this so bad? Using the title CEO and or President for a small business of 10 or less people sends the wrong message.  What you are trying to say is: •    I’m important. •    I own this business. •    I am powerful. •    I am more important than you (or I want you to believe that) •    I watch too much tv. •    I am a fan of Dallas and Dynasty. •    (None of these have to do with who is most important to your customer, them) Seriously, let’s dig into a several real reasons this is so bad. 1.    Pretending is never good unless you are Peter Pan.  It’s good to envision what you’d like to be and you should.  Pretending can hurt your image and make it take longer to “really” reach that place you’d like to be… the top. 2.    Using CEO as your title in this situation lowers the perceived value of your input.  If a people pick up on the fact that you’re a pretender (and they will), they won’t believe you either.  Especially when you hand them an outrageous quote. (it will always seem outrageous coming from the CEO)  They’ll get the idea that you over promise and under deliver. 3.    Using CEO as you title gives the customer no one else to go to.  You’ll have to make decisions on the spot and create undo pressure for yourself.  This can have a huge impact on profits. 4.    People’s expectations are raised to an almost impossible to meet standard when you use CEO.  People expect to see “shirt & tie” when the these three letters, CEO, are used together.  The fact is, your everyday dress may disappoint them.  Is someone going to say to you, “You aren’t the CEO dressed like that, are you?”. No.  The fact is, they won’t say anything to you at all.  They might get a little chuckle when you’re not there, but that’s not what you were going for, was it? 5.    The final reason is because when you use CEO as your title when it’s not applicable, you lose your inner focus.  Your inner focus, by the way, should be on the work itself not who you’ll be when you get to the top.  Stay focused on what makes you excited and yields you real dollars. So, How Can You Get the Attention You Need or Want? 1.    Name yourself a “lesser title” and deliver a CEO experience.  Here’s where you can draw off of that J.R. Ewing presence you so desire.  This will also not make you the last stop in decisions and can relieve some pressure. i.    Example: Brenda, I’d love to be able to tell you to go with the $2000 advertising plan, but I’m just the director.  I’ll check with my higher ups and let you know where we can meet on the advertising budget. ii.    Nice to be the little guy now, huh? 2.    Dress, Walk, Talk, Eat, Sleep and… (well you get the idea) like a CEO.  Don’t dress for the job you have.  Dress for the job you want.  You’ll get noticed. 3.    Let your actions speak louder than words. 4.    Do things it takes for others to introduce you and set the stage.  This will frame the power and presence you want.  Then it’s up to you.  Don’t blow it. 5.    Hang out with other business owners and entrepreneurs.  Get a mentorship and/or mastermind group going with people you’d like to emulate.  Be picky. Your image and future depend on it. To sum it up, be what you want to be.  Don’t say what you want to be. _________________________________________________________________ Inbox Sanctuary Your overwhelmed with your inbox aren’t you?  The sheer volume at which you receive email is enough to crash your computer sometimes.  Just imagine what that kind of information overload is doing to you brain.  Carrying that kind of stress around is not good.  You need some peace and quiet in that “high school lunch room” of an inbox you have. Your Email Is Out Of Control Here are some key facts that are bogging inboxes around the world down.  If we can name the demons, we can rid ourselves of them and return inner Zen to our inbox. 1.    People are receiving between 10 – 30 emails per day that have no relevance to them. 2.    Setting up elaborate filter and folder systems doesn’t work most of the time because there are no rules to how they are created.  No format to managing the flow of traffic that is bulldozing it’s way into your life with the click of a thousand mouses. 3.    Spam filters rarely work (unless you own a MAC like me) when they do work, they aren’t supposed to and vice versa. 4.    The average person spends between 1 – 2 hours per day checking and responding to email.  (no wonder the only Neilson ratings that are up are Family Guy) Getting Control When it comes to getting control of your email inbox there are 3 key areas to address.  Time management or how often you check your email, content management or how you handle the content that comes your way, and setup or how you will receive the content that comes your way.  That’s a mouthful, but it sums up getting control nicely. Time Management Take a look at how often you check your email.  Do you check it constantly?  If you answered yes, then you are not alone.  76% of people check their email as soon as it is delivered or as soon as the can access it.  The rest of the people rarely check it at all.  We need to change the rules a bit if we are going to wrestle this one down. First, for constant checkers, what you are doing is ok.  What? Yes. That’s right. Checking your email as soon as it comes in is ok.  But only if you have a system to manage the content.  We’ll look at that in depth a little later. Constant checkers are employees that are at their work terminal or jet setters with their Blackberrys or iPhones. For those that don’t check it at all, it’s obviously not a problem and I won’t devote much time to them here, because, quite frankly they aren’t going to read this either. I have a better idea.  It’s called batching and it takes its name from baking.  You wouldn’t spend an hour making cookie dough, adding chips and baking all for one cookie would you?  Of course not.  That’s not yummy enough.  You’d make a lot of cookies right?  You get the idea.  This is actually a midpoint between non-checkers and constant checkers.  You are just going to give a little structure to when you check your email. That’s all. I suggest you check your email twice daily.  Use a time that is not the first thing in the morning and allows you some time to work through the mess that is your inbox.  9 – 10AM is a good time and an hour our so before you hit the road at night.  I do this for two reasons.  First because it allows me to get into work and plan my day. Checking your email first thing is setting your day up as reactionary and that is all you will ever be.  Taking control of the first part of  your day is liberating and effective.  The reason I check it an hour or so before I leave for the day is because it gives me time to go through the mess that is my email inbox and tackle the things that I’ll need to do first thing the next day. You will have to make some changes to your habits.  Right now most of your habits have been handed to you.  Changing your email checking schedule will vastly improve your effectiveness.  You will however have to let some people know about it to make it really work.  After all, when Jane sends you an email with a flame on it asking for the report by 5pm at ten after 1pm and you don’t check it until 4pm that could scream panic. Try an email signature that lets people know how often you respond to email or at what times.  Include a phone number for urgent matters.  If Jane wants to push her work off on you, she’ll have to make a phone call.  Get the idea?  Here’s an example Example Signature: Thank you for your understanding. Due to high work volume and my appointment load, I may be away from my email throughout the day.  I currently check email between 9am – 10am and between 4pm-5pm.  If your matter is urgent, please call me at 888-555-1212. Then they can leave you a voicemail. (that’s a whole other show) Most of all, stick to your guns.  As soon as you bend the rules for Karen, Karen will ask you to break them.  And they’re your rules! Content Management Delete it.  I do this first.  A quick skim of the inbox and check off each email that  I find no value in.  Select all that are junk and swing the axe.  It feels so good.  Don’t worry about the possibility of deleting a “very important” email.  If it is very important, somebody has a copy of it.  Swing the axe and move on. Do It. Can you do it in 2 minutes? (Sound Familiar? David Allen made a career out of smart content management. See the sight for a special offer on his book) If yes, do it.  If no, print it out and put it into your system to process. Defer it to someone else.  This should be used if you are not the best person to do the job or task.  If you are the best person but you don’t have the time you are not the best person. (hint) Delegate it to someone and put it in your waiting folder.  See more details on the book. Setup Setting up the system to handle email inbox content and time management can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.  Analyze your inbox before your purge.  See any major categories or themes that keep reoccurring? Examples: ?    Newsletters ?    New Free Account Signups ?    Bills & Statements ?    Friends & Family ?    Social Media Notifications ?    eBay questions and notifications Email accounts are free.  Set up one for each category if you are the “keep things separate” kind of person. Change email account of record for these mail generators Unsubscribe from newsletters and emails you don’t read.  These are stealing your time.  If the information is worth it, go to the website and read it.  Planning to read is not enough and putting it off taxes our system. CUT THE CORD. Forward each new address to your main account that you only give to trusted people. GMAIL allows you to create a filter for specific emails and it will automatically categorize your email inbox If you receive email via Blackberry or iPhone you simply set up the master email and you’re receive the email as it rolls in.  Then utilize the content management from earlier. Take it Back It’s your inbox.  Take it back.  If you let it get out of control, you’ll be the one that reigns it in.  So take a few hours now and invest it in your future.  Entrepreneurs tell me all the time the one thing the do not have enough of is time.  Give yourself 5-10 hours a week back by being smart.  Control your email inbox or it will control you. _________________________________________________________________ What Not To Do – Joint Ventures PART 2 Ways to SWOT a Good Joint Venture & 2 Things To Consider SWOT That’s right.  SWOT.  A tried and true method of getting a general feel for your companies core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.  Using SWOT analysis is a little cliché but it’s power is enormous, especially in determining who to team up with. With all good SWOTs you have to be painfully honest with yourself or they are worthless or worse, harmful. Strengths What you bring to the table that another business can benefit from.  What are you good at? What do others say you do well? What do you have a natural talent for?  What relationships can you leverage?  These are some good starters. Weaknesses What do you need the most help doing in your business or which product/service needs the most help getting some legs?  What do you consistently lack in?  Are there any services that you are currently paying for because you “don’t do that”?  Don’t beat yourself up, but get some clear weaknesses on paper.  If you don’t have any, you are not being truthful and you need to start over. Opportunities What advantages do you see facing your product/service in the near term?  Can you offer these as a good reason for a joint venture?  Do business forecasters predict a surge in your market or sector?  Can you leverage that to someone for a joint venture?  You get the idea.  Approach this in an honest way, but don’t be too modest either.  You need to let your prospective joint venture know what they can expect and what you expect from them. Threats Sometimes you competition can be your best ally. Maybe geography is your biggest enemy and teaming up with your competition can bring in extra clients.  Customers really like collaboration and the sense of fair play.  It works best when you and your competition have a common enemy.  In today’s economy the economy it self is the enemy.  Joining forces in the short term will help two struggling companies weather the storm against a larger more established competitor or in this case, the economy.  Playground politics, I know, but it’s never the less true. Timing Timing is everything in business.  Where joint ventures are concerned, think about when the products/services you offer will be used.  What other products or services are used at the same time?  That may lead you to some previously un thought of combinations. Emotional State at the Time of Use Full circle.  The veterinary/taxidermy I hope is a bad joke, but I’ve seen some really awful combinations out there.  Most of the bad ones combine two emotionally polar ideas in one business.  Killing two birds with one stone is good and It can even be cost effective, but combining the wrong to businesses can be fatal. Thanks for tuning in today.  Feel free to come to the website at TheEntrepreneurShip.com and leave a comment or ask a question.  Get exclusive content and updates sent to you by registering at the website (http://theentrepreneurship.com/register-now). Coming up on TheEntrepreneurShip Podcast coming out 2/15/2009, learn how to project “CEO” with out screaming “Start-Up”, how to avoid the email invasion and keep your inbox as clean as a whistle, and see how Coach handbags was a penny wise and a pound foolish. Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll. tag:odeo.com,2009-02-15,24634469 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 03:00:47 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Episodes, email, content management, joint ventures, CEO Image, Email Control Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24101777-Episode-3-The-Entrepreneur-Ship On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO!... On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO! How do they know? •    Your business card says CEO and the name on your shirt does not. (poke, jab) •    You introduce yourself as CEO.  Unless your company’s name is a household name, they won’t believe you. (By the way, real CEOs don’t do this.  Someone else introduces them) •    CEOs don’t wear t-shirts to work (excluding Apple and Google) When is it ok to use the title CEO? •    Typically, it’s not unless: •    You have a board of directors •    You have a CFO or COO ( if you don’t know what these are stick to “owner”) •    You are hired into a CEO position or build your company to the point of needing a CEO. Why is this so bad? Using the title CEO and or President for a small business of 10 or less people sends the wrong message.  What you are trying to say is: •    I’m important. •    I own this business. •    I am powerful. •    I am more important than you (or I want you to believe that) •    I watch too much tv. •    I am a fan of Dallas and Dynasty. •    (None of these have to do with who is most important to your customer, them) Seriously, let’s dig into a several real reasons this is so bad. 1.    Pretending is never good unless you are Peter Pan.  It’s good to envision what you’d like to be and you should.  Pretending can hurt your image and make it take longer to “really” reach that place you’d like to be… the top. 2.    Using CEO as your title in this situation lowers the perceived value of your input.  If a people pick up on the fact that you’re a pretender (and they will), they won’t believe you either.  Especially when you hand them an outrageous quote. (it will always seem outrageous coming from the CEO)  They’ll get the idea that you over promise and under deliver. 3.    Using CEO as you title gives the customer no one else to go to.  You’ll have to make decisions on the spot and create undo pressure for yourself.  This can have a huge impact on profits. 4.    People’s expectations are raised to an almost impossible to meet standard when you use CEO.  People expect to see “shirt & tie” when the these three letters, CEO, are used together.  The fact is, your everyday dress may disappoint them.  Is someone going to say to you, “You aren’t the CEO dressed like that, are you?”. No.  The fact is, they won’t say anything to you at all.  They might get a little chuckle when you’re not there, but that’s not what you were going for, was it? 5.    The final reason is because when you use CEO as your title when it’s not applicable, you lose your inner focus.  Your inner focus, by the way, should be on the work itself not who you’ll be when you get to the top.  Stay focused on what makes you excited and yields you real dollars. So, How Can You Get the Attention You Need or Want? 1.    Name yourself a “lesser title” and deliver a CEO experience.  Here’s where you can draw off of that J.R. Ewing presence you so desire.  This will also not make you the last stop in decisions and can relieve some pressure. i.    Example: Brenda, I’d love to be able to tell you to go with the $2000 advertising plan, but I’m just the director.  I’ll check with my higher ups and let you know where we can meet on the advertising budget. ii.    Nice to be the little guy now, huh? 2.    Dress, Walk, Talk, Eat, Sleep and… (well you get the idea) like a CEO.  Don’t dress for the job you have.  Dress for the job you want.  You’ll get noticed. 3.    Let your actions speak louder than words. 4.    Do things it takes for others to introduce you and set the stage.  This will frame the power and presence you want.  Then it’s up to you.  Don’t blow it. 5.    Hang out with other business owners and entrepreneurs.  Get a mentorship and/or mastermind group going with people you’d like to emulate.  Be picky. Your image and future depend on it. To sum it up, be what you want to be.  Don’t say what you want to be. _________________________________________________________________ Inbox Sanctuary Your overwhelmed with your inbox aren’t you?  The sheer volume at which you receive email is enough to crash your computer sometimes.  Just imagine what that kind of information overload is doing to you brain.  Carrying that kind of stress around is not good.  You need some peace and quiet in that “high school lunch room” of an inbox you have. Your Email Is Out Of Control Here are some key facts that are bogging inboxes around the world down.  If we can name the demons, we can rid ourselves of them and return inner Zen to our inbox. 1.    People are receiving between 10 – 30 emails per day that have no relevance to them. 2.    Setting up elaborate filter and folder systems doesn’t work most of the time because there are no rules to how they are created.  No format to managing the flow of traffic that is bulldozing it’s way into your life with the click of a thousand mouses. 3.    Spam filters rarely work (unless you own a MAC like me) when they do work, they aren’t supposed to and vice versa. 4.    The average person spends between 1 – 2 hours per day checking and responding to email.  (no wonder the only Neilson ratings that are up are Family Guy) Getting Control When it comes to getting control of your email inbox there are 3 key areas to address.  Time management or how often you check your email, content management or how you handle the content that comes your way, and setup or how you will receive the content that comes your way.  That’s a mouthful, but it sums up getting control nicely. Time Management Take a look at how often you check your email.  Do you check it constantly?  If you answered yes, then you are not alone.  76% of people check their email as soon as it is delivered or as soon as the can access it.  The rest of the people rarely check it at all.  We need to change the rules a bit if we are going to wrestle this one down. First, for constant checkers, what you are doing is ok.  What? Yes. That’s right. Checking your email as soon as it comes in is ok.  But only if you have a system to manage the content.  We’ll look at that in depth a little later. Constant checkers are employees that are at their work terminal or jet setters with their Blackberrys or iPhones. For those that don’t check it at all, it’s obviously not a problem and I won’t devote much time to them here, because, quite frankly they aren’t going to read this either. I have a better idea.  It’s called batching and it takes its name from baking.  You wouldn’t spend an hour making cookie dough, adding chips and baking all for one cookie would you?  Of course not.  That’s not yummy enough.  You’d make a lot of cookies right?  You get the idea.  This is actually a midpoint between non-checkers and constant checkers.  You are just going to give a little structure to when you check your email. That’s all. I suggest you check your email twice daily.  Use a time that is not the first thing in the morning and allows you some time to work through the mess that is your inbox.  9 – 10AM is a good time and an hour our so before you hit the road at night.  I do this for two reasons.  First because it allows me to get into work and plan my day. Checking your email first thing is setting your day up as reactionary and that is all you will ever be.  Taking control of the first part of  your day is liberating and effective.  The reason I check it an hour or so before I leave for the day is because it gives me time to go through the mess that is my email inbox and tackle the things that I’ll need to do first thing the next day. You will have to make some changes to your habits.  Right now most of your habits have been handed to you.  Changing your email checking schedule will vastly improve your effectiveness.  You will however have to let some people know about it to make it really work.  After all, when Jane sends you an email with a flame on it asking for the report by 5pm at ten after 1pm and you don’t check it until 4pm that could scream panic. Try an email signature that lets people know how often you respond to email or at what times.  Include a phone number for urgent matters.  If Jane wants to push her work off on you, she’ll have to make a phone call.  Get the idea?  Here’s an example Example Signature: Thank you for your understanding. Due to high work volume and my appointment load, I may be away from my email throughout the day.  I currently check email between 9am – 10am and between 4pm-5pm.  If your matter is urgent, please call me at 888-555-1212. Then they can leave you a voicemail. (that’s a whole other show) Most of all, stick to your guns.  As soon as you bend the rules for Karen, Karen will ask you to break them.  And they’re your rules! Content Management Delete it.  I do this first.  A quick skim of the inbox and check off each email that  I find no value in.  Select all that are junk and swing the axe.  It feels so good.  Don’t worry about the possibility of deleting a “very important” email.  If it is very important, somebody has a copy of it.  Swing the axe and move on. Do It. Can you do it in 2 minutes? (Sound Familiar? David Allen made a career out of smart content management. See the sight for a special offer on his book) If yes, do it.  If no, print it out and put it into your system to process. Defer it to someone else.  This should be used if you are not the best person to do the job or task.  If you are the best person but you don’t have the time you are not the best person. (hint) Delegate it to someone and put it in your waiting folder.  See more details on the book. Setup Setting up the system to handle email inbox content and time management can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.  Analyze your inbox before your purge.  See any major categories or themes that keep reoccurring? Examples: ?    Newsletters ?    New Free Account Signups ?    Bills & Statements ?    Friends & Family ?    Social Media Notifications ?    eBay questions and notifications Email accounts are free.  Set up one for each category if you are the “keep things separate” kind of person. Change email account of record for these mail generators Unsubscribe from newsletters and emails you don’t read.  These are stealing your time.  If the information is worth it, go to the website and read it.  Planning to read is not enough and putting it off taxes our system. CUT THE CORD. Forward each new address to your main account that you only give to trusted people. GMAIL allows you to create a filter for specific emails and it will automatically categorize your email inbox If you receive email via Blackberry or iPhone you simply set up the master email and you’re receive the email as it rolls in.  Then utilize the content management from earlier. Take it Back It’s your inbox.  Take it back.  If you let it get out of control, you’ll be the one that reigns it in.  So take a few hours now and invest it in your future.  Entrepreneurs tell me all the time the one thing the do not have enough of is time.  Give yourself 5-10 hours a week back by being smart.  Control your email inbox or it will control you. _________________________________________________________________ What Not To Do – Joint Ventures PART 2 Ways to SWOT a Good Joint Venture & 2 Things To Consider SWOT That’s right.  SWOT.  A tried and true method of getting a general feel for your companies core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.  Using SWOT analysis is a little cliché but it’s power is enormous, especially in determining who to team up with. With all good SWOTs you have to be painfully honest with yourself or they are worthless or worse, harmful. Strengths What you bring to the table that another business can benefit from.  What are you good at? What do others say you do well? What do you have a natural talent for?  What relationships can you leverage?  These are some good starters. Weaknesses What do you need the most help doing in your business or which product/service needs the most help getting some legs?  What do you consistently lack in?  Are there any services that you are currently paying for because you “don’t do that”?  Don’t beat yourself up, but get some clear weaknesses on paper.  If you don’t have any, you are not being truthful and you need to start over. Opportunities What advantages do you see facing your product/service in the near term?  Can you offer these as a good reason for a joint venture?  Do business forecasters predict a surge in your market or sector?  Can you leverage that to someone for a joint venture?  You get the idea.  Approach this in an honest way, but don’t be too modest either.  You need to let your prospective joint venture know what they can expect and what you expect from them. Threats Sometimes you competition can be your best ally. Maybe geography is your biggest enemy and teaming up with your competition can bring in extra clients.  Customers really like collaboration and the sense of fair play.  It works best when you and your competition have a common enemy.  In today’s economy the economy it self is the enemy.  Joining forces in the short term will help two struggling companies weather the storm against a larger more established competitor or in this case, the economy.  Playground politics, I know, but it’s never the less true. Timing Timing is everything in business.  Where joint ventures are concerned, think about when the products/services you offer will be used.  What other products or services are used at the same time?  That may lead you to some previously un thought of combinations. Emotional State at the Time of Use Full circle.  The veterinary/taxidermy I hope is a bad joke, but I’ve seen some really awful combinations out there.  Most of the bad ones combine two emotionally polar ideas in one business.  Killing two birds with one stone is good and It can even be cost effective, but combining the wrong to businesses can be fatal. Thanks for tuning in today.  Feel free to come to the website at TheEntrepreneurShip.com and leave a comment or ask a question.  Get exclusive content and updates sent to you by registering at the website (http://theentrepreneurship.com/register-now). Coming up on TheEntrepreneurShip Podcast coming out 2/15/2009, learn how to project “CEO” with out screaming “Start-Up”, how to avoid the email invasion and keep your inbox as clean as a whistle, and see how Coach handbags was a penny wise and a pound foolish. On Today’s Show You’ll find out how to say “CEO” without screaming “Start-Up”, you’ll learn how to slim your email inbox down, and you’ll get the second part of Joint Ventures to learn how to “SWOT” a good joint venture partner. How to Project “CEO” Without Screaming “Start-up!” You’ve seen the guys & gals I’m talking about. You may even be one of those guys. They show up to fix or install something at your home.  They pass you a business card that you suspect may have been printed at home or from VistaPrint.com.  That business card is your first indication that you are in the presence of greatness.  The flippin’ CEO stopped what he/she was doing, rode out to your house, and installed a satellite dish.  The CEO, people. Sure, he had people to boss around.  Sure, there was someone to fire or hire.  There might even have been a bonus to withhold from some little lady down in accounting, but he came to your house… THE CEO! How do they know? •    Your business card says CEO and the name on your shirt does not. (poke, jab) •    You introduce yourself as CEO.  Unless your company’s name is a household name, they won’t believe you. (By the way, real CEOs don’t do this.  Someone else introduces them) •    CEOs don’t wear t-shirts to work (excluding Apple and Google) When is it ok to use the title CEO? •    Typically, it’s not unless: •    You have a board of directors •    You have a CFO or COO ( if you don’t know what these are stick to “owner”) •    You are hired into a CEO position or build your company to the point of needing a CEO. Why is this so bad? Using the title CEO and or President for a small business of 10 or less people sends the wrong message.  What you are trying to say is: •    I’m important. •    I own this business. •    I am powerful. •    I am more important than you (or I want you to believe that) •    I watch too much tv. •    I am a fan of Dallas and Dynasty. •    (None of these have to do with who is most important to your customer, them) Seriously, let’s dig into a several real reasons this is so bad. 1.    Pretending is never good unless you are Peter Pan.  It’s good to envision what you’d like to be and you should.  Pretending can hurt your image and make it take longer to “really” reach that place you’d like to be… the top. 2.    Using CEO as your title in this situation lowers the perceived value of your input.  If a people pick up on the fact that you’re a pretender (and they will), they won’t believe you either.  Especially when you hand them an outrageous quote. (it will always seem outrageous coming from the CEO)  They’ll get the idea that you over promise and under deliver. 3.    Using CEO as you title gives the customer no one else to go to.  You’ll have to make decisions on the spot and create undo pressure for yourself.  This can have a huge impact on profits. 4.    People’s expectations are raised to an almost impossible to meet standard when you use CEO.  People expect to see “shirt & tie” when the these three letters, CEO, are used together.  The fact is, your everyday dress may disappoint them.  Is someone going to say to you, “You aren’t the CEO dressed like that, are you?”. No.  The fact is, they won’t say anything to you at all.  They might get a little chuckle when you’re not there, but that’s not what you were going for, was it? 5.    The final reason is because when you use CEO as your title when it’s not applicable, you lose your inner focus.  Your inner focus, by the way, should be on the work itself not who you’ll be when you get to the top.  Stay focused on what makes you excited and yields you real dollars. So, How Can You Get the Attention You Need or Want? 1.    Name yourself a “lesser title” and deliver a CEO experience.  Here’s where you can draw off of that J.R. Ewing presence you so desire.  This will also not make you the last stop in decisions and can relieve some pressure. i.    Example: Brenda, I’d love to be able to tell you to go with the $2000 advertising plan, but I’m just the director.  I’ll check with my higher ups and let you know where we can meet on the advertising budget. ii.    Nice to be the little guy now, huh? 2.    Dress, Walk, Talk, Eat, Sleep and… (well you get the idea) like a CEO.  Don’t dress for the job you have.  Dress for the job you want.  You’ll get noticed. 3.    Let your actions speak louder than words. 4.    Do things it takes for others to introduce you and set the stage.  This will frame the power and presence you want.  Then it’s up to you.  Don’t blow it. 5.    Hang out with other business owners and entrepreneurs.  Get a mentorship and/or mastermind group going with people you’d like to emulate.  Be picky. Your image and future depend on it. To sum it up, be what you want to be.  Don’t say what you want to be. _________________________________________________________________ Inbox Sanctuary Your overwhelmed with your inbox aren’t you?  The sheer volume at which you receive email is enough to crash your computer sometimes.  Just imagine what that kind of information overload is doing to you brain.  Carrying that kind of stress around is not good.  You need some peace and quiet in that “high school lunch room” of an inbox you have. Your Email Is Out Of Control Here are some key facts that are bogging inboxes around the world down.  If we can name the demons, we can rid ourselves of them and return inner Zen to our inbox. 1.    People are receiving between 10 – 30 emails per day that have no relevance to them. 2.    Setting up elaborate filter and folder systems doesn’t work most of the time because there are no rules to how they are created.  No format to managing the flow of traffic that is bulldozing it’s way into your life with the click of a thousand mouses. 3.    Spam filters rarely work (unless you own a MAC like me) when they do work, they aren’t supposed to and vice versa. 4.    The average person spends between 1 – 2 hours per day checking and responding to email.  (no wonder the only Neilson ratings that are up are Family Guy) Getting Control When it comes to getting control of your email inbox there are 3 key areas to address.  Time management or how often you check your email, content management or how you handle the content that comes your way, and setup or how you will receive the content that comes your way.  That’s a mouthful, but it sums up getting control nicely. Time Management Take a look at how often you check your email.  Do you check it constantly?  If you answered yes, then you are not alone.  76% of people check their email as soon as it is delivered or as soon as the can access it.  The rest of the people rarely check it at all.  We need to change the rules a bit if we are going to wrestle this one down. First, for constant checkers, what you are doing is ok.  What? Yes. That’s right. Checking your email as soon as it comes in is ok.  But only if you have a system to manage the content.  We’ll look at that in depth a little later. Constant checkers are employees that are at their work terminal or jet setters with their Blackberrys or iPhones. For those that don’t check it at all, it’s obviously not a problem and I won’t devote much time to them here, because, quite frankly they aren’t going to read this either. I have a better idea.  It’s called batching and it takes its name from baking.  You wouldn’t spend an hour making cookie dough, adding chips and baking all for one cookie would you?  Of course not.  That’s not yummy enough.  You’d make a lot of cookies right?  You get the idea.  This is actually a midpoint between non-checkers and constant checkers.  You are just going to give a little structure to when you check your email. That’s all. I suggest you check your email twice daily.  Use a time that is not the first thing in the morning and allows you some time to work through the mess that is your inbox.  9 – 10AM is a good time and an hour our so before you hit the road at night.  I do this for two reasons.  First because it allows me to get into work and plan my day. Checking your email first thing is setting your day up as reactionary and that is all you will ever be.  Taking control of the first part of  your day is liberating and effective.  The reason I check it an hour or so before I leave for the day is because it gives me time to go through the mess that is my email inbox and tackle the things that I’ll need to do first thing the next day. You will have to make some changes to your habits.  Right now most of your habits have been handed to you.  Changing your email checking schedule will vastly improve your effectiveness.  You will however have to let some people know about it to make it really work.  After all, when Jane sends you an email with a flame on it asking for the report by 5pm at ten after 1pm and you don’t check it until 4pm that could scream panic. Try an email signature that lets people know how often you respond to email or at what times.  Include a phone number for urgent matters.  If Jane wants to push her work off on you, she’ll have to make a phone call.  Get the idea?  Here’s an example Example Signature: Thank you for your understanding. Due to high work volume and my appointment load, I may be away from my email throughout the day.  I currently check email between 9am – 10am and between 4pm-5pm.  If your matter is urgent, please call me at 888-555-1212. Then they can leave you a voicemail. (that’s a whole other show) Most of all, stick to your guns.  As soon as you bend the rules for Karen, Karen will ask you to break them.  And they’re your rules! Content Management Delete it.  I do this first.  A quick skim of the inbox and check off each email that  I find no value in.  Select all that are junk and swing the axe.  It feels so good.  Don’t worry about the possibility of deleting a “very important” email.  If it is very important, somebody has a copy of it.  Swing the axe and move on. Do It. Can you do it in 2 minutes? (Sound Familiar? David Allen made a career out of smart content management. See the sight for a special offer on his book) If yes, do it.  If no, print it out and put it into your system to process. Defer it to someone else.  This should be used if you are not the best person to do the job or task.  If you are the best person but you don’t have the time you are not the best person. (hint) Delegate it to someone and put it in your waiting folder.  See more details on the book. Setup Setting up the system to handle email inbox content and time management can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.  Analyze your inbox before your purge.  See any major categories or themes that keep reoccurring? Examples: ?    Newsletters ?    New Free Account Signups ?    Bills & Statements ?    Friends & Family ?    Social Media Notifications ?    eBay questions and notifications Email accounts are free.  Set up one for each category if you are the “keep things separate” kind of person. Change email account of record for these mail generators Unsubscribe from newsletters and emails you don’t read.  These are stealing your time.  If the information is worth it, go to the website and read it.  Planning to read is not enough and putting it off taxes our system. CUT THE CORD. Forward each new address to your main account that you only give to trusted people. GMAIL allows you to create a filter for specific emails and it will automatically categorize your email inbox If you receive email via Blackberry or iPhone you simply set up the master email and you’re receive the email as it rolls in.  Then utilize the content management from earlier. Take it Back It’s your inbox.  Take it back.  If you let it get out of control, you’ll be the one that reigns it in.  So take a few hours now and invest it in your future.  Entrepreneurs tell me all the time the one thing the do not have enough of is time.  Give yourself 5-10 hours a week back by being smart.  Control your email inbox or it will control you. _________________________________________________________________ What Not To Do – Joint Ventures PART 2 Ways to SWOT a Good Joint Venture & 2 Things To Consider SWOT That’s right.  SWOT.  A tried and true method of getting a general feel for your companies core strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.  Using SWOT analysis is a little cliché but it’s power is enormous, especially in determining who to team up with. With all good SWOTs you have to be painfully honest with yourself or they are worthless or worse, harmful. Strengths What you bring to the table that another business can benefit from.  What are you good at? What do others say you do well? What do you have a natural talent for?  What relationships can you leverage?  These are some good starters. Weaknesses What do you need the most help doing in your business or which product/service needs the most help getting some legs?  What do you consistently lack in?  Are there any services that you are currently paying for because you “don’t do that”?  Don’t beat yourself up, but get some clear weaknesses on paper.  If you don’t have any, you are not being truthful and you need to start over. Opportunities What advantages do you see facing your product/service in the near term?  Can you offer these as a good reason for a joint venture?  Do business forecasters predict a surge in your market or sector?  Can you leverage that to someone for a joint venture?  You get the idea.  Approach this in an honest way, but don’t be too modest either.  You need to let your prospective joint venture know what they can expect and what you expect from them. Threats Sometimes you competition can be your best ally. Maybe geography is your biggest enemy and teaming up with your competition can bring in extra clients.  Customers really like collaboration and the sense of fair play.  It works best when you and your competition have a common enemy.  In today’s economy the economy it self is the enemy.  Joining forces in the short term will help two struggling companies weather the storm against a larger more established competitor or in this case, the economy.  Playground politics, I know, but it’s never the less true. Timing Timing is everything in business.  Where joint ventures are concerned, think about when the products/services you offer will be used.  What other products or services are used at the same time?  That may lead you to some previously un thought of combinations. Emotional State at the Time of Use Full circle.  The veterinary/taxidermy I hope is a bad joke, but I’ve seen some really awful combinations out there.  Most of the bad ones combine two emotionally polar ideas in one business.  Killing two birds with one stone is good and It can even be cost effective, but combining the wrong to businesses can be fatal. Thanks for tuning in today.  Feel free to come to the website at TheEntrepreneurShip.com and leave a comment or ask a question.  Get exclusive content and updates sent to you by registering at the website (http://theentrepreneurship.com/register-now). Coming up on TheEntrepreneurShip Podcast coming out 2/15/2009, learn how to project “CEO” with out screaming “Start-Up”, how to avoid the email invasion and keep your inbox as clean as a whistle, and see how Coach handbags was a penny wise and a pound foolish. tag:odeo.com,2009-02-15,24101777 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 03:00:47 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Uncategorized, email, content management, joint ventures, CEO Image, Email Control Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076287-Want-to-Get-on-iTunes Everyone knows that feedback on iTunes is important to attracting listeners and subscribers to your podcast. Check this video out on how easy it is to leave feedback. Then click here to leave feedback for this show. Everyone knows that feedback on iTunes is important to attracting listeners and subscribers to your podcast. Check this video out on how easy it is to leave feedback. Then click here to leave feedback for this show. Everyone knows that feedback on iTunes is important to attracting listeners and subscribers to your podcast. Check this video out on how easy it is to leave feedback. Then click here to leave feedback for this show. tag:odeo.com,2009-02-07,25076287 Sat, 07 Feb 2009 20:06:42 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24638610-Want-to-Get-on-iTunes Everyone knows that feedback on iTunes is important to attracting listeners and subscribers to your podcast. Check this video out on how easy it is to leave feedback. Then click here to leave feedback for this show. Everyone knows that feedback on iTunes is important to attracting listeners and subscribers to your podcast. Check this video out on how easy it is to leave feedback. Then click here to leave feedback for this show. Everyone knows that feedback on iTunes is important to attracting listeners and subscribers to your podcast. Check this video out on how easy it is to leave feedback. Then click here to leave feedback for this show. tag:odeo.com,2009-02-07,24638610 Sat, 07 Feb 2009 20:06:42 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076288-Comments-Easy-as-1-2-3 Comments are easy. Just remember, it’s a family show. Need A Better Look? Comments are easy. Just remember, it’s a family show. Need A Better Look? Comments are easy. Just remember, it’s a family show. Need A Better Look? tag:odeo.com,2009-02-04,25076288 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 20:14:53 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials, Leave a Comment Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/24638611-Comments-Easy-as-1-2-3 Comments are easy. Just remember, it’s a family show. Need A Better Look? Comments are easy. Just remember, it’s a family show. Need A Better Look? Comments are easy. Just remember, it’s a family show. Need A Better Look? tag:odeo.com,2009-02-04,24638611 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 20:14:53 -0800 no The Entrepreneur Ship :: PODCAST for Shakers and Movers Tutorials Entrepreneur entrepreneurship internet marketing small business owners small business tips copy writing marketing for small business ebay tips http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25076289-TES-2-15-Do%E2%80%99s-Don%E2%80%99ts-in-Thank-You-Notes-Should-I-Do-LLC-or-S-Corp-How-to-Pick-THE-Joint-Venture-Partner Today on the show you’ll get the second half of “Thank You Notes”, how the  right business structure can save you thousands, and how the right joint venture can make you or break you. P.R. Segment - Thank You Notes, PART 2 Now for the conclusion of our PR Segment Thank You Notes PART 2. You’ve got all the reasons why to use thank you notes from the last show and I’m sure there are more. But for now let’s jump into the how to do this effectively. The first step sounds simple, but it’s actually difficult: Be genuinely grateful for something within your interaction Staying mindful of being genuinely grateful will force you to do two things: 1.    You are constantly tracking your interaction just looking or something to be grateful for.  This’ll come across in your mannerisms and attitude and it will be received very well. 2.    It will make you a more attentive listener.  That my friends, follows my listening rule (two ears; one mouth) Th... Today on the show you’ll get the second half of “Thank You Notes”, how the  right business structure can save you thousands, and how the right joint venture can make you or break you. P.R. Segment - Thank You Notes, PART 2 Now for the conclusion of our PR Segment Thank You Notes PART 2. You’ve got all the reasons why to use thank you notes from the last show and I’m sure there are more. But for now let’s jump into the how to do this effectively. The first step sounds simple, but it’s actually difficult: Be genuinely grateful for something within your interaction Staying mindful of being genuinely grateful will force you to do two things: 1.    You are constantly tracking your interaction just looking or something to be grateful for.  This’ll come across in your mannerisms and attitude and it will be received very well. 2.    It will make you a more attentive listener.  That my friends, follows my listening rule (two ears; one mouth) The perfect listen to talk ratio. The second step is be prepared.  I have Thank You Notes at the ready.  Stamps as well.  I also pre-return address them. (more details in the do’s and don’ts section)  Having these babies ready to go means you’ll simply write a quick note, address it, and drop it in the outgoing mail.  Do yourself a favor and buy the forever stamps and go ahead and have them on the envelopes.  The only things missing are the note and the address. The third step is have a system in place to keep this scalable. If you don’t you will slack off and miss great opportunities to enhance your personal and professional relationships. Now for some crucial Do’s and Don’ts Do: ?    Buy cards on sale. Target carries a good variety and they change them a lot.  You can also find some online at great prices. See the site for some links and examples ?    In your note, simply thank the other person, nothing extravagant. ?    Have them ready to go at a moments notice. (this will make it easy to thank people for little things and that carries a lot of gravity) ?    Fill them out as soon as possible after your grateful incident.  This will help capture the spirit of thankfulness needed in your message. ?    Be genuine.  If you can’t be genuinely grateful then save your stamp. ?    Buy situation appropriate cards. We want to make a GOOD impression, not get you excommunicated. ?    Remember that these cards will be displayed for all to see. Think effortless elegance. ?    Change cards often. Don’t: ?    Don’t thank someone just to get ahead.  That’s still called “sucking up” and nobody likes it.  Well, the people that matter don’t anyway.  Getting ahead in life is a buy-product of your note, not your purpose. ?    Don’t deliver business specific info. Keep it a little more general. This would be better as: “Thank you for your input on the project the other day. You made my job easier.” ?    Don’t ask for business in a thank you note. They will call you in response to the note and ask you to sell to them.  It’s like magic  “If not?” you ask. Too bad. ?    Don’t send a business card with it. Some people have done this instead of signing it. ?    Don’t Print envelopes from your computer. (it makes it easier, yes.  It also depersonalizes it) ?    Don’t run it through a postage meter. (First class stamp people. Buy a roll of stamps and personalize the thank you note.  If not, spend your time doing something else. The idea is for them to imagine the trouble you went through to thank them.  Anything automated and you might as well keep the card.) ?    No signature stamps. That’s just pretentious. ?    Don’t misspell someone’s name. ?    Don’t write your name in the return address and don’t write your return address on the front of the envelopes.  Put it on the back.  The mystery adds to the delight. Show Your Stuff LLC or S-Corporation? The Age Old Question. Can the legal structure of a business can determine how successful it will be.  In the last episode, we covered having a good foundation.  A business structure is part of a good foundation and it’s best determined before you hang your shingle. Great Legal Docs Click Here People have tussled with this question for as long as different business structures have been available. Today’s topic comes from a listener just like you.  If you have a question you’d like covered on the show, use the “ASK RYAN” Tab at the top of the website or email me at ryan@theentrepreneurship.com and ask away.  Now for our listener question.  Jeremy owns a plumbing contracting business. Jeremy writes: Ryan, I have been in business as a plumber for several years.  I have two employees that I pay as independent contractors. My business is set up as a Sole-Proprietorship and my accountant keeps recommending I see an attorney to change my structure.  My accountant won’t tell me if I should do LLC or S-Corp and I don’t want to pay for an attorney just to tell me the difference.  Can you shed some light on this? Great question, Jeremy. Although I cannot share any legal advice on which one you should do, I can explain the difference so when you meet with your attorney, you won’t get billed for 2 hours to explain the difference. The major difference in business structures is the amount of liability assumed by the owners of a company and how the business pays it’s taxes. A Sole-Proprietorship - The owner is the owner, decision maker, and taxpayer.  All business proceeds pass right through the business to the owner as earned income.  All liability passes through as well. For you, Jeremy, that could mean, when you’re fixing Mrs. Warrens toilet and it spews it’s contents on the walls and floor, you could be found liable personally for damage that was done by your company.  (When she sues the business, she sues you.) A Partnership is much the same as far as liability and taxable situations except you agree in the beginning (sometimes informally) on a percentage of ownership.  You win by that ownership percentage and you lose by it. (Now Mrs. Warren will sue all of you according to your partnership agreement.) A Corporation is and entity that it’s ownership is made up of share holders.  It pays taxes just like a person, but limits the liability to the corporation.  (When Mrs. Warren sues the company and it goes bankrupt the owners are not responsible personally to Mrs. Warren.  She can’t take your shirt.)  The liability part of this is nice, but the taxable situation that is created would essentially not make much sense for a smaller business of 1 or 2 owners. You’ll get taxed as a corporation and as a person. A Sub-Chapter S-Corporation or S-Corp was a nice answer to this situation.  You limit the liability as you do in a corporation, but you pass the profits and loss down to the shareholders on your taxes.  It requires the share holders to earn a salary or wage and can be a bit tricky to file the paper work.  It is a great alternative if you have several different people as shareholders, but don’t make enough money to warrant paying more taxes as in the C-Corp or standard Corporation.  You’ll definitely need the assistance of an attorney with this one.  Even if you are an attorney. An LLC or Limited Liability Company is the newest version of Hybrid Business Structure and it’s gained a lot of popularity in recent years.  The ease of filing and wide acceptance according to state laws is in part responsible for that. The LLC limits the liability to the company, but it is made up of members, not shareholders.  These members do not, but can, earn a salary.  The kicker here is that you still get to pass profit and loss onto each member’s personal tax returns according to ownership percentage.  (Mr. Warren can sue the pants of “YOUR BUSINESS LLC” but you cannot be held personally responsible.  Then you could pass the loss down to your personal returns.) Because the LLC is easy to file, a good number of people choose to do it on their own.  I will make one recommendation.  You really should consult an attorney before you do something on your own.  It just makes sense to get this right.  You need to be focused on making money for your business, not worrying about tax liability or whether you filed the right form on the right day. There are many places that offer to do this online.  However, you should check with your payroll or accounting service. Some payroll services work closely with business attorneys.  A  friend of mine uses a service like this.  His accounting firm, the attorney, and his payroll service work together.  It does cost a bit more because you have three different people working for you, but it is really worth it.  Think about it this way, would really go to all of this trouble on your own to limit your liability and find out that you did something wrong and you get sued anyway? Resources There is a lot of good information out there.  The Small Business Administration offers some suggestions with this topic and may clarify the issue further.  Check out there business structure page with the link in the show notes. Bottom Line: Jeremy, if what you do for a living can cause someone damage or harm just by the nature of your job, consider shaking the Sole-Prop and getting a structure that limits liability.  Listeners, if you have suggestions click the comment button under the show notes on the website and tell us all about it. Links:   SBA Business Structure | IRS.gov-Tax Docs What Not to Do - Joint Ventures Doing research for this episode, I came across some real head-scratchers.  The one that stood out by far comes from NPR’s Car Talk.  I’m sure it was a joke, but you can never tell.  A vet’s office combined with a taxidermist.  The title of the article as “Get Your Dog Shot Here” and their slogan was “Either Way, You Get Your Pet Back”.  A bit much but you get the idea.  Thousands of businesses go out-of-business each month and a bad joint venture is just one of the major causes.  On the contrary, a good joint venture is a way to weather an economic storm.  Right now, as you know, we’ve got a pretty bad one going on. How To Do It Right So how do you do it right? You need to identify, sort out, and conquer. First let’s look at the two different types of joint ventures and then we’ll cover a couple of ways to spot (or SWOT) a good joint venture so you can get one working for you right away. Two Basic Types of Joint Ventures In my book, there are two basic types of joint ventures.  There’s Non-Common Core Customer Joint Ventures and Common Core Customer Joint Ventures. Non-Common Core Customers It’s when two companies join forces to accomplish more than they could on their own with less effort and resources. However, their business offerings don’t draw common customers inherently.  So, if you don’t have common customers why bother?  Two basic reasons come to mind. You can maximize unused space by renting out to someone or lower your overhead by renting unused space from someone. Maximize Unused Space To maximize unused space you must first have unused space.  An example will shed some light here. I read about a case on BarterForCash.com about a florist that had issues with limited supply because of her product’s sensitivity to heat.  Let’s face it.  Basic AC is not going to cut it.  She needs refrigeration.  Her limited space kept her from taking on large orders because she couldn’t stock large quantities of flowers due to their sensitivity to the heat. She found out a refrigeration and cooler repair company that had extra space available.  She rented unused space from the company which in turn allowed her to take on larger, more profitable orders.  Because of her innovative thinking the refrigeration shop was now able to bring in a steady income stream and our florist could produce on a larger scale.  With the extra profits, she was more than happy to pay rent for the unused space. Lower Overhead It can be done wrong as we saw in the Veterinary/Taxidermy case, so be careful.  In the case of non-common core customers, think of sharing space or resources.  Copy machines, trash services, cleaning services, etc.  It can be much easier to negotiate service agreements in greater numbers. Even renting retail space.  A commercial landlord is happy to fill up two or three retail locations at once for a discounted lease especially if the businesses compliment each other.  More about that when we cover Common Core Customers in a minute. Common Core Customers Common Core Customers are the customers most people think of when they think of a joint venture.  You have to be very careful when seeking these out.  Here are some really good reasons to look for them.  They can: ?    lower your competitive threats by offering a better value than your competitors ?    expand your customer base immediately ?    stretch your advertising dollars ?    gain you more overall exposure ?    They offer better Word-of Mouth value because they offer something interesting to talk about and recommend Offering better value is easy.  If your local Dominoes was cheaper on average than your local Pizza Hut, but your local Pizza Hut was next to a Blockbuster that could deliver the movie you want to watch with your pizza which one would you call?  That’s right.  The second one offers more value and convenience. We’ll use the same scenario to show the immediate expanse of you’re customer base.  If you are that Pizza Hut, you just grew your business by adding the Blockbuster customer base to it.  Sure, they may already share the customers but tied in with the value the combination offers, it’s a no brainer. So how does it stretch your advertising dollar?  Well let’s say your local radio station charges $500 for (2) 30 second commercials each day for one week.  You guessed it.  Here’s the ad: “Don’t spend your Friday night driving around. We’ll bring dinner and a movie to you with one call.  You’ll be in your jammies by the time most people get to the restaurant.  Call Pizza Hut at 888-555-1212 to reserve you pizza and movie now.” That’s right.  Your $500 just shrank to $250 because you split it with Block Buster and you’ll have a bigger impact as well because you offer a better value. That brings us to the most important advertiser of all, your customers.  Word-of mouth advertising is so effective because it only happens if something is really good or really bad.  A way to make sure your customers sing your praises to the world is to give them something to sing about.   Can you just imagine the water cooler envy you’d spark by telling everyone that you had dinner delivered with the movie last Friday night while they tell stories of schlepping around town with one hour waits in the Friday night restaurant rush? GOODIES Today on the show you’ll get the second half of “Thank You Notes”, how the  right business structure can save you thousands, and how the right joint venture can make you or break you. P.R. Segment - Thank You Notes, PART 2 Now for the conclusion of our PR Segment Thank You Notes PART 2. You’ve got all the reasons why to use thank you notes from the last show and I’m sure there are more. But for now let’s jump into the how to do this effectively. The first step sounds simple, but it’s actually difficult: Be genuinely grateful for something within your interaction Staying mindful of being genuinely grateful will force you to do two things: 1.    You are constantly tracking your interaction just looking or something to be grateful for.  This’ll come across in your mannerisms and attitude and it will be received very well. 2.    It will make you a more attentive listener.  That my friends, follows my listening rule (two ears; one mouth) The perfect listen to talk ratio. The second step is be prepared.  I have Thank You Notes at the ready.  Stamps as well.  I also pre-return address them. (more details in the do’s and don’ts section)  Having these babies ready to go means you’ll simply write a quick note, address it, and drop it in the outgoing mail.  Do yourself a favor and buy the forever stamps and go ahead and have them on the envelopes.  The only things missing are the note and the address. The third step is have a system in place to keep this scalable. If you don’t you will slack off and miss great opportunities to enhance your personal and professional relationships. Now for some crucial Do’s and Don’ts Do: ?    Buy cards on sale. Target carries a good variety and they change them a lot.  You can also find some online at great prices. See the site for some links and examples ?    In your note, simply thank the other person, nothing extravagant. ?    Have them ready to go at a moments notice. (this will make it easy to thank people for little things and that carries a lot of gravity) ?    Fill them out as soon as possible after your grateful incident.  This will help capture the spirit of thankfulness needed in your message. ?    Be genuine.  If you can’t be genuinely grateful then save your stamp. ?    Buy situation appropriate cards. We want to make a GOOD impression, not get you excommunicated. ?    Remember that these cards will be displayed for all to see. Think effortless elegance. ?    Change cards often. Don’t: ?    Don’t thank someone just to get ahead.  That’s still called “sucking up” and nobody likes it.  Well, the people that matter don’t anyway.  Getting ahead in life is a buy-product of your note, not your purpose. ?    Don’t deliver business specific info. Keep it a little more general. This would be better as: “Thank you for your input on the project the other day. You made my job easier.” ?    Don’t ask for business in a thank you note. They will call you in response to the note and ask you to sell to them.  It’s like magic  “If not?” you ask. Too bad. ?    Don’t send a business card with it. Some people have done this instead of signing it. ?    Don’t Print envelopes from your computer. (it makes it easier, yes.  It also depersonalizes it) ?    Don’t run it through a postage meter. (First class stamp people. Buy a roll of stamps and personalize the thank you note.  If not, spend your time doing something else. The idea is for them to imagine the trouble you went through to thank them.  Anything automated and you might as well keep the card.) ?    No signature stamps. That’s just pretentious. ?    Don’t misspell someone’s name. ?    Don’t write your name in the return address and don’t write your return address on the front of the envelopes.  Put it on the back.  The mystery adds to the delight. Show Your Stuff LLC or S-Corporation? The Age Old Question. Can the legal structure of a business can determine how successful it will be.  In the last episode, we covered having a good foundation.  A business structure is part of a good foundation and it’s best determined before you hang your shingle. Great Legal Docs Click Here People have tussled with this question for as long as different business structures have been available. Today’s topic comes from a listener just like you.  If you have a question you’d like covered on the show, use the “ASK RYAN” Tab at the top of the website or email me at ryan@theentrepreneurship.com and ask away.  Now for our listener question.  Jeremy owns a plumbing contracting business. Jeremy writes: Ryan, I have been in business as a plumber for several years.  I have two employees that I pay as independent contractors. My business is set up as a Sole-Proprietorship and my accountant keeps recommending I see an attorney to change my structure.  My accountant won’t tell me if I should do LLC or S-Corp and I don’t want to pay for an attorney just to tell me the difference.  Can you shed some light on this? Great question, Jeremy. Although I cannot share any legal advice on which one you should do, I can explain the difference so when you meet with your attorney, you won’t get billed for 2 hours to explain the difference. The major difference in business structures is the amount of liability assumed by the owners of a company and how the business pays it’s taxes. A Sole-Proprietorship - The owner is the owner, decision maker, and taxpayer.  All business proceeds pass right through the business to the owner as earned income.  All liability passes through as well. For you, Jeremy, that could mean, when you’re fixing Mrs. Warrens toilet and it spews it’s contents on the walls and floor, you could be found liable personally for damage that was done by your company.  (When she sues the business, she sues you.) A Partnership is much the same as far as liability and taxable situations except you agree in the beginning (sometimes informally) on a percentage of ownership.  You win by that ownership percentage and you lose by it. (Now Mrs. Warren will sue all of you according to your partnership agreement.) A Corporation is and entity that it’s ownership is made up of share holders.  It pays taxes just like a person, but limits the liability to the corporation.  (When Mrs. Warren sues the company and it goes bankrupt the owners are not responsible personally to Mrs. Warren.  She can’t take your shirt.)  The liability part of this is nice, but the taxable situation that is created would essentially not make much sense for a smaller business of 1 or 2 owners. You’ll get taxed as a corporation and as a person. A Sub-Chapter S-Corporation or S-Corp was a nice answer to this situation.  You limit the liability as you do in a corporation, but you pass the profits and loss down to the shareholders on your taxes.  It requires the share holders to earn a salary or wage and can be a bit tricky to file the paper work.  It is a great alternative if you have several different people as shareholders, but don’t make enough money to warrant paying more taxes as in the C-Corp or standard Corporation.  You’ll definitely need the assistance of an attorney with this one.  Even if you are an attorney. An LLC or Limited Liability Company is the newest version of Hybrid Business Structure and it’s gained a lot of popularity in recent years.  The ease of filing and wide acceptance according to state laws is in part responsible for that. The LLC limits the liability to the company, but it is made up of members, not shareholders.  These members do not, but can, earn a salary.  The kicker here is that you still get to pass profit and loss onto each member’s personal tax returns according to ownership percentage.  (Mr. Warren can sue the pants of “YOUR BUSINESS LLC” but you cannot be held personally responsible.  Then you could pass the loss down to your personal returns.) Because the LLC is easy to file, a good number of people choose to do it on their own.  I will make one recommendation.  You really should consult an attorney before you do something on your own.  It just makes sense to get this right.  You need to be focused on making money for your business, not worrying about tax liability or whether you filed the right form on the right day. There are many places that offer to do this online.  However, you should check with your payroll or accounting service. Some payroll services work closely with business attorneys.  A  friend of mine uses a service like this.  His accounting firm, the attorney, and his payroll service work together.  It does cost a bit more because you have three different people working for you, but it is really worth it.  Think about it this way, would really go to all of this trouble on your own to limit your liability and find out that you did something wrong and you get sued anyway? Resources There is a lot of good information out there.  The Small Business Administration offers some suggestions with this topic and may clarify the issue further.  Check out there business structure page with the link in the show notes. Bottom Line: Jeremy, if what you do for a living can cause someone damage or harm just by the nature of your job, consider shaking the Sole-Prop and getting a structure that limits liability.  Listeners, if you have suggestions click the comment button under the show notes on the website and tell us all about it. Links:   SBA Business Structure | IRS.gov-Tax Docs What Not to Do - Joint Ventures Doing research for this episode, I came across some real head-scratchers.  The one that stood out by far comes from NPR’s Car Talk.  I’m sure it was a joke, but you can never tell.  A vet’s office combined with a taxidermist.  The title of the article as “Get Your Dog Shot Here” and their slogan was “Either Way, You Get Your Pet Back”.  A bit much but you get the idea.  Thousands of businesses go out-of-business each month and a bad joint venture is just one of the major causes.  On the contrary, a good joint venture is a way to weather an economic storm.  Right now, as you know, we’ve got a pretty bad one going on. How To Do It Right So how do you do it right? You need to identify, sort out, and conquer. First let’s look at the two different types of joint ventures and then we’ll cover a couple of ways to spot (or SWOT) a good joint venture so you can get one working for you right away. Two Basic Types of Joint Ventures In my book, there are two basic types of joint ventures.  There’s Non-Common Core Customer Joint Ventur