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"Good plans shape good decisions. That's why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true." Lester R. Bittel

Recently, I offered a marketing plan review as a door prize for a local business group. When I approached the winner to exchange information, she whispered that she didn’t have a written one; she had it stored in her head. She then asked it a marketing plan was even necessary.

Should Your Small Business Have A Marketing Plan?

Absolutely! In fact, as a small business consultant, I've encountered numerous clients who repeatedly make the same mistake… failing to have a plan ‘business or marketing’ in place.

In a recent survey, I asked 200 respondents, ‘of the many issues facing their businesses, what common road blocks hindered their business growth.’ An overwhelming 32% said ‘No Marketing Plan’ was a potential reason for lack of sales and growth.

Why Marketing Plan?

Well, a marketing plan is a road map that details a route you should take to successfully promote and expand your business. It is critical to the success of a business, in fact, to all businesses! If a small business wants to achieve its potential, a marketing plan must be implemented!

Marketing is more than just ordering business cards or creating a flyer, it’s how you communicate with your current and potential clients. It is important to get your name out in the business community and differentiate your products and services from that of your competitor. If you don’t market your products or services, how will people know that you are a serious business owner or worse, in business? With a marketing plan, you will have a game plan in place.

A marketing plan is an integral and valuable tool for determining success of your business and the overall direction that your product or service should be taking. It should:

• Clarify the impact and results of past marketing decisions.
• Elucidate the external market that a company is competing.
• Include deadlines for meeting those targets.
• Prepare a budget for all marketing activities.
• Set objectives and provide path for future marketing efforts.
• Require accountability and measures for all activities.

7 Key Components of a Marketing Plan

Market Research

Gather information about your target market to include competition, business and industry environment.

When researching, answer the following questions:

1. Who are your customers?
2. What do they want or need?
3. What is important to them?
4. Who are your competitors? What are their strengths and weaknesses?
5. What is your businesses environment, locally, regionally, and nationally?
6. Is your industry doing well?
   

Target Market

Potential customers who have issues that or problems which your products or services can fulfill. Generally, people in this segment possess common characteristics and a relatively high tendency to purchase a particular product or service. Included in a target market are demographic, geographic and psychographic characteristics.

Executive Summary

A brief summary which includes the main points of the plan; generally shared with people you approach with your plan, such as investors or lenders who may want to read a synthesized version to determine if they are interested in it before taking the time to read it in depth.

Situation Analysis

The evaluation of operations to determine the reasons for the gap between what was or is expected, and what has happened or will happen.

SWOT Analysis

A formal outline to identify and frame a company’s’ growth opportunities; SWOT is an acronym for an organization's internal Strengths and Weaknesses and external Opportunities and Threats.

Marketing Strategy

A process that allows a company's to concentrate its limited resources on the greatest opportunities to increase sales and achieve a sustainable competitive advantage.

Budget

Estimates tied to specific allocation of revenues. A budget is required to have a successful marketing plan.

• Yearly marketing budget
• Expected return after investment
• Breakdown of expected expenditures

In conclusion, as you can see, a marketing plan serves as your road map. It is critical for the success of your business. If writing a marketing plan seems a little intimidating, click here for FREEtools to help you.

Sylvia Browder is a small business consultant, trainer and author. She is founder of National Association Women on the Rise, a virtual community for aspiring and established women entrepreneurs. For the past 6 years, she has worked as Project Director of the Women's Business Center; and served as an online volunteer SCORE counselor since 2004. For FREE weekly articles go to Sylvia Browder's Blog for Women Entrepreneurs, http://www.sylviabrowder.com.

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If you are like most women in business, you are looking for new strategies to stimulate growth. Whether solutions to better communicate or how to best manage employees, here are 5 Proven Strategies to Accelerate Business Growth:

Expand thru Alliance Partnership

An extremely effective strategy for expanding your business is by forming an alliance with non-competitive companies. This gives you an instant marketing presence in front of potential clients. Do you know other companies to whom you share mutual customers with? You should be running, not walking to find who they are and how you can team up and benefit from each other.

For instance, say you are a broker… idea partnerships would include Realtors, mortgage lenders, title companies, appraisers, insurance agents and home builders. The key to this is to learn as much as you can about each partner’s business so that you can promote it as you would your own. This new strategic alliance will enable each of you to grow more rapidly as you have a sales team working on your behalf. It makes so much sense to work smarter and not harder!

To find businesses that complement yours, jot down every linked product or service that you don’t offer but that is related to what you do.

Here are 3 D’s for a Sound Collaboration:

• Draft an agreement outlining expectations of the partnership
• Develop a bond with your new alliance partners
• Decide how marketing activities will be initiated between partners such as handing out marketing material at various networking functions, exchanging banners and links on websites or share a big marketing project.

Build a High Performing Internal Team

Your employees are the lifeline of your business. Treat them well! Promote a healthy and professional culture so that they share your company’s mission, vision, goals and metrics. In addition, challenge and hold each employee accountable to achieve outstanding results. This requires serious dedication and commitment on your part, but well worth it.

Here are 5 ways to invest in your employees:

• Provide a competitive wage
• Develop a benefit package
• Allow flexible schedules
• Offer professional development thru education and training
• Create advancement opportunities

By providing security for your employees, you’ll have a dedicated and loyal team. This can lead to long-term success of your company.

Join Women Networks

Many of us know the value of networking. As women, it is important to support each other. A great way to do so is by joining and participating in women networks. There is nothing like socializing with like-minded professionals! Networking is one of the most powerful and cost effective marketing tools and lead generation for small businesses.

There are many advantages to joining networks that are targeted and designed by and for women.

For instance, you can:

• Make connections and grow your business
• Learn from industry leaders
• Get answers to your most pressing issues
• Form lasting personal and professional relationships
• Network, brainstorm and empower others in their business pursuits

Go Green Business

Many women are choosing to adapt sustainable and Eco-friendly business practices. Managing a green business is environmentally smart and good for your business's bottom line as it allows you to conserve resources and cut down on waste… thus, saving you money!

Here are 5 Go Green Tips:

• Read email from your computer. Avoid printing to save on paper.
• Use electronic invoices and statements. This saves on postage.
• Scan and email instead of faxing. Again, saves on costs of paper
• Turn off equipment when not in use. This can reduce energy costs by up to 50%.
• Use natural light during the day. Substantial savings on your power bill

These are small and simple ways to go green - but can yield big results!

Pay It Forward

The purpose of Pay It Forward is merely taking the focus off of oneself and finding a way to render an act of kindness that will positively impact another life. With success comes a responsibility to help or support other women. For example, since 2004, I've spent countless hours as a volunteer SCOREcounselor and personally mentor aspiring entrepreneurs.

Here are 3 ways to pay it forward:

• mentor someone
• make a donation to a non-profit agency
• offer to do pro bono work on a project where your skills are needed

In conclusion, due to challenging times, it is important to learn to think outside of the box for innovative ways to grow your business. Once you find strategies that work, the outcome can result in an abundance of customers and increased revenue. 

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Sylvia Browder is a small business consultant, trainer and author. She is founder of National Association Women on the Rise, a virtual community for aspiring and established women entrepreneurs. She has served as a Project Director of a non-profit women’s organization for the last six years and an online volunteer SCORE counselor since 2004. For FREE weekly articles go to Sylvia Browder’s Blog for Women Entrepreneurs, www.sylviabrowder.com.

Fire Up Your Client Attraction now via Social Media - Surefire Keys to Get Clients, Visibility and Profit Using Social Media

What keeps you focused? What do you say when you feel ready to give up? There are moments when as women we simply get drained, and maybe even ready to throw in the towel. However there is a powerful restorative beauty in daily reminders of what is ultimately important to you.

“YOU.WILL.RISE. ->The myth of the phoenix describes the fire-bird who is burned to ashes with its nest. Out of the ashes a new egg is created and a new bird is born, who lives longer and more powerful than the original bird. Your ability to “reborn” after a personal set-back or failed business venture is important to remember. You may fail at some point, but it’s what you learn from the experience that will raise you to another level of excellence that ultimately creates the powerful businesswoman you are.” ~Excerpt from Embrace Your Journey: 180 Day journey of Spiritual Transformation for the Woman Entrepreneur-Day 1 (c) Copyright 2011, 2012 Sum of Her Publishing/Katrina M. Harrell

Below of 107 powerful mantras, reminders and affirmations for you on your wealth journey. Read them print them, share them, commit some of them to memory.

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1. 1. 1. Though it hurts…I will fight
   2. 2. Through my cry…is my triumph
   3. 3. Though I stand out…I’m the missing link
   4. 4. Through my sweat…is my breakthrough
   5. 5. Above all the things I need,  is courage
   6. 6. Though I waiver, I shall not fall
   7. 7. Though I pause, I shall not stop
   8. 8. Though they laugh , I shall smile
   9. 9. Though I’m heavy, my burdens are light
   10. 10. Though it challenges me…I am victorious
   11. 11. There is beauty all around me
   12. 12. There is power in the dark
   13. 13. BE. Is a complete sentence
   14. 14. The seed is the blessing
   15. 15. Sowing the good seed is the purpose of all..
   16. 16. Do not rush the harvest
   17. 17. There is power in incubation
   18. 18. Though it is hidden, it is transforming
   19. 19. Your breath is your life
   20. 20. You only have TIME…to be present
   21. 21. Through your haste, you spoil
   22. 22.Through your quiet you are loud
   23. 23. Through your faith you shall persevere
   24.  24. Though they may appear better, you have yet to shine
   25. 25. Your inadequacy is your power in the wrong space
   26. 26. Protect your peace, create your abundance
   27. 27. They’re not haters, simply the confused
   28. 28. Those that “hate” are confused about their own power
   29. 29. Clean your home…clear your mind
   30. 30. Your abundance is in your home
   31. 31. Your home is the manifestation of your universe
   32. 32. A messy mind creates a messy environment
   33. 33. Treadmills lead to nowhere, but the journey on the open road reveals abundance
   34. 34. Do not desire others to change, desire others to know who they are
   35. 35. The journey is in discovering that we all have the mind of God.
   36. 36. When in doubt…stop and clean
   37. 37. You do not need an answer…you simply need to be BE the answer
   38. 38. Lack of money is lack of order
   39. 39. When you receive the calling…do not shout it aloud…there is power in silence
   40. 40. Your calling requires cultivation
   41. 41. Do not compare that which is incomparable
   42. 42. You have everything you’ve ever asked for…stop looking, start seeking.
   43. 43. An upset stomach is an unbalanced life…
   44. 44. There is power in stillness
   45. 45. There is no lack, only the clog in the flow of abundance
   46. 46. The secret to success is in creating your system
   47. 47. Focus on the process…not the end result
   48. 48. You do not know what you do not experience
   49. 49. You do not understand what you do not learn
   50. 50. Wisdom requires courage
   51. 51. It is great to be seen…but better to be effective
   52. 52. Do not shout before it’s ready
   53. 53. Tears are the windshield cleaner of a cloudy soul
   54. 54. Perception is like a computer…it only outputs what you input, true or not.
   55. 55. All the world is an analogy…should you need the answer, look within.
   56. 56. At the end…I am you, you are me.
   57. 57. No one cares about what you do…only in the energy you bring
   58. 58. In all the chaos…clear the plate
   59. 59. In all the noise…remain still
   60. 60. In all the confusion…most is non important
   61. 61. Do not wait for a wakeup call…
   62. 62. Set the standard to which you shall live by
   63. 63. Even though it hurts…do not stop
   64. 64. Even though they pass you…continue at your pace
   65. 65. Even though they do not respond…continue to love
   66. 66. Even though they do not desire you…continue to grow
   67. 67. Though you may stop…you shall not quit
   68. 68. Though you may fail…you shall pivot
   69. 69. There is peace in a smile
   70. 70. There is power in empathy
   71. 71. Being who you really are…requires courage
   72. 72. Being who we agree to be, requires motivation
   73. 73. Worrying clogs the flow
   74. 74. Though there is not enough, there is plenty
   75. 75. Though they do not see, I shall reveal
   76. 76. Through they do not respond I shall…praise
   77. 77. Though they do not feel, I shall embrace
   78. 78. Though I am complete…it is not done
   79. 79. Though it is not perfect, it is ready
   80. 80. Though I still lack, I am abundant
   81. 81. A lion does not consult the bird
   82. 82. The bird does not request the permission of the worm
   83. 83. The worm does not fret its fate
   84. 84. A confused life is a confused business
   85. 85. A confused business is a wasted purpose
   86. 86. The secret to success is in what you eat
   87. 87. Lose the weight…gain your abundance
   88. 88. Wealth is your birthright
   89. 89. Liberation is in letting go
   90. 90. People do not hear what you say…they feel what you are
   91. 91. They do not need to know your every movement…only your every result
   92. 92. Over planning kills the flow
   93. 93. Control is fear of success in letting go
   94. 94. There is only one thing you must do…be present
   95. 95. Your creative energy is like the ocean…therefore do not haste
   96. 96. Control creates fear
   97. 97. Though you may not fit in…you are the secret ingredient
   98. 98. Children are the good seed…
   99. 99. Without faith…there is no life
   100. 100. If the seed does not harvest…evaluate the soil
   101. 101. Anxiety is the body telling you to slowdown. Stop, refocus on what’s important now
   102. 102. They do not “buy” you because you are not BEing “you”
   103. 103. The blessing is in the fight…the pull, the push, the tenacity…don’t give up
   104. 104. The greatness you see in others…is indeed the greatness you have yet to see in you.
   105. 105. Though they resist, you continue to push
   106. 106. You already know…you simply need the courage to agree and act.
   107. 107. The answer will not come by staring at the computer…but it will come in the stillness of a deeply rooted tree, the lean of the blade of grass towards the sun, the stretch of your limbs in stride, the peace in your mind a midst chaos, the chirp of the bird at the top of the morning, the wind we do not see, the moon that is ever present, the sun that sustains and nurtures, the perfection of the fruit, the restorative beauty of rest, the fall of the leaf, the spoil of the fallen fruit that resurrects new fruit, the laughter of our children. The peace you chose to embrace…no matter what.
   (c) Copyright 2011, 2012 Sum of Her Publishing/Katrina M. Harrell

There is infinite wisdom inside of you, waiting to unleash itself. Let's embark on this journey of self-discovery together. Visit www.amazon.katrinamharrell.com for a groundbreaking best seller written for the spiritual journey of Women entrepreneurs.

I WAS THAT GIRL...THE ONE WHO THOUGHT SHE HAD TO FIX EVERYTHING, CONTROL EVERY OUTCOME AND JUST BE IN CONTROL ALL THE TIME. Until I had a revelation...FEAR is a manmade myth and that when I learn to LET GO I gain control...enjoy the blog post below where I share my insight into my revelation and how you can uncover the same journey for yourself. ~Katrina

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I started my day as normal, clear focused intentions, meditation time and time to give thanks. I’m ready to hit my day swinging focusing on my W.I.N. and making things happen because that’s what creatives do. Then it hit me….my video camera battery was completely out and the video I needed to record early this morning to send to my list for registration to my 21 Day challenge was already 3 hours late. My kids were in full fledge “mommy! mommy!” mode and I felt the twinge of “ugh” reach my belly – an all to familiar feeling of…”FEAR”

I know the signs…frustration, annoyance “why didn’t I charge the camera up last night!!!” and even the feeling of putting off my objective for today for another day (procrastination). ALL the ugly signs of FEAR that in the past would mean I would find myself “fighting” to get through the day, needing to make sacrifices instead of choices. I wasn’t having it…afterall I wrote the book on learning to “let go” and Embrace the real journey of your life. No way I was going to start tripping today.

Instead I did what I have learned to do…I told FEAR to buzz off…in my Martin Lawrence voice I told it to “Get to Steppin’” because I know now that FEAR isn’t real. It’s a manufactured emotion we’ve created when the perception of the world doesn’t happen the way we “think” it should. In other words…I ignored the fear and instead found courage to make a different choice.

Why is Fear a Myth?

It would take me an entire book to explain how I have come and am still evolving to learn that FEAR is a big ole nasty myth that we’ve all purchased, but to put it in few words. Fear is a myth because all that there is is LOVE and ABUNDANCE. We’ve been conditioned to accept fear because we have also been conditioned that we cannot control but should fight to control everything.  You know…the client that doesn’t respond to the email fast enough or even the partner that doesn’t seem to “get” your point of view in business or maybe the product launch that isn’t selling. We feel as though we have to fight every battle in life…with only a few worth fighting. All those creepy thoughts that love to remind you that ‘fear” is a constant thing we must FIGHT-{a daily battle of external manifestations that don’t add up to our PERCEPTION of the world}. The constant reminder of Fear that we’re not good enough, smart enough, have enough money, our kids don’t do enough or fear that we’re not working hard enough to push past generational curses that we are determined not to repeat. So we MUST fight.

Continue to read the full Blog post here...

With the vast amount of social media networks for businesses to select from, how do you narrow it down to the ones that are perfect for your needs? Having thousands at your fingertip to sift thru can become a daunting task!

To streamline the process, ask yourself the Who? What? Where? How?

1. Who are your customers?
2. What are their needs and desires?
3. Where do they live?
4. How much time do you commit to managing social media?
5. How do you search for a ’niche’ network?
6. How do you monitor and protect your online image?

There are literally thousands of social media networks. To decide which will work for your business, it is important to know your customer. Let’s get it straight… EVERYONE is NOT your customer. Though it would be nice to claim them all, it is impossible to be all things to all people. So, it is best to know and understand your target market.

What are their needs and desires?

Do you know why customers buy your product or service? If not, you should make it your business to find out. Ultimately, you want to increase sales and grow your business, right? Well, to do that, you must get inside their heads to learn their needs and desires?

In essence, understanding their needs is extremely important. Ask questions and concentrate on what the customer is really saying. Always paraphrase at the appropriate time to make sure you understand. Check out their body language. Are they at ease or in a defense mode? You should avoid making assumptions as it will only ignite the situation.

Did you know that it costs five to six times as much to get a new customer as it does to keep a current one? Make sure your customer’s needs are taken care of and that you have follow up procedures in place.

Where do they live?

Have you figured out which networks are most frequented by potential and existing customers, vendors or partners? If not, do the research! Developing a strategy begins with targeting the right people. Find the networks that work best. Doing so, you will eventually see a ROI (return on investment).

How much time do you commit to managing social media?

To manage time when using social media can be a juggling act. It is important to allocate a certain amount of time daily or weekly. Monitor what your top distractions are and eliminate them. Find tools that can help you manage multiple platforms.

4 MUST Have Social Tools:

• Hootsuite: a social media management system for businesses to collaboratively execute campaigns across multiple social networks from one secure, web-based dashboard.
• NutshellMail: takes copies of all your latest updates in your social networking accounts and places them in a snapshot email; updates are sent to your primary email address on your schedule.
• Crowdbooster: offers social media analytics with suggestions and tools to help you improve your online presence.
• Zite: a free personalized magazine that automatically learns what you like and gets smarter every time you use it; tracks your data to help personalize your magazine and the magazines of others.

While it’s beneficial to be on major social media networks such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, it is equally important to connect to industry related networks. To find those related to your industry, simply search using key words such as ‘social networks for ‘…’

An Example of 4 ‘Niche’ Networks:

• Business and Technology Experts: http://www.focus.com/
• Event Planners: http://www.weddingsocialnetworking.com/
• Legal: http://www.lawyrs.net/ or http://www.legalplayground.com/
• Real Estate/Construction: http://www.upworld.com/welcome.html

Do you know what people are saying about you or your brand? Negative comments can destroy your credibility. Google alerts will monitor you and your business name. Once you sign up, you will receive alerts when your name or brand is mentioned.

• Google Alerts: http://www.google.com/alerts

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Sylvia Browder is a small business consultant, trainer and author. She is founder of National Association Women on the Rise, a virtual community for aspiring and established women entrepreneurs. She has served as an online volunteer SCORE counselor since 2004. For FREE weekly articles go to Sylvia Browder’s Blog for Women Entrepreneurs, www.sylviabrowder.com.

Ready to UPLEVEL your business and life? Learn more about our new membershipprogram.

Register TODAY for our weekly ezine, http://sylviabrowder.com/free-weekly-e-zine.html

Encourage Yourself

© 2012 Robin Tramble

Do you find yourself overjoyed, excited and passionate
about the things Father God has called you to do only to
discover when life happens that you cannot sustain your
joy, excitement and passion?

Don’t feel bad this happens to us all. One thing you must know
is that it is not to be sustained within your own strength. We must
lean on Father God’s strength, tap into FAITH and allow Him to
work through us. Even knowing this there will be times that you just
can’t pull it together to persevere. Life may happen and hit you so hard
that you just don’t see your way.

I’d like to direct you to a story in the bible. It’s a story about David.
And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.

David’s men murmured and complained some even turned against him. David had every reason to do the same, to give up and to lose heart, however, he trusted in God, encouraged himself and found himself promoted not long after.

What is it that has your heart heavy? Do you know your Father God? This is where we miss it. We know about the bible, what the bible says about God, however, we don’t truly know God. Learn more about Him, know His names. Here are a few….

Jehovah Jireh “The Lord God who provides” Jehovah Shammah “The God who is always there” El Shaddai “More than enough, able to reverse natural law and accelerate time!” Baal Perizim God of Breakthrough as unto a flood, Jehovah Shalom “God of Peace, nothing missing, nothing broken, wholeness in every area of our life!” Jehovah Rapha “God our healer” Hallelujah, praise God and AMEN.

You may know a few more. Encourage yourself by exalting His name, encourage yourself through worship, praise, prayer, reading the word of God. Encourage yourself by remembering how He’s brought you through, made a way out of no way! Encourage yourself by journaling what you’re grateful for. Got it?

Alright. Be encouraged. God is with you!
______________________________________________________________
Want to use this article in your newsletter,Ezine on our website
or blog? You can as long as you include the blurb below and retrieve
the entire post
Robin Tramble empowers Savvy Women, aspiring, new and enterprising
women entrepreneurs to manifest their bold, brilliant, confident and empowered
self, get laser focused, get out there in a BIG way, while prospering and making
a difference in the world “authentically!” You can experience a taste of her
EMPOWERMENT via her 6 day ecourse “Empowered 4 success” http://bit.ly/empowered4success 

 _______________________________________________________________________

I’d like to encourage you with a special gift offer. My No Limite Empowerment Digital Series. It was an empowering virtual event for dynamic women who raised their hand, invested a small fee to receive from my ministry and business gifts for their personal, spiritual and professional empowerment. You can own this series for $1.97 for a limited time. That’s right only $1.97. I’d like to invest in you and your empowering success. Click here now to invest in your copy of this Empowering series. You’ll receive 2 spiritual empowerment audios that include empowering insights and a powerful prayer at the end. Thank you for raising your hand to glean from my ministry and business expertise.

What is Internet Branding?

Internet branding is one strategy that business owners can employ to establishing their position in the marketplace. Even well-established companies are investing on creating an online brand reputation since internet branding strategies have also produced massive impact on a brand's effort to expand. This is most important these days wherein the internet has taken on a significant role in the everyday lives of the consumers. Hence, you need to utilize it as one of the means that you can communicate your message to them.

With internet branding, you are basically utilizing the tools provided by the internet as a leverage to all your marketing efforts. The objective with using the internet as a medium for promoting your brand works the same way as any other branding methods, which is to increase the demand for the products in your brand.

Importance of Internet Branding

Every business owner is aware of the benefits that a good brand can make for your company. Since the brand is basically what distinguishes you from any other companies that offer the same product or service, you must execute your branding strategies properly to produce the results you want. Take a look at some successful brands in the industry, who have become so distinct to the point wherein their names have been associated with a certain product. This is what business owners must try to aim for.

In business terms, this is referred to as brand positioning. It establishes the main locus of your product to the target market. Therefore, you will be utilizing the specific features that makes your product distinct from the other and use that as a focus of your message in the internet branding effort. Indeed, product differentiation and product positioning are closely linked to one another. These are two basic ploys that you can utilize in your internet branding strategies to “own” a segment of the market and produce a loyal customer base from that.

Is It Worth Investing In?

Several companies and brands have worked so hard on establishing their brand and yet they fail to look into the possibilities of producing an online brand. Hence, they lose that advantage to other brands who worked on appealing to the consumers and making their offer known.

However, if you opt to embark on an internet branding strategy, you must not also neglect the positive value or message that you are trying to impart with regards to your company. To sum it up, a good internet branding strategy is worth your investment. So, don't just go right into an online campaign for your brand. It must be something that is a product of your thorough evaluation and planning.

What About Small Businesses?

Despite the large impact of the online industry in people's lives these days, it is only projected to grow in the years to come. Hence, this makes the internet an even more reliable avenue to expand their marketing efforts. The best thing about the internet is that it provides an even playing field for big- and small-time businesses to promote their brand. Even new businesses can utilize the internet as a means to position their brand and make their existence known in the market. So, it's no longer new these days to have new products or brands introduced online as it is one of the fastest growing industries today.

And yet, the benefits of offering your products and brand to a larger market is beneficial for small time businesses since potential buyers can focus only on the quality of service and performance. By maintaining the value and continually differentiating your product, then internet branding will offer several potential benefits for your business.

Happy weekend Everyone! .Take a look at my unique handmade Crochet jewelry pieces & accessories!!!!

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Where can women find reliable resources to assist in the realization of empowerment “Spirit, soul and body?” Robin Tramble aka The Empowerment Diva launches a 6 week ecoaching program “Extraordinary woman, Extraordinary life!”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Apr 20 2012 - 
Where can women find reliable resources to assist in the realization of empowerment “Spirit, soul and body?”  Robin Tramble aka The Empowerment Diva launches a 6 week  ecoaching program “Extraordinary woman, Extraordinary life!”


Elk Grove, CA  April 20, 2012 – Women are becoming overwhelmed as a result of the economic downturn and some are finding themselves stuck, unable to grasp hold of the energy and persistence to move forward. Some are becoming sole earners in their homes as husbands are in transition from either being laid off or other reasons that have led to their current unemployment.  Although it has been stated that we may see relief, women are still needing and wanting programs and systems that will assist them in their endeavor to live their best empowered life, allowing them to thrive in the midst of any financial crisis, according to Robin Tramble, CEO and Visionary of Robin Tramble International.


“It is apparent that there is an echo, a sound of fear, confusion, discouragement and possible defeat. You can choose to survive or take action and thrive in 2012! Empowerment is a choice and women must become decisive action taking women if they're going to manifest their best empowered life.”  Having experienced some of the same things and now living a life of empowerment through learned systems and experience I can passionately share strategies and keys to discover your authentic self, get unstuck, overcome overwhelm, fear and how to stay focused in crisis. I have also been rewarded with witnessing the impact it has had on raising 4 children who are now all successful in their own rights.

The Empowerment Diva mentors, trains and coaches savvy women, aspiring, new and enterprising entrepreneurial women as they strive to realize their personal, spiritual and professional goals. Robin Tramble The Empowerment Diva is currently launching a 6 week eCoaching program complete with Bonus live calls for exponential personal, spiritual and business growth.


The three components are Spiritual workout, Body works and prosper your soul (mind, will and emotions)..

The Extraordinary woman, Extraordinary life ecoaching program is an excellent resource for women who desire to be equipped with keys and strategies to empower them to move to another level in their lives manifesting maximum empowerment and becoming an extraordinary woman leading an extraordinary life. When you take care of the internal structure you are laying a sure foundation for the external which renders a great return for business and ministry success.


“It’s the place to be for breakthrough results and to join with like-minded women from across the world in one place striving for their best empowered extraordinary life” Says Robin Tramble

Enrollment is being received here http://bit.ly/extraordinarywomanprogram

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About Robin Tramble International

Robin Tramble aka The Empowerment Diva is a definitive resource for savvy women, aspiring, new and enterprising entrepreneurial women. The Empowerment Diva passionately empowers women to live their best empowered life via a vast array of empowering resources for the express purpose of assisting them as they strive to realize their dreams and desires. 

Robin Tramble is qualified to mentor women in their life empowerment journey through her training, experience in the work force, education, working at home and personal experiences. 

Robin Tramble is also an author and recoding artist and plans to creatively combine her music into another empowering resource for women.

Find out more about here at http://www.Authenticlifeempowerment.com

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An unhealthy soul can destroy your life!

How’s your soul? Do you need a healing for your soul (mind, will and emotions)? An unhealthy soul will cause you to display disempowering habits. An unhealthy soul will render unhealthy relationships. An unhealthy soul can block the anointing. An unhealthy soul can block “The blessing!” Soul Prosperity is what you need.

Unchain Your Soul Prosperity!

What does a healthy soul have to do with prosperity? Well we read in the word Beloved I wish above all things that you would prosper and be in health EVEN as your soul prospers. It wasn’t coincidental that Father God added, “even as your soul prospers.” He was very specific about the fact that you should be prospering your soul. Are you intentional about your soul prosperity? No prosperity isn’t just about money it’s actually abundance in every area of your life!

If you’re having a challenge in your relationships, business, ministry, your life, you might want to take a peak at your soul and don’t just peak at it do something about it.

Your soul comprises of your mind, will and emotions. An unhealthy soul is at the very core of some of your self sabotage, it is what separates the empowered,fruitful child of God from the one that is up and down, pretentious, unfruitful, unstable and more.

Isn’t it time you had a healing for your soul?

If you enjoyed this Sunday Inspiration and you want to go deeper, I invite you to join other dynamic women and I for the next call in my Telesries entitled “Be unstoppable. Healing for your Soul! The 7 irrefutable keys to unchain your soul prosperity.”

If you’re not registered go here to gain access to this power-packed, empowering and transformational event for women.

When: Wednesday, April 18 at 1:00 PT, 3:00 CT, 4:00 ET. Can’t make the live call? The replay will be available to all registrants.

Say this “I’m living the Extraordinary, Glorious and Blessed Life!”

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Want to use this article in your newsletter,Ezine on our website or blog? You can as long as you include the blurb below and retrieve the entire post. Robin Tramble empowers Savvy Women, aspiring, new and enterprising women entrepreneurs to manifest their bold, brilliant, confident and empowered self, get laser focused, get out there in a BIG way, while prospering and making a difference in the world “authentically!” You can experience a taste of her EMPOWERMENT via her 6 day ecourse “Empowered 4 success”http://bit.ly/empowered4success

Got Clients? Quick and easy tips to help you attract clients.

Do you have a plan in place to attract your ideal clients? I know attraction is not the end all in your client getting strategy, however, you do need to attract them to sign them or ask them and better yet wow them so that they ask you where they pay or sign on the line?

As a woman entrepreneur it’s easy to get side tracked and major on
the minors. One of the things you may not spend enough time on is
marketing, but without marketing you won’t have clients/customers and
without clients/customers you’re not in business for long.

So how do you attract clients? Great question.

I’m going to share a few tips with you below. Some you may be aware of but
just aren’t doing them or you may be new and don’t know where to begin.

One simple way is your signature. You can add a small blurb at the end
of your outgoing emails. Most providers have it set up where it automatically attaches to the end of your email. You want the most prominent information at the top. If you most want them to visit your website to get your free report, audio etc. then you want to put that at the top and maybe your title beneath.

Another place is in forums and network blogs. A caution on network blogs make
sure that this is allowed. Depending on the mission of the network you may not be allowed to add your signature at the end of your posts. Don’t start off promoting immediately in the forums. Get to know the people there. Watch for conversations that you can lend your expertise to and post. Attach your signature to the end of your posts.

Provide an IFO on your blog or website
What? No opt in box on your blog or website? You bet. There are many sites I visit that don’t have any way to capture their leads or the information from prospects that show up to their site. Most individuals will never invest in you products upon their first visit, so you must have a value added IFO (irresistible free offer) ready for them to raise their hand to provide their information in exchange for your value added IFO. Notice I said value added.

There are many ways to attract clients, however, if you start here you will find that it makes a world of difference. I wasn’t adding my signature at one point not because I didn’t know but because I just didn’t take the time to do it. Once I did I started adding more people to my list.

There is a lot more that goes into attracting clients and one thing is to make sure you are attracting your ideal client. Your ideal client wants your solutions, is ready and willing to pay you for your results driven solutions.

The key is being visible to the right market, niche, sending the right message, showing yourself as an authority in your area, adding value and building relationships.

Want to learn more about attracting your ideal clients? Join me for my ULTIMATE “Marketing YOU” party! 21 JUICY ways to Confidently Get Your Message Out There, Get Leads, Clients and Profits “Authentically!”

This will be one of the most electrifying and empowering training events that I’ve done and I’ve facilitated a few.

Register, put this on your calendar, and commit to showing up. Success is 80% showing up. Get Your favorite glass, champagne glass and fill with your favorite nutritious drink and get ready for my BIZ Rockin’ Event because that’s what superstars do right? Talk to you soon “superstar! Click here to request your VIP access to my “Marketing YOU” TRAINING event!

As always I welcome your comments.

Robin aka The Empowerment Diva
EMPOWERMENT and Certified Social Media Marketing
Campaign Specialist

In a recent conversation with a friend who is CEO of a construction company, I explained how doing business with the government could potentially take her business to the next level. She shared her frustration at responding to RFP (request for proposal). She had bid on many over the years and each time, they were awarded to the same male owned businesses! She then blurted, “If only I could think like a man… I could have won some of those contracts!”

Hmmm, is she right? Do women need to imitate men to be more competitive in business? Should a woman ‘think like a man’ to be more successful in business? Maybe OR maybe not!

Can an Assertive Woman Get What She Wants?

While it is acceptable for men to be assertive; on the other hand, women who go after what they want without apologizing along the way are viewed as aggressive or worse, a witch (drop the ‘w’ and add ‘b’). So, how can women use this to their advantage?

Women can:

• Be Firm: whether it’s a handshake or the price of your services! We’ve all done it before; lowered the price of our products or services for the sake of closing the deal or meeting the needs of a potential client. Avoid this behavior! By doing so compromise your expertise and integrity.

• Speak up: let your voice be heard. ‘Say what you mean… and mean what you say!’ Stand firm in your beliefs! When engaged in a discussion, ensure that others understand your message and are able to communicate any questions or concerns as appropriate.

• Play the Part. It is imperative that you look the part of a successful and self-assured entrepreneur. Whether meeting with a potential client or business partner, attending networking event or giving a speech, IMAGE is EVERYTHING! Give a firm handshake, establish eye contact and engage others.
  

Afraid to Take a ‘Chance?’ Odds of Winning… 50/50!

Men are encouraged to take chances. The unknowndoesn’t scare them as it’s a part of doing business. Most women shy away from situations that are uncomfortable or daring.

To take advantage of this strength, it is crucial for women to evaluate, manage and take risk in business. Say you are faced with a challenge and pondering if it is worth taking a chance. Ask yourself:

1. What is the worst thing that could happen if things went amiss?
2. If it happened, how would you handle it?
3. What positive things could you learn from this situation, regardless of the conclusion?

Life is full of chances! By embracing challenges and obstacles head on, lessons learned from them is well worth it!

Men vs Women in Networking… Which Gender is More Effective?

Men are very skilled at networking. They take full advantage on the golf course, during happy hours and at other informal settings. They cut to the chase and go from introduction to deal.

Women believe in the importance of ‘know, like and trust’which eventually cultivate into business. They develop great relationships but don’t take advantage of their interpersonal or social strengths.

Statistics show that 70% of new business is generated from referrals from networking events. In a recent article, Nicole Williams, author of "Girl on Top: Your Guide to Turning Dating Rules into Career Success,” says, “Women tend to equate networking with "schmoozing" or handing out business cards. In reality, networking is about building relationships before you actually need them."

While women have different strengths and communication styles than men, there are a few simple tips to help in getting the most BANGout of a networking event.

• Create a Mini Action Plan for Every Event. When attending an event, it behooves you to know who will be there. Take time to research the purpose of the event, attendees, presenters, vendors and businesses. Then you can decide who you want to connect with. Imagine meeting a potential client and acknowledge a recent award they received.

• Practice your Pitch. You will meet a lot of people and have the opportunity of introducing yourself and business. Make sure your message is clear and concise. Fine tune your elevator pitch to make the most of your conversation.
  

• Follow Up. Within the next week, make sure you follow up with e-mails, phone calls or a simple letter. The key is to connect with potential people that can be beneficial to your company. For most women, this is the easy part as they tend to be thorough with follow-up, delivery of promised information, or promptly scheduling of meetings.

In conclusion, it’s apparent that women and men speak different languages. Neither gender is all right or all wrong. So, it is not necessary for them to ‘Think like a man,’ rather; learn from what they are doing right!

About Author: Sylvia Browder is a small business consultant, trainer and author. She is founder of National Association Women on the Rise, a virtual community for aspiring and established women entrepreneurs. She has served as an online volunteer SCORE counselor since 2004. For FREE weekly articles go to Sylvia Browder’s Blog for Women Entrepreneurs, www.sylviabrowder.com. She can be contacted at info@sylviabrowder.com.

As the CEO of your business, I think it's most important to evaluate and know the results you're looking for each week.  That won't happen if you don't have clarity in your business and if you haven't identified the "to-do" items that will support your goals.

So, I'd like to share 3 things that you can do to have a successful business week every week:

1. Gain Clarity on what you want to experience for the week financially.  Now divide that figure by the average cost of your service or product and it will give you how many customers you'll need. Stay focused on that number and write down at least 5 ways to reach your goal.

2. Identify 3-5 new contacts to connect with each week (daily M-F).  Create a script in advance and remember that if they have a business allow them to share what they do as well.  Discuss ways you can help one another and directly ask if he or she could use your product or service at this time.

2. Review your schedule every Sunday evening.  If there are any business to-do items, appointments or activities that don't support you meeting your  overall business vision or goals for the week - eliminate them.

Here's to your business success!
Trina

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Empowerment refers to increasing the spiritual, political, social, or economic strength of individuals and communities. It often involves the empowered developing confidence in their own capacities. Wikipedia

Do you think women’s empowerment is even necessary? What are your thoughts about empowerment? We are so accustomed to running with new concepts, theories and such that we fail to fully understand the true essence. I believe this is what happens with the concept of women’s empowerment.

The process of empowerment The process which enables individuals/groups to fully access personal/collective power, authority and influence, and to employ that strength when engaging with other people, institutions or society. In other words, “Empowerment is not giving people power, people already have plenty of power, in the wealth of their knowledge and motivation, to do their jobs magnificently We define empowerment as letting this power out (Blanchard, K).” It encourages people to gain the skills and knowledge that will allow them to overcome obstacles in life or work environment and ultimately, help them develop within themselves or in the society. Wikipedia

If you are going to be equipped for the mission you’ve set forth for your business and life, empowerment is a needed ingredient in your recipe for the realization of a juicy manifestation of empowering success.

Show me a woman who is empowered and I’ll show you an unstoppable woman.

Empowerment is a choice. Empowerment doesn’t chase you down and beg to be part of your journey. You must choose to seek out resources that will allow you to maximize your empowerment.

You are a spirit, you have a soul and you live in a body. Each must be nurtured if they’re going to be and remain strong, even so for your personal, spiritual and business life. This has been said to be a male dominated world and as such women must become empowered to stand in their own power, to step up and play a bigger game. You must be confident in yourself and the gifts that you have to offer to the world. Let’s take it a step further for those of you who may be dealing with fear, when you are confident of God in you it “trumps” fear.

Is women’s empowerment necessary? Yes, if you’re going to have a competitive advantage and differentiate yourself in the marketplace. Whether you’re in the corporate world, a work at home mom, woman entrepreneur, stay at home mom, wife, leader in ministry, single mom, executive etc. make the choice for maximum empowerment today!

Here’s a biblical reference to empowerment . . . In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [be empowered through your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides]. Ephesians 6:10 Amplified version

If you’re ready right now to take charge of your life, join dynamic women and I for my Teleseries “Revealed: Essential Divalicious Success Secrets for an Extraordinary Life and Business.” Click here to learn more and get started.

Create and Enjoy Empowering Success. Say yes to The Rich Life, Best Life, Good Life, and Extraordinary Glorious Life!

What does empowerment mean to you?