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4 Starter Companies to Help Get Bad-Credit-Business-Loans Business loans are very difficult to obtain in today’s challenging economy especially if you have bad credit. Many people are closing their small-businesses because they have bad credit. Lenders such as banks and credit unions have even made if hard on people with good credit scores.

Now, that does now mean it’s impossible to get business funding with bad credit, it just means you have to be a little more creative. The creative process starts by finding trade vendors that will give you credit regardless of your personal-credit. I done a little research and found 4 trade vendors or net 30 companies that would be more than willing to help you startup you business-credit file. If you order from these companies first, they will automatically create you a Dun and Bradstreet report that way you don’t have to purchase their product just to get a Dun’s number.

The four companies that will give you credit regardless of your personal-credit are Grainger, Nebs, Uline and Rapid Forms. You do not have to pay up front they will automatically give you trade vendor credit to help you establish yourself for a business loans and create a paydex score with Dun and Bradstreet.

This is just an alternative to helping you get funding with bad-credit. If you would like to get you’re personal-credit repaired in less than 30 business days then I recommend you check out Good Credit Union (http://www.goodcreditunion.com/), there fast reliable and comes with a 100% money back guarantee.

It happened.

Your heart is pounding,

Your palms are sweating

You’re stuttering and fumbling over your words

Your stomach starts to turn flips and you secretly wish the sky would fall so you have a valid excuse to end this situation – IMMEDIATELY.

No matter the level of your business – whether you are new or seasoned, it’s inevitable, you will experience challenges. They may all appear different but they all have similar underlying emotions.

they create fear, anxiety, frustration and even in some cases horrible procrastination (I’m looking at you Dream list that’s collecting dust).

I’ve had my own share of challenges since starting my journey in entrepreneurship over 5 years ago – even in the midst of tremendous success and recognition  I still struggled with work-life “balance”, learning the fine art form of attracting the RIGHT customers (I’ve never had issues in attracting but in attracting the right customers consistently, I learned a while ago is a fine art) The beauty of challenges however that many entrepreneurs often overlook is that they also create tremendous opportunities when you’ve learned to master the art of “CALL & RESPONSE” instead of “REACTION”

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My eldest child plays soccer.  She's pretty good at it too.  And this year, her team moved up to Division 1 so things are exceptionally competitive.

When she was younger, the "Princess" was always ultra polite - one of those kids who all the teachers fawn over because she said, "please" and "thank you".  I suppose that's not a commonality much anymore.  But that streak of politeness doesn't work very well when you play competitive sports.  You have to be pretty tough and thick-skinned.

Now that she's older, the Princess still has a very quiet strength about her.  She is at the stage now where her feelings are fragile (she's a tweener), but she gets assertive on the field because her goal is clear as a Forward - be in front position to get the ball to and into the net.

This week, while she was targeting the goal, a kid on the other team recognized her skill and honed in on her.  The competitor started hounding her pretty hard verbally and physically...to the point that she was elbowing the Princess constantly.  At one point, she elbowed her so hard in the ribs she went down, tears in her eyes and a defeated look on her generally smiling face.  Things didn't look good.

I waited until half time and went over to check on her.  When I got there, I looked her in the eye and asked her how she was.  Although she responded quietly, "fine", I could tell her eyes were saying, "she's getting to me".  I told her I knew she was stronger than that but for the rest of the game, that girl took the fight out of my Princess.

You know I gave her 'the talk' on the drive home, right?  But in my heart I knew none of that would matter until SHE knew she was strong enough to overcome the pain and that much of it was in her own mind.

As I prayed about it later on, I had a revelation.  It was this -- how often do we allow our dreams to be sidetracked and wiped out because of FEAR?  It can creep up on you, whisper things in your ear that tell you "you're not good enough" or " you can't do this" and when you listen and let it knock you down, you lose sight of the goal -- the main reason why you're even playing the game.  Your business and your personal life suffer when you let Fear get the best of you.

Like I told the Princess, we have to never let our fear see us sweat - it may be there, but you look it in the eye and you show it just how good you are. Never lose sight of the goal. Because just like the game that night? We were destined to win and it happened anyway - in spite of what fear tried to do.  It can kick your butt and you may even need a little Tylenol afterwards, but don't let fear put you out of the game.

Get your theme song going in your head.  Mine is by Mary Mary and it's called Get Up.

Some of the words go like this,

"What are you afraid of? Don't you know what you're made of? One of God's greatest creations. Take this invitation now.
Get up, 'cause you can't stop. Get up, got a lot to do. 24 hours, almost gone.
Get up, don't sit back. Get up, if you wanna get there. Clocks don't stop and time won't wait."

Just remember, you have the power to choose - keep your head in the game, or let fear bully you into giving up. What's it going to be?

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About the Author: Tanya Smith is a creative business strategist and coach specializing in showing independent service providers how to simplify, save time & stand out with simple strategies that engage more quality leads and clients. Her company Be Promotable provides fresh actionable strategies and virtual resources to promote business owners as power players in their market. Get free tools to simplify and stand out online at: www.tanyasmithonline.com

When you are inclined in the profession of hair styling, perhaps one of your greatest dreams is to be part of the few yet very good top hair dressers in your country or even in the world. It’s a very difficult journey but not an impossible one. It is not even impossible for those who have no knowledge and zero training at all, for the most important factor to be successful in this field is your determination, commitment, and your very own unique eyes. If it’s possible to be the industry’s leader, where should you start?

1. Start by acquainting yourself with the numerous hair cutting and styling methods and techniques. This would eventually consume bulk of your time. Even when you already consider yourself as a professional, there are still some items to consider and lessons to learn. An aspiring top hair stylist will not progress when there are gaps and omissions in his or her learning curve. Neither can he or she keep up with competition if he or she is unaware of cuts and styles others are offering.

2. Start with a few yet loyal clienteles. Though you would want to be recognized by as many people as possible to be the best hair stylist, it still pays to be patient and let the laws of nature and economics take their course. Concentrate on giving your best shot even with a few clients that you currently have, for the good news (your very good work) will eventually spread out. Instead of allotting your time massively promoting your services elsewhere, just prepare for the load of referrals that your current customers may provide when you get your job done exceptionally.

3. The industry leaders have keen pair of eyes capable of identifying hair styles whether they look good or exceptionally good. They are concentrated on providing the latter. Getting a haircut and hair styling done good means that your work is merely acceptable and is common. Creating an exceptional look suggests that your work is hailed above the average and an exception to what is acceptable, that it is somewhat unique and can only be tagged as your own creation.

4. Bring your imaginations to life. Most of the time, the best hair stylist can already imagine the perfect cut, twists, and curls at the mere instant of seeing the client’s hair. It’s a very good sign of an artistic and skillful mind. Implement all your planned creations however odd-looking they may be. The top hair stylists of today made their mark with the help of their crazy ideas.

5. Search for a good mentor. Aside from the lessons which may be imparted to you, explore more for other ideas. Join seminars and conventions on hair styling. When given an opportunity, seek employment under one of the best hair and fashion stylist in your country or area, even just as an assistant. You will eventually learn some tips and tricks by mere watching and listening.

6. Establish communication or a strong relationship with each of your client. If possible, get to know their personalities and lifestyles. It’s not only a form of excellent customer service but also a chance for you to learn even more.

About Author:

Charlotte Howard is a Celebrity Radio Host, Salon Business Expert, Lifestyle Coach, Hair Artist, Author and Founder of The Hair Artist Association teaching about the power of Beauty!

Moving Your Business from Potential to Profitability in 2013

Entrepreneurs – as you think about your business plan for 2013, consider the following questions:

• Did your gross receipts exceed the level of effort and resources put in the business in 2012? (This answer indicates whether you have a business, per IRS standards, or just a hobby)
• Are you aware of the substantial changes in your industry that will impact your business next year? (This includes new technologies, new competitors, new laws, etc.)
• If Business Growth is one of your goals for 2013, have you already figured out what will be the “RIGHT” type of growth? (i.e. not just more clients, but the clients with whom you will have continuous sales next year)
• If you are a Coach or Speaker, what “new” insights, services or products do you plan to bring to your clients or audiences next year? (In other words, what will make you stand apart from all the others in your field?)

As a solo entrepreneur or a small business owner, you may have the “potential” to make millions, but if you have not mapped out a strategy for addressing issues such as the ones listed above, increasing your profitability in 2013 is unlikely. Your business plan outlines your business structure, but a solid strategy is the bridge to get you to your destination.

As entrepreneurs, we must relentlessly pursue our highest level of potential in business. Utilizing our full potential empowers us to serve the world with our unique gifts and talents, while being compensated accordingly for doing so. I believe that every entrepreneur should strive for extraordinary success. If you know the precise destination in which you’d like to take your company, then you have a definite target for which to aim.

First, let’s look at why you need a strategy and not just a business plan:

• Business plans are essential to have, but they are used primarily to start a business, obtain funding, or direct ongoing operations
• A strategic plan is used to provide focus, direction and action in order to move your business from where it is now to where you want to go
• A strategic plan is critical for prioritizing your three most valuable, but limited resources (time, talent and capital) to grow the revenue and increase the return on investment
• A strategic plan focuses on building a sustainable competitive advantage and is futuristic in nature

Strategy helps you make clear and conscious choices about the direction of your company in relation to what’s happening in the dynamic business environment. Armed with strategic knowledge, you’re in a much better position to respond proactively to a changing environment.

Second, let’s review some of the fine points and benefits of small business strategy:

• To establish a unique value proposition as compared to your competitors
• To enable you to do the RIGHT things at the RIGHT time
• To identify the tradeoffs and clarify what you should not do
• To focus on activities that fit together and reinforce each other
• To execute your business plan in a way that provides distinct and tailored value to customers

Third, strategic planning is the most effective way to “position” your solo venture or small business for success and profitability. Positioning helps you align your business activities with the goals that you have set and it helps differentiate your products and services from others in the mind of the consumer. If you think positioning your business strategically is an easy task, consider the following senarios:

• The owner of a local bakery wants to remain small and local, but needs to increase profits. How should the owner adjust and align all business activities, including operations, inventory, marketing and customer service in order to achieve these goals in 2013?
• A clothing designer wants to position her business to grow into a much bigger regional or national company in 2013. In what way would she need to adjust operations and inventory to cater to a broader client base? How will the owner develop the distribution channels needed to achieve this goal? How much will she need to invest initially – before profits?
• A Health & Wellness Coach has been planning to launch a new suite of wellness products in 2013. She just found out that another contender in the market is also launching a similar suite of products with a sophisticated online portal at a much lower rate. The competitor is also positioning themselves to become a player in the healthcare exchange market in 2014. How should this Coach adjust her go-to-market strategy?

These are actal strategy senarios from three of my current clients. As you can see, developing a profitable and competitive strategy is much more complex than just putting together a business plan. You have to know the direction you want your company or solo venture to take, understand how to position yourself, and align the various elements of your enterprise with that directional goal. This avoids wasting time and effort on activities that don't add to your bottom line.

I realize that it’s not easy, so I want to help you develop a solid Game Plan for your business in 2013. Because I want you to succeed, you don’t have to work through this process alone. Joined by two other phenomenal business coaches (Chloe Taylor Brown and Cheryl Budden Earls), we have scheduled two workshops in an effort to coach and train you in the development of your “2013 Strategic Play Book”!

Follow the link below to find out more about the Strategic Coaching Workshops that I'll be offering in December, with Chloe Taylor Brown and Cheryl Budden Earls! Armed with the right strategy, you can Rock 2013 and drastically increase your profitability!

Click Here To Get Started with the 2013 Small Business Prosperity Challenge Today: www.moniquestoner.com/2013-prosperity-challenge. It's totally FREE & there's no obligation.

Also, for additional 2013 Business Planning Tips, read my Five Steps to Business Success in 2013 article - http://www.moniquestoner.com/five-steps-to-business-success-in-2013/

If you are a small business and have not yet established an online presence, then you are missing out on a great opportunity to generate more revenue and profit for your company. As of early 2012, reports have shown that there were 2.4 billion internet users worldwide. The internet has become a great tool for buying and selling products and services, sharing files, communicating with friends and family, entertainment, education and many other activities. Many small businesses that acknowledge this fact have taken steps to build an online presence. Let us look at five top reasons why a website is good for your business.

People Are Online

As a consultant assisting women in business in rural Southern Alabama, I regularly get asked, “Since my business is very small and I only sell my products or services locally, do I really need a website?” My answer is always the same… YES! If you are a business owner, you need to have an internet presence. Here’s why:

• Statistics have shown that about 2.2 billion people used the internet in 2011 - nearly a third of the earth's population.
• More than $256 billion were spent by internet shoppers in 2011.
• Current buying trends show that people purchase everything from books, jewelry, vehicles to live stock and real estate.
• The number of people that make use of the internet every day is on the increase. This means about 70% of the earth's population have access to it.
• Online shopping has become a normal activity for many internet users. It has proved to be more convenient and cheaper for them.

As you can see, being a small company does not matter when it comes to potential benefits from having a web presence.

Enhance Your Credibility

Since majority of the earth's population make use of the internet, a website is the best way to tell the world about you and your company. This is also an opportunity to explain why you deserve their confidence and trust. In fact, internet users today expect serious business owners to have an online presence. They use the internet to research before buying products and services. Therefore, a website is a great tool to provide useful information about your business and convince your audience that you offer the best product or service. Here are 4 ways to increase credibility to your website:

• Update your website with pertinent and relevant information on a regular basis
• Offer visitors with quick and flexible answers to their needs
• Post testimonials from satisfied customers
• Provide visitors with a comment section and make sure you respond in a timely manner

A well designed, informative and updated website will add credibility to your business and strengthen your brand.

Search Engine Optimization

Are your competitors outranking you in search results? Imagine a potential customer searching “Animal Clinic San Diego” and the results place your top 5 competitors on the first page while your website is ‘MIA’ (missing in action). Search engines such as Google, Yahoo and Mozilla will return the results that are most relevant.

A website that is designed to be an effective Internet marketing tool will increase your website traffic. This internet marketing technique is referred to as Search Engine Optimization. By generating quality back links and creating optimized content, you become an authority before search engines and increase the number of visitors that come to your website.

Global Presence

Imagine serving customers around the world? Since information is always available, people from all over the world can visit your website anytime; and inquire about the products or services that you offer. A website gives you a global footprint exposing you to an international market.

24/7 Exposure

Wouldn’t you like to wake up each morning and ‘ch-ching’ money has magically appeared in your business account? No magic… just a reality for many entrepreneurs. Having a website allows customers to purchase from you 24/7. Your website is sales machine, always open and making sales on your behalf.

I get daily requests for access to my blog. Here are excerpts of two emails that I received this week for access:

“We would like to send you high quality articles that fit your audience… 1 link going to our client's site to each post… pay you $20 per post… send articles in bulk.”

“We will pay you $30 for each article you post… basically our article is related with education”

In conclusion, as you can see, having a professional and optimized website is an important tool in your marketing strategy and a great way to position your company for global exposure.

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

One of the biggest challenges to competing in an online marketplace is to know confidently what sets you apart from the rest of the pack. This value you add for customers, compared to others out there doing what you do, is referred to as your unique value proposition (UVP), also referred to in some circles as your unique selling proposition.

Why should someone invest their time, money, and effort with you instead of someone else? What extra value can you bring to the table? Look closely at what you would like to offer to people as part of your business model. Then, you’ll need to answer the following questions for your online business.

1. What is your offer?

Lay out the details of the product or service you plan to sell. Outline the features in detail. What does your service or product do and what does the package look like? For example, is it a 7 day ecourse on how to set up a blog in Wordpress? Is it a 90 day coaching program that gives people direct access to you personally via telephone? Be very specific.

2. How does your offer solve customers' problems?

How does your product or service offering solve your client’s problems? State the problems your target customer is facing, which you should know from having done your market research. Then describe how each feature of your product or service solves those problems. Think about how your customer would see your solution, not knowing you at all. If you can answer the question “What’s in it for me?” from the customer’s viewpoint, you’re already halfway there.

3. What is different about your service or product offer?

You have to look at ways to create a product or service that are distinct from your industry competitors. Sure you can try the "yeah, me too" site, but it will be much more difficult in the long run to distinguish between your offer and the person next door. How is your solution different from other providers? Are you offering something extra, such as live training or additional done-for-you services? Do you offer your product in multiple formats, such as audio or video? Do you provide extra resources or tools to make your solution easier to use? If you can’t figure out any features that are different about your product, now is a good time to get creative.

4. Why should a customer buy from you vs. your competitors?

This is probably the toughest part of creating your UVP. It will also be one of the most important parts of your sales and marketing copy. So here's what you do --- tie together the problems your potential clients are facing, the features of your product, and how your product can solve the prospects’ problems. Then pull in your extra “proof” of why people should buy from you. You could gather social proof through testimonials of how well your solution works. You might have started to establish a track record of experience in your industry, and if not, spend time asking for feedback as you go about delivering your services now. You could also have great "case studies" or examples of your solution in action. Which of these examples would be most relevant to your market? Highlight one or use them all depending on what you think your prospective clients need to hear.

If you have already done the essential market research, you know what problems your customers are facing. Make sure you thoroughly understand what your target customers want and what your competitors are already offering. Then you will be able to identify exactly what you can do differently or where you can add something more. Put all of that together and you have your Unique Value Proposition.

WANT TO RE-POST THIS ARTICLE ON YOUR BLOG OR USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE, E-NEWSLETTER OR WEB SITE?

You may, as long as you include this complete blurb with it...

About the Author: Tanya Smith is a creative business strategist and coach specializing in showing independent service providers how to simplify, save time & stand out with simple strategies that engage more quality leads and clients. Her company Be Promotable provides fresh actionable strategies and virtual resources to promote business owners as power players in their market. Get free tools to simplify and stand out online at:www.tanyasmithonline.com

Ever wonder how to incorporate your personal values into the way you work?

It's important to incorporate your personal values in the work you do. People connect to and respond with people and people leave bad managers not bad organizations or companies. With so many businesses lacking ethics and leaders facing worldwide criticims from poor leadership and management, leaders of organizations should incorporate their personal values into the work they do, especially entreprenuers! In doing so you set the standard for excellence within your company.

The following exercise is help you decide what you value most.

1. Go through the list below and write down the top 10 things you value most.

Achievement                               Friendships                               Physical challenge

Advancement and promotion         Growth                                     Pleasure

Adventure                                   Having a family                          Power and authority

Affection (love and caring)            Helping other people                   Privacy

Arts                                            Helping society                          Public service

Challenging problems                   Honesty                                   Purity

Change and variety                      Independence                           Quality of what I take part in

Close relationships                       Influencing others                     Quality relationships

Community                                  Inner harmony                Recognition (respect from others, status) Competence                                Integrity                                  Religion

Competition                                  Intellectual status                    Reputation

Cooperation                                 Involvement                         Responsibility and accountability Country                                        Job tranqulity                        Security

Creativity                                    Knowledge                             Self-respect

Decisiveness                               Leadership                                Serenity

Democracy                                  Location                               Sophistication

Ecological awareness                   Loyalty Stability                  Economic security

Market position                             Status                                  Effectiveness

Meaningful work                             Supervising others                  Efficiency

Merit                                            Time freedom                      Ethical practice

Money                                          Truth                                  Excellence

Nature                                        Wealth                                 Wisdom                                                                  Excitement being around people who are open and honest         Fame

Order (tranqulity, stability, conformity)                              Work under pressure

Fast living                             Personal development           Work with others

Financial gain                               Freedom                              Working alone

2. Once you've captured that list write down how you display those values in your personal life.

3. Next I want you write down how you can display those values in your professional life.

4. Then I want you to look at that again and circle your top 5 values.

Those are what you are going to be known for showing and displaying at all times at work. Make sure you write them down and keep a company at your desk, in your wallet and make a post it note for your car.

Remember to look at them daily and ask yourself: How can I show this in my work today?

You can also complete the same activity for your business and once you've identified your top five values, create a values statement for how your company can display these values daily.

There has been a incredible shift in the world around us.  From the Northeast hurricane, to many people stepping out on pure faith and starting new businesses, ending unhealthy relationships to even finally taking health seriously. We’re all being charged with “purging” something. In the midst of this though…doesn’t mean there are challenges or days when you simply want to “quit”.

YOU KNOW
::The client money isn’t coming in on time

::The husband just “ain’t acting right”

::The kids are a mess at school

::Your stress level is out of wack

::Your business is good…but it’s not “great”

::You seem to be working harder for the same result.

::You feel enslaved to your purpose.

As women we come as a package deal and with that means that often overwhelming feeling of wishing and wanting to just “quit” – to let it all go. To throw in the towel and just let the sh!% it the fan!

I know that feeling and I have to have a “come to Jesus”  meeting with myself. And get real.

It’s time someone offered you a dose of truth…and that is

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.

Truth be told, women of color tiptoe around our issues in our lives and ultimately our businesses. We don’t invest in ourselves however we expect others to invest in us.

Do you? Do  you invest in yourself or do you quit at the thought of doing the work

QUIT at the thought of truly asking for assistance and support in growing your business or how women like Cameka Smith (founder of Forbes.com listed BOSS Network) has done by fostering a community of women entrepreneurs who network for good?

QUIT feeling like you can’t really work with other women because “they always want to take what’s mines”. And the hard work of learning to trust your own “GET IT GIRL!” so you can work with other women without the “crabs-in-the-barrel mentality” like LaShanda Henry (founder of Black Business Women Online) did with her girlfriends

QUIT at the thought of truly (and I mean truly) investing in quality mentorship and guidance and humbling yourself to end the thinking that you must do everything on your own or that perhaps Women of Color can’t produce high quality events and workshops that are impactful and profitable like thePOWER CIRCLE Conference & Expo happening Jan 2013.

What’s my point? I’ve been in a “Inner BITCH” release pilgrimage for some time involving releasing all the GUNK that was stuck in my belief system for too long.  My sister on this journey of complete liberation and I have been charged with not only calling ourselves out…but other women. Particularly women of color and Black women more specifically on how our emotional wellness is the TRUE source of abundance.

If you’re still reading I offer that I realize this post is making tons of assumptions about you – the reader – but perhaps it’s not. Perhaps somewhere inside of you, a-lot of this rings true. If not to this extreme, perhaps in your own self-sabotaging efforts to define “success” merely as the sum of your bank account or based on the number of episodes of  Donald Trump’s
The Apprentice” you’ve been able to copy-cat in your own business journey.

Whatever it is…there is a time to call it quits, but not on yourself…but on the nonsense that is causing many of us to live beneath the truth of our possibilities. The truth is that there is another more authentic way of living and creating and this video offers a bit of that truth.

Join me Friday November 9, 2012 here.

As many of us know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As someone who has lost loved ones to this disease, I am happy to introduce an entrepreneur that is looking to bring awareness to this disease, year round.  Lindsey Compton is the CEO and founder of Hair's A Cure, which is a breast cancer foundation that seeks to celebrate the love of healthy black hair & body while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer treatments. At 22 years of age, I am impressed to witness her tenacity and passion for such an important cause. After having some life challenges, Lindsey quickly realized that God's plan for her was different than what she planned. While researching statistics of breast cancer for African-American men and women, she came up with, Hair's A Cure. Here is some of the research she found: Of the estimated 34(%) percent of African-American women diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011, nearly 19(%) percent of them passed away – that’s over 6,000 lives taken due to this disease. 77(%) percent of African-American women who are diagnosed with breast cancer survive compared to 90(%) percent of Caucasian, non-Hispanic women.

Lindsey's goal is to educate African-American men and women on the importance of healthy living, bring awareness of Breast Cancer and raise money to help diagnosed patients pay for treatments. She shared with me that, "Hair’s A Cure will help increase the survival rate, and teach women about the importance of our health from the soles of our feet to the ends of our hair strands". I hope you enjoy her story.

1. Tell me your story. What were you doing before you started your own business?

Right before I started my business I was making plans to fly off to New York and attend graduate school. Unfortunately, things came up that made me depressed for a short period of time. I began to realize earlier this summer (2012) that my plans for my life were not the plans God had for my life.

I was so used to strategically planning the next steps in my path that I had lost my understanding for a moment that God directs us where he needs us in life. For me, that was Hair's A Cure.

As a 22-year-old, I was shocked and disheartened when seeing that African-American women have the highest mortality rate of  breast cancer related deaths compared to any other race (41% higher).  This has a lot to do with lack of funds, lack of early detection, and other preventable actions (please read the article here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/therootdc/post/breast-cancer-mortality-rates-for-african-american-women-disproportionately-high/2012/04/09/gIQAxJoR6S_blog.html?socialreader_check=0&denied=1 )

Although it is taking a lot of work to reach my dream of saving lives, I'm pursuing my path one small step at a time!

2. What made you want to start a business and what is your mission?

I wanted to start Hair's A Cure because I was appalled by the statistics of African-American women and men who die each year due to factors related to either not being able to afford breast cancer treatments or late tumor detection.

One day I was just thinking about all of these staggering statistics and the thought of "Hair's A Cure" came to mind. Beyond that, as of eight months ago I have been extremely involved within the community of natural hair and healthier living. This combined with God's dream gave me the inspiration to start this business.

My mission is to "Promote Hair Just as Healthy as Breasts" and I want to do this by offering affordable cancer treatments to African-American women and men who cannot afford them, while educating our race on the importance of healthy eating. What we eat DOES make a difference in our health and helps to prevent diseases.

3. What inspires you? What keeps you motivated daily to keep growing your business?

My motivation is imagining the day I will be able to drive to the homes of women and men whom I have helped to give funds for affordable cancer treatments. That is my motivation, and that is what helps to keep me going.

4. Do you have a mentor? Who is it and why? Do you believe it's important to have one?

No, no mentor! I believe it's important to have one, but I have yet to find one of my own. For now I set my eyes on Christ and pray for the best.

5. What would you tell someone who wants to get involved in your line of business but doesn't know how to get started?

Realize that this is not about you or making your money. This industry has turned into money hungry people capitalizing off of individuals who are dying from this disease. It's sick, actually.

If you want to save lives then save lives. There's nothing wrong with creating a special breast cancer t-shirt or planning fundraising events. But when your ultimate motive is to make yourself money, then that's a problem. This is (and should be) a sacrificial move to help others because you have been blessed to be alive, healthy and well.

You have to have a passion for this. If you don't have passion for this field, then find out what your passion is and go from there. You will be 10 times more successful by doing what you were meant to do rather than forcing yourself into a place you don't fit.

6. What advice would you give to someone with an entrepreneurial spirit?

Simple, never stop dreaming, but don't keep dreaming to the point where you don't get up and take action in pursing your dreams. Success does not fall out of the sky. You have to climb the ladder to reach it.

It's a lonely road to the top, believe me. But it's a rewarding one in the end.

7. How can anyone get involved and help your foundation?

We are looking for donations of $10 or more to help with startup costs and to help get treatments for patients in need. Here is the donation link: http://www.gofundme.com/hairsacure.

I want to thank Lindsey for taking the challenge to share her business with us. She has started a great cause and I hope you will find it in your heart to help her and others in any way. Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month anyway you can.

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Be someone’s motivation and tell us your story! To be featured on PeopleWhoProsper.com email Tamara@garrisonprosperitysolutions.com. Put PEOPLEWHOPROSPER in the subject line and share a little about yourself.

ATLANTA, GA — Katrina M. Harrell and Akilah S. Richards have a collective abundance of life and business anecdotes from their personal and professional experiences.  One common thread among their stories is the lack of harmony between sound business strategies and real emotional wellness.  

Frustrated with the trial-and-error approach to success among their own, Harrell and Richards now lead the movement that challenges black women business owners to face the harsh truths about promoting their brands versus building their businesses.  Their solution is 5-step “escape plan” from what they've dubbed "The inner B.I.T.C.H.".

On Thursday, November 9 at 9PM (EST) the two will host a free, live dialogue on Google+ Hangouts based around the focal points of their debut joint venture, How She Got Free: A Spiritual Business Manual for Women Who Lead Through Entrepreneurship.

The dialogue, which will also be live-streamed on YouTube, offers women a platform to discuss their biggest hurdles in business and life planning and income generating models.  Using the 5-Step Escape Plan, black women entrepreneurs can recognize their ineffective patterns, and align themselves with higher standards, sound structures, and effective systems in their professional and personal lives.

During the November 9th dialogue, the duo will tackle frequently dodged topics such as:

• Offering “bargain bin” pricing instead of charging what we’re worth

• How black women look to their white counterparts for marketing models that do not work with own potential markets

• The lack of application of basic business principles and the consequences therein

About the authors

Harrell and Richards are uniquely qualified Business and Life Strategies whose unique approaches to business building and lifestyle design have garnered them the unique approach to lifestyle management has garnered the attention of Black Enterprise Magazine, Essence Magazine, Real Simple Magazine, MSNBC’s Today Moms blog,  and various local and web-based publications.

Register for the live dialogue at http://bit.ly/shegotfree

For more information about How She Got Free, visit www.howshegotfree.com

###

Net 30 accounts that you should apply for if you are just starting out. None of these require a DUNS number although some may ask you to pre-pay.  Uline(net 30), Grainger(net 30), Nebs(net 30), Rapid Forms(net 30), AT&T land line, Sprint Wireless(2 lines but approved for 10), Quill(net 30), Reliable(net 30) and Seton(net 30).

Once you acquire some of these accounts, order something on net 30 terms and repay it on time. Once you pay them they will take a few weeks to report to DnB. If they report and you do not already have a DUNS number, a DUNS number will automatically be created. Once the number is created you can easily get it online. So let me get into finding out when the number is generated.
-
Once you have followed the first instructions in getting an account and ordering and paying it off, you need to now go to the DnB home page. There is a little box in the center on the right of the home page where you can search for a business. You go to that box and fill out your company name, state and country and hit search. If one of the accounts reported and the number was generated, your company will now show up in the search results. Once it does show up in the search results, you can simple click “request DUNS number” and your number will be sent to you via email immediately. Once you have got the accounts and paid them off, I will check DnB at the end of every week for 4 – 5 weeks and it will be there. The more accounts you get the faster your company should show up in DnB as each company reports at different times. http://BusinessCreditAmerica.com

As a new leader, visionary or entrepreneur, your sphere of influence is your power circle. Influence is all about the people you connect with constantly. If you don't have one then you aren't leading. If you aren't sure whose in this circle you are leading the blind. The goal of all leaders should be to increase their circle and cater to the interests and needs of their circle of influence.

As a leader you should have a team who is dependent on your vision and leadership to guide them. This is your sphere on influence. Your energy is dedicated to the visions, the mission, and your team. You should know what is most important to that circle and how you are reaching them. You need to know how your circle receive information best and how frequently you need to contact them to keep them motivated.

To tap into your sphere of influence think about this:

• Who is currently in your circle of influence? Who do you currently connect to consistently? Do you share the same values, career, problems? What attracts you to one another? Think about if this is the group you need to sell the vision you have. If not begin to think about who you need to add to your circle. 
• Who would I like to include in my circle of influence? Maybe there are a group of professionals who you'd like to market your vision to but you aren't currently. You have to study places they frequent and who they tend to gravitate to. You've got to do what you need to, to grab their attention and once you've got it give them all you've got. They need to leave understanding who you are, what you do, and why they should care. Think about this carefully before approaching new influences. 
• What is most important to them? Know their values and principles. Know what problems they have, what makes them tick, and where they go to de-stress. You need this information to target and position yourself to be on their radar. Once you are speaking to them you have a few speaking points of their interest, and you can now transition into telling them more about you and what you do. 
• How can I communicate what I know to that circle of influence? Once your initial contact how can you stay in contact with them. When you exchange business cards you can ask if they'd like to know more about the topic you discussed and get permission to add their email to your list. Now you have targeted exactly who you need to have on your list and you can win them into your circle of influence! 

During our biggest decisions we are subject to on the job training  called  LIFE for example:

• What  are your options for health insurance  and how to make the most of  all the changes.
• How debt collection and bankruptcy works and how you need to be aware of your rights.
• How to get a copy of your credit report and how to dispute incorrect information on it

Many times we need to make a decision quickly .

Now there’s a better way

You will find great guides and presentations that will open your eyes up to options on health  , finances, savings and insurance options  through educational resources so you can more informed decisions.

Get Instant Access

21 speakers to EMPOWER Christian Women and Entrepreneurs during My Extraordinary Life and Business Success Telesummit

Christian Women are encouraged to step up and catapult their personal, spiritual and business growth via an empowering virtual (online) Event. Experience Rejuvenation, Transformation, Empowerment and Spiritual Renewal during this no cost event.

(Press Release) – Sept 11, 2012 – Imagine receiving insight from 21 savvy spiritually empowered experts in various fields that will catapult your personal, spiritual and business growth from the comfort of your home. The information shared is valued at thousands, however, you won’t pay that. The cost of this empowering event is FREE! Discover insider tips and strategies without the hype.

Why free? Robin Tramble the host of this event is passionate about empowering women to discover their authentic self, get unstuck, laser focused, so they can show up bold, brilliant, confident and empowered to get out there in BIG while prospering and making a difference in the world “authentically!”

My Extraordinary Life and Business Success Telesummit will include topics on business success, social media, life balance, health and fitness, mindset, empowerment, 6 figure manifestation, feminine, overcoming challenges and more. These fired up experts will share insights on breaking through to your Extraordinary Life and Business Success.

Our featured speakers include:

Diane Cunningham


Chris Makell

Michele Scism

Plus 16 more!

We invite you to take advantage of this empowering event. Your life will be enriched and your personal, spiritual and business growth will be catapulted!

Realize Rejuvenation, Transformation, Empowerment and Spiritual Renewal.

Of course we encourage you to make all of the calls, however, you will have access to the replay for a limited time. If you desire to secure a permanent copy for your collection you will be given an opportunity to do so.

You have nothing to lose and so much to gain!

My Extraordinary Life and Business Success Telesummit is sponsored by Robin Tramble International, World Wide Visibility Social Media and The Authentic Triple A.A.A. Woman Network. To secure your FREE VIP ticket go to

http://www.myextraordinarylifeandbusiness.com

We look forward to having you join us!

# # #

Robin Tramble works with Christian Women Leaders, Entrepreneurs, Coaches, Speakers and Authors who want to discover their authentic self so they can make big changes or achieve some big results but are struggling to make it happen fast enough. She helps them get unstuck, laser focused, so they can show up bold, brilliant, confident and empowered to get their message out there in BIG way while prospering and making a difference in the world “authentically!”

Robin is CEO and Founder of Robin Tramble International, She’s a Professional “Authentic” Empowerment Specialist, Trainer, Coach and Public Speaker. Robin is also known as Empowerment Diva because she has carved out a niche in the area of empowerment. She has shared her empowerment tips on Good Day Sacramento as “Empowerment Diva” and was named 1 of 25 urban Entrepreneurs to follow on Twitter by Brand maker News. Robin has also upgraded her Social Proof with a certification as a Social Media Marketing Campaign Specialist to further support her commitment to helping Women get their message out there in a big way “authentically!”

Robin is also an accomplished keyboardist, singer and songwriter and plans to incorporate her musical gifts with her resources for women’s empowering personal development.

— end —

Alright, well SOME Dos and Don'ts for blogging. Of course there are A LOT of things you should and shouldn't do when it comes to blogging. At this point you should already have an idea of what you are going to blog about. I am going to point out a few of the important Dos and Don’ts. Let's start with the DON'Ts.

DON'T...

Spend ALL day online. First your eyes will start to hurt and then you will start to experience horrible headaches. LOL! This is what happens when you sit in front of a computer screen all day. Searching, writing, reading, watching. At some point during the day, you have to give it a rest. The great thing about the Internet is that what you are looking for will always be there. Go back to it later. If it is taking you more than an hour to write a blog posting (unless in depth research is involved), you need to change the subject.

Plagiarize. Duh. Just like in school, you cannot do this. You would be breaking the law if you did. AND for the record, there is a difference between copy writing and plagiarizing (you can research those). You can always get ideas from other bloggers, but never ever copy anything from their posts WITHOUT recognizing them.

Waste time in forums and communities. You are going to hear a lot of people suggest you do this. But my suggestion is to find 3 to 4 forums or small social networks you like. Share the same postings from your blog with these select forums, on a regular basis. You may not be recognized at first, but eventually they will notice you.

Spam. Not only is this annoying but it’s bad “etiquette”, if you will, for bloggers. One example of spamming is coldly commenting in a forum or on another bloggers site and including your website information:

                                                                 Cool.

Imabloggertoo.com

NOT cool. Another form of spamming is sending your blogs to people that didn't ask to read them. Post them on your blog, forums and communities. If people are interested in reading them they will find you.

Post every day. Not only does that put a lot of pressure on you, but people don’t have time to read your posts daily. Think of all of the online publications, newsletters and bloggers you are subscribed to. If they send you information everyday, do you actually read it? The truth is, NO. So don’t put your readers through that. Give them something to look forward to every week. Now on to the DOs!

DO...

Get advise from an experienced blogger. If there are certain blogs you have found that you really like, take it upon yourself to email the blogger and see if they would mentor you. Find a good business coach that may be able to help you focus in on what your goals are.

Ask for feedback. NOT from people in the forums you choose, but from your family and friends. They are our toughest critics. So, if they have suggestions or opinions about your blog posting, take it in stride. Don't take EVERYTHING to heart and change everything they think you should, but you should definitely take their suggestions into consideration.

Be patient. I say this all the time: Just because you create a blog or website and throw it out on the WORLD WIDE WEB (notice the word, WORLD), doesn't mean people are going to flock to it. It will take a little time to build popularity but it is definitely possible. You just have to be patient and keep posting and keep directing people to your site.

Write UNIQUE and CREATIVE content. Even if you know what you are going to write about, you need to make sure it is DIFFERENT from everyone else's. Also, you do not have to write about the SAME subject in every posting if you do not want. Make it interesting for your readers so they will keep coming back for more.

Get paid for blogging. Well yeah! What other reason would you be blogging for? There are several ways you can get paid to blog. One way, is to get advertisers on your site, that will take some time to happen, but it is definitely possible. Another way to get paid for blogging is to find a blogging platform that will pay you to actually blog and show others how to do the same. I use a great system that does just that. You can sign in and find out more here => BeFamousOnline2

Blogging does not have to be difficult or tedious. It can actually be fun to share with others your life, opinion or information that could help them. You just need to keep in mind some DOs and DON'Ts so you can be a SUCCESSFUL blogger.

Tamara Garrison-Thomas

Have you heard of this television show? I have been anticipating the debut of this show on the Centric Television Network, for a few weeks now. It's a reality TV show highlighting the life of a few  millionaires (Chyna Bethley, Dorothy Cook, Helen Dela Houssaye, Bryant & Deborah Huff, Robert & Nicola Jackson, Kenny & Chante Lloyd, Lidia McKinney, Erika McQueen, Erwin & Twiler Portis, and Stormy Wellington). I know, I know. Sounds like every other reality show in existance, but this one is different... It's different because these millionaires didn't inherit their money. These millionaires aren't has-been actors or associated with Hollywood. These millionaires didn't even get their money from growing a successful "bricks and clicks" business. These millionaires are the result of building successful Network Marketing businesses. Or in other words, Multi-level Marketing (MLM), or Direct Marketing business. Urbanham.com says, these millionaires earned their money "...in a relatively short period of time and at relatively vibrant ages". The purpose of the show (besides showing off the lifestyles of these network marketing business owners) is to launch a contest between the millionaires to find  and groom the next successful business owner.

Turns out, Amateur Millionaire's Club (AMC) has been brewing for a few years and it finally debuted on Saturday July 7, 2012. This show was in true reality TV fashion, including "unscripted" drama, events, and the lavish lives of these millionaires. BESIDES all of that, I really enjoyed the message being sent that Network Marketing really works and ANYONE can do it.

My dad hit me up to the Network Marketing game about 10 years ago. The simple business model, compensation plans, and low start up fees (in comparison to a franchise) is what caught my eye. Ever since then, I have been in business somehow through a Network, Direct or Internet Marketing company. Along with the other services I offer, this business model has just been the best choice for me. As shown on the AMC, Network Marketing is a very lucrative business. Especially as a first business model. Not only do you OWN a business, but you learn key business skills along with marketing strategies, all with a team of people that are really looking to see you succeed. Because if you succeed, they succeed! Recently, I have been exploring the world of internet marketing. It is just like network marketing except you do mostly everything ONLINE. It is very convenient and you get the same results, if not better! It is definitely a good business model to look into to supplement your current business. You can find out more here => YouCanAlwaysCancel.com

After watching the first two episodes of the Amateur Millionaire's Club,  I enjoyed seeing what these people have done for themselves and how they are still on their grind. It is great motivation to actually witness the fruits of the labor of those in the same position as yourself. Stormy Wellington stated in Urbanham.com that, “There was a point in my life when I understood that I was the creator of my own destiny and I knew that I had to get myself out of the (debt increasing) situation that I was headed towards".  If you have not had a chance to catch this show, I encourage you to do so, or check out a few of the millionaires on Youtube. You will  definitely learn SOMETHING.

"Referred to in Success Magazine as a group that spreads wealth, reaches new heights, and creates purpose driven opportunities; the Amateur Millionaire’s Club is vastly redefining wealth in the African American community as the world knows it" (Urbanham.com).

Tamara Garrison-Thomas

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Danielle Johns. She is the owner of Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice in Arkansas and is sharing her tremendous story of victory and success. She has gone from working in a hospital, being in an abusive relationship, dealing with illness, to being a proud, successful owner. She shares her testimony and advice for those of us looking for some motivation in our businesses. Enjoy!

1. Tell me your story. What were you doing before you started your own business?

Before I launched Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice, I worked 12 hour nights as a Unit Secretary at a local hospital for nearly 4 years. During my first year of employment I was badly bruised by the person I lived with. After removing myself from that environment, I realized that I had lost myself in a world that was not my own. I changed my mentality and set my focus on finding myself and my place in life. Things seemed to be getting better but I still worked nights and slept days. I began to feel that I was missing out on spending needed time with my children. In 2009, I was diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic with a blood sugar level of 1102. There aren't a lot of jobs in the Delta so I felt I had to maintain my employment, not just to support my children but to also be able to afford the lifelong treatment for this disease. I began losing weight and became deeply depressed. I began to think my life was coming to an end. I have had difficulty controlling this disease which has caused me major health problems. God has seen me through my darkest days. I regained enough strength to realize I wanted to live again. Not only did I want to live but I wanted to live happily.

2. What made you want to start a business and what is your mission?

A friend and I would travel from Arkansas to Mississippi to purchase Shaved Ice. One day while at the stand I decided I was going to open my own Shaved Ice Stand. I started researching companies, products, equipment, supplies, etc. In April of 2011 I purchased a building and had it delivered to my hometown. Just as I was about to complete the construction of my building, I was interrupted by the State Electrical Inspector for not using a licensed electrician. I was also halted by some bad information given to me by the County Health Inspector. I thought my plan was falling apart right before my eyes. I prayed and I prayed hard. I contacted the State Health Department regarding some regulations I had been told I had to follow. I was informed that it did not apply to me and that I could proceed as planned. Now my issue was to complete construction of my building and hire a Licensed Electrician which I had not budgeted for. I was contacted and told that there was a Snow Cone Stand in the neighboring town for sale. I reached out to an old friend and was able to acquire the building and open immediately. Snow Daddy's offers over 50 flavors and our 2nd specialty Taco-2-Go. We express appreciation to our customers by offering a Reward Card for free. When you purchase 9 snow cones you receive the 10th one free. My Shaved Ice stand is currently a seasonal business. In April, Snow Daddy's hosts  a Snowball Fest to launch snow cone season where we provide free food, fun, games and prizes and horse rides. Snow Daddy's also supports the Lil Jacob Learning Center's Back2School Drive as well as Global Youth Service Day. We are currently mapping out a 2nd location. Lol, who knows, one day there may be a Snow Daddy's near you.

My absolute passion is anything dealing with crafting, designing and creating. My mission is to one day own a custom furniture design showroom.

3. What inspires you? What keeps you motivated daily to keep growing your business?

My 16 year old daughter and 4 year old son are my greatest inspiration.

4. Do you have a mentor? Who is it and why? Do you believe it's important to have one?

No, I do not have a mentor; however I would love to have one. I have a support group that I turn to when I'm in need of advice or direction. I am a very spiritual person. I believe in God! I believe in the Word. I've learned to ultimately turn to the Lord for all my needs.

5. What would you tell someone who wants to get involved in your line of business but doesn't know how to get started? 

The Shaved Ice business can be a rewarding venture. I personally spent nearly a year researching because I didn't have a lot of money, but I was going all in and needed to make the least mistakes as possible. A high traffic location is key as well as a good product. There are many options for distributors however, I would recommend a company that's been in business a while and knows the industry.

6. What advice would you give to someone with an entrepreneurial spirit?

One of my favorite books is called Dreams Really Do Come True by Dennis Burke. Dreams are the God-given desires of your heart in seed from. Believe in your dream, embrace your dream, run toward your dream, refuse to let go of your dream, and ultimately you will live your dream. Make It Happen!!

Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice is located in Eudora, AR. You can visit their site and learn more at www.facebook.com/GoSnowDaddys.

I just want to thank Danielle for being bold enough to share her story. I hope it has been motivational to someone to go and pursue their dreams!

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Be someone’s motivation and tell us your story! To be featured on PeopleWhoProsper.com email Tamara@garrisonprosperitysolutions.com. Put PEOPLEWHOPROSPER in the subject line and share a little about yourself.

How to get Business Credit Cards Without a Personal Guarantee? http://BusinessCreditAmerica.com 1-888-821-6408x2
How to get a Business Credit Card with out a Personal Guarantee is a step by step process. First you have to see what business is more favorable to banks, which is called SIC CODE. Once you know and understand this step then you can continue on with the proper step to get business credit cards.
http://www.businesscreditamerica.com/services.html

Here are the necessary steps to get a Business Credit Card with out a Personal Guarantee.

Know you Sic Code for what type of business your looking to Start.
Call and get your EIN#/TAX ID# over the phone not online and please make sure you use Incorporated at the end of your company name.
Incorporate your business to a C-Corporation Banks love this entity.
Get your Dun and Bradstreet Number from their website. DandB.com. You want the number thru the CCR Government program. This way you get the number for Free and within 48hrs instead of 30 days.
You need to have Projected Financials submitted to Dun and Bradstreet in order to a Clear complete file this is very important.
You need to file Ucc-1 lien against your business for the money and equipment, you invest in the business to get it started. This is very important to creditors.
Once these steps are completed then you need at least 6 to 9 Net30 Accounts such as http://www.sharedaluv.com/, http://vipelectronicscenter.com/, http://www.tradesmartproducts.com/index.html, http://www.azsnacks.net/, http://ucc-1credit.com/, https://www.stntsol.com/, Grainger, Uline, Seton, nebs, deluxe and so on. Remember Dun and Bradstreet does not report your credit limits, they report the amount you spend on purchase, so the more you spend on products the better the tradeline looks on your business credit file.

If you follow this step by step, you're guaranteed to get Business Credit cards with out a Personal Guarantee.http://www.businesscreditamerica.com/services.html