With each year that I have my locs, I wish I had gotten locked up sooner. I would go on and on about them, but I'll keep it simple and do a list of why I love my locks.
1. I wake up and they are done.
2. I can shower and shampoo using the same bar soap (handmade all natural soap) and my hair is done.
3. If I want to I can roller set my hair. Braids it and take it aloose and that's a new style. Wear it in updos and so much more.
4. I don't have to worry about sweating it out or getting it wet.
5. I no longer need a comb, brush, or lots of products to untangle it.
6. It grows and maintains its growth.
7. It all my hair.
8. It feels good just playing in them. Running my hands through them easy.
9. They move with my head which I find pretty cool.
I am MiMi Fleming and I have Sisterlocks. I love them so much that I became a Certified Sisterlocks(TM) Consultant. If you are in the Triad area of North Carolina or don't mind a little road trip, then I would be honored to introduce you to Sisterlocks.
WHY? Because this is an issue I'm seeing entirely to much and it is time for the women who are experiencing lack in their business to take a look at what could be the problem and take the steps to correct it.
What gives me the right? Well, because I've been there. Early on in my online entrepreneurial journey, I was a self proclaimed "Women Entrepreneur" for a long time, not making any money.
I thought entering the World Wide Web would bring me almost instant success (I said almost, because I knew I wasn't going to become rich over night...but sure it was going to be soon after)
I'm not ashamed to admit, I didn't have a clue...at first. I had an opportunity, a few ideas and was positive, I was gonna get paid! But after months of barely making enough money to pay my web hosting, I had enough sense to see what I was doing...was SO NOT working.
What I see today with many women, some of them in my circle, is that they are not making any money, yet they continue to do the things that are NOT giving them the results they want.
If you want to be a women in business, making a generous profit that continues to increase month after month, you have to make some serious changes...PERIOD, starting with, (1) Changing your way of thinking, (2) Be willing to learn and/or invest in what it takes to "Get it Right" and (3) Be intentional and seriously, GET TO WORK!
Let's Be Real... This thing called Entrepreneurship, is not easy. It takes a lot, and that's why it is not a preferred choice for everyone. You have to be willing to give it your all...and then some, make sacrifices, and by no means can you give up.
What I discovered for myself, and from talking with those women who aren't making money in their business, is that there are a few things that always arise and are key setbacks that prevent you from really experiencing an abundance in your business.
1. There is a lack of focus, clear direction and an actionable plan. For the most part, many women just simply don't know what to do. They have no clue where to start or even how to start so they operate in spurts based on what they see others doing.
One week they are actively promoting their business, sharing and interacting online...then they disappear, only to resurface weeks later and repeat the cycle. There is no consistency so these women fall off the social radar and are rarely taken seriously.
2. The "Serial Entrepreneur". Many of my Go-Getter sisters fall into this category and I totally support multiple streams of income...however, the problem here is with the women who are starting a new venture every other week and have yet to completely establish the previous business.
To be quit honest, these are the women who generally make the least amount of money, if any at all because they are often paying out, way more than what is coming in. With the different businesses they operate, they are often unable to discover and connect with a specific target market and in the process, reach only a very few.
3. Not committed to the full investment of time required. These are the women who have a clear goal and know what they have to do but are unable to dedicate the amount of time it takes to get it done. Because of this, they often go unnoticed even if they provide a remarkable product or service.
This woman may have other things going on in her life that keep her from being able to pursue her business in the manner in which she desires.
4. Making Excuses. This is another area many women fall into. Far to many excuses as to why they can't start or grow their business. A lot of times it is because of a full-time job, or they are a single parent, or school or money...for some, these can be legit reasons BUT, there are lots of women who have the same things going on in their lives and still make it happen.
Most of the time, excuses are a disguise for fear. Fear of the "what if's...". As a lot of us do know, FEAR will stop anybody dead in their tracks and surly keep you paralyzed in your business.
Do you fall into any of these categories?
If so, I encourage you today to take a step back and reassess your situation. Acknowledge where you are falling short and determine the steps you need to take to move forward in prosperity.
It's not easy, and we have all been in at least one, or some of these places at some point in our journey. The key to getting unstuck is to seek out the best support for you.
Tamyka Washington is a wife, mother to six, Founder/CEO of TheCEOMamma Network, marketing consultant, coach and mentor. Tamyka empowers new and seasoned women entrepreneurs to business breakthrough by teaching how to utilize social media and network marketing to establish a credible brand and profitable business online. http://theceomamma.com
A strong book cover is a necessity when it comes to publishing a High Quality book. As much as we may not like it, books are judged by their cover! According to ‘The Wall Street Journal’, “The average bookstore browser who picks up a book spends eight seconds looking at the front cover and 15 seconds reading the back.”
Therefore, the window of opportunity to sell the book by its cover is limited. To attract attention and make a lasting first impression, be ready to do all that you can to be at the top of your game and make that first impression one that last in the mind of the viewer.
Ego is an online store that offers Luxury Virgin and Remy Hair Extensions and Lace Wigs. Imagine beautiful, soft, luxurious hair that you can color, wash, straighten and style to your heart’s desire. Our Lace Wigs and Extensions are made of 100% Premium Hair. Ego Extensions caters to an elite group of clientele. Hollywood’s A -Listing Actors, Singers, Dancers and Models. Our hair comes imported from India, Brazil and Malaysia with only the most beautiful strands being hand chosen. Take this opportunity to shop on-line for what people are calling the most "ELITE HAIR ON THE MARKET ".
Have questions? Email: egoorderbox@gmail.com. We are always here to service our valued customers. We pride ourselves in selling high-end, premium hair that everyone can afford. So go ahead and indulge yourself....in Ego Extensions.
Ego Lace Wigs
Ego Lace Wigs have become the most highly sought after Lace wigs in the entertainment industry and abroad. Our professional staff and superior wig quality has catapulted us to the top. We pride ourselves in having the combination of product and customer service that clients have been searching for. Choose from Full Lace Wigs, Frontals, Closures, Lace Front Wigs and more. We carry Indian, Brazilian, Malaysian, Mongolian, Chinese, and European Hair Wigs.
Ego was founded in Los Angeles California, and now services Atlanta, Memphis, Chicago, Miami, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Colorado, Houston, New Jersey, Nashville, Detroit, Boston, Canada, London, France, Sweden, Africa and many other areas nationwide.
We specialize in African American Lace Front Wigs, Caucasian/European Hair Lace Front Wigs, Chemo Wigs, Trichotillomania Wigs, human hair, Silk top, Malaysian, Indian, Brazilian, Virgin Hair Lace Front Wigs and Full Lace Wigs, Lace Closures, Virgin Indian, Brazilian and Malaysian Imported Human Hair Extensions.
Read more…
Lace wigs have been around for many years. The original purpose for lace wigs were to serve as hair prosthesis for individuals suffering from hair loss due to medical reasons such as Thyroid, Cancer, Alopecia and Trichotillomania. Please note if you are currently suffering from any of these conditions Ego Extensions is here to help. You can feel beautiful again. Our realistic looking lace wigs will give you back the hair you once had or have always wanted. Our Private Boutique and caring staff will explain in full detail all of your options.
Lace Wigs for the Everyday Woman
Celebrities have now brought lace wigs into the limelight. Music and Television Icons such as Beyonce Knowles, Tyra Banks and Janet Jackson have long been praised for their gorgeous locks. For many years people thought that they had the "Perfect head of hair extensions”. Only recently has it been revealed that they are actually wearing Full Lace Wigs! Every woman no matter her ethnicity longs for beautiful hair that is easy to manage. Ego Extensions is here to provide you with just that. We provide lace wigs in a variety of styles and price ranges to ensure that all women can experience celebrity status hair.
Types of Lace Wigs
Lace wigs come in a variety of hair textures, cap styles and colors this information is very important to know when it comes to ordering your Ego Extensions Luxury Unit.
Lace Front Wigs
The Lace front wig cap construction consists of lace in the front and a wefted lace cap with adjustable straps in the back. Human Hair is attached to the Lace base. The hair can be washed, flat Ironed and styled as desired. Lace front wigs cannot be worn in high ponytail because of the wefted cap construction in the back. The lace in front goes to the middle portion of head and a realistic part can be made up to that area. Lace front wigs are less expensive because of their cap construction and are perfect for the client who is looking to have a wig which can be taken on and off on a daily bases with the optional choice of glue or tape.
Full Lace Wigs
Full Lace wig hair systems are the ultimate choice for your lace wig needs. A full lace cap has human hair hand tied into the base with stretch in the middle and baby hair around the perimeter. This wig can be parted throughout from front to back, the fine lace creates a look of "hair growing out of your scalp”. The hair can be worn in high and low ponytails and can be flat ironed, washed and styled as desired. No one will ever know that the realistic looking full lace wig is not your own hair. This lace wig must be attached with Glue, Tape, Wig Combs Or Clips.
Glueless Lace Wigs
Glueless Full lace wig hair systems are constructed with a full lace cap with stretch in the middle and adjustable straps in the back. This unit also has baby hair around the perimeter and can be worn in a high ponytail. The wig can be parted from front to back and has the appearance of "hair growing out of the scalp”. The hair can be worn in a high ponytail and can be flat ironed, washed and styled as desired. This unit does not require glue to be attached and can be applied and removed as desired.
Hair Types and Textures
Indian Remy: This is Indian Remy Human Hair and it comes from the Indian Race. • It is naturally thick and lustrous • The straight hair texture waves up when wet • Great for all hair textures.
European Remy: This is European Remy Human Hair and it comes from the Caucasian Race. • It is Caucasian hair which mostly comes from Europe • It is lighter and thinner then Asian and Indian Remy • It has a butter soft silky feel • This hair has a lot of movement and lays down great for straight styles • Much more expensive to acquire this type of hair • Great for Straight textures.
Chinese Remy: This is Asian Remy Human Hair and it comes from the Asian Race. • It is heavier, thicker and slightly more dense then Indian Remy • It is not as shiny as the Indian Remy • Texture feels nice and smooth • The straight texture waves up slightly when wet • Great for all hair textures • Makes a nice and soft Yaki textures • Makes a very natural Kinky Curly Texture with less shine • Great for Straight and Wavy textures as well because it has a lot of body.
Malaysian Remy: This is Malaysian Remy Human Hair and it comes from the Malaysian Race. • It is heavier, thicker and more dense then the Asian and Indian Remy • It is not as shiny as the Indian Remy • Texture feels very soft and smooth • It has a lot of body • The straight texture waves up slightly when wet • Much more expensive to acquire this type of hair • Great for all textures • Makes a gorgeous smooth and soft Yaki texture • Makes a heavier straight texture then the Asian and Indian Remy.
Types of Hair loss
There are many types of female hair loss - This page explains what they are, and which type affects you.
Generally, women find any form of hair loss much more embarrassing than men. As such, they are far less likely to accept it, and much more likely to seek treatment for it.
The treatment required for one type may differ from another, so it's important to seek professional advice and find out exactly what type you have.
What Type of Female Hair Loss do You Have?
Hair loss often has a genetic connection and, as such, can affect both men and women. But, whilst the vast majority of men will experience androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness), for women it's a bit more complicated.
Most types of hair loss are also connected to hormones in some way. And women have a greater fluctuation in their hormone levels than men (due to menstruation, pregnancy and the menopause). It follows that, whilst statistically fewer women experience hair loss than men, they tend to be affected by more types.
So, let's look at these different types of female hair loss.
Telogen effluvium
Up to 50% of all women may experience significant hair loss by the age of 60. Chronic telogen effluvium (CTE) is the second most common type of hair loss after androgenic alopecia and, between them, these two types account for as much as 95% of all female hair loss cases.
Telogen effluvium can be connected to many things including nutritional deficiency. This deficiency is largely due to iron depletion (from menstruation cycles). It can build up slowly over many years and lead to CTE. Vegetarians might also experience CTE (including men).
Telogen effluvium is evenly distributed (diffuse) thinning across the entire scalp (i.e., not just the crown of the scalp). And, because this thinning isn't just confined to one area, telogen effluvium is not normally obvious to other people.
But, just because you might be the only one who knows about it, doesn't necessarily make it any more acceptable.
Androgenetic alopecia
As stated earlier, androgenic (or androgenetic) alopecia mostly affects men. However, as the name suggests, this type involves genetic inheritance, and so can be passed on from parent to child (both male and female).
It also involves androgens. These potent hormones are produced by women in much smaller quantities than they are in men. However, they can still affect a women's body. As such, androgenic alopecia is also a form of female hair loss.
Alopecia areata
If your hair falls out literally overnight and in clumps, it's probably alopecia areata. Alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis are also types of alopecia areata. Alopecia areata causes incredible distress to those it affects. This horrifying disease can be extremely rapid and extensive.
Traction (friction) alopecia
Braids, clips and other hair accessories can, to an extent, literally pull your hair out! Over time, ponytails, cornrows, even excess brushing or combing can also cause this type of female hair loss. If you want to find out more,
Chemotherapy hair loss
This form of hair loss is due to the powerful chemicals used to treat various forms of cancer. Whether or not chemotherapy is the best form of treatment depends upon the type and extent of the cancer involved. As such, chemotherapy may lead to both male and female hair loss.
African American Lace Wigs
Many women of African American ethnicity are experiencing thinning of the edges due to extensive long tern wear of hair extensions, braids and chemical processing. Our lace wigs come in a variety of styles giving you the ability to let your own hair relax and grow back. Many clients keep their own hair in it's natural state and wear lace wigs styling them as they wish. If you are an African American woman who is searching for a company with understanding of African American hair textures and styles then contact Ego Extensions.
(Please note all clients may not have hair grow while wearing lace wigs each person’s form of hair loss is different.)
Hair Care Instructions for Full Lace Wigs
Company Product Suggestion: Avanti Silicon Mix
1. Keep the hair clean. We suggest that you wash the hair at least once or twice a week with warm or cold water. Please wash the hair immediately after swimming, spa, exercise, and etc. When dirt and sweat accumulate, hair tangles. Too much leave-in conditioners and other hair care products will create a build up on the hair and will cause it to tangle faster. If the hair feels dry or heavy with build up, wash it with good shampoo & conditioner.
2. Before washing the hair, spray mixture of conditioner and water and brush the hair from bottom up. You must gradually wet the hair down and brush it gently before you completely wash the hair. If the hair is very dry and a lot of water is added at once, hair will swell up like sponge and tangle! Therefore, it is important to gradually wet the hair and brush it.
3. After wetting the hair, add shampoo and conditioner and brush thoroughly. Be sure to wash and brush the hair in one direction. Rinse the hair completely with water and towel dry. It is best to air dry the hair but you can also blow-dry with low to medium heat.
4. Make sure you brush the hair daily and apply some leave-in conditioners so that the hair is soft and moist. A good leave-in hair treatment can keep the hair from drying. But remember not to put too much otherwise there will be a build up and make the hair feel too heavy. If the hair feels too dry or heavy with too much hair care products, you should wash the hair completely by following steps 2 and 3.
5. When swimming, always wear a cap to prevent prolong exposure to chlorine or salt water which causes the hair to tangle. Always wash the hair right away with shampoo and conditioner after swimming in both types of water. When going to the spa, the hair should be brushed out completely and should be wrapped in a cold wet towel.
6. Make couple of big braids when going to sleep, swim, or exercise (please untangle the hair before making the braids). NEVER SLEEP ON WET HAIR. Make sure the hair is completely dry before going to bed.
7. You can also make a leave-in conditioner at home by diluting conditioner (10%) with water (90%). Apply the mixture lightly onto your hair and brush the hair from the end to the top near the scalp. Although it is important to apply leave-in conditioners to keep the hair from dryness, it is important to keep the hair clean by washing the hair about twice a week so that it will not create a build up.
8. It would be advisable NOT TO TINT, COLOR, PERM OR DO ANY EXTRA CHEMICAL PROCESSES because it has already been treated. Please be extra careful with blonde and other light colored hair. They are more chemically processed than the dark hair. Therefore, we will not be responsible for the outcome.
9. Please check the hair before you use the hair. Be certain that the hair texture, color, length, and quality are what you want. We will not be responsible for the hair if it is not in original condition. For the WET & WAVE hair such as the French Refined and the European Wave, you may test the curl by wetting a small portion away from the rest. Place the hair on a desk, pull a small portion away from the rest, spray some water, and let it soak for about 15 seconds. Hold the top of the hair while it is on the desk and gently brush the wet portion from the bottom and watch it wave. Towel dry and scrunch it to wave up more.
10. Some hair comes out form the wefts easier than others (e.g. silky hair). In cases like this, you may glue or reinforce the weft before putting it on.
Washing & Conditioning your Hair System Shampooing and conditioning your hair system is not like shampooing your natural hair. Rubbing shampoo into your hair system as if it were naturally growing hair will cause the hair to tangle. Here's the step-by-step method we've found best for giving your hair system a professional shampooing and conditioning. The method we recommend will prevent tangling, and can be performed either on a plastic head mold or when you're wearing your system in the shower.
Step 1 : Start by taping the hair system itself to the plastic mold, then use the brush to comb out any tangles in the hair itself. Step 2 : Next, fill a spray bottle with a mixture of water and shampoo. Make sure the mixture is thin enough to spray effectively (try a 50%/50% mixture). Step 3 : Spray the shampoo/water mixture onto the hair system. Step 4 : Then comb the shampoo into the hair. Repeat the process as needed. Step 5 : Finally, rinse the shampoo out of the hair with lukewarm tap water. Comb out any remaining shampoo with the brush.
Help with Washing your Hair System Now that you've shampooed your hair system, we can begin conditioning it. The steps are exactly the same. Step 6 Fill a spray bottle with a conditioner/water mixture. Again make sure the mixture is thin enough to spray easily. Step 7 : Spray the conditioner/water mixture onto the hair system. Step 8 : Then comb the conditioner into the hair. Repeat the process as desired. Step 9 : Rinse the conditioner out of the hair with lukewarm tap water. Step 10 : If you're wearing the hair system, use a towel to blot out (not rub out) the excess water. Comb and style the hair and let it sit to dry. If you want to use a hair dryer make sure it's set on a gentle setting and isn't too hot.
Your Wealthy Business Series: Learn my 10 Step Business Strategy Secrets when it’s time to move beyond Solopreneur and into Enterprise building.
Join me Thursday August 18, 8pmest where I share with you my Top 10 Secrets to building a wealthy business model at home and how I went from simply owning my job (or rather it owning me) to a thriving and profitable business that most people don't even know I own! Let's face it, YOU can't run your solo-business forever! It's time to work even SMARTERand start making your business work for YOU! Let me show you how!
Your Business will Die when you do if you don't adopt Wealthy Business Strategies
You've build a profitable Solopreneur Business but you really desire to build a Wealthy Enterprise that relies less on you over time but still increased wealth. It's Time to go from simplyOwning your Job to Building a Entrepreneurial Enterprise
As a business person you figured out how to go from an "Expensive Hobby" to "Profitable business", now it’s time to learn from big corporations and take your profits from just managing living expenses and a profitable lifestyle to six (and even seven) figure wealth by building a company versus a solo practice so your money keeps making money for you long after you've stopped working! I share what I learned in 12 years of Fortune 500 Corporate America that I carried with me as an entrepreneur and why you should adapt these strategies in your businessRIGHT now!
In my 60 minute (jammed packed! I have SO much to share!) I share my BEST strategies in building my business and how I've helped others achieve six & seven figure status in theirs.
Posted by Tangela Davis on August 13, 2011 at 1:38am
A recent question was asked in response to my post "Is Government Contracting for Your Small Business?" as to "What is the most common mistake SME's can make while dealing with the government? There are several common mistakes SME's can make while dealing with government. Here are some of the common ones:
1. Truly understanding the customer needs. Sometimes the potential customer is not clear on what they need even when the contracting officer releases the RFP or RFQ. Keep in mind the contracting officer is obtaining the specs of the opportunity from their client who may not be clear on what the needs are for the scope of work.
2. Understanding the sales cycle can take much longer than what we experience in the commercial marketplace. There are many variables that impact the decision on whether or not the contracting officer will select and engage a contractor for the work to be performed.
3. The agency may decide to perform the work in house after they have received proposals outlining the performance work plan.
4. Not requesting a debrief on why your proposal or quote was not acceptable in response to the RFP or RFQ in order to obtain lessons learned.
Victorious Living for Moms is the collaborative effort of over 30 authors from around the country who have put pen to paper. In this time and season, mothers need much help and support as they journey through life. The WrightVision Foundation, Ment4U Mentoring Program “BEAUTIFICATION PROGRAM” mission is to provide life skills for under-served teenage girls ages of 12 -17 in the Woodland Community of Ward 8. Our target goal is to reach 30 teenage girls at each of sessions covering the topics of: (1) Healthy Life Styles, (2) Etiquettes, (3) Exploring Entreprenuership, (4) Job Readiness, (5) Nutrition and Education and (6) The Road to the University. http://www.wrightvisionfoundation.org/DONATE.html
STUDENTS SEEKING EDUCATION by EXPERIENCING ACADEMIC AMERICA (S.E.A.)
S.E.A. will begain posting scholarships for students enrolled or planning to go to college. Look for our daily post starting September 1, 2011. S.E.A. will also have a new website. www.sseeaa.com
P.S. Looking for a mentor, to help with the college application process? S.E.A. will help any student/parent that needs help.
Thank you
Norris Coleman,Director, of S.E.A.
"EVERY TRULY GREAT ACCOMPLISHMENT IS AT FIRST IMPOSSIBLE"
I had my big reveal along with four other ladies at the The Phoenix Mercury game. They used my short interview to spotlight and did the reveal on camera. A missed opportunity for great pr. I wore my jewelry but should have had a T-shirt,apron, jacket something with my brand or website on it. Shows the value of Branding Materials. A coach had me wearing my jewelry at all times but sometimes you need a liitle more. I'm having some T-shirts down with just wirequeen.com on them. What do you use when you can't talk your brand but need to still get that FREE public relation handled?
Women today are more stressed and pressed than our mothers and grandmothers ever were. We are wives, mothers, businesswomen, students, grandmothers, employees, etc. Unfortunately, because of the many roles we play, women are dying of strokes and heart attacks in record numbers. Even the statistics for suicide among women is unusually high. So, how can we, women of the 21st Century, manage our many roles and health? Here is one strategy that was created with you, your life and your budget in mind.
The Three M’s: Massage, Manicure & Make-over
Massage: What better way to end your week or start it than with a massage? Thirty minutes of peace & tranquility; who could ask for more? A massage can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on two variables: the type of massage you elect to have and your budget.
The full body (my favorite), the Swedish, hot stone, reflexology and a plethora of other kinds of massages were designed to de-stress, relax and exfoliate the body. But be careful with this “M” because a massage can be expensive, hence the second variable. Check on prices from local salons; ask for references, check out the establishment’s décor (one must feel comfortable in a place where they are about to be semi-naked for an hour) and staff friendliness. Speaking of staff friendliness, you will need to look deep within yourself to ascertain your level of comfort with having a masseuse who is either the same sex or the opposite. Account for all of this when budgeting for the massage. I suggest going once a month or every other month as this bill can add up depending on the type of service you purchase.
Now, when you set your appointment ladies, do not, I repeat, do not let anyone in your family know where you are going. The whole objective of this particular “M” is to get away and have time for you to reconnect with yourself. We take care of everyone else every day. The massage is an hour made just for you. You can’t relax if your kids, husband or the office keeps blowing up your cell phone. Turn it off, bury it beneath your pile of clothes and escape to Fantasy Island. My masseuse, Olivia at http://openhandsmassagecare.com/ in Richmond, VA, is my ultimate guide to massage heaven, and she makes sure that no one interrupts my moment of bliss.
Manicure: Your nails and hands are your first impression, especially in business. There’s nothing worse than going to shake someone’s hands and their nails are chipped or broken, or worse, dirty. What does this say about their character? If they can’t keep themselves well-kept, how then can they take care of your business? Keep your nails groomed at all times, but more importantly, there’s nothing that can compare to how good you feel when your hands and toes look pretty. Find a nail technician whom you can trust to take care of your nails. My nail tech, Kim, of Beauty Nails in Midlothian, VA, is wonderful; I have been a client since 2006 because she knows the business of nail care, and the constant compliments I receive about my nails is proof of her work. So, find an expert nail tech and keep those first impressions clean, polished and perfect. Remember, though, you must budget for this two times a month, if possible.
Make-Over: I am not talking about a make-up or wardrobe make-over, but a spiritual/physical/mental make-over. Positive thinking begets positive experiences. We must not only learn to surround ourselves with positive people, but create for ourselves affirmations and self-declarations that uplift us. My friend and beauty expert, Susie Galvez (http://www.susiegalvez.com/), insists that the first thing a woman should do upon waking up is to stand in front of the mirror and say confidently to yourself, “Hello, beautiful!” Why? Because if you don’t believe that you are beautiful, no one else will.
Okay! I know it’s difficult to do this with most of our schedules, but we must find the time to workout (see Walking), whether it be in the am or pm (whatever works best for you). If you can, find a personal trainer. They can be expensive, so see if you can barter services. For example, I approached a local fitness trainer about working with me, but I could not afford his services. So, I offered him a deal; ‘you train me and I will give you a health and fitness column in my magazine.’ He accepted. Free PR wins every time.
Read one book a month that teaches you something new about yourself, life, politics, etc. If you are a fan of fiction, read non-fiction (ex. finances, autobiographies, self-help books). If you love non-fiction, read fiction. I love mystery/suspense novels, so let me recommend my favorite author, Jane Evanovich. Her “Stephanie Plum” series makes me laugh so hard, I get a headache (http://www.evanovich.com/). Try reading poetry or writing some. This will definitely stretch your imagination.
As a publicist (and producer) with 20 years experience, I know when someone is ready for the “big time” and when they are not.
The major media “gatekeepers” are very particular. They can spot an amateur in a split second (and you only get one chance to pitch).
Surprisingly though, most people (especially authors) think they are ready for Jay Leno, Steve Harvey, CNN, USA Today, Good Morning America, Fox News, Essence, Today show, etc. But they are not. What’s so funny is that the shows or publications they want to be on or in – they don’t even watch, listen or read!
There are so many variables to getting major publicity. It does not happen because you have a good book, a new product or a friend who works for the station or publication. Major publicity doesn’t even happen if you have a good publicist with connections.
It takes a strategy, a strong brand and information that make the media’s job REALLY easy. (Because they are so busy!!!)
Here are some things you must have if you want to be considered to play in the big league with the big boys:
A track record. Most authors think that if they could just be interviewed on a major network when their book is released – they would set them up for major sales. Listen, a new book is not news. A good TV producer is not looking for the “new kid on the block” to present to their viewers, they want to score a guest that has some STAR power. A guest that has some juice; some awards; someone who has a following and people want to watch. So, this means you must start small, start local and then you can progress to regional and national. This takes TIME.
A good internet presence. If you think just having a website is enough – think again. Everyone has a website. You must prove to the media that you have an online following and dominate the search engines in regards to your expertise. If you say you are an “expert” – the media’s proof is to see whether you show up on page one of Google when they put in that query about the topic. If you don’t show up at all. NEXT. So you must know SEO, have a blog, some Facebook fans, Twitter followers and so on.
A concise, professional media kit. This is the hub of your information. But wait, don’t just throw together a press release, bio and some jpeg photos and call it a day. Think this through. Make this a tool that the make the media go “wow.” Meaning, there is no searching for answers, or searching for photos, or searching for video clips, or searching for current key facts or links. This is a living document that you keep on your website under a tab called “Media Kit” or “Press Kit.” But make it stand out and make sure your contact info is there and you are available 24/7 for the media. So, yes you must put a mobile there or your publicist’s mobile number there.
A good media kit should have –
a. A long and a short bio (in third person not first person please). How are they going to introduce you if they have to rewrite your bio because you wrote it in first person? Make it an exciting bio too. Have a one sheet too. This is info about you in a snapshot. Hire some to help you if you need it. Read bios of the experts in your field for samples.
b. Interview questions the media can ask you (because they probably won’t have time to read the whole book or do all the research on the topic you’re an expert in – so help them out!) Prepare at least 10 to 15 questions. Also good to have is a FAQ sheet and pitch letter.
c. Photos. Have an assortment of PROFESSIONAL head shots, speaking shots, full body shots and if an author, the book cover. Please have high-resolution photos available on the site for magazines too.
d. Previous media hits with links to video and audio interviews. Media begets media Also if you have endorsements – include those in the kit as well. They want to see what others are saying about you. So the more you show how you were featured in other media and seen by other people (preferably other experts), the more comfortable they will feel about booking you.
e.Radio and TV Interview Ideas. Think like a journalist or producer. Write out a show description or have a list of topics with bullet points you can speak about on the air.
f. Articles. Have some articles ready for the media to use for the prep of their story or to post on a blog for further info after the interview. They can be published or unpublished articles or even blog posts. But you want to provide them with background research from you about the topic you’re being interviewed about. A link to old newsletters are good to have included as well.
g.PDF of your book for the media to access in a hurry.
An intro video of you speaking at events. Showing you speaking in front of an audience with some audience reaction. This is extremely important if you want to get book on a major network.
A calendar of events. Media want to know that you’re busy – and have an active itinerary. Remember the media wants to book and interview those who are in high demand and have a strong brand.
Lists. Media love lists. Become a valuable resource for the media. Create Top Ten lists for your industry. These are good for sidebars for articles they are writing. Or the list could be used as a “teaser” when promoting a show.
A tight brand. Professional graphics. Professional photos. Professional website and blog. Professional newsletter. Keyword here: PROFESSIONAL. Not homemade. If you have a “DIY” look, it screams amateur. Pay a professional. If you want to roll with the big dogs – don’t be cheap with your brand. You have to pay to play.
Finally, timing is everything – but equally important is being prepared. There is nothing worst than having an opportunity to get major publicity and goof it up because you were not prepared. (The media is very quick to say “no go” – and it takes time for them to give “yes, it’s a go.”)
Learn to stay prep (become a student of the media) and continue to market and grow your brand. Strong SEO, a polished brand, networking and consistency will yield great results.
Is this you? Well, if so, we've been looking for you! Currently, GPS is looking for People Who Prosper OR anyone that is successful, considers themselves successful, or on their way to success!We are looking to feature and introduce people who are up and coming in their business or already there! PeopleWhoProsper.com is a place that will feature these business owners and share your stories with someone who just might be able to relate. Sometimes it helps to stay motivated when you hear other people's stories, and this is our goal: Not only to feature successful prosperous people, but to help keep others MOTIVATED.The other part of this, is that we want you to tell US about YOU. It's easy for anyone to find your website, blog, Facebook page, or twitter. But PeopleWhoProsper.com is a place for you to challenge yourself and put yourself out there. We give you a chance to brag about yourself! Because let's face it, if you can't talk about you, then who else will? Tell us about your business and services and how long you've been in business. We want to hear your story. Why did you decide to go into business for yourself?I am challenging you today to step out and tell others about you! Here's what you have to do:Email with subject line PeopleWhoProsper to tamara@garrisonprosperitysolutions.comInclude your business name, website and a synopsis of "your story".After getting in touch with you, you will be sent a series of questions about yourself, your business and/or services.After you return the answered questions, you will then be featured on GarrisonProsperitySolutions.com, PeopleWhoProsperTV, and up to 16,000 people on you tube!So, take the first step today and tell us about yourself! You never know who will need to hear your story or need your services!Deuteronomy 8:18: But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.Read more…
From A Writer's POV has a few $10 ad spots available in our print magazine. Also, anyone that places their published book into our book store this month will automatically have their book placed in the September Print Edition. Last Month, we placed all of the books in our book store in the Print Edition!!!! We sure did!! So if you are interested in either of these opportunities, please email us at inquiries@fromawriterspovmagazine.com
People often say “Pictures are worth a thousand words!”. I say, “Pictures on your website or blog are worth a few seconds”. If you include at least one illustrative picture on each page of your website or blog posts, you will help grab your visitors’ attention and keep them engaged on your site longer.
Now let me back up! Using professional images that are clear and not distorted will help keep your readers engaged! One of the worst things you can do to hurt the credibility of your website or blog is to display images that are distorted and/or have improper resolution. Doing so shows a lack of professionalism and your visitors will not take you or your website/blog seriously.
If you are using photos or images that you have taken yourself, make sure they are NOT blurry, distorted and/or are too dark or light. Make sure your images have a resolution of at least 72 to 92 dpi.
Where to find professional images for your website/blog
My favorite site to use is Fotolia.com. Fotolia.com has lots of fabulous pictures and they start from $1.25. As a matter of fact, I purchased the picture accompanying this post from there and added an overlay to it using my photo editor.
Find Professional Images For Your Blog That Only Cost $1.25, Click Here!!
Regardless of whether you buy your pictures or use your own, just make sure to use ones that will help portray a professional web image and add credibility to your site.
Want to increase your audience reach and engage visitors even more? Learn more»
Posted by Diane Griffi on August 6, 2011 at 7:16pm
My job as a security expert requires me to assist others in protecting their physical and intellectual assets, which is why I am so passionate about educating parents and teens regarding the real safety issues that can be associated with inappropriate texting behaviors. While parents certainly have the best intentions when they give teens a cell phone, they may also be setting themselves up for future legal issues. Most teens lack the maturity and experience to know how to use their newfound technology freedom and without proper parent monitoring (and at times intervention), teens may find themselves (and their parents!) in legal hot water.
Just what kind of legal issues could you encounter?
The majority of states (including the District of Columbia and Guam) have a primary law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving. This means an officer can ticket the driver for the offense without any other traffic offense taking place.
In many jurisdictions, there are parental liability laws that allow someone who is intentionally injured by a minor to hold the parents of that minor responsible—this may include acts of cyberbullying.
If a parent knows that his/her minor is engaged in inappropriate texting behaviors such as sexting or cyberbullying and does nothing to prevent it, the parent is at risk of being charged for contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Extremely harmful online speech can violate criminal laws—this includes sending obscene or harassing text messages, creating or sending sexually explicit images of teens and taking a photo of someone in a private place such as a locker room.
Don’t wait for an incident to happen to you or your child before you talk to your teen about the consequences of sexting, cyberbullying or driving while texting. It is your responsibility as a parent to keep the lines of communication open and to monitor your teen’s texting behavior. For more information on the legal ramifications of inappropriate texting behaviors, checkout my new ebook, Safe Text: Protecting Your Teens from the Dangers of Texting:
Do you have a great tip for monitoring your teen’s texting? Comment on this blog, post on our Facebook page or send us a tweet using the hashtag #safetext you’re your best teen texting advice. At the end of August, we will randomly choose someone who has sent us a tip to receive a $25.00 Amazon gift certificate.
Through my services Literary Career Moves, I offer written path guides for authors and writers who need direction in their literary career and wonder what's the next best step to take in their literary career. My path guides are 50% off until August 14th. If you are interested in a path guide or simply want more information on exactly what I can do for you, check out my website and inquire: www.literarycareermovesonline.com
“What to Expect When You’re Expecting” – IN THE SPIRIT
Yes, you heard me correctly – I’m expecting! If my calculations serve me correctly, I should be welcoming my new blessing (s) to the world in about three months. Now before any chatter begins concerning the What, Who, When, and Where, let me just clarify that I am expecting to give birth to something great and beautiful, but IT’S ALL GOD and does not involve the birthing of a human being. God recently revealed to me in my alone time with Him that the Body, Mind, Hormonal and Life changes that I have been experiencing over the past six months are all related to a Spiritual Pregnancy that he has imparted unto me. What does that mean you ask? Basically, when a woman becomes pregnant, her world is turned upside down and her body begins to do things that she cannot fully comprehend or explain. A few of the changes that may result from Natural Pregnancy include:
Swelling and discomfort of the hands, feet, etc.
Changes in skin color and/or the breaking out of the skin.
Aches and Pain all over the body.
Mood Changes: Up’s and Downs; Happy and Sad.
Required Diet changes and CRAVINGS!
My particular experience has been causing me to experience ALL OF THE ABOVE in addition to some others which led me to the conclusion that these changes can also occur with a Spiritual Pregnancy! But unlike the latter, when God impregnates you with a Purpose, Ministry, Promise, etc. there is so much more that you will have to be concerned with in order to reach a Full-Term birth. For instance,
Diet Change: There will be some people, places, and things that you will have to surrender to God and/or walk away from.
Nourishing Your Spirit: You will need to immerse yourself in the word of God and your personal relationship with him in order to consistently remain on the path He has set.
Renew Your Mind: In order to stay focused and not give into the Test, Trials, and Pain that may be going on in and around you, your mind needs to be clear and REMAIN in and on Spiritual Things. Anything else is harmful and can be detrimental to your seed.
TRUST GOD: He knows what he is doing and it’s all for His glory. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight”- Proverbs 3:5-6.
Rejoice, Be Joyful, have Peace and glean Hope just from knowing that God is using you to birth a GREAT work in the earth. I am Humbled, Grateful, and counting down the days to when my new baby will arrive! Ask any mother, the closer you get to delivery, the more anxious you become to return to your normal self and the same applies here!
Debrayta (Dee) Salley, Abundant Life Coach & Author
