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Blog #6

Hey Gang, Charlie Here!

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So here we are, it’s the dog days of summer and we on our sixth blog. What a crazy quick season. In honor of the passing of the days and any excuse to slow down and forestall sweating for the next couple of months, I am going to take a step back and introduce you to the Noir A-Go Gofamily. I will of course start with myself, who better! And then I will show off my sisters in love, adventure, shopping & crime. So sit back, let a stiletto dangle from a toe, sip your sweet tea and enjoy the sepia ladies of summer.

Be The Magic!

Be Positively Pinup!

~~~~

Charlie. Numero Uno.

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Well kiddies, as you may know, I am one of the original dames. A lady’s lady and a man’s gal. Me and the likes of Betty (Grable that is)10744084501?profile=original go way back. Hailing from Brooklyn and parts unknown, (a lady likes a little mystery and so do the gents) I’m no glass-jawed baby and like to say that only the strong need apply. And apply they do. Whether I am doing the rumba down in Miami or shakin’ a tail feather up in Harlem, the gentleman callers call and call and call. 10744084686?profile=original I have what they used to call moxie, sex appeal. And I’m not afraid to use it. Are you? I sure hope not! Because I don’t suffer fools gladly and like my besties tough like me. If you’re one of those sappy chicks who need to be told what to do, where to go, and how to keep the seams of your stockings straight you can tell your story walking.10744085482?profile=original  But I don’t believe that for a minute. I know you and you know me. We are strong sisters-in-arms who know how to charm and run the world because as sure as diamonds are a girl’s best friend, we know how to take care of ourselves and anyone else who needs it!

 

 

Next up…Belle or as we like to call her Belle of the ball! See ya next month!

 

 

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10 Keys to Uncommon Living

We all want to live the uncommon life. I know I do. As a coach, I value change and reinvention. I believe change is necessary for energizing your soul. The one thing I know is that changing your perspective is key to an uncommon life. In order to see the fluidity of life, you must see it through a new eye. This may require daily refocusing. It's like refreshing your eye "browser." We need to refresh every now and then with a new direction, new relationships, new knowledge, new assignments and whatever else that will jumpstart us out of the common to the uncommon. If you are responding to life out of the old eye, allow me to share some concepts on how to live the uncommon life.

  • It's important to see yourself as a brand. You are your own message. Ask yourself, "what am I saying to people when they encounter me? Who and what do you represent? Make the appropriate adjustments to deliver the right message.
  • It's important to reinvent yourself 2-3 times in your life because there is so much more untapped potential on the inside of you that it will take your whole lifespan to bring it out.
  • You must be active in the game of life - you must keep going because success comes through working it out. Giving up is not an option unless you know that you are absolutely in the wrong place. And even then, take what you've learned in that place and keep moving forward.
  • Stop looking at the mountain top and purpose in your heart to start at the level you know you fit. Then, advance up the mountain one step at a time. Cover all of your bases.
  • Figure out what your goals are because doing nothing will cost you. Create weekly, monthly, yearly goals.
  • You can get what you want as a long as you can help other people to get what they want. In other words, don't live a selfish life. What you do for others, God will make happen for you.
  • Listen to your dissatisfaction. Sometimes when you are unsatisfied, your heart may be trying to tell you something. Don't override your internal alarm system.
  • You must see things that normal people don't see. Train your eye to see beyond what is there. Examine the different territories that you find yourself in and create from what you see.
  • Learn to give more than you have. God's economy is vastly different than the world's economy. It doesn't make sense to give when you don't have anything, but when you sow into people's lives, you shall reap. It's the law of nature.
  • Move away from people who don't believe in you and who don't agree with the plan for your life. Otherwise they will pull on your motivation and enthusiasm. Stay connected to people who bring light into your life.

Want to know more about how to live an uncommon life using what's already on the inside of you, visit www.unlimitedcoaching4you.com for more information. Do you want to become a coach, a new Become a Certified Coach program in life coaching and health and wellness is about to start in September. Contact me for more information.

 

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Create Your Rule To Live By

Hello and welcome to The BWRB, the official website for The Black Woman's Rule Book.  This website was created for women of color across the nation and around the world to share the Rule They Live By.Do you have a Rule To Live By?  Think back to your childhood, is there one thing that you were always told that still holds true today.  Maybe it was say your prayers before you go to bed, cross your legs when wearing a skirt, or what about the all too familiar, sit up straight.  As an adult,  is there a lesson you have learned that you still stand firm on no matter what?  This is what The BWRB is all about.  Tell us your rules, your lessons and the stories behind them, so that women around the  world can share, teach and learn from each other.What's my Rule?  Keep Good People Around You.  My rule didn't always have a name.  When developing my own, I thought back to my childhood and tried to recall lessons that I was always taught.  Taking it a step further, I started to remember the people in my life that always influenced, motivated, supported and encouraged me.  And that's how I came up with, "Keep Good People Around You".  Which is the rule that I stand on.  Good people are always going to tell you the truth, whether you want to hear it or not.  Good people are always going to support you no matter what and Good people will always look out for your best interest.Take some time to think about your own rule and what it has meant to your life, how it has helped you or someone you know.  Tell the story behind it and go to the Submit your Rule page of http://thebwrb.com, for an opportunity to be featured in our upcoming book, The Black Woman's Rule Book.  What Rule Do You Live By?Love and Gratitude,The Black Woman's Rule Book,Http://thebwrb.com/
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The Pathway To Your Joy In Two Words

Have you ever wondered how people live such awesome lives.  They have great wealth, abundant joy, successful marriage, nice house, wonderful spouse, great friends, awesome kids, beautiful cars, and travel the world year round, the list is endless.  Have you ever wondered how they achieved it all. Some might say they worked hard for it, they inherited it or they got lucky.  There is a strong commonality in the lives of those who live life abundantly and it is a belief that dates back hundreds of years.  Books have been written about this topic for ages and it is available to everyone who can apply it's rules to their life. All you have to do is INTEND IT!That's right, intend it.  Whatever you want for your life, you must intend it. Let's take a look at the meaning of the word. To have in mind as something to be done or brought about.  You 100% intend to have a wonderful life, intend to have a loving marriage, intend to be successful, intend to be great, intend to be healthy, intend to be happy!  For all the things you want for your life intend it.  Expect that it will happen and remain focused on only those things.  Don't allow any contradiction, doubt, disbelief or denial to enter your mind.  Dismiss those thoughts immediately and replace them with the positive thinking that what you want is on it's way, everything you need is flowing into your life right now.  And feel good about it, get excited about it!Go to a quiet room in your home, take a pen and paper with you.  Now, sit quietly and think about what you desire most for your life.  Be very clear with yourself, be very specific.  Now that your mind has become clear on what you want, write it down and read these thoughts everyday.  When you do this continue to imagine yourself where you want to be, continue to remain positive and continue to feel good about it and watch it appear in your life.  And finally, be grateful and thankful for what your life already has, so that you can continue to feel this way when your life begins to produce more for you.With Love and Gratitude,The Black Woman's Rule BookHttp://thebwrb.com/
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Are You Ready for a 90 Day Challenge?


For nearly 2 years I've battled my weight as it steadily got higher and higher, especially after having my last baby almost a year and a half ago.

I've tried different diets and programs with no success. I just about gave up and was ready to except the fact that I was just going to be a "big girl" from now on and justified it by having six kids.

Then, thankfully...I learned about the Body By Vi Challenge and decided...okay, this is the LAST attempt!

Boy oh Boy...I'm SO GLAD I GAVE IT A TRY!!!

10744081455?profile=originalAfter just 30 days - I've lost 17 pounds, 4 inches and a pant size!

**Because of the 17 pounds lost, my knees no longer hurt. I can enjoy walks again!

**I have energy beyond the roof and can play with my kids, get silly and dance around our living room without being completely out of breathe in 5 minutes.

**I'm NOT starving!

**People are noticing the change in my body and my confidence level is on the rise!!!

**PLUS, I'm getting my SEXY BACK!!!

I'm so pleased with my results and the support from the Body By Vi community, I'm committed to helping and supporting others who are ready to make a positive and healthy change in their life.

Are you ready to ROCK OUT this challenge with me?

Message me for more details or to get started, go here: http://theceomamma.bodybyvi.com

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NatraBurst: Rebuilds and Repairs?

We all know that from time- to-time children are going to fall. Wouldn't you like to know there is a product out there that will help you keep doctor visits and emergency room visits at a minimum?

There is a product and just one scoop daily could help rebuild and repair the body naturally. The name of the product is called NatraBurst and I am glad I get my scoop and make sure my children get their ½ scoop DAILY!!!!

I have a 7-year-old who runs track and participated in a summer camp program for nine weeks. She ended up with a lot of scrapes and bruises by the end of her 9-weeks of being out of school.

Recently she fell, hit her mouth on the cement, knocked out one of her front teeth, lip busted on the inside and she even had swelling in her face the next day.

I personally believe that if it was not for NatraBurst, that I make sure she gets 1/2 scoop of daily, she would not have healed as fast. She did not need stitches or even a doctor's visit and was back to her regular self in no time :)

The scars that she has gotten from this fall and the many other falls over the summer are almost nonexistent as well!

If you have thought about, wondered or even wanted to learn more about NatraBurst, please take the time to visit Rebuild and Repair for more information.

To Your Health

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If you are self-employed like myself, you will feel that jury duty is one of worst things that could ever pop up at any given moment. The only hope you have to hold on to is if you are not chosen as a juror and dismissed or are picked, you can’t get call back to serve for up to 6 years (at least in the New York City, not sure if it apply to the entire state). Last week Tuesday and Wednesday I reported to the Kings County Supreme Court in downtown Brooklyn with the hope of moving quickly through the selection process, not getting chosen as a juror and returning to my regular schedule program (everyday life) no later then Wednesday evening.

That was not the outcome. Late Wednesday morning I was told that I was pick as Juror Number 11. Oh the horror! Needless to say I was totally bummed out. I had work to do. Millions of questions went through my head –

“How long will this trial be? Would my clients be sympathetic to the situation and okay with me not being available for most of the day, if at all? Are they okay will deadlines being pushed back? Are jurors allowed to go out for lunch or do I have to be stuck inside all day? Can I bring my laptop with me? Where are the outlets? Is there Wi-Fi in here?”

My business has only one employee – me. I do everything. I am every department from marketing to creative. Unlike my 9-5 counterparts when I don’t work I don’t get paid. Yes, jurors (not those dismiss during jury selection, only if you serve on a trial) do get paid for their service, either by their employers or by the court.

Read on to hear more about my recent Jury Duty experience.

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Extreme Chef Meets Top Chef

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Extreme Chef, Winner, Chef Amadeus, welcomes Top Chef, Chef Tiffany Derry to his Radio Show Southern Passion Lounge
Extreme Chef Winner, Chef Amadeus will interview Top Chef and Fan Favorite, Tiffany Derry on his Radio Show Southern Passion Lounge, Monday August, 20th, 2012 at 4:00pm EST. "This is an exciting interview for me," says Chef Amadeus, "just to talk about Chef Tiffany's experiences and finding out what ventures she has in plan, is great way to educate aspiring chefs of the opportunities that are possible for them in their career." This week's topic is females in the kitchen.

 

Chef Tiffany Derry has been in this business since the age of 15 and progressed through the kitchen ranks at the International House of Pancakes, eventually becoming the youngest person in the organization's history to be promoted to a management position. . Derry continued to prove her determination to succeed by competing in American Culinary Culinary Federation competitions in order to pay her way through the Art Institute of Houston. While completing her studies at AIH, Derry began working at Pesce Restaurant where she advanced from garde-manger to Jr. Sous Chef. Shortly after graduating at the top of her class, Derry became the Executive Sous Chef at Grotto Cucina Napolitano. Following a move to Dallas, she returned to the Art Institute as an instructor in the Culinary School, inspiring a new generation of young chefs.

 

Tiffany Derry expanded her fan-base and gained international notoriety when she appeared on Bravo's Top Chef- Season 7 where she was voted "fan favorite" and achieved a place in the competition's final four. Derry's quiet confidence, warm southern charm, and genuine natural ability in the kitchen made her a natural selection for Season 8's Top Chef All-Stars, where she was again a finalist. Tiffany Derry's diverse and fast-paced experiences have perfectly positioned her to become one of Dallas's most beloved chefs.

About Southern Passion Lounge Is where the industry comes to hang out per say. Chef Amadeus discusses a myriad of topics from cooking, golf, lifestyle, to culinary technique. The show is designed to educate and entertain it's listeners, every week there is new hot chef and every week the topic changes. Southern Passion Lounge airs on Blog Talk Radio at 4:00pm Eastern Standard Time and is sure to be great time for all listeners.

For More Information

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/chefamadeus

http://www.chefamadeus.com

http://www.twitter.com/chefamadeus

http://www.facebook.com/amadeus

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10744081500?profile=originalAre you ready to get challenged?

As a 32 year old black woman with type 2 diabetes, I now am working hard to prioritize my health as much as a prioritize my work.

For the next 4 months, BBWO member Renee Wiggins invites us to join 1000 women in the Being Fabulously Fit and Well 4 God Lifestyle Challenge.

I just signed up and encourage you to do the same. For more details visit the website: http://beingfabulouslyfit4god.com

On the topic of self improvement also be sure to take a look at Veronica's new book - 90 Days to Start Building Wealth.

Via the Featured Topics Rotation on the BBWO Home-page you can find this and 14 other great new resources to help you get back to business.

Among the new features you will find the replay of my webinar: How to Startup and Stay in Business! Browse the main page for links.

Plus this past weekend quite a few of the fabulous women in our network added their businesses to the BBWO directory. Explore new sites via the links below:

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Shops
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Books
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Profiles
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Services


Want more tips on getting back to business?


Click links to learn about:
Creating Your Own Social Network | Creating Information Products
Affiliate Marketng | Video Marketng | Using Social Media

More to come!

LaShanda Henry

 

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10744084279?profile=originalPeople are steadily coming to realize the importance of social media and integrating it effectively into ones business and marketing strategy. It’s quite rewarding to say the least. Think about these statistics: Facebook has 900 million active users and there are more than 200 million users on Twitter. That is a lot of people and in a nutshell is the reason why you should have a social media strategy! Many people assume that it is highly technical and costly but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s actually pretty simple. The hardest part is simply jumping in and just getting started.  I’m not talking about the basic Facebook profile where most people use it to let others know that they are in a complicated relationship, or are  ”checking into Starbucks” or having Ruth Chris for dinner.  That is not a social media strategy!  That is called using Facebook to socialize just because!

Social Media First and Foremost

What you must take into account and remember when it comes to a social media strategy is that it takes time and it takes patience. As with every other legitimate business practice, nothing comes over night or with ease. If that were the case, everyone would be a social media success! It takes time to gain followers and credibility and so you want to make sure that you do not become disappointed if it does not happen for you right away. For some it will happen very fast, for others it will not and this is completely normal as it all depends on what the business and profile is all about and how it relates to the masses!

Social Media Must-Do’s

You want to make sure that you are posting new updates as often as possible. You want to make sure that these updates are relevant and respectful! You don’t want to post things simply for the sake of posting. You must make sure that you are “posting on purpose.” As a business person, you never want to post things that may be offensive, derogatory, or sexually offensive. This is a sure way to lose followers in a heartbeat. Keep it professional, informational, inspirational and of course add some character. Post with consistency. Social network users look for updates and so if you are not posting on purpose, you run the risk of losing followers, customers and not being taken seriously.

  • Make it a point to interact with people – acknowledge comments, respond back and “like” other users content. People need to know that you are there and you are real.
  • Use interesting and captivating headlines – this grabs attention and speaks to emotions.
  • Be versatile especially in the beginning. Don’t limit yourself to strictly Facebook, or strictly Twitter, or strictly to your own blog. The only way to expand and gain new followers and customers is to go everywhere that the people are and then hone in on what is working best and most effectively for you after you’ve tested the waters a bit. Be everywhere in the beginning and then narrow it down to few later.
  • Stay up to date. Keep it fresh. Make sure that all of your information is current and keep a current profile image up.
  • Create a business page to market your business so that you can add followers. This is not the same as your Facebook profile. A basic profile will limit you in how you can engage people and in the applications that you can take advantage of to engage people. Creating a Facebook PAGE (otherwise known as fan page) is an absolute must.

Social Media Don’ts

  • Don’t do the Hard Sell. Never do the aggressive hard sell, buy from me now, join me now. People hate this. People especially hate this when they don’t know you from Adam and this is what a majority of people are doing! This cannot be the complete focus. Only 5% to 10% of your social media strategy should entail “the sale focus.” It’s better to take a back end approach.
  • Don’t self promote. People are not interested in hearing you toot your own horn.
  • Don’t lie or exaggerate. People can typically see through B.S., especially the type of people that you are hoping to attract. Be genuine. Don’t say that you are an “expert” in areas that you are not. Don’t claim to have made a million dollars when you have not. People appreciate genuine people.ID-10069242.jpg?width=149

Stay abreast on social media and make it a point to read as much as you can and slowly implement new features and strategies into your social media strategy. For the most part, most information is free. If you have money, you can pay someone to assist you with getting your social media strategy going (just ensure that they are qualified to in fact get you the results you desire). If you don’t have money, but you have time, invest in reading and learning so that you can begin to take action. There are endless resources available to you on the internet. Social media is not difficult at all. It is completely up to you to make a decision in your mind to simply begin or to begin to generate results. It’s an affordable, superfast way to put your business on the map and begin to build your brand and credibility. Invest some time, money if you have it to spare and begin with these tips. You’ll be well ahead of the masses!

To your success,

VGold Signature Social Media Marketing Tips that Will Up Your Game ASAP

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net P.S. – I use a system that anyone can use with any company and pretty much for any industry!! It is a great way for you to start learning how to generate leads and traffic plus earn additional income by referring the system even if no one joins your primary MLM or Home Based Business. Get your FREE presentation by Clicking here now!

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The Presence of Nonverbal Communication

Communication goes far beyond speaking. When you have a message to get across to your audience, make sure you are doing it in a way for them to have a "wow" reaction.

Did you know that excitement is contagious? We can't expect someone else to get excited about our opportunities or messages until we are. It 's called communicating with body language and emotion. You will see how far your message goes when you use this to grab the attention of your target audience.

Just think about how many deals you can close and how many relationships you can build if you can communicate this way. It doesn't matter what kind of business you do, nonverbal communication can convey so much more. Clear communication is key.

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4 Reasons to Set Fabulous Goals

(From my book, How to Change Your Mindset + Live Your Most Fabulous Life)

Goal setting is the first step in successful goal achievement. If you don’t set goals, the other steps in achieving them can’t happen. A few reasons you need goals:

  1. They provide clarity on your vision. By not having goals in life, you’ll just be running around without ever accomplishing anything for yourself. You first have to create what you want in your mind (by setting the goal), and then your desires can become a reality.
  2. Goals give you one focal point to concentrate on. While your vision and purpose gives you a wide focus, your goals provide laser focus on what, exactly, you need to spend your energy and time on.
  3. They move you forward. They represent the inner desires that motivate you and are what push you to keep going when things get rough.
  4. Goals help you become the best version of yourself (your most Fabulous you!). They can help you reach your highest potential, and without them, you subject yourself to the normal, daily actions that make you feel comfortable and safe. And while those actions may feel good, they keep you from growing and don’t allow you to be the best you that you can be.

Have a goal you want to achieve but need assistance getting started? Or, do you need someone to hold you accountable for taking action on your goals? Goal-getter Sessions are for you! Learn more here, or email me: coaching (at) jamieflemingdixon (dot) com.

 

 

Dreamer. Lover of life. Goal getter. These are just a few words to describe Jamie Fleming-Dixon, inspirational writer, blogger, editor and F.A.B. Life Strategist. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of For Colored Gurls, a blog that inspires and empowers women to live their most Fabulous lives. Additionally, she is owner of Mocha Writer, a boutique copy editing and proofreading service.

Jamie is also the author of How to Change Your Mindset + Live Your Most Fabulous Life, a motivational book, providing practical tips for creating a more positive mindset and living the life of one's dream. She has been featured in several websites, blogs, magazines and Blog Talk Radio Shows, including TheCEOMamma.com, AfroElle Magazine and Prominence Magazine and was recently named one of the 2012 50 Fabulous Women Entrepreneurs on BBWO (Black Business Women Online). Get inspired on her blog, ForColoredGurls.com.

 

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Alright. Maybe you're not famous yet. But if you are striving to be, these tips may help you move toward your goal.

Blogging Tip #1: Choose the best time to blog- As I have stated before, it is not necessary to blog everyday. As you may overwhelm your readers (unless you are a gossip blog). However you should come up with a day or two throughout the week that works best for you. Make sure you post EVERY week on those days, so your readers know when to expect something from you.

Blogging Tip #2: Work with someone who knows what they are doing- Just like famous people have managers and agents, you need a coach to help you build your blog, business, or brand the way you envision it. They may be able to expand your vision and take you to another level. Of course managers, agents and coaches do not always come for free, but there are affordable ones. You need to get out there, find someone you like, and see if they would like to coach you.

Blogging Tip #3: Posting pictures on your blog- One suggestion is to either Google "public domain pictures of ______" and insert whatever you are looking for in the blank. Another suggestion is if you find a picture on another site, make sure you reference the site and author in your blog and you should be covered. You can also become a member of picture sites like publicdomainpictures.net and dreamstime.com. These sites offer public domain pictures in any category you can think of. Some pictures need to be paid for but dreamstime.com offers a lot of free pictures.

Blogging Tip #4: Which blogging platform would you get the most visibility with? Visibility meaning...FAMOUS! Which platform will get you noticed on a Google search, etc?  There are several options for you to create a free blog, but I know of an option that might as well be free, that offers visibility and puts you on track to become famous online! You can find out more information here => BeFamousOnline2.info. OR you can join me here (for close to free) and start working with me here => BeFamousOnline2.biz on your journey to Be Famous Online Too!

These tips are just a FEW of what you should know about blogging. There is so much information. What other questions do you have about blogging?

Tamara Garrison-Thomas

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Happy Sunday!  Do you struggle with creating content?  Do you struggle with writing quality articles, reviews, and blog posts?  If you do, you are not alone!  If you don’t, maybe this post isn’t for you, or perhaps you can stand to add an additional resource  for even better efficiency!

I’m sharing one of my sexy business secrets with you guys today!  Take a look at this video NOW and then click on the link below the video and take action TODAY.  Your life will be so much easier. Hurry up and go get your Sunday Blessing.

I NEED HELP WITH WRITING QUALITY CONTENT! LET ME IN!

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P.S. – I use a system that anyone can use with any company!! It is a great way for you to start learning how to generate endless leads and traffic and brand yourself in the process!  Get your FREE presentation by Clicking here now!

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Image Courtesy of Fotolia

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

 

Expand thru Alliance Partnership

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

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

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

Here are 3 D’s for a Sound Collaboration:

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

 

Build a High Performing Internal Team

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

Here are 5 ways to invest in your employees:

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


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

 

Join Women Networks

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

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

For instance, you can:

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


Go Green Business

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

Here are 5 Go Green Tips:

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


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

 

Pay It Forward

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

Here are 3 ways to pay it forward:

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


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

 

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

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I speak to authors regularly to help them organize their writing and create publishing plans that fit their goals and economic status. While one of the biggest barriers to self-publishing is usually funds, the second usually is lack of information or research. Traditional publishing is nice if you have the patience for it and don't mind letting someone else take over, but for those who like be in charge here are a few good reasons to self-publish, as well as some major pitfalls.

5. No Rejections! This is one that resonates with every author. No one likes to be told no, especially if there is not a clearly identifiable problem with your manuscript. While this is a perfectly good reason to go the self-publishing route, which will ensure your publication, rejections are a motivation for some authors to improve on their work.

Pitfall: Without an honest, third-party assessment of your manuscript before publishing, you can end up with a sub-par product that destroys your reputation as an author.

How to Avoid It: Find a professional editor to provide you with honest feedback. Some have a process for this type of review, while others charge an hourly fee. The goal is to not only get feedback, but also suggestions on how to resolve your issues. Companies like EverFaith Press provide a Rubric with their manuscript assessments which allow you to see your problem areas and how you can fix them.

4. Editorial Control. This perk of self-publishing is great for authors who like to be in the know. You have the ability to interview and select your own editor, or at least set the parameters for success and their interaction with you.

Pitfalls: Selecting the wrong editor by going for the lowest cost only. Another big mistake is ignoring your editor. If you have selected your editor wisely, it is important that you take the time to weigh and value their input.

How to Avoid It: First, make sure that you request a sample edit. Any editor that takes on your book without first reviewing your manuscript is no one you should work with. They need to see your manuscript to determine if they can help you or not. Second. when selecting your editor, have a conversation with them about their editing style and how they work with authors. Vibes are not sufficient, but if you combine your "personality assessment" with their assessment of your manuscript and sample edit, you will have all of the pieces needed to make an educated decision.

3. Design Input. Many traditional publishers work on your design for you, and your input is limited if allowed at all. When self-publishing, depending on how you go about it, you are able to veto covers you do not like and creative control over the design concepts.

Pitfall: Design input is only a plus if you have options and are working with a skilled designer. Using a self-publishing press can be a benefit here, because they typically make deals with quality designers based on book quantities to get you the best pricing. When approaching the same or similar designer, your costs can triple and push you towards a cheaper more sub-par choice.

How to Avoid It: Look for promotional specials when you review the work of graphic designers, and make sure that they have experience with creating at least 5 book covers for print publications. Don't hesitate to interview them, and if you really don't have the time to do the legwork then visit small presses like EverFaith Press and Believers Press. They both have contractors who can provide sample work from established designers for you to choose from.

2. Higher Royalties. It's good to get paid, and it's even better when you can set your own rates. This is the number 2 best reason to self-publish, because you see an immediate return on your investment. It takes a while to recoup the publishing costs, but to many authors it's worth it.

Pitfalls: There are four major pitfalls here 1. Not setting your own royalty rate, 2. Setting your rate too high to reinvest in your work, 3. Not setting your royalties aside for personal use and 4. Not using the book revenue to reinvest.

How to Avoid It: Being a smart business person is one of the key skills you will need to be a successful authorpreneur, but it's not something you can learn overnight. The quick lesson (or reminder) is that you have to both pay yourself and set money aside to further your book marketing plans. Creating your own contract to set your royalty rate lets you make a little money back from your work, while reasonably setting aside the remainder for a business account. You can save that money and use it invest in any future book plans that you may have.

 

1. Access to Final Files. There are no major pitfalls here, and honestly It's the most important reason to self-publish carefully. Many companies are happy for you to pay them to produce your work, and are only satisfied if they can keep you coming back for more. They force your hand by not providing you with your final files so you have to go through their more expensive channels for any print needs. EverFaith Press has the advantage on most self-publishing companies here, as it is in their standard agreement to provide the final files to their authors. They keep you coming back because their print costs are one of the cheapest in the POD world, and the turnaround time is phenomenal.

Pitfalls: If you do get a copy of your final files, make sure not to corrupt it! If you do not have the knowledge of InDesign or whatever layout tool they use, do not try to figure it out using your file. If you destroy it, you most likely will need to pay to have it recreated.

How to Avoid It: Maintain a back-up copy of all publication files, then make a back-up of your back-up. Preferably, you should store your files on a Cloud drive and on an external drive. This protects your investment and ensures that you have a copy of all final files for future changes or editions.

These are just a few good reasons to self-publish, and there are many reasons to traditionally publish as well. In the end it is up to you the author to decide what will work best for you.

Have you been published, or self-published your own book? What helped you to make your decision? Share your answers below!
 

Rochelle Carter is the President/CEO of Ellechor Media, LLC. Ellechor is a Christian media company with three imprints: Ellechor Publishing House- a publisher of Inspirational Christian books, EverFaith Press- a self-publishing imprint offering Coach2Publish, Publishing & Marketing Services, and E2 Books & Co.- an eBook only imprint. She also blogs marketing, publishing and writing tips twice weekly at The Savvy Authorpreneur and runs Christian Books Today- a community for Christian book readers and authors, featuring an independent bookstore.

Contact Me | Write for My Blog | Buy Indie

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236461.gif Congradulations to Virginia, Diane and Family, Tony, Alisa,Pat, Rochell, Jay,Larry,Melissa,Ingrid and the many others that have stepped forward to help feed the children. We are in the business of Tithing To Give. For Those of You Who Want to Share In The Power of Giving and being Blessed in Abundance For Doing So...Inbox me for info. No Hype, Not MLM, Simply The Power Of Giving! Thank God For The Blessings That Flow!

View The http://www.BiddersGoneViral.com/BidsThatGive

Thank You Again
Carolyn Simmons--Founding Member
www.bidswithapurpose.com
10744083270?profile=original

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ID-1009971.jpg?width=203While Twitter is far from new, it is a new world to many business owners who have yet to tap into it, or tap into it successfully to build their networks.  I’m sure you know the basics of what Twitter is, but if you don’t really have a sound gist, it’s a plug and play, real time vehicle for spreading a message through a network of people. Anyone can virtually create a Twitter account and with little effort have a smorgasbord of people within their Twitter network in a matter of minutes. Generating leads using Twitter is for the most part about leveraging a community of people that are interested in what you have to say and what you have to offer.

Twitter is a highly valuable resource for you if you are serious about building your brand, or growing your Network Marketing or Internet Marketing business and more importantly, if you value and realize the importance of building relationships. I don’t mean a tweet or re-tweet here and there, but I am talking a full on Twitter Strategy to get the maximum use out of the site and to maximize your time. I’m sure that you realize, or have been told that you must go where the people are and that you need to get your message to as many people as you can, in the least amount of time as possible, while being effective in the process. What is so impressive about Twitter is that you can do this for free! You can practice, test several methods and messages, you can mess up and it really doesn’t matter much because you don’t have to spend a fortune while you are practicing! But ultimately, your Twitter strategy has got to be sexy enough to attract followers!

You can literally be anywhere and be doing anything and stop and instantly send a tweet broadcast of your thought, message, promotion, contest, or whatever in just a few short minutes! Instead of being forced to publish massive blog posts every time you want to share something or make a point, you can instead send a Tweet!

SO HOW EXACTLY DO YOU USE TWITTER FOR LEAD GENERATION

Internet Marketers, Network Marketers and traditional businesses alike are successfully using Twitter to reach new and existing customers online, and to increase traffic to their websites. If you succeed in sharing relevant “tweets” (keyword being relevant) and increasing your list of followers, you will be able to start directing people off of twitter and into your lead generation process. You may want to boost blog subscribers, get more opt-ins to your list, more business partners, more customers, etc. Your Twitter strategy can potentially achieve all of the above if worked correctly!

Assuming you already have a Twitter account let’s get into some strategy stuff.

TWITTER CONTENT – WHAT TO TWEET ABOUT

One of the most important things to remember when tweeting is that the people following you are following you because they find what you post interesting for the most part. Nobody wants to follow someone who posts nothing but sales messages and re-tweets all day long and so you’ve got to be strategic and on purpose with your tweets.

It is great to add a personal touch and share photos, website links and stories of interest to you (that are not risqué or offensive) for more individualism and personalization and while the long term objective might be to gain new business partners and new customers, you have to always begin with the importance and value of relationship building in mind.

 

HOW TO GET MORE FOLLOWERSID-10018651.jpg?width=100

The quickest way to grow your list of followers is to make the first move and start following your target people yourself, because many will follow you back either automatically almost straight away, or manually within a few days. You can always un-follow whoever doesn’t follow you back, so you will end up building yourself a large reciprocal following in a fairly short period of time.

You can find the right people to follow, based on what they are “tweeting” about, by using the Twitter Search Engine at www.search.twitter.com

Success on Twitter depends on how well you can reach targeted followers and your ability to tweet about things that people care about and will take the time to listen to/read.

Ultimately, you want to gain more followers, get them to your website or blog and then proceed to treat them just like every other lead in your recruiting funnel. Who knows, you could get lucky and never have to purchase another lead or online advertising campaign again!

Click here to learn how to really explode your network and your business using Twitter. Make it sexy and it will attract!  Yes, the sexy rule applies to building a business as well!

VGold Signature Are Your Tweets Sexy Enough to Produce Business Results?

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net

P.S. – I use a system that anyone can use with any company and pretty much for any industry!! It is a great way for you to start learning how to generate leads and traffic plus earn additional income by referring the system even if no one joins your primary MLM or Home Based Business. Get your FREE presentation by Clicking here now!

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