Tips from the Biz World of Alliance Advisors

Changing the Direction of Business

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 12:07:00 +0000

It's time for a change. We have heard this alot during the election last year but this has nothing to do with that. This has to do with my business. I have spent the last three years trying to identify a way to bring in a modest income in hopes of replacing the income from my previous employment.

Three years ago I made the leap from employee to self-employed. A large leap for me since I was the bread winner in the family. Make sure and note the word was. From that time I have not been the bread winner nor am I today, but am extremely happy with everything that has happened in that time, the failures and successes.

This being a new year I have decided to change the direction of my business away from small business coaching more towards online and offline marketing. This past year I spent the majority of my time learning internet marketing and ways to increase traffic to my websites using search engine optimization.

With change creates a need for a new image, perhaps a new business name. I haven't decided on that yet. I had already been in contact with a printer about new business cards but had not designed what I wanted as yet so luck with have it when I was checking my Google reader and a blog I follow, Blogohblog.com, is having a contest to giveaway free business cards; 1,000 quality business cards for the winner. I want that winner to be me!

If you are like me and are in need of business cards, check out the requirements to enter the contest at Blog Oh Blog. Good luck to all that try and thanks to Blog Oh Blog for hosting.

Learning Internet Marketing and How To Make Money Online

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 13:56:00 +0000

Last year in February I became an intern of an internet marketing guru, Terry Dean. I was excited at the prospect of learning internet marketing and various possible ways of making money online. The intern program was so beneficial to me in just starting me in knowing some of the directions to head.

This past year I made a little money online but not enough to break the bank, if you know what I mean. It wasn't that I didn't learn anything, I did, but when you learn you have to apply. I think I got overwhelmed at the various sources of information and just came to a standstill.

I purchased programs I haven't completed, I've downloaded files that if I could remember what each were for and listen to them I would probably learn a whole lot more. But one thing I did do that I am still doing today that has been the biggest help to me was join Terry Dean's Monthly Mentor Club.

The first thing that I liked about is the fact that it is not an online newsletter. This newsletter is mailed to you. Normally 11 pages long with detail after detail of what to do and how to do it. He gives you step-by-step instruction on how to succeed in this online world. And again, I hold it in my hand not view it on a screen.

I joined in June of last year and when you join you get bonus items. As I stated before the online world is easy to get overwhelmed so I admit I haven't listened to them all. We made a move in September of last year so I canceled my subscription for a month and missed the newsletter so bad that as soon as I landed in my new homestead I renewed my membership.

Don't just take my word for it, here is a copy of a comment left on Terry's blog about his newsletter:

I subscribe to over 6 different print marketing newsletters, and not one of them even comes close to yours in terms of “showing you exactly what to do”. (And let me just say that the December Adwords bonus revealed the best, most advanced tactics on Google Adwords I’ve ever heard.)

When your newsletter goes out, I check my mail daily in anticipation of when it arrives. When it does come, it’s opened, read, highlighted, and put beside my desk for an immediate action plan.

Dr. Michael Beck

I hope it was okay to use his comment as I saw it as a great testimonial to an awesome monthly newsletter and also an opportunity to let my readers know that what I am stating is agreed upon by others.

If you are trying or struggling to learn how to make money in the online world or just have an interest, you should try his newsletter. It is only $20 a month (well really $19.95). I throw that away just buying junk magazines.

The catch is (this is why I am sharing the information/newsletter with you now) it is only that price through January. In February it is increasing to $29.95 but his current members stay at the lower price. So if you are on the fence about subscribing check out his page and it will tell you more about his newsletter and the many benefits. Click here to learn more and subscribe!

Disclaimer: All the links are affiliate links. I only become an affiliate to products I trust and this is one that I truly believe in.

Creating Your Elevator Speech for More Business in 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:43:00 +0000

We are into our first work week of 2009 and if any of you are like me it is time to jump back into the networking groups, meetings, luncheons, and other venues that may bring more possible clients and business growth. This is not one of my favorite things to do, (networking, yuk!) but it is necessary.

I have been at these events so many times and they will go around the room and give you an opportunity to introduce yourself. I cringe at some of the introductions, so poorly delivered and definitely unclear on what they do. And then it comes my turn and I deliver a non-educating 30 second description that no one would have a clue to what I do. Tomorrow is a new day and I plan on delivering an introduction that makes people search me out wanting to learn more.

So how I am going to do this? Well, I have an online mentor, Terry Dean, who helps me to learn online marketing and how to apply the skills in the offline business world as well. In a recent blog post of his he wrote about creating an effective elevator speech.

Terry list step-by-step how to write an elevator speech and gives examples that will help you while you create your own. I will be using his tips to give my 30 second speech in the next couple of days. I highly recommend you checking out his blog post if you lack the expertise to get your message across effectively.

To read it for yourself follow this link: Create Your Elevator Speech by Terry Dean

Believe That Your Goals Will Be Achieved

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 10:37:00 +0000

My mastermind group is presently in the stages of setting goals. One thing that is most important about goal setting is belief in your ability to accomplish the goal.

Believe That Your Goals Will Be Achieved

By Susan P Denny

My favourite author of all time, the great Napoleon Hill (author of "Think and Grow Rich")said in his book:

"There are millions of people who BELIEVE themselves "doomed" to poverty and failure, because of some strange force over which they BELIEVE they have no control. They are the creators of their own "misfortunes," because of this negative BELIEF, which is picked up by the subconscious mind, and translated into its physical equivalent."

This is an appropriate place at which to suggest again that you may benefit, by passing on to your subconscious mind, any DESIRE which you wish translated into its physical, or monetary equivalent, in a state of expectancy or BELIEF that the transmutation will actually take place. Your BELIEF, or FAITH, is the element which determines the action of your subconscious mind."

Someone who practises the virtues of Desire, Belief and Action is Bob Proctor. His rise from the depths of poverty is attributed to these great teachings. However, there are a lot of people out there who don't believe in this "stuff", but that's because they're ignorant.

Whenever I set a goal I see myself as being already in possession of it, so that eventually it becomes reality. You can't just wish for something then do nothing and hope it comes true. The way to achieve a goal is to take "action".

Your desire has to be so strong that it dominates your thoughts, and you have to believe that you will succeed. Without belief or faith, all you have is a wish.

Napoleon Hill also said: "What the mind believes, it can achieve".

Susan Denny has been happily married for 38 years, has 4 adult children (all married) and 6 grandchildren. She has many years experience with families and relationships and has been involved in the Self Development industry for nearly 20 years, starting with one-on- one training with Bob Proctor in 1990. She has since attended many seminars hosted by world renowned Gurus in the Self Development and Internet Marketing areas.Go to: http://healthwealthequalshappiness.com for more information, tips and ideas.

Determining if You Are a Finder, Minder, or Grinder

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:37:00 +0000

On Tuesday of this week I held the Alliance Success Group meeting. Instead of our normal format I had a guest speaker, Rick Arthur, present to my group of business owners. The topic of his presentation was Are you A Finder, Minder, or Grinder?

At a previous event I had seen his presentation and thought it was enlightening in helping small business owners to be aware of the different areas of business and to identify where there strengths and weaknesses are. I will try to recap what Rick shared with us but I am sure I will not do as good as job as he did at the time but I hope you will get the message.

A Finder is the idea maker of the organization. This person is very creative and is necessary to bring in the sales of the company. They are an entrepreneur thinking of ways to make more money.

A Minder thinks in the past. This person is more than likely your accountant or bookkeeper in the business. They are minding the numbers or the store. This person is necessary to ensure you are kept up-to-date on information necessary to succeed in business.

A Grinder is the worker. The busy little bee making sure the job is done. They only see what is in front of them today and what must be accomplished.

All organizations are in need of these three types of profiles in business but in most small businesses the owner tends to try to be all three. This model is based upon a book written by Jerry Mills called The Danger Zone. In some ways it reminds me of the Emyth Revisited theory only in different terminology.

I have read both books and find that the presentation brought about a clearer message than either book but then Rick did a fantastic job in relating it to business because he himself was a business owner who went bankrupt due to not allowing themselves to grow. Grow or die was his final statement to our group.

I can relate to that statement because it is the same within the mastermind group, my business, and my relationships. Isn't it true that any of those will die if we do not feed them or grow them?

Grow or Die...Let's all work on growing

Masterminding + Marketing = Success

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 17:10:00 +0000

When I started the mastermind group earlier this year, my intentions were:

Offer a venue for brainstorming for small business owners
Grow quickly and close the group
Build relationships and learn from others

I have accomplished my original intention. Since January of this year we are meeting twice a month and have consistently done so.

The group has not grown as quickly as I had planned or expected. Perhaps my expectations were a little unrealistic but I had always heard and thought there were many business owners out there who were lonely at the top and would appreciate the opportunity to join a group as such. Whatever the reasons, we are still in the growing stage.

My third intention has definitely met my expectations. I have three attending regularly at this time and I thoroughly enjoy the time we spend together as a group. I learn from each as they share their experiences, and as a facilitator, I gladly share information and resources that I believe are beneficial to all.

Marketing for Success

Today our meeting was focused on marketing their businesses. I researched and gathered materials for everyone to share effective methods to market online and offline, locally and nationally. One of the most important details shared today was consistency reaped rewards.

One of the members shared how she sent out direct mail letters weekly. She said it is amazing how many calls she will get six months later telling her they saved her information in case they needed her services.

I cannot stress enough the value of masterminding and brainstorming with others of like-mindedness. The other members have already made a plan to start initiating direct-mail letters in their businesses. The rewards are not just in learning but in applying what you learn.

Identifying Your Missing Pieces

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:19:00 +0000

This morning I was reading a recap to a Bible study and it related to how God knows all of the pieces to our puzzles in life because He can see the whole picture and how sometimes we only look at what is presently in front of us instead of keeping our eye on the end result. It got me to thinking about this project I am working on and how puzzling it is and how I need to find the pieces to effectively develop the end result.

How Do You View Your Puzzle

How do you look at the situations around you? Are you looking at it by what is directly in front of you or are you considering the whole picture, the end result?

Some people can take one piece of something and visualize something big and wonderful. There are others who hold a piece and can only see the piece and need a visual, like a puzzle box cover, to show us what the outcome will be. Then there are others who think they see the future goal and start on their puzzle and somewhere along the line lose the motivation, determination, or enthusiasm to finish.

One Piece At A Time

Normally you buy the puzzle because you like the finished product. True? That is why I buy one. I like the picture, the colors, everything about it. Why not start looking at your projects with the finished product in mind?

If we think of our projects as pieces formed together for an end result, it is easier to identify the puzzle pieces. At present I am working on a project that is almost overwhelming to me. I am creating a product, an ebook with long term plans of offering audios to expound upon the subject. I have decided the topic of the ebook and am presently researching, but when I think about the launch process and what must be done to create a smooth transaction process from Paypal, autoresponders, and so forth, I get overwhelmed. Getting overwhelmed causes procrastination and then the project gets pushed to the side burner.

Now if I apply what I am writing about here, I should visualize the end product (I am seeing it now)...and then figure out the steps or pieces it takes to get there and move forward putting the puzzle together. This thought process goes along with a post I wrote earlier this year, Business Plans: Five Ways To Benefit From Your Road Map. No matter if it is a road map or a puzzle, it has the same concept; determine the end result, identify and plan the steps needed, and implement putting all the pieces together.

Now that I have reaffirmed what I need to do, I am headed to start working on my puzzle again, one piece at a time.

Thinking Inside the Box Creatively

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 14:16:00 +0000

In the blog, Hard Knox Life, Dave shares with his readers a story of a Japanese company that was thinking inside the box. To read it for yourself, visit Lessons of the Square Watermelon.

Your Choices Make A Difference

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 15:39:00 +0000

Everyday we have choices. Your choices make a difference on the type of day you may have.

You have choices on:

Your attitude--how is your day starting? Positive or negative?
Communication--do you communicate effectively and daily with your customers?
Building relationships--Relationships are built in every interaction whether it be via email, telephone, or in person. Are you opening doors or closing?
Serve--Is your life, relationships, or business all about you? Have you ever heard of Servant Leadership? As in business with customer service, if we serve the person first, the rewards are greater.
Persevere--If it doesn't work the first time, try again.

These are just a few areas we have choices in daily. You may have a variety of other situations to make choices but just be aware that the choice you make will follow with consequences. Bad choices bring bad consequences. Good choices, good consequences.

Make sure your choices bring the outcome you want!

Carole DeJarnatt

Reach Out and Learn From Others

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:47:00 +0000

I am a big advocate of mentors, mastermind groups, leads groups, networking groups; you name it and I believe in the benefit of meeting others and learning from their experiences. I believe that no matter who you meet, something can be learned from everyone. It could be what not to do or perhaps it could be the next biggest thing to help promote and grow your business.

If you have been reading this blog, you will know I belong to a roundtable group, several networking groups, multiple leads groups, and also facilitate a mastermind group for business owners who want to grow their business. One thing all of these groups have in common is the ability to interact with others and gain knowledge.

In February of this year I was an intern for Terry Dean and his internet business. I actually did some of the steps in his business while learning. What impressed me the most was the integrity that was clearly represented on all of his websites and his willingness to help teach the basics to anyone that was willing to learn.

So after my short time of being an intern I became a subscriber of his Monthly Mentor Club. I had just spent a month learning from him the steps needed to grow (not to mention, him putting up with my not so great efforts) and succeed in internet marketing so I knew any additional information I learned could only be an added benefit and for $20/month and the ability to cancel at any time, what could I loose.

The Terry Dean Monthly Mentor Club is a written newsletter that is mailed monthly to subscribers and is full of information to build and enhance your business. Not only the internet business but any type of business. The information he shares is applicable for anyone wanting to succeed.

Just to give you an example of how much you get for your money, I signed up in May and received April's via email immediately, May's in the mail within days, and just received June's newsletter yesterday. One of the biggest benefits I have received from it so far was the 30-day promotional calendar he exampled in his April newsletter. He detailed the daily steps he utilized to grow his internet business but you can use the same technique in growing any type of business. He called it a 30-day promotional calendar. What type of planning calendar do you have?

In May he wrote about copywriting for sales, website layouts, and much more. Each newsletter is over 11 pages in details of what he has learned by being in business and from what others have taught him. He shares the tools and techniques he used to succeed. This month he gave all his subscribers a free download of one of his new products!

I share this with my readers because this is quality information in a form that everyone can use. If you are struggling and want to learn from someone (internet marketing coach/mentor) who has built a business and now is coaching others to success in internet marketing, then click here to read more from him. Just so you know, this is an affiliate link because I believe in his products and know he gives something of value and benefit to everyone.

Now I not only belong to a mastermind group, leads group, and networking groups; I also belong to a monthly mentor newsletter group!

Benefits of a Thank You Card

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:20:00 +0000

I came across this article and thought it was well worth sharing with my readers. The author is right on target when it comes to the ways and benefits of utilizing this means of staying in contact.

I use this type of method on occasion and hope this article gives you some ideas on ways to implement hand written notes.

Until the next time....Carole

The benefit of a Thank you card

Copyright © 2008 Drew Stevens PhD

In 1940, Dale Carnegie wrote a classic entitled “How to Win Friends and Influence People”. That book is still worth millions today. Become genuinely interested in others and take note to appreciate their business. In today’s competitive world differentiation is what sets you apart and being genuinely interested is a key differentiator in selling client value. Clients devour conducting business with those they can trust and respect.

One of the simplest methods to appreciate clients is a simple and personal thank you note. In this article I speak of a clearly written hard copy note. Prospective clients are overwhelmed with a myriad of notes, letters and other ridiculous correspondence. Ironically, the influx of electronic communication has pained many. As such, direct mail is on the rise.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, direct mail in the United States has increased so the suggestion is to follow the trend. Use the United States Postal Service to send correspondence to clients. Refrain from all the electronic correspondence to clients.

Professionals that are different are memorable. Electronic mail comes and goes but hard copy notes last. Although you might save imperative email, they are do not remain in sight since many of you file your emails. However, handwritten notes are placed on credenzas, bookshelves and desks- within view of the prospective client, management, even competitors! These intimate economical cards provide a level of differentiation in today’s competitive market.

You have three options in sending a card:

1. Commercial Printing – If you want to make an impression, have cards professionally designed and die-cut with your corporate name and logo. These are inexpensive and illustrate professionalism bar none.

2. Home – Office Printing – Most home computers and their printers are extremely durable and reliable. Ensure professional design yet also invest in good quality paper.

3. Stock Commercial – Commercial retail provides stock cards for general business and personal use. While not recommended this is a good alternative initially.

In addition to thank you notes, other personal written gestures include:

1. Introductory letters prior to a cold call
2. Follow letters for proposals and contracts
3. Notes for receipt of letters of recommendation
4. Follow up to information when the client does not respond
5. Any imperative data that provides a conduit to a valuable relationship

If you truly illustrate your genuine interest in others and desire more sales with less labor send some form or hard copy written correspondence. I know that what I suggest requires altering behavior; however, if you truly desire more business and want clients to find you there is a need to be different.

Selling is not about money- it is about creating a cadre of clients that speak highly about you creating a flow of business in your direction. Like all things in life, departing the comfort zone requires change. However, if you desire more business then remember this quote from Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you want to see.” Take the time today to implement this change and watch your competitive gap widen to increase your sales!

Drew Stevens PhD is known as the Sales Strategist. Drew assists organizations to dramatically accelerate business growth. He is the author of seven books including Split Second Selling and Split Second Customer Service and Little Book of Hope and is frequently called on the media for his expertise. Get a FREE download Drew’s White Paper on Selling Effectiveness or Business Building e-book at http://www.gettingtothefinishline.com

How Deep Do You Dig?

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 12:44:00 +0000

The Rooster & The Hen

Said the Little Red Rooster,
“Believe me, things are tough!
Seems the worms are getting scarcer
And I cannot find enough.
What’s become of all those fat ones?
It’s a mystery to me.
There were thousands through that rainy spell,
But now, where can they be?

But the Old Black Hen who heard him
Didn’t grumble or complain,
She had lived through lots of dry spells;
She had lived through floods of rain.
She picked a new and undug spot.
The ground was hard and firm.
“I must go to the worms,” she said
“The worms won’t come to me.”

The Rooster vainly spent his day
Through habit, by the ways
Where fat round worms had passed in squads
Back in the rainy days.
When nightfall found him supperless,
He growled in accents rough,
“I’m hungry as a fowl can be,
Conditions sure are tough.”

But the Old Black Hen hopped to her perch
And dropped her eyes to sleep
And murmured in a drowsy tone,
“Young man, hear this and weep.
I’m full of worms and happy
For I’ve eaten like a pig.
The worms were there as always,
But, boy, I had to dig!”

I have a friend who sent me this poem and I thought it was so cute and also so true. When times are tough we have to dig deeper to find our sources for what we need. The sources are still there but they are just harder to reach. Keep digging!

Grant Contest for Innovative Moms

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 13:32:00 +0000

Reading through one of the many newsletters letter I receive, I came across a grant contest that is being offered for creative mothers. I do not fit the category but many of my readers may so be sure to check it out. The prizes are awesome and a little cash to help further your idea along never hurts.

Visit this link to learn more about it.

Good luck!

Overcoming Distractions

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Mon, 26 May 2008 15:59:00 +0000

I am having a difficult time of late staying focused on my goals and intentions with my online interactions. I find it hard to focus on many tasks at once when trying to keep up multiple websites.

If you have been reading any of my previous posts on the blog, you will know I recently went through an intern program for internet marketing. I learned enough from this endeavor to know this is something that I want to research further and grow my own business.

Through this short period of time I learned there was money to be made as long as you persevere, have goals and tracking procedures in place, and keep focused on the task at hand. Being a business coach, I preach this to my mastermind group, my clients that have come to me with specific projects, and those who have an inquiries about moving forward.

I recently purchased a program offered by Terry Dean, the Internet Coach. The program is the
Internet Lifestyle Retirement System. It is filled with so much information that I have decided to focus the majority of my time getting through his program and successfully implementing the techniques.

When I received the box via UPS, I was overwhelmed with the amount of information in the box. There are DVD's and CD's, not to mention the files you download upon ordering the information. It can never be said when you order products from Terry Dean that you do not get your money's worth.

I learned through his intern program that there is a lot involved but it is manageable if you stay focused and write your goals down daily. If you do not, you will be like me and start to wonder what you are accomplishing day-to-day.

So today, I am starting step one and cutting back on my subscriptions to blogs and newsletter. At this time I have about 8 different subscriptions and I am cutting back to three.

What If...?

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:52:00 +0000

“The next time you make an assumption, see what happens when you do the opposite.” ~Brian Clark.

I subscribe to the feed from Copyblogger and the post today What's The Ultimate Creativity Killer? is worth sharing with everyone.

It made me think what if they had listened to the nay sayers.

Great Advice for Website Publicity

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Mon, 12 May 2008 11:47:00 +0000

You have launched your website so now what. Having website presence in business today is important and can be done fairly inexpensively. But for proper utilization there is more to it than just having a website. As in the movie Field of Dreams where the man kept saying "If you build it they will come"--this normally does not happen. You might get a chance visitor but to draw traffic requires some work.

In the article below, Sue Currie has given some great information on creating publicity for your website. I hope you get great ideas from what she has written.

Create Website Publicity Buzz

Having a website is an important element of your public relations mix but it needs to be working for you. What else can you do to get people to click on your site? Well you could incorporate some PR activities around your site. Public relations is essentially communication, letting people know what your do, why you do it and how you make a difference.

One aspect of PR is publicity. Creating word of mouth interest in your business by getting free editorial coverage of your business in the media.

Publicity stories in the media are very effective but you won't get one for your website unless you have a new idea, controversial story, sensational aspect to your website, something unusual or completely different. Get the idea? Some story ideas: are you the first to use this technology? Have you made a huge sale through your website? Does your website help or benefit people in any way? Are you running a unique online competition or survey? Have you a heart-warming personal story to tell? My point is that you need to have a point.

Let me give you an example of publicity that was designed specifically to attract people to a particular website.

There's an online travel company Zuji.com.au and what they did was implement a publicity campaign to drive traffic to their website. It was a simple idea really. They put together on online competition asking people to write in their travel secrets of their favourite destinations throughout the world and they could win a valuable travel prize. They told the media about it and although a simple idea it captured the attention of the travel media.

Consequently the media promoted the competition quite heavily resulting in heaps of visitors to the Zuji website. And of course it involved real people telling their own stories so the human interest element worked. It worked brilliantly for the company. Firstly they were successful in getting lots of free publicity from the competition and they also collected the email addresses of all of the people that visited their website. Plus they captured some really interesting stories and content to put on their site. So an online competition works well but you do need tell the media about it. Once you've developed a good newsworthy story you'll need to contact the relevant journalists who will help you reach your target market. Don't contact everyone, just the media that are appropriate to you and your product.

Contact them by sending a media release (it of course includes your website address) or just telephone them. Research your target media by checking out the newspapers, magazines and wherever else your competitors are being featured. You can buy media directories.

Don't forget to let journalists know there is a media room on your website where they can obtain further information.

Another way to publicise your website is to put your domain address everywhere. Anytime you do send out a media release or newsletter or write a letter to a potential client or sponsor an event, not only is it really important to put your name on everything but put your website address there as well. So for instance you might have some fantastic caps or t-shirts designed for your business that you want people to wear that look great and effective and but why not on the back of that cap put your domain name. Every where that you communicate, put your web address. Include on your voice mail, stickers, business cards, your car, caps, t-shirts on everything!

Sue Currie, the director of Shine Communications Consultancy and author of Apprentice to Business Ace ' your inside-out guide to personal branding, is a business educator and speaker on personal branding through image and media. To learn more about how you can achieve recognition, enhance your image and shine, sign up for free monthly tips at http://www.shinecomms.com.au/subscriber.html

Customer Satisfaction Survey

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Wed, 07 May 2008 19:15:00 +0000

I believe feedback is one of the best ways to learn, improve, and grow in your business. When working with clients I frequently ask them if they have ever done a customer satisfaction survey or asked for feedback from their customers. The majority of them tell me no. They had thought of it but just had not gotten around to it.

I am currently in the process of surveying a current client's customer database and am preparing the survey. I have written many surveys but had never thought of asking opinions on what should be on the survey. So today I want to learn from you. Would you put a comment on this post listing the most important question, in your opinion, that should be asked on a customer satisfaction survey?

I appreciate any and all comments that are made!

Importance of Effective Communication or Team Communication

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 13:20:00 +0000

I am presently working with a client and we are in the process of recreating his business image. Part of this process is to train his employees' on professionalism but also in the process putting the most effective people in place to enhance his goals. So in essence, we are starting the process of reorganizing his organization to place the most effective people in the right positions for their strengths and skills.

Having been an employee of a couple of companies who reorganized, I recommended starting the process of communicating with his employees to get their feedback and opinions on the growth of the company. If an employee is allowed to give an opinion, whether it be in writing or verbally, the feeling of being part of the process is portrayed and welcomed. Everyone likes to give an opinion. It is a sign of team communication.

Your employees are your team. If you have effectively communicated your goals in the beginning of their training and they adopted the rules, they are your team. Perhaps not all employees' are part of the team. This will become evident as you open the communication with your employees.

I recently ran across a blog entry concerning communication and a chair. The essential concept is:

"Two chairs. A topic. No technology. The whole world of business broken down to its simplest form - face to face, honest communication."

"She plopped down two chairs in the heart of this busy corporate campus and put a sign over the two chairs calling out a topic for the day. She occupied one chair and then waited. And waited. And waited for another employee to sit down and discuss the topic she had posted. No technology. No motives. Just a person genuinely interested in her co-worker’s thoughts and feelings."

This young lady came up with an original idea and the efforts from her idea were a welcome format. The employees' thoroughly enjoyed sharing and talking with her. You can read the full story at The Lonelymarketer.

Have you ever considered trying a chair concept in your business? If not, why not? Perhaps it is time to gather feedback from your employees.

10 Reasons Why Your Customer Service Fails

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 02:03:00 +0000

I receive a newsletter from Marketing Professionals and it had an excellent article called "Top 10 Reasons Why Your Customer Service Fails" by Valerie Maltoni.

Here is a brief on what she wrote:
1. You’re doing all the talking – my grandmother used to say: “we have two ears and one mouth for a reason. They are meant to be used proportionally.”

2. You are not doing anything about it – you don’t follow through with the feedback you request.

3. Your customer service reps don’t have the power to help – you are putting the most junior and least supported staff up front.

4. You have no idea of the cost to you of losing customers – if you were paying attention, you would know that good service means you retain more customers. Acquiring new customers costs more.

5. You see customer service as a cost, not a benefit – when you look at your department as overhead, you tend to under fund it and under staff it.

6. You are not keeping your brand promises – it does you no good to spend millions in advertising when customers find you difficult to deal with. A good experience is one of the best investments in your brand.

7. Your product needs help, start there – it is quite natural to think that your baby: your product or service is the best. Well, it may not be and that’s where you need to start helping customers, by providing a better one.

8. You did not notice the problem, so you’re behind on fixing it – this is how crisis get started.

9. You don’t have customer service – nobody is assigned to it, nobody owns it.

10. You don’t listen to your customer service reps – they know what’s going on and they would tell you.

She made some excellent points and all that I agree with. To view the whole article, you can visit her blog at: Top 10 Reasons Why Your Customer Service Fails. Take time to read the whole entry.

Business Plans: Five Ways to Benefit From Your Road Map

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:13:00 +0000

Is your business running according to your plan? What, no plan? Or perhaps you have a plan but haven’t looked at it in a while. When is the last time you went on a road trip without a map? You need the same tool in your business.

A business plan, if used properly, can be one of the most effective tools that you will utilize in your business. It is the road map for your present and future business growth. Your business plan is your business road map. It helps you to remember why you started in business, your vision for the future of the company, and the steps you plan to initiate to reach the growth expectations.

How can a plan help? Here are five ways a business plan can benefit you:

It will help you to put in writing your objectives and determine how to implement them.

It is a tool to share with your employees, business ventures, accountant, and others, informing them of your mission, vision, and strategies.

To build upon your strengths in your business and to identify the weaknesses.

To determine your cash flow needs and projections for future growth.

To determine short term goals and long term goals. Short-term being a few months or year, and long-term being 3, 5, or 10 years in the future.

Many people consider starting a business and just jump in. No plan, just talk, and a dream. After the launch of the business they get overwhelmed and cannot remember why they started a business or the original idea. Somewhere along the way they lost their vision.

When you have a plan in writing it helps to keep you focused, track progress, and modify when needed. The results of your business tracking will help you to be aware of what is working and when change is needed. You learn from your experiences and modify when sharp curves are in the distance.

“All you need is the plan, the road map, and the courage to press on to your destination.” Earl Nightingale

If you have not started your plan, find a source and get started. Put your dreams, plans, and vision for your future on paper. Once written, re-evaluate it monthly. Modify when needed and keep it updated.

It may seem overwhelming in the beginning but if you take it one section at a time, your plan will be accomplished in a short time. It will be there to keep you on track and give guidance. It is always better to know where you are headed then to wonder where you have been.

Have a Marketing Dilemna? Turn it into a positive thing.

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 16:08:00 +0000

It is articles or ideas such as this that makes me know why Seth Godin is who he is. I recently ran across an entry in his blog titled The Bad Table and thought it was worth sharing with my readers. It is a great concept on how to turn a negative into a positive.

I hope you take the opportunity to read it.

Carole

New To Me Tool for Online Success

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:01:00 +0000

Have you seen the latest tool all the online gurus are using? As I wrote in a separate entry, I am presently in an online intern program and have been shown ways to do presentations and videos with Camtasia Studio.

One of our projects was to record a video using word, or notepad, or a powerpoint presentation. The necessary equipment for this was the program you download and a microphone for recording your voice.

It was so easy. At this moment I am brainstorming ideas of ways to utilize this tool in my practice as a business coach. I believe there are so many possibilities for it.

In our intern project, I had to set up a video and download it to you tube. If you have an interest in checking it out here is a link to it

FYI--The name used in the video was a pen name chosen for my intern program. I'm not saying this is video is good but it was very enlightening. Again it helped me to become aware of the capabilities available to me at a minimal cost. If you are reading this entry and can think of some creative ways to utilize this tool in an offline environment, please comment. I will be working on a list of ways I believe this tool can benefit people offline and share with you once I get it completed.

Again, please leave your ideas or opinions on how this tool could be a benefit in an offline environment. I will be patiently waiting...

Carole DeJarnatt
Alliance Advisors, Inc.

Don't Give Up--The Goal is Not Far Away

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 10:43:00 +0000

As a business coach by trade, there are only so many hours in the day I can earn money. For the past two years I have been critiquing and enhancing my skills to improve my effectiveness in working with my clients while learning better ways to grow my business and make more money.

I recently signed up for an intern program to learn the ropes of an online internet business. I have always been intrigued by the thought of earning money while sitting at the computer or perhaps even while I am working with clients in the field. I am two weeks into the program now and am finding with each new lesson more dedication or perseverance is needed to complete as assigned.

When I first signed up it was explained that it takes approximately two hours to complete each assignment. Either I am very slow or too detailed; it is taking me two times the normal time to complete each assignment. I am one of those people that likes to excel at what I do so when the assignment calls for a list of 30 items, I will submit no less than 35.

I was also told that most people that sign up for the intern program do not finish it. In the first few lessons I could not imagine why anyone would not complete the program. Now that I am further into the program and I am struggling to keep up and also do my own work, I understand.

I also understand that if you want to succeed in life and are committed you have to have perseverance to succeed. In most areas of your life, when you are trying to move past a difficult job/experience/task, it takes perseverance to get through it.

I have seen this scenario too many times in my life, people who say they are going to do something and start on it but never finish. I have even did this myself (but hopefully I am learning). What is the purpose. I have learned to look at things differently now, somewhat like goal setting. If the goal is worthwhile, write it down, plan your time to commit to it, and finish it.

I should be done with this intern program within a month or maybe two. However long it takes me I will continue to work on the assignments, learn what is shared, and then apply what is taught. Otherwise my work and time will be in vain.

Keep the faith and don't give up!

Carole DeJarnatt
Alliance Advisors, Inc.

Planning for Networking Success

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 23:31:00 +0000

We are now into our third month of the year and I have been in the process of planning my marketing strategy. A big part of my strategy is networking. I believe the more relationships I build, the more likely the person or business will call me or refer me.

I recently wrote an article on networking and getting the most out of your dollar investment. Here is an excerpt from it:

Spending Wisely While Networking Smarter

Here are some other ways I prepare for events:

Depending on the type of event, plan my attire to the event. Attire is very important when attending events. If it is a trade show and as a business coach my attire would be a business suit. At an after-hours function, you will find a variety of styles so normally what I was wearing during the day will fit the venue.

Have an over-abundance of business cards. I cannot count the times I have met people that made excuses such as leaving them at home or ran out. Never let this be you.

Bring marketing materials. Even at a black tie event I always have materials in the car in case I happen to see an old acquaintance who asks me for a brochure or card.

Set goals. Perhaps my goal will be to connect with two new people at the event. Maybe it will be to meet the coordinator so I can volunteer to help or speak at their next function. Whatever the reasons, set a goal, make a plan, and take action.

Follow up on the actions. After the event, make contact whether it be by emailing, writing a note card, making a phone call; whatever your choice do not let a week go by without follow up.

Preparation in advance makes all the difference between a fun event and a discouraging event. I always feel more confident when I know what I want to accomplish and my plan of action. If I meet and exceed my goals, I am further ahead in my marketing plan.

Carole DeJarnatt
Alliance Advisors, Inc.

P.S. The full article is available for reading or publishing at Ezine Articles. Thanks for reading and feedback is always appreciated.

Why Hire A Coach?

noreply@blogger.com (Carole DeJarnatt) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:53:00 +0000

Below is an excerpt from an article I wrote and thought it was worth sharing with my readers. I write these to help build links back to my website and create traffic.

This article is about coaching. I listed some of the benefits to hiring a coach, professional or personal. There are many reasons why you would but being a business coach I am thinking about it from my perspective. These are just some that came to mind. If you read on, you will find that even though our techniques of appliation may be different, our ultimate goal is the same.

Why Hire A Business Coach

When you think of a coach what comes to mind? Is it a sports coach? There is soccer, football, softball, baseball, basketball, to name a few. Professional sports people are very familiar with the benefits of coaching. Most today have one on staff or seek out guidance on various occasions.
What are some benefits of hiring a coach?

Coaches through encouragement and accountability get their players or clients to work harder for peak performance.

Coaches enhance performance through more effective methods or skills they learned or figured out for themselves.

Coaches offer realistic assessment of where you are and how to improve.

Coaches help to identify personal strengths and weaknesses and help you focus on what you do best.

Coaches help you brainstorm for ideas for needed changes and help you plan how to make the change.

There are a variety of coaches for all areas of your life. There are life coaches, organizational coaches, business coaches, sport coaches, executive coaches, career coaches; you name it and you can probably find a coach to suit your needs. The greatest commonality with all of these types is their ultimate goal to help you reach the greatest potential in the area of focus.

To read the full article, click this link Why Hire A Business Coach. If you are reading this and in the coaching profession or have had experiences with a good coach, please share your additional opinions of some of the benefits.

Carole DeJarnatt
Alliance Advisors, Inc.