Vision Development Consultants

An invite from the Prime Minister

2010-03-09T11:42:00.007+00:00

The Prime Minister, Gordon Brown invited Vision's MD Sharon Roberts to 10 Downing Street on Monday the 8th of March to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing women's leadership in business and enterprise. The meeting was very successful and a number of developments are already being discussed.

The Prime Minister was also very interested in Visions International Development Programme and has personally requested an update following our latest trip to LA for business leaders which returns at the end of this month.

For further information please contact Vision directly.

Photo courtesy of Steve Back of Political Pictures

Regional award for Vision's MD

2010-03-09T11:26:00.004+00:00

Vision Managing Director and owner Sharon Roberts, has been successfully appointed as the East Midlands Enterprise Champion, one of nine regional Champions appointed by respective RDAs. The East Midlands Development Agency were tasked with overseeing the recruitment process for this voluntary post and found Sharon to be the perfect candidate to provide them with advice and offer guidance to Ministers from Business Innovation and Skills. The role will involve looking at ways to raise the profile of womens enterprise regionally and nationally. A key element of the project is to promote enterprise to women from low income families.

Laura-Jane Ranby, Business Support Diversity Manager, emda comments, Sharon has been heavily involved with the Womens Ambassadors Network, international trade development and a number of events encouraging women to look at enterprise. She is an inspirational woman on all levels.

As you know, Sharon is an executive management & performance specialist, facilitator, author and motivational speaker. She is an unconventional, dynamic business woman and a self made entrepreneur. She owns and runs Visions two companies which trade in 5 countries. She continues to work in Los Angeles, and is there at the moment, alongside some of the top U.S Entrepreneurs and her new book Formula for Success was nominated for the East Midlands Women of Worth Awards in 2007. Her company Vision Development are specialists in leadership training.

Sharon will now be the regional voice of womens enterprise and a champion for the agenda on all stages.

Vision and Dragons Den

2010-03-09T11:06:00.006+00:00

At Vision we are always very proud of the individuals and Organisations who achieve success whilst working with us. Below you will find an article from one of our clients and how she has achieved.

Hello and welcome to Storyshaping. I am Julia Damassa and I am the owner of Storyshapes Limited, the company that makes and sells the tools of Storyshaping and delivers training in the techniques of Storyshaping. Storyshaping supports children and families in creating stories orally. It's a great way to develop communication skills through talk. It is also a great way for us as parents and teachers to actively engage in our children's creative thinking and learning. Storyshapes serve as prompts and visual tactile reminders of the key features of story structure. The collaborative approach is supportive and inclusive, and we may be storyshaping in any spoken or signed language. All ideas are valued equally, and children and families have a real sense of ownership as the authors of their story.

I developed the concept of Storyshaping to help my own family with their Speaking and Listening skills. As a parent and teacher, I want my family to be confident, articulate communicators. Now I extend my skills as the Storyshaper, helping other parents, practitioners, trainees and professionals, to become positive role models in communication for their children.

I love my work and I firmly believe in the far-reaching and life-enhancing benefits of Storyshaping. I feel proud to have shaped the idea into a viable business, which now two years old, is investor-ready and has received several national awards.

I am very grateful to Sharon and Brendan of VISION who are my EMDA Business Champions. Their mentoring and support over the past six months has significantly contributed to my applying for the Dragons Den. Although I am not yet able to mention the outcome of my experience, my raw pitch as part of the application process can currently be viewed on the BBC Dragons Den website.

Brendan, EMDA and City Arts; a case study

2009-11-30T15:39:00.001+00:00

Case Study

City Arts enter the commercial world - August 2009

Enterprise & Innovation

East Midlands Business Champion Brendan Blewitt has worked closely with Nottingham City Arts to help them develop a greater awareness of the needs of commercial operations and facilitate their approach to business organisations.

As Gillian Bates, Communications Manager at City Arts, explains: ‘City Arts receives funding from the Arts Council, Nottingham City Council and various trusts. In the present economic climate we felt that it was vital to broaden the organisation’s appeal and identify additional sources of funding within the commercial world.’

Business Champions - a programme created and funded by the East Midlands Development Agency (emda) which recruits high-calibre proactive business figures. Working with voluntary and educational organisations, Business Champions support projects where a commercial perspective is needed. For City Arts, involvement with Business Champions would, they felt, help them to bridge the gap between Public Sector Arts and Private Sector Business.

It’s easy to see why Business Champion Brendan Blewett was attracted to this particular project. Now a principal of training organisation Vision Development Consultants, Brendan has a varied background, including two years working as an artist in the heady New York art scene and a further period exhibiting his art in Spain. Add to that his ten years heading a college art department and more recent history in business and you have an individual with a unique insight into the operations of both ‘worlds’.

Brendan identifies one of his key skills as an ability to probe the inner workings of an organisation, to ask the right questions. After some initial discussion, he started work with City Arts with a full day session, looking at the way that City Arts functions. Together with staff he identified key words that expressed their mission and explored how well they are communicating both internally and externally.

His contribution has been invaluable, says Gillian Bates. ‘Brendan has been brilliant. He has been able to understand the way we work, and has made us look much more coolly and dispassionately at City Arts and appreciate how we can make real improvements’

Brendan found that the structure of the organisation made it difficult for City Arts to be flexible, and got in the way of effective communications. As he said: ‘City Arts draws on the skills of people from mental health professionals to community artists. Communication and clear identification of responsibilities and areas of influence among such a disparate group has been a challenge’.

This first session was followed up by a second where they looked more at how communications could be improved through a clear definition of individuals’ roles and responsibilities throughout, and they also identified projects which they felt had a commercial dimension, or would be attractive to businesses. Brendan has also been able to identify and facilitate funding for the project through the Government programme, Train To Gain.

Gillian Bates made the point: ‘We didn’t really know how to go about approaching commercial businesses and whether we would share the same values.’

Brendan has been able to demystify much of the business world for City Arts, providing a language and an approach for them to base their presentations on.

As Brendan put it: ‘Many organisations are aware of their Corporate Social Responsibility obligations and are looking for ways to give back to the community, either through participation or sponsorship. We have been able to identify transferable skills and opportunities where City Arts can work alongside the business community’.

Building for Success

2009-09-25T10:54:00.001+01:00

Fantastic News!

Vision has now received funding to work across the City of Nottingham, delivering and co-ordinating a range of courses to improve individuals' employability skills.

Project Theme: Building for Success.

Target Audience: The project is aimed at individuals who are (16+) and unemployed, within the City of Nottingham. This also includes Voluntary/Community Groups and Individuals that work less than 16hrs a week.

Project Aim: Improving personal employability skills.

Subject Themes: All courses are FREE to attend (Subject to Criteria)

· 2 Day First Aid Refresher

· 3 Day First Aid at Work Certificate

· 1 Day First Aid Appointed Person

· 2 Day Paediatric (Excellent for Child Care / Social Care)

· CIEH Principles of COSHH Course Health & Safety

· ‘Principles of Manual Handling Course’

· ‘Understanding the top ten skills that employers want’. Based on a number of surveys by Microsoft, Target Jobs, the BBC, Prospects, NACE and other Organisations

Where and when: (Your place or mine?)

Option 1: You can book delegates on to a scheduled training day at Vision as we have excellent training facilities to improve the learning environment. These include a fully operational Training Room and a professional Board Room. (Please contact for dates and times)

Option 2: Alternatively the training could take place at your Venue if you have more than 7 Delegates to attend the training.

“Learning really comes to life at Vision with interesting and creative resources used to make the training inspiring and memorable”

If you feel that your Organisation or any individuals you know could benefit from any of the above, please call one of our team on 0115 9418242

To take this project forward a partnership meeting has been arranged at Vision on the 30th of September 2009 at 1.30 pm. and because we have no shame we will be offering you afternoon cream tea.

Please could you confirm by email if you would like to attend this meeting.

Hope to hear from you soon.

Sharon Roberts.

Managing Director:

Vision Development consultants

Specialist’s in National & International Business/ Personal Development:

Consciously Successful

2009-03-20T16:37:00.004+00:00

Consciously Successful seminar

A date for your diary? 16th of May 2009:

Be inspired!!

Imagine this?
You start your own business, the contracts flow in and you build an excellent customer base.You attend various social networks, you explore new and exciting opportunities and you attend the parents evenings.
But there is still a piece of the jigsaw missing! You realise you are alone and in business:

If you feel you have a piece of your Jigsaw missing then this seminar is for you.

Consciously Successful in Business Seminar
Seminar Overview:

This one day motivational seminar is specifically for women in business.
So many women in business are successful yet feel subconsciously alone, especially the small business owners. Understanding that you are consciously successful at so many levels increases your confidence, motivation and the way you interact with your customers.
What will you get from the day?

*You will feel motivated and inspired by yourself and others around you.
*You will have a greater understanding of how successful you are and are going to be in the future?*You will take away proven resources and tips from female Entrepreneurs in the UK and the U.S.A
*You will take away new skills and a greater understanding of your conscious model for success.
*You have to feel it, see it and believe it .

*You will Network and enjoy being the real you! Not what others want you to be.
*I Personally guarantee you will have a fantastic day!

Resources you will need for the day:

A serious commitment to you and a good sense of humor (No boring people need apply)

Please note there are only 13 places available and I have a very big database, so what are you waiting for?

"After all you created a successful business from a single thought, just imagine what you are really capable of achieving if you put your mind to it"

Date: 16th of MAY 2009.Time: 10.00. a.m - 2.00.p.m.

Venue: Vision Head Office: 63-67 Mansfield Road Nottingham NG1 3FN

Cost: £45.00.Per Person. (Lunch & Refreshments provided)
Call Vision on: 0115 9418242 for your registration form or email me to book your place.

"Your true passion should feel like breathing; it's that natural"

The Amazing Billionaire Oprah Winfrey

"Every thought we think is creating our Future"

Another inspirational Billionaire Louise Hay,

"Your thoughts and those around you should inspire and give you hope,

if not it's time for a spring clean"

Sharon Roberts (Working on joining the above billionaire category)

I have the right!

2009-03-20T16:16:00.004+00:00

It is not often that we get the opportunity to take the time out just to appreciate what we have achieved in our lives. Many of us can slip into an emotional rut , the trick is finding a way out.

I hope the following tips might help you think about your individual rights.

YOUR INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS

I have the right to decline responsibility for other peoples problems.
But is that unkind, selfish or uncaring? The trouble is that some people feel that everybody problems are their concern. Sometimes we need to stop and think why we take on board so many other problems and not deal with our own.

I have the right to ask for what I want.
Many people spend their lives going along with others and what other people tell them they want. We settle for things we do not want, for something that is not quite right, because we do not feel we have the right to protest. It is useful to remind yourself of what you want in life and not what others want for you.

I have a right to change my mind.
As you look more closely at decision making, you will see that you make some decisions for the wrong reasons. A wrong decision brings regret, and then we try to think of ways of getting out of the wrong decision.

I have the right to say that I don't understand.
I think we have all experienced this at some point in our life. We sit in a room filled with people and don't understand the main subject of the conversation, yet we choose not to say anything.

I have the right to be treated with respect as an intelligent capable and equal human being.
Self-respect and self-worth both mean the same thing - do you respect yourself? And if you do not, then look for the reasons why.

I have the right to express my feelings.
Assertiveness training is learning to recognise what you are feeling at the time. There are three aspects to expressing your feelings, recognising and identifying them, accepting rather than denying them, and then choosing to express them appropriately.

I have a right to express my opinions and values.
This means that you have the right to your own opinions even if they stand in disagreement with those of the majority. It is not a question of right or wrong, but differences in perception.

I have the right to say 'yes' or 'no' for myself.
Making a choice for yourself because you want something or do not want something becomes more difficult when you have other roles to fulfil.

I have the right to make mistakes.
If someone points out that we have made a mistake, we seem to think that we are stupid. So what if you have made a mistake, learn to shrug your shoulders and get on with it. Too many of us become defensive or go into a pit of despair.

I have the right to deal with others without being dependent on their approval.
This is what tends to hold so many people back from stating their needs, expressing their feelings, standing up for their rights and refusing what they really want. This is because they cannot tolerate the other persons anticipated disapproval. What will they think of me?

"Enjoy your weekend"

Sharon Roberts

Motivational Business specialist.

'Letting go of the Guilt'

2009-03-05T09:33:00.003+00:00

Before we can understand how guilt affects us on so many levels; the first thing is to try to understand what guilt means for you and how this affects the way you work and live your life.

Did you know that some people struggle with the thought of being happy, never mind being successful at something else. Success means so many different things to different people. Think of one moment in your life where guilt has held you back, what was the impact of that moment?

Holding onto self limiting beliefs sometimes stops us achieving what we want for ourselves because we pretend to be someone else.This course will challenge the whole aspect of guilt and explore why so many people reflect their guilt onto you. You will identify how to take your personal goals forward by taking fear out of the equation.

What would you do if you weren't afraid?

Choosing to be successful means tackling problems head on

What or Who are YOU waiting for?

Course Information

Dates:
Session 1 6.30p.m. - 8.00p.m. Wednesday 18th March
Session 2 6.30p.m. - 8.00p.m. Wednesday 25th March
Session 3 6.30p.m. - 8.00p.m. Wednesday 1st April
Session 4 6.30p.m. - 8.00p.m. Wednesday 8th April

Location:
Visions head office. 2nd Floor, 63-67 Mansfield Road, Nottingham. NG1 3FN

Cost:
£120.00 fully inclusive

Contact:
For more information or to book a place call Vision on 0115 941 8242Or visit our website at www.visionconsulttraining.co.uk

Sincerely,

Sharon Roberts
Vision Development Consultants

Business Cuckoos

2009-02-09T12:30:00.002+00:00

I hate business cuckoos. I really do. I have had enough of the suave, parasitic little bleeders and I have decided to paint a picture of them so that if a cuckoo lands in your business nest, you will be able to recognise them and expel them before any long term damage is caused.

Business cuckoos deposit themselves into your environment with the promise of great rewards. They present themselves with complete confidence both in terms of body language and personal presentation. They will tell you that they have the knowledge and experience to help you and your business flourish. But most importantly they don’t want anything in return, no really they dont, at least not until they have proved themselves and you are getting the rewards!

To late, you have fallen for it and they are now in the nest and yes; just like the feathered kind, the deposit of the egg happened when least expected and so quickly you did not even react. But why would you, cuckoos are clever. They target small nests which are showing signs of development and profitability. They know that an extra pair of hands can always be used and of course, they have the same synergy as you.

So once this gift is in the nest and you do not think you have anything to lose, they get to work. First of all they remove one of the other chicks in order to solidify their place in the family and the process of undermining has now become an action. Slowly they ingratiate themselves whilst looking for the weakest link. Once identified they move in with a cool, logical approach and suddenly without anyone noticing they no longer have a reactionary role, now they have responsibility and as a conscientious employer you start to feed them. Small bits at first, maybe just their expenses, but slowly you have to feed them more and more as the undermining of the other chicks continues unabated and their responsibilities increase.

Well they are now a part of the company and looking around, you realise that they have constructed a role for themselves which gives them power. Now the sting has become real. You realise that you have been played like a fiddle and that the team which you trusted has disappeared and been replaced by a fragmented body with a mouth piece you do not trust. The business which you have worked so hard on is no longer yours and you have become the reactionary.

Get rid. No matter how hard it feels, no matter how worried you are about coping, get rid. Your company will only survive if the parasite is removed and stops feeding of you.

So, be warned, if a gift happens out of the blue, has zygodactyls feet and eats caterpillars for lunch; you may have just let a business cuckoo into your nest.

A wasted Shopping Trip by George

2008-12-19T11:47:00.002+00:00

Hi folks,
George here and in a thoroughly cheesed of mood! I am sure I am turning into a grumpy old man and if Maud is to be believed it has already happened. So; not to be perturbed I have decided to have a moan, but not about Christmas starting in September, no that can wait for another time.

No; this moan is about the mirage of a bargain. Like everyone else in the Country I was upset to hear of the demise of one of this countries great high street names recently. Not only has a great name gone for good, but I like everyone else have a memory of that great store from my child hood.

Mine was when I was 8 years old and after what seemed an eternity I had managed to save 5 £1 notes yes notes, an absolute fortune. I trundled down to the store having secreted the fortune in my sock in order to buy a board game, no computers then, and managed to purchase Monopoly for £3.95. The change I spent on sweets and the rest got me into the cinema to watch Jaws ( I pretended I was with another family).

But childhood was then and now I am a sprightly 21+ something and consequently look for a bargain in other peoples misfortune. Now do not say that; we all do it, we slow down at accidents, ask for the details when something goes wrong in someones life and so on, even if we do not admit it out loud . But the prospect of taking advantage of a closing down sale which already had a sale on was simply to good to miss. So of I trudged thinking that if I was careful my £200.00 budget could be reduced to £20.00 and no one would be the wiser, ha ha an absolute winner.

Upon entering the shop I should have suspected something was amiss. The crowds were not evenly spaced, in fact everyone was to the right and no one to the left. However being a bloke and thinking that they must have already shopped in the left hand side; I innocently wandered over into the void.

Within 5 seconds my jaw was slack, my eyes glazed and my need of a pint enhanced. There were no reductions, everything was as priced apart from the odd 10% here and 7 for 8 there. CDs, DVDs everything which is quick and easy for stocking fillers were the same price, where were the bargains? Where was my money saving going to take place?

After the initial shock I drifted aimlessly over to the crowded side. Here at last were the bargains, waist paper bins a £1, mugs reduced to a £1, bathroom mirrors £2 and so on and so on. Deciding I needed to rethink my plan I visited a nearby watering hole and contemplated my fate over my favourite pint which had just gone up by another 3p.

So when you think there maybe a bargain be warned, image is not everything, it may be a mirage and your hopes may be dashed.

In terms of Maud, I have a plan. The mirror, i will say; is to reflect your beauty my love, the waist paper bin; to empty your life of everything that is holding you back and the mug to drink to the new opportunities around the corner.

Happy Christmas everyone

George

Formula for Success - As your future unfolds

2008-12-19T11:38:00.002+00:00

Now are you ready?
Because if you are expecting me to go on and on about how you can be successful in business you will be disappointed because I am not going to.

But what I am going to talk to you about is those people around you that do not want to see you succeed.

So if you are ready take a deep breath and here we go.......Lets be honest many of us have been jealous at some time in our life of other peoples achievements. What I want you to do is consider for a few moments is; who are those people in your life at the moment who want something for nothing? Or want to moan on and on about their lives but never do anything to change their situation! You know the people I'm talking about; the time stealers, the difficult people or customers we interact with everyday.

Remember that a sale is real only when the cash is in the bank. As your future unfolds you need to be clear about the kind of people you surround yourself with. And at the end of the day no matter what business you are in; cash and reputation is your top priority. Many of us forget this and give our time and energy away to people who sometimes do not deserve it. Remember people will keep taking if you keep giving it away free and I know I have been guilty of this, this year.

So on reflection I have made my decision not to work with 50% of the people I know, why? Because:
1. They do not see the bigger picture
2. They want something for nothing
3. They are not prepared to come out of their comfort zone
4. They are playing at being in business and not prepared to step up to the next level.

So the question is why am I telling you this? Its simple; do not go into a New Year carrying people you do not need to carry anymore. Realise that not everyone wants you to succeed in your new job, new life or new business.

So have a good look through your database or the contacts on your mobile phone and think who really does need to be with you in 2009. And remember what ever dilemma you face there is always a way out of it.

Success is not about being brilliant its about knowing what is important to you

Building Successful International Contacts: Los Angeles Entrepreneur Ross Weitzberg

2008-12-19T11:10:00.002+00:00

I have been talking a lot about our International Entrepreneur programme; so its about time I introduced you to one of our International contacts. Ross Weitzberg is the President of Space Potential www.spacepotential.com in Los Angeles USA, a company which specializes in designing unique exhibits for various trade shows around the world.

Sharon met Ross in July when she was in Beverly Hills on a research and development trip for Vision. Since then Vision and Space Potential have been in constant contact developing ideas for future projects in Los Angeles.

During one of our recent conversations I asked Ross about the importance of establishing a network of International contacts.

Ross:
The best method for us to be successful is by creating a strong network of vendors who we can rely on. It is because of this we are able to connect with resources all over the world.

We are always looking for new ways to meet people who can help us service our clients better and I find development tools like the International Entrepreneur Program by Vision Development Consultants to be a great concept and very useful for developing new business and markets.

Brendan:
Is it easy finding and developing these contacts?

Ross:
No, the challenge of course is finding these resources. The Internet offers great opportunities but sometimes you do not really know who is on the other side. I use many other methods for finding qualified companies as well, such as networking groups, attending International Trade Committees at the local L.A Chamber of Commerce, various trade show groups and industry websites.

Brendan:
Once you have found these contacts; how does it help?

Ross:
They say you are only as strong as the people around you. Great, so then you should surround yourself with who ever you can. Not everyone can be a good resource but maybe someone they know can be.
Building relationships with foreign clients has been a great niche for us because doing shows in America is a bit different than doing shows overseas. Many foreign companies find it convenient to work with a company like ours because they don't have to worry about anything being done incorrectly and it can be more cost effective. With trade shows there are many differences for example terminology, costs, logistics, language, currency, rules and the booths themselves to name a few.
Therefore having an awareness of International needs and Business language is essential, and having that contact which can personally recommend you or signpost a possible opportunity is priceless.

I can prove that it works...you now know someone in America.

Many thanks Ross, we look forward to enjoying the LA sunshine with you next year.

For the past two years Vision have been developing our own International Network to assist our clients and UK companies generally.
If you would like to utilise our expertise then call our Head office on 0044 0115 9418242.

Vision and the Award winning BBC

2008-12-19T10:54:00.003+00:00

Before you read this stop and think; does your business, product or service make good TV viewing?

Rob Pittam; Business correspondent for BBCs Working Lunch and Vision have been working closely to develop media exposure for some of Visions clients on a National stage. A recent example of this was Sentimental Connections; a client of Visions who enjoyed local and national coverage on TV.

Because we have such a good relationship with Rob; we have invited him to become a regular contributor to our newsletter; and I am pleased to announce that he has agreed. His first instalment is below for your entertainment and enjoyment.

Hello everyone,Want to know a secret? Wondering how to get your business on television? Well here is a tip just between you and me; if you are within a one hour drive of Nottingham, you have got a head start. My job is to travel the country for the BBCs Working Lunch, reporting from places and businesses that rarely see the light of a tv camera, or the light of day in the case of some of the gloomier parts of Britain. It is a bit like the John Noakes role from Blue Peter, only without Sheep.

But I live in Nottingham, and if I can film an interesting piece without braving the M25, the M6 or the Derby ring road, well, it makes a pleasant change. Because while our presenters, Declan and Naga, have been sipping coffee in their comfortable tv studio, the jolly Northern bloke is travelling the jammed motorways and the flood-closed highways of Britain in search of stories. So what exactly are we looking for? My job is to take the pulse of the whole of the UKs economy, covering everything from major job losses, company collapses to the business start up in someones front room.

But we also have to make business interesting and palatable enough for a general audience to swallow. My producers will probably tell you that I make impossible demands and have eccentric objections to some stories; cheese making or brewing are two that spring to mind. And if you are a software developer, I am afraid you might as well stop reading now. The truth is of course that what I and anyone involved in television likes, is good picture.And there are just some things that it is impossible to make telegenic; the European Union for example, or software developing. The other magic ingredient is people. All journalism is about something happening to somebody, but only television allows you to gawp at them from your own sofa whilst it is happening. The more people and the more inventive the thing they are doing, the better.

Another major factor is geography. A nice background makes a big difference. If you are going to develop software, and you do it in the Lake District, you might be back in with a fighting chance. Over the course of a year we cover the whole country, from the Shetland Islands to Cornwall by way of Northern Ireland. We cover every part of Britain, without fear or favour or a decent hotel budget. Nevertheless, I sometimes need a break from all that travelling and if you have got a fantastically photogenic business, brimming with people doing something and a short drive from Nottingham, do get in touch.

Thanks Rob and ill look forward to your next instalment in Januarys newsletter. In the mean time; if you would like Vision to help you and your business get National coverage via television or print; just call our Head office on 0044 0115 9418242.

Have you ever been caught up in a trafic jam?

2008-11-19T11:27:00.002+00:00

Have you ever been caught up in a traffic jam caused by drivers slowing down to view an accident?
Ghoulish isnt it but thats human nature.

Maybe were thankful for a split second that it isnt us but more of it is hoping to see a really bad accident that we can then discuss forever with anyone wholl listen.
I feel like that about this current financial scandal.
The papers are full of how bad it is, and if you are like this family or that family this is what you can expect. How ridiculous. Each family is unique and their situation has come about because of a unique set of decisions and events. Some they controlled and some they didnt.

But like any event that happens to us we do have choices. One of them is definitely how we deal with it. Speaking as one who has been dealt some unhelpful cards in my time, I refuse to define myself by the cards but my reaction to them. Which means that for me whats happening to my business is yet another defining challenge. I can sit there and say this isnt the time to be positive and go ahead with plans, and join in the general doom and gloom. Or I can roll my sleeves up and get stuck in to create the opportunities and move my business on.

Yes of course its a challenge. But thats why we are here.

Visions writer told me this story. A man was told that there were 1,000 buckets in front of him. In one of the buckets was a contract to do work he had been chasing.
What would you do in that situation?

I would be turning those buckets over as fast as I could move. And so would you.

So what is stopping you turning over the buckets in your business life?

Where will you be this time next year?

2008-11-19T11:23:00.002+00:00

Where will you be this time next year?

Being brave and courageous but still sitting on the sofa talking to your friends on face book will not do you any good! When was the last time you pushed yourself to achieve a higher level? Or attended a seminar that challenged you to the core? And I do not mean something that simply inspired you. I mean one that changed YOU, your skills, knowledge and beliefs.

Too many of us are sitting on the sofa waiting for things that will never happen

However this was not the case for me on Monday. I was invited to be a dragon (No jokes and do not believe what Brendan says) at an Enterprise day for Schools based within the East Midlands at an Innovation Centre in Nottinghamshire.

It was amazing to witness the passion, commitment and focus the young people had. One young man; introduced himself and asked for a moment of my time. He quickly escorted me to his team mates, introduced them and then proceeded to give a full and accurate account of their roles and responsibilities within the team challenge.

My response was that if more managers knew what role their key staff played within the business, then the business would be far more successful.

International opportunities

2008-11-19T11:20:00.003+00:00

With the worlds economies moving at such a fast pace; its important to recognise international opportunities when they present themselves.

If you have failed to notice the news recently (where have you been?), things in the financial and therefore Business world continue to re-invent themselves 24/7.

Consequently the media are constantly broadcasting and printing doom and gloom on a global scale and even our own shadow chancellor has been warning us of a possible run on our beloved pound.With all of this negativity it is easy to understand why so many individuals and businesses alike are sticking their respective heads in the sand in order to avoid the storm of uncertainty which is surrounding us. Realisation that the comfort blanket that so many people and Organisations have thrown over themselves during the last 15 years of growth; has now been removed and are now accordingly feeling the chill of uncertainty.

But should we?

We have now been given a situation in which to reinvent ourselves and seek out new opportunities. We do not have to think locally, regionally or even nationally anymore. We can operate, seek out opportunities and trade across all borders, well near enough all; because of the continued acceleration and affordability to communicate globally.

Expansion into International trade over the last 10 years has been expedient for UK based Organisations. David Hood, Head of UKTI Nottingham and Derby Chamber explained that the benefits (of International trade) are generally greater and relationships can last for some time. Establishing key accounts can often yield more than they do in the U.K; even though the market is further away.

Now is the time to step out of our comfort zones and look to new horizons. So why not start by picking up the phone 0115 9418242 and talking to me or Brendan about our International Entrepreneur Programme. It could be the gateway to a whole new world of opportunities.

Three books I recommend to everyone

2008-10-13T15:45:00.008+01:00

Here are two books and an audio book that I recommend to everyone...

Performance Coaching for Leaders - 4 Nov 2008

2008-10-13T14:09:00.005+01:00

Performance coaching for leaders. Being a leader presents daily challenges. Come and share your current challenges and receive down to earth advice on how to deal with them.

Practice coaching skills appropriate to your situation.
Understand what mindset you need to be a leader.
Learn how to maximise the development potential of your people.

Date: Tuesday 4th November
Time: 9:00am till 4:00pm
Venue: Vision Development Consultants
Cost: £245.00 (Fully Inclusive)
Tutor: Lisa Spencer Arnell
Capacity: 12 people

About the Workshop:
As a leader you are automatically charged with the responsibility of developing your workforce, how you communicate and empathise can make all the difference between a motivated team member and a disenfranchised one. By Exploring what coaching is and isn't and the business case for it in your organization, you can Develop the essential skills and mindset of an innovative Coaching Leader in order to maximize the development potential of your people. We will demonstrate the coaching process and appropriate tools/techniques for your individual situation.

For detailed information about any of these workshops please contact Brendan on 0115 941 8242 or e-mail at Brendan@visionconsulttraining.co.uk

Understanding Communication Through Life Drawing - 28 Nov 2008

2008-10-13T14:05:00.003+01:00

Date: Friday 28th November
Time: 10am till 4:00pm
Venue: Vision Development Consultants
Cost: £245.00 (Fully Inclusive)
Capacity: 8 people

About the Workshop:
This one day workshop will explore the language of life drawing and how the lessons learned can be transferred into effective everyday communication techniques. Please note that all participants will be involved in the drawing process and that a life model will be used.

For detailed information about any of our workshops please contact Brendan on 0115 941 8242 or e-mail at Brendan@visionconsulttraining.co.uk

The Psychopath in Leadership Workshop - 20 Nov 2008

2008-10-13T14:00:00.005+01:00

Date: Thursday 20th November
Time: 10am till 4pm
Venue: Vision Development Consultants
Cost: £245.00 (Fully Inclusive)
Capacity: 12 people

About the Workshop:
A workshop which explores the psychopathic tendencies which we all posses and how they affect our leadership qualities.

For detailed information about any of our workshops please contact Brendan on 0115 941 8242 or e-mail at Brendan@visionconsulttraining.co.uk

Formula for Success Workshop - 12 November 2008

2008-10-13T13:51:00.005+01:00

Creating your own Formula for Success is about understanding what you want and the steps you need to take to implement it. Examines the role your focus plays in achieving your goals Helps you discover what obstacles you need to overcome Assists you in putting into place your own formula.

Date: Wednesday 12th November 2008
Time: 10.00am-4.00pm
Cost: £245.00 (Fully Inclusive)
Facilitator: Sharon Roberts
Capacity: 12 people

About the Workshop:
The formula for Success workshop is about understanding and developing your own personal formula for continued success in both your private and business life. This will enable you to understand the individual elements which when combined will determine your personalised formula to success and unlock more of your potential which will result in you taking your business further.

For detailed information about any of our workshops please contact Brendan on 0115 941 8242 or e-mail at Brendan@visionconsulttraining.co.uk

When you were a child did you ever have

2008-10-11T10:37:00.010+01:00

A kaleidoscope? They still fascinate me today because with a simple flick of your hand you can create a whole new world.

You may not know but my husband Brendan who runs the company with me is an artist. One thing I realise now about artists is that they have a completely different way of looking at the world. And at the way we do things.

I love the Irish joke about someone asking for directions and when given them being told, "But if I were you I wouldn't start from here".

What's this got to do with running a business you might be wondering?

Well so often when we're stuck with a business problem it's because we keep on looking at it in the same way. And from the same position.

One technique you can try if you're stuck, and it works for personal problems as well, is to move physically. If you're sitting at a desk, then get up and go and sit on the other side of the desk. Sounds crazy I know but you literally are now looking at the problem from a different perspective.

You have flicked the kaleidoscope and suddenly another avenue of sight has opened up. To mix my metaphors up you can now see the wood from the trees.

I saw a great example of that when I interviewed Davide Berruto the CEO of Environment Furniture a company in Los Angeles making furniture from recycled materials. Having come into the furniture business from a different background his attitude was to move away from the traditional ways to market furniture and develop his own style. His company now has stores in Los Angeles, New York and Dublin and he supplies custom made furniture to the A list in Hollywood.

So instead of using the usual furniture marketing companies he employed artists to think about his marketing. One of his markers about working with people was - "Are they working for all the other furniture companies?" He knew that if so he wanted to get as far away from them as possible. Meeting people who have the courage to shift like that inspires me constantly. Because they take risks that most of us won't.

Last month at an NDE presentation I listened to two serial entrepreneurs talk about their attitudes to business. What came across from both Bob Pynegar and Derek Mapp was that the courage to take the risks and the acceptance that you will fail has to be part of your essential make-up as an entrepreneur.

When asked how many times they'd failed they both said that it was more than they succeeded. Failing faster is what's required. The nerve to jump in to try something, test it out and reject it if it doesn't work.

Here's to failing faster this month... in order to succeed.

Taste the nation, cooks wanted for ITV

2008-10-03T16:00:00.002+01:00

Passionate Cooks Wanted!

Are you a talented cook who is looking for that big break? Are you fiercely proud of your county and want to see it go all the way? Do you want to learn from some of the countrys finest chefs?

If the answer to the three questions is yes – then read on!

If you have a passion for food and want to represent your county in a national cookery knock-out, then this is the show for you. You must be available for filming for the odd day from November 2008 to February 2009.

If you want more information please contact our Head office on 0115 9418242

Formula For Success Workshops

2008-10-03T09:37:00.002+01:00

In the Formula For Success workshops that I gave on Wednesday at the EMCC I challenged the delegates to think about the habits that held them back from achieving what they wanted.

From the level of comment and questions I seemed to have disturbed people and aroused feelings they might not want to face. One of the things that I've had to do this year to reach my goal of a global business has been to move out of my own comfort zone. So I now make no apologies for challenging others.

I told them about my book Formula for Success, (launch date 14 February 2009) and several delegates came and talked about how they also wanted to write. My question was, "well why haven't you?" Like entrepreneurs the world over, I don't believe in waiting until the perfect time. There is no such thing. There are opportunities out there waiting for all of us, all the time. It's up to me and you to get our opportunity heat seeking glasses on. Let's get on with it.

Sharon

Vision Commissioned by EMDA to Deliver WIB Events

2008-09-18T09:56:00.004+01:00

Vision has been commissioned by EMDA to deliver a range of inspirational women in business events:

Mansfield Women in Business Event - Tuesday 7th Oct 2008

Derbyshire Women in Business Event - Friday 7th Nov 2008
find out more

About the Events: "Do Something Different!"

Have you got lots of business ideas but don't know

how to take them forward?

Do you have the desire and passion to start up your own

business but worried about the costs involved?

Are you ready to try something new?

Well maybe this event is for you!

Come along and discover how you could benefit from starting up your own business and learn from women who followed their passion and dreams to become self employed.

What you will gain on the day:
1) Motivation and inspiration from other women.
2) Discover new and exciting ways of preparing you to start or grow your business.
3) An opportunity to talk to specialist advisors on education/employment.

For detailed information about these events or any other of our events please contact Brendan on 0115 941 8242 or e-mail at Brendan@visisonconsulttraining.co.uk