http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/30864476#30864476

Lisa Peyton-Caire

Friends!

It’s been a while since I posted here. The competing demands of mom-preneurship, family & trying to maintain life-balance have been keeping me plenty busy. And not unlike many business owners, I’ve been working overtime to make inroads in the midst of a struggling economy to keep my business and other ventures financially strong and operationally sound.  It’s almost instinctive in tight times like these to cut back, but as Alecia Benjamin of YVISA, LLC insists, tight times are often the most beneficial and necessary times to ramp up our marketing efforts. 

Keep reading to see what Alecia suggests…  

Marketing in a Recession? YES!

Is the current tough market the right time to be slashing your advertising budget? Not if you want your business to survive the economic downturn and lay the groundwork to thrive when the economy improves! Tough times may actually provide us our best opportunity to reach out to our customers with little or no competition because so many of our competitors are doing just the opposite of that in an attempt to save money.

During good times everyone has the money (and bravery) to seek out clients, creating an atmosphere of extreme competition where reaching the consumer with your message proves to be exceedingly difficult. NOW is the time to have faith in your product or service, to reach out to your customers and to secure your success now and into the future. And there are easy and cost effective ways of doing so.

There are some simple things that you can do. Everyone knows about the internet, but not everyone knows the free ways to get exposure on the internet. You can write an article about your industry, or a product, and submit it to one of the many sites that accept them. At the end of your article, you mention your business and have a link to your website. Each site has it’s guidelines on how the articles are to be written, so make sure to follow them. This will help establish you as a leader in your industry as long as the information you share is helpful and not self-promotion.

Contact YVISA LLC for more marketing ideas on a budget.  –

I appreciate Alecia’s perspective, and spent a few hours this evening updating my marketing materials and outlining a few strategies to employ over the coming weeks. What about you? Be sure to share your thoughts on this!

Lisa

Lisa Peyton-Caire

Friends!

SisterSpeak Online was fortunate enough to interview Leading Woman Deena Pierott, President of Mosaic Blueprint. In the course of our fabulous conversation, Deena offered priceless advice on effective networking! Take notes! Here goes:

Deena, you’ve just opened the door to one of the issues we’re really big about–networking. We’ve all heard about the power of networking and how essential it is to business and career success. As a master networker yourself, how important do you think networking really is for all entrepreneurs/biz owners and especially to Black women–and how does one do it right to yield the most benefit?

Deena Pierott

Networking is vital for any new or existing business and there is definitely an art to it. People network in different ways, and networking isn’t a one size fits all type of thing either. Now for me, networking comes easily – it’s a natural art and it’s genuine. I believe in building authentic and selfless relationships where I can promote and encourage others without expectations. People are smart, they can tell if you’re networking with them only for self promotion – they may last for a short while, but do you really want that? Or, do you want long lasting networking relationships that may create success avenues for both parties?

For those that struggle with networking or tend to be more on the introverted side, here are some basic rules of engagement:

1. Remember that people form an impression of you within the first 20 seconds of initially meeting. So take into account your demeanor, body language, tone of voice, and attire.

2. Be able to tell people about what it is you do in nine words or less – make it dynamic enough for them to ask more about you. For instance, someone I recently met told me “I help small businesses attract more clients”. Now being a small business myself I’d want to know how she does this. Get the picture?

3. Ask about them. Be interested in learning about the person and truly “listen” to them without concentrating on “what will I say next?”.

4. Know that the person you met is probably wanting to network with others in the room as well so don’t dominate their time – move on.

5. Follow up with a simple, short and sweet email and try to schedule some time to meet for coffee or lunch to further your conversation.

And for us as Black Women it’s crucial to network. But we also have to be willing to trust each other to network more effectively. Mistrust has caused splintered communities that we must bring together in order to prosper. Some of us may think or feel “what will happen to me if she becomes successful?”. That mindset has to change. And always follow your gut instincts (your gut never lies) – if a new networking relationship isn’t feeling positive or is too one-sided, pray for them and move on. Bottom line, there’s so much out there for us and when that handful of us makes it, I encourage them to not cut off the ladder behind them. I know that I won’t…–

Lisa

Sisters/Friends!

the following is a MUST SEE segment just featured on CBS evening news on June 17th. The story features Dawn Fitch, a successful 40 year old sisterpreneur whose handmade beauty goods business has hit the half a million mark in sales. More importantly, Dawn is one of a growing number of Black women (like so many of us) who are choosing passion via entrepreneurship over the traditional 9 to 5.

According to the CBS report:

Between 2002 and 2008, the number of firms owned by African American women increased by 19 percent – twice as fast as all other firms, according to the Center for Women’s Business Research. And they generated $29 billion in sales nationwide.

Click here to read the full story and see the video below! We can do this!

Sisters/friends:

The 10 Commandments of Networking

Getting The Most Out of Business Networking

From © Mark McGregor, for About.com

If you want to gain the most out of business networking, follow the Ten Commandments of Networking!

• 1) Thou shalt drop the “what is in it for me?” attitude.
• 2) Thou shalt listen.
• 3) Thou shalt build a relationship.
• 4) Thou shalt give the first referral.
• 5) Thou shalt not tell others of the referral you require; thou shalt “show them” with a story.
• 6) Thou shalt be specific of the type of referral.
• 7) Thou shalt reciprocate when appropriate.
• Thou shalt participate in the network executive, functions, and network time.
• 9) Thou shalt thank the person who gave a referral.
• 10) Thou shalt follow up on the referral within 24 hours.

Business networking is productive and fun, and that is why it will always be part of the Bigger Picture.

Mark McGregor is a keynote speaker and professional presenter with Speaking of Hearts. He is a motivational and inspirational speaker on business and stress matters. Mark is available to speak for your next Canadian and American conference, trade show or event.

Read the full article here.
]]> http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/2008/07/20/check-out-this-excerpt-on-networking-rules/feed/ 0 sisterspeakonline http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/2008/07/20/the-future-of-social-networking-is-pink-by-lahle-wolf/ http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/2008/07/20/the-future-of-social-networking-is-pink-by-lahle-wolf/#comments Sun, 20 Jul 2008 05:24:00 +0000 sisterspeakonline http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/?p=28 ]]>

Lisa

Friends:we all agree I think that NETWORKING IS KEY TO BUSINESS SUCCESS! And it appears that we gals do it a little differently than the guys. Women tend to use social networking for resources, research, and making business connections.

See what blogger Lahle Wolf has to say in her helpful piece below. Look for Lahle’s link on our blogroll to the right.

The Number of Women Using Social Networks Far Outpaces Men

Lahle Wolf

By

Lahle Wolfe, About.com

Do Women Network Differently Than Men?

Of course we do. But do we do it more effectively? Again, the answer is “yes,” at least from a statistical standpoint.According to the Center for Women’s Business Research, “Women and men business owners have different management styles. Women emphasize relationship building as well as fact gathering and are more likely to consult with experts, employees, and fellow business owners.” Given the reality-based stereotype notion of men who will not ask for directions or read the instructions to assemble products, should this surprise us?

Unmarried men use social networks for more “pleasure-oriented” purposes, but once married, are more likely to use transactional networks, liked Linked In. But women, regardless of marital status are the majority users of social networks for finding information, developing relationships, education, and for making business connections.

But even among women, there is ample empirical evidence to show that the more powerful a business woman’s network is, the more likely she is to make it big. 81% of women who own million-dollar-plus companies belong to formal business organizations, associations or networks, while women with smaller businesses network at a much lower rate (61%).

Are Women More Social in Business Than Men?

Again, the answer is “yes.” According to Business Week, in “The Social Media Gender Gap,” (May 19, 2008), the trend in Internet social networking is definitely going “pink,” and predicts the future of social media “is going to be all about the women.” Business Week even goes as far as to suggest, “if you’re going to create the next hot Web 2.0 site and you want it to go viral, you’ll target women.”

But women are not just using social networks to find new recipes, and talk about diaper rash and men, they are forming their own networks geared towards today’s progressive working and entrepreneurial women – creating new opportunities in “women-helping-women” organizations when they are shut out of male-dominated industries.

If the rapid growth and rising power among successful women business owners continues at the present rate, women will soon own more than half of all privately-held businesses. Even when lawmakers and many men are not interested in leveling the playing field, women in business are coming with bulldozers.

]]> http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/2008/07/20/the-future-of-social-networking-is-pink-by-lahle-wolf/feed/ 0 sisterspeakonline Lisa Lahle Wolf http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/2008/07/18/the-41-absolute-best-blogs-about-entrepreneurship-and-small-business/ http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/2008/07/18/the-41-absolute-best-blogs-about-entrepreneurship-and-small-business/#comments Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:13:43 +0000 sisterspeakonline http://sisterspeakbizblog.wordpress.com/?p=8 ]]> Greetings Friends!

Lisa

I don’t know if you get as excited as I do about business development info, but thought I’d share this fab find I uncovered at Ben Means Business…check it out…HAPPY READING!

The 41 Absolute Best Blogs about Entrepreneurship and Small Business

There are thousands of small business and entrepreneurship blogs in the blogosphere. Unfortunately, many of them are not at all useful to the experienced or aspiring entrepreneur. We’ve all seen them. The great majority of which are e-commerce “pros” masquerading as entrepreneurship experts. This makes finding solid, useful information for the traditional small business owner very difficult. Therefore in my frustration, I have decided to create what I like to think of as “The A-List” of entrepreneurship and small business blogs.

The blogs listed in “The List” are solely there on the basis of their knowledge and content. I have given no regard to name recognition, popularity, or any of that stuff. In other words, there is no kissing up and no playing favorites. Now I recognize that there will be some omissions with a list this size but for the most part the “must-reads” are all there. Some of your favorites, or even your own blog, may have been left off the list. It’s probably because they haven’t posted in a forever, their blog isn’t really about entrepreneurship, or it’s just not good enough. So no whining! If you think we missed one just drop me a line in the comments section and we’ll check it out. I’ll update the list when we find some worth adding.

Other than that, enjoy the reading. I’m sure you’ll find some new blogs for the old reader.
(These are listed in no particular order)

Small Business Trends- Written by Anita Campbell.
Simple design, great content, daily posts.

Just for Small Business- Denise O’berry
One of several blogs on allbusiness.com

Small Business Survival- Becky McCray, Jeanne Cole, & Genna Mae
Says for small town small business resource but the information is universal.

Small Business Arena- Kirtok
Hasn’t posted in a while but good resource.

The Entrepreneurial Mind- Jeff Cornwall
Entrepreneurship Professor at Belmont provides very useful information.

Work Happy- Carson McComas
Links and resources to help entrepreneurs work smarter, not harder

Business Opportunities Weblog- Dane Carlson
Interviews, Success Stories, & Advice

Home Based Business Blog- Frank Ross
Business and Marketing Info. Also hosted on allbusiness.com.

Startup Spark- Shannon Cherry
More about running your business after startup but great information nonetheless.

How to Change the World- Guy Kawasaki
Very popular blog by one of the best in the blogosphere. Interviews, Advice, and everything in between.

Entrepreneur Success Blog- Jared Reitzin
2-3 posts per week. Also posts episodes from his pretty funny Internet show.

Entrepreneurs Journey- Yaro Starak
Very popular. Posts a lot about his experiences as an Internet entrepreneur but interesting and inspiring for all aspiring entrepreneurs.

Babe of Business- Crystal Williams
Pretty young blog, erratic posting schedule, but good content, and great design. Definitely one to watch.

Business Know-How- Janet Attard
Lots of Adsense Ads in the middle of posts but content is worth looking past the visual distractions.

Young Go-Getter- Justin Nowak
Interviews & advice. Also hosts an entrepreneurship forum on this site. Be sure to check it out.

Duct Tape Marketing- John Jantsch
Design is a little busy but author seems to be very knowledgeable. Worth adding to your reader.

Be Excellent- Skip Reardon
Simple design but consistently good content.

Branding and Marketing- Chris Brown
Clean design, daily posts, passionate author

Young Entrepreneur- Matthew and AdamToen
Great blog, great forums

JD’s Blog- Jason Drohn
Incredibly attractive design, invaluable information

Marketing Hackz- Jason Drohn
All-inclusive marketing information. Another nice design by JD.

Small Biz Labs- Steve King, Carolyn Ochels, Anthony Townsend
Business Research, tactics, and trends

Genius Types - Brian lee
Business Opportunities & ideas to build passive income

The Savvy Entrepreneur- Christina Favreau
A little bit difficult to navigate because of some design issues but the entrepreneurship category has some interesting articles.

Small Business Mentor- Yvonne Russell
Clever topics, tons of information

Seth Godin’s Blog- Seth Godin
Insanely popular. Not strictly entrepreneurship but entertaining and informative.

Weakest Link Consulting- Erik Johnels
Young Blog but knowledgeable author. A good for the reader.

Instigator Blog- Ben Yoskovitz
Co-founder of “Standout Jobs” writes on everything from VC’s to BP’s

OkDork- Noah Kagan
Fun blog, very popular, lots of marketing info.

Feld Thoughts- Brad Feld
Just read it

Entrepreneurship and Positive Living- Timothy Winston
Lot’s of tips on how to remain productive when your you’re own boss

Entrepreneurship: A Different Mindset- Ryan Mapes
One of the founders of the Go Bog Network covers a lot of ground in his blog

Personal Branding- Dan Schawbel
A great marketing blog. Deals largely with personal branding

Branding Strategy Insider- Tom Asacher, Brad Van Auken, Derrick Daye
Wildy popular and for good reason. Definitely one for the reader

Marketing Caddy- Walt Goshert
Nice design, daily posts, great content

Marketing Deviant- David Kam
More psychology than strategy….but isn’t our psychology what sets entrepreneurs apart anyway?

Small Business Branding- Several notable Authors
Very useful content by experienced authors. One of the best

Chris Brogan- Unknown. lol
marketing, social media, personal branding

Business Pundit- Seems to be by several authors

Verve Coaching- Erek Ostrowski
Entrepreneurship, Leadership, & Small Business-ship

Ben Means Business- Ben Jones
Last but definitely not least. The grandaddy of entrepreneurship/small business blogs. A must-have for your reader

**Update**
Great blogs that were originally overlooked

Small Business CEO -Steve Rucinski
Seriously Business
Bootstrapme- Shawn Hessinger
Business Opportunities and Ideas- John Crickett
Small Business Answers- Appears to have Several authors
Black in Business- James D. Walton
Up and Running- Tim Berry
Escape from Cubicle Nation-Pamela Slim
Global Small Business Blog-Laurel Delaney

Like this article?

http://www.coachmewell.com

5 Reasons Home Based Biz Fail

Each and every day there are thousands of people who start their own home based business and thousands more looking into starting a home based business. The problem is that the vast majority of home based businesses fail. It’s a fact we all know. But why does it happen?

Well there are a number of reasons, beyond the scope of this article, why home businesses fail but one of the major reasons is because the aspiring entrepreneur fails to see that the business opportunity they joined was complete junk to begin with! Is this something that can be avoided? It certainly is! All it takes is learning how to spot scams and schemes, and find the good business opportunities.

Here are five of the main reasons why many home based businesses fail:

1) Unproven Opportunities.

The fact is that many of the home business opportunities are just too new. The market for the products and services is not well-established, the owners may not have enough experience, it may have incurred huge debt starting up, etc… There are about a thousand things that could be a problem with a new opportunity. For the most part opportunities that are brand new are too risky!

While it is possible that they may end up being the greatest opportunity in the world and you would have been well off if you got in early, the chances of that happening are slim and if you are just starting your home based business you are much better off going with a proven opportunity.

2) Same Old Crap.

Most of the home based business opportunities are the same old recycled plans and programs. Many opportunities claim to be completely new or “never before seen,” but really aren’t. Do a little research and you will find that there is nothing new about them at all. Sure they might have put a little twist on things but overall they are just the same as a million other programs out there. It’s important is to find a home business opportunity that really is different and better than most others.

3) Recruiting.

Many home based business opportunities rely heavily, or even entirely, on recruiting. So unless you are very well skilled at marketing or have a huge contact list the chances of success are greatly reduced. More often that not those considered to be “heavy hitters” or “super affiliates” are the only ones who make any real money because they are the ones who have all the connections. When choosing an opportunity of this type be sure that they have very good training and good information to help you with marketing.

4) Immoral and/or Illegal.

A significant amount of home based business opportunities are immoral or downright illegal. Obviously these opportunities should be avoided at all costs! Don’t ever get involved in any opportunity that violates ethics and laws. Usually you can figure this out by doing a lot of research before joining. Also, if it just doesn’t feel right then stay away.

5) Hype, Hype, Hype.

Many home business opportunities are pure hype with no “real” product or service behind them. There is no firm foundation for the company. When all the hype runs out, the opportunity collapses on itself.

Always be sure to figure out what the product or service is behind the opportunity, what kind of market this product or service has, and if it is possible to build a good income without all the hype. Never join a home business opportunity based purely on hype and no real product or service!

That’s it! Five major reasons why many home based businesses fail. Be sure to find a legitimate home based business opportunity from the start. Taking the extra time to find out everything you can about an opportunity will greatly increase your chances of success!

But do remember one last thing… No opportunity is perfect in every way. Don’t waste your life trying to find it because it doesn’t exist! You just need to find a good, legitimate home business opportunity and stick with it.

Coach Kevin has run a successful home based business for over 9 years. He is a full time internet marketer and online business coach.

Lisa Peyton-Caire

Friends:

I was struck with a message this 4th of July that I want to share with you. It’s about independence–real independence—independence to seek, fulfill, live, do, be, and exist in our life’s purpose in every waking moment of our lives. Independence to carve out the life we envision in our minds, to be stable, thriving, and even prosperous in doing the things we love to do, and in providing for ourselves and our families in the way we want.

My ultimate goal in business–that one thing that pushes my crazy work ethic and personal drive, is the desire for financial, creative, and intellectual independence and total control over how I spend my time. I want to wake up in the morning and decide how I spend my day. I want to have breakfast with my children every morning, be present and available to them in the important moments of their lives, and spend quality time with my husband doing the things we enjoy. On top of all of this, I want full credit for my work and to be compensated based on the true value of my talents and contributions. In the process (yes, there’s more!), I want to make a real difference and be an inspiration to others along the way.

To achieve this, I must be fully independent and in full command of my destiny. But what does this mean?

I recognize that so many of us loosely use words like ‘independence’, ’success’, ‘happiness’, ‘joy’– but what do they really mean? What does it mean to be fully independent and in charge of our work, our time, our money, our lives, our destiny; and how do we get to this ideal space?

Click here to read more…