February 28, 2012 – 6:00 am
Rounding out our month on Leadership, I am happy to share another great post from Dr. Marlene Caroselli, who challenges us to take a different look at the importance of cooperation versus teamwork in building our businesses. In a time when innovation is vital to ongoing business success, it would seem that cooperation should be what leaders work to develop. Enjoy!
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Anne Montague, Founder and Executive Director of Thanks, Plain and Simple, Inc., points out that “cooperation and teamwork are not exactly the same.” She explains, “I’ve learned to look closely at these two words and how they differ. Early in the development of new projects, programs and processes, even the most obvious solutions often need serious cooperation to advance.
‘Cooperation’ to me is more like finding the way and teamwork is more like taking the way found. Cooperating explores and guides; teamwork is just that – a team’s work to get work done that is more defined.”
“Does this make a difference?” Continue reading →
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February 27, 2012 – 6:00 am
Starting a business and nurturing it to a point of sustainability is often a tough, long road despite the “get rich quick stories” you often hear. There are hills and valleys, feasts and times of famine.
We all desire to achieve that position, where we are serving those we’ve worked so hard to reach. And those who persevere are the ones we call leaders. Most of our most valuable lessons and growth come from difficulties, so I asked –
What has been the greatest challenge you’ve had to overcome (even if you are still working on it) to be a leader worth following for your clients?
Our lovely contributors pulled back the curtain on their experiences once again this week, and authentically shared some of the things with which they’ve struggled to become powerful leaders in their businesses. From mindset to marketing messages, setting the right example and staying true to your convictions, the great news is that the challenges we face are ones we can overcome with perseverance and a willingness to grow. If you’ve encountered obstacles in your quest to become a leader worth following, take heart in the fact that you are not alone — I too, am right there with you on my own quest. Enjoy! Continue reading →
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February 23, 2012 – 6:00 am
Spotlight on Success Show – Episode #19
Today on my show I had the pleasure of a speaking with Shannon Cherry, “Your Creative Relationship Marketing Expert” and Founder of Be Heard Solutions, who shared her best strategies for how entrepreneurs can leverage some of the things they are already doing, and incorporate some new ones to stop leaving money on the table in their businesses.
As Shannon teaches us, it all starts with building relationships through your marketing and keeping the connection going. In this interview I ask Shannon –
- What’s the biggest mistake women make in their businesses that keeps them from making more money?
- What is an easy way we can make more money without a lot of effort?
- What should be included in a “media room?”
- What is your favorite best-bang-for-your-buck marketing tool?
- And, what’s the key to stop leaving money on the table once and for all?
For more information on Shannon’s services, tips and strategies please visit her website. Enjoy! Continue reading →
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February 21, 2012 – 6:00 am
Continuing the month of leadership, you are going to LOVE this matter of fact post from guest expert, Bonnie Buol Ruszczyk, president of BBR Marketing. Bonnie pulls back the curtain, and shares her personal experience with regard to the difference between holding back in business, and the benefits of stepping into the spotlight. This push for us to all step up, and step out is invigorating. Thanks, Bonnie!
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A few months ago, I was interviewed for an article entitled, “Making Money as an Industry Expert” for the national Chamber of Commerce site. This was really quite an honor, and I was thrilled to contribute. During that interview, and in the weeks after it, I spent a bit of time thinking about where I was just a few years ago, and how far I’ve come to get where I am today.
You see, I spent two and a half years working in an environment where egos were fragile, and everyone seemed to be walking on eggshells nearly every day. Not all, but many of the partners at this accounting firm needed regular “stroking,” and those that brought up differing opinions were quickly quieted or eventually left. I was an outsider in this environment, hired because I came to the table with a different set of skills. I jumped in with both feet. There were those who supported me in my efforts, but more who were bothered that they were no longer “in charge” of what was going on. Continue reading →
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February 20, 2012 – 6:00 am
Imagine what life would be like if there was no one to admire or aspire to be like?
Thankfully, our lives are full of amazing people at every turn, who touch our lives in big and small ways. Who we become as business leaders is colored by people from our past and present, in and out of the business arenas. To shine the spotlight on some little or well-known role models your life, I asked –
Who has been your best business role model for leadership to date, and why?
From family members, famous leaders from the past, and current men and women who are changing the world, this list from our contributors will give you plenty to choose from.
This list is far from exhaustive, so I welcome your additions to the comments below. Enjoy! Continue reading →
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February 16, 2012 – 6:00 am
Spotlight on Success Show – Episode #18
Today on my show I had the pleasure of a speaking with JP Jones, Owner of Paige1Media & Paige1Publishing, who shared her best strategies for how entrepreneurs can brand themselves head and shoulders above the crowd by focusing on customer service.
Though business cards, logos, and your website design are a part of branding, JP teaches that successful branding is creating a positive personal experience for each of your customers and clients. In this interview I ask JP –
- Why is there so much talk about branding your business these days?
- When did the shift in branding begin to occur?
- How can you keep your brand personal?
- What does it take to really stand our in your field and service?
- And, how can a business owner strive to improve her brand or control it?
For more information on JP’s services, tips and strategies please visit her website. Enjoy! Continue reading →
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February 15, 2012 – 6:00 am
Part Two of Four
Sometimes it’s really challenging to be courageous. When you can’t predict the outcome, it can be scary to put your neck on the line, be vulnerable, or take a leap of faith. In Part One of this series, I wrote about how TRUE leadership comes from a place of selflessness.
The second part of being a true leader is demonstrating courage.
“One isn’t necessarily born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency. We can’t be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest.” – Maya Angelou
Courage enables you to share the best of who you are. Continue reading →
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Anne Montague, Founder and Executive Director of Thanks, Plain and Simple, Inc., points out that “cooperation and teamwork are not exactly the same.” She explains, “I’ve learned to look closely at these two words and how they differ. Early in the development of new projects, programs and processes, even the most obvious solutions often need serious cooperation to advance.
Strategies and Tactics for Women by Dr. Shannon Reece 