I need a website

 

Really you need a lot more than just a website.

Why?

Websites are like billboards without a highway.

You actually need a (Small Business) Framework.

What is a framework?

It’s the combination of Systems that help build a route to your website. Like a highway.

5-6 bare bones basic Systems every business needs – in the very beginning of business, can you name them?

Send me a note with what you think they are – or with what you have.

Let’s see how close you are.

 

Create your own web store- Quick Shopping Cart!

Where Business Begins

I recently sat down for dinner with a friend.  As we were catching up, we got on the topic of Business.  One of my favourite subjects :) .

As it turns out they were looking at starting a business. Through the conversation I learned that the business idea was sound and that this individual had tonnes of passion behind this new venture. What is fabulous is that they are also coming from a place of heart – they truly wish to help others.  Earning money doing that would be a perk.

A great idea, backed by passion and a heart in the right place, while they definitely help are not where business begins.

Business begins and ends with people. It’s about your relationships.

Upon starting a new business – who do you tell first?? I would say Family and Close Friends.  Being an Entrepreneur can be lonely at times, you’ll need a support group.

Who are the 10 people you would put in that group?  Ask them for their help.

Do I feel honoured to have heard about this new venture, my friend sharing it with me over dinner?

They have bigger dreams and I get to be included.  YOU BET I DO!

Now as exciting as this can be – it can also be terrifying.  Where to begin?

I recommend you begin with those you chose to share with, first.  Your Close Friends and Family. The 10 people you have decided that you can ask for help.

On average an individual has over 600 ties to people and of those ties approx. 200 are Facebook Friends.
*The average number of Facebook friends was recently report as 229.

So when it comes to business – especially launching a new venture it makes sense to get the word out via your top 10 support network first.

Once the word it out – it’s time to keep track of connections and communication. For the purpose of developing those connections into relationships, seeing the opportunities for engagement, nurturing your networks and knowing how these are progressing.

This system is the most important one in your business. For this use Nimble. Try it Free.

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VendHQ – Web Based Point-of-Sale

VendHQ – Web Based Point-of-Sale
Vend Point of Sale

Web-based point-of-sale

All you need is a web browser. Vend works with equipment you already own, including barcode scanners, cash drawers and receipt printers.

Vend continues to work even if your internet connection doesn’t. Your data will automatically synchronize the next time you connect.

We automatically back up your data several times a day, on secure servers. So it’s protected, and can only be accessed by you.

Click to Watch the introduction video.

Take the stress out of owning a POS system. Enjoy the latest features without the hassle of maintenance and upgrades, for a small monthly subscription.

Why Communication?

Your Communication Systems are the key to your Sales and Marketing.

What are Communication Systems?

  1. Phone – Making and Answering/Returning Calls and VoiceMail.
  2. Email – Signatures and Template Formats
  3. Cards and Gifts – Celebrations and Thank You’s.
  4. Newsletters/Letters – Templates for Marketing and Engagement
  5. Website/Blogs – Copy, Links and Call to Action – comments and feedback
  6. Online - Social Media – Social Listening

Having an actively managed Database System helps bring your Communication Systems together and leverage your business efforts.

Let us show you how it can help save you time, money and energy.

Are You Popular – Socially Competent Online?

What does it mean to be Popular – Socially Competent?

Here are 6 tips for overcoming Social Shortcomings online.

  1. Friendly/Thoughtful - Do you show interest and goodwill? Are you serving a beneficial and helpful purpose?  Are you attentive, considerate and kind? There is a fine line between the amount and type of interest. Thinking of others – is showing concern for the needs and feelings of others; expressing your interest in their lives. Too much interest and the areas of interest – may actually turn someone away, when what your looking for is to attract them.
  2. Sensitive – Initiating conversation is not always easy. If one easily takes offence, or is highly responsive and easily emotionally triggered -the individually can be difficult to engage with. It takes practice and conversation. Don’t let, not knowing how a seemingly innocent comment might be received, stop you from reaching out to people. What is important is that you do not intend to offend. (Well unless you do – if you intend to be on the edge of subject matters, a disclaimer “I may offend you” may be in order.)
  3. Caring/Helpful - Understanding how people think and feel – not always easy. However you can offer service and assistance. How do you show concern for other people? Someone having a bad day or stuck in a situation unfamiliar to them – is often receptive to “Hi! I’m here if you need to chat”. It’s nice to know we are not alone.
  4. Fun to Be Around – Qualities of Fun People are they Make Eye Contact, Are Active and Curious, They Listen, Smile, Laugh, Play, Enjoy, Initiate Conversation Easily; They Care about Themselves and are often Spontaneous. Embrace what makes you different (weird or strange) and have fun with it.
  5. Knowing how to interpret and respond – There are visual signals, gestures and facial expressions in one to one engagement that not seen online. However, there are   written and expression styles online. When you get to know people on a deeper level these become easier to read.
  6. Conversation Control – The level of engagement that exists in a conversation is determined by an equal level of exchange. There are situations when emotions take over control and the conversation becomes more one sided than an equal exchange.

 Determining what gets your conversation time and why is very important online.

Want Help?

Find out More about Nimble

TechCrunch, VentureBeat, Forbes

Hidden Marketing Messages

 

 

Marketing – creating, communicating and offering – processes. Creating Value and Building Stronger Relationships.

Toxic Marketing Messages…..

Ever read a piece of marketing copy that was belittling, highlighted all the things you do wrong or had you looking up words?

Here is some of what has come my way recently

  • Is your Marketing Condescending?
  • Are you Smart Enough to Realize?
  • You won’t act on this offer because….?
  • Mistakes you are making….
  • You failed to….

WOW! I STOPPED reading.

So much for – getting the message to this reader.

Words lead to reactions. We are Human. Some words trigger pain.

Rather than creating pain or belittling someone – get to know them.

There are ways to show your knowledge and passion with out patronizing, belittling others and being toxic.

Even Big Companies do it. Check out this Article.

How about trying something new….

Ask a Question, Create Conversation and then Engage.

Being Humble – rely on another’s knowledge and ability and learn something new. We all know a great deal.

Be assertive but don’t bite – you can make your points, respecting the views of others.

Be Firm and Kind – try compassion – we all have struggles, doubts and are great at seeing them. Kindness – we are all Human.

Empower others – Highlight their strengths.

The beauty of empowering others is that your own power is not diminished in the process,” said Barbara Coloroso

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?

How About – Relationship Marketing

 

13 Questions to ask

13 Questions for more- Power, Oxygen, Pressure, Heat, and Water 

1. Are you bombarded by information?

There is access to so much information via networking groups, social media, workshops, online course and webinars. Do you allow time to take in all in and implement a few. Take in only what you can apply in a short period of time, then revisit.

2. Are you hemorrhaging?

More energy or money going out, then coming in. It’s time to take a look at what to cut out. Do more of what gives you energy and makes you money.

3. Do your solutions solve problems?

The Litmus test – result show loud and clear. You need to know what your results are.

4. Do you read your instruments and know what they mean?

From readership of ezines and website sign ups to purchases. You need to know what is working.

5. What is cutting off your O2?

The time you spend and where you spend it is very valuable.

6. All systems have holes – do you know where yours are?

There are integrations to systems that work like patches to catch what falls through the cracks. Many of them are free.

7. Are you running out of fuel?

Coffee is not enough. Less hours in the day than items on a to do list. We are human after all. We need rest and relaxation. Get yours.

8. Do you have a problem and not know what to do about it? Is it time to call in help? Who is on your team?

Resources, Resources, Resources.  We never do it alone. A great team makes all the difference. Open minded conversation is wonderful. You many not take any of the suggestions made from your team right away – but they need to know you value their input and have taken the information in and considered it. When delegating start small. Filing, errands, work around the house. You will build up the tolerance and team to share more. Leverage is essential.

9. Are you in survival mode?

Getting through the day – but not really doing what you Love.

10.  Are you making changes that are irreversible?

Implementing something new often means leaving the old behind. Try before you buy. Look for Trials on new products before implementing.

11. Are you a little off your flight path?

It is the inevitable zig-zag of business. Often our businesses take us in an entirely different direction than originally intended. However, the treasure is not always where we thought it was.

12. What is your conversation about your business telling people?

Getting Clear about your message. Even if it means only telling people about one of the many things you are so very capable of.

13 .Do you have systems that simplify?

Databases, Calendars, Reminders, Projections, Automated Marketing all require planning. Start with one thing at a time. Once you have begun to leverage your efforts, everything gets simpler.

Wishing You the Best Journey Possible – SYSTEMSGIRL