I write often about the importance of letting others know what you want to accomplish in life. If you do not tell them, they cannot serve as the link that connects you to your future.
Sometimes it is a friend who holds the answers, while some crossroads are mapped by complete strangers. If you keep your goals, dreams and desires to yourself, then you are missing out on the fastest path to success.
Last fall I received a phone call from Pam Sherman. Pam is a former practicing attorney, a writer, entrepreneur, consultant, trainer, speaker, and much much more. She had read my book, The ABC's of Networking, and referred it to several of her clients. She reached out just to tell me how she appreciated the motivational advice in the book.
When we spoke, I was boarding an airplane to fly to Phoenix to give a speech. She was in the back of a cab in New York City on her way to a client's office. We did not have much time to talk, but we had a great conversation. I could tell right away that she is a powerful personality.
At the end of our conversation she mentioned her desire to complete her first book, a compilation of articles she had written. I referred her to Dave at New Year Publishing. I figured if nothing else, he would have some useful ideas that could help her make the book a reality.
Six months later Pam's book, The Suburban Outlaw, is now in print and Pam has joined the New Year Publishing author family. (Available at Amazon.com).
I love this story. It is a simple reminder not to hide your dreams under a blanket. Instead, tell others what you want in life. A stranger on a plane 2000 miles away might have the phone number to your next project. The ONE step toward success is to simply tell others what you desire!
I believe in people. I have seen countless others lend me a hand and pull me up to higher levels time after time. I am confident that there are catalysts around every corner who can change our worlds for the better.... if we just give them a chance.
Pam has returned the favor and introduced me to possible speaking opportunities with groups like Young Presidents Organization and others. She is someone whom I know will become a good friend, too. All from a phone call.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Friday, April 03, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Learning From The Critics
Handling praise is much easier than handling criticism. But it is the critics who, when listened to with a discerning ear, can help us grow.
Constructive guidance is vital to those who want to expand their universe.
Many people, myself included, when slapped with our own faults, mistakes, or judgments by others will lean toward justification. We want to defend and explain.
But sometimes we are best suited if we quietly reflect the realities of the situation. A deep breath and time to reflect and understand the other players in the moment will bring us perspective.
We cannot go back and correct history, and over explanation will always fall on deaf ears.
I suggest taking time to contemplate how to improve for the future, and moving forward.
I write this now, as I possess the jumble of feelings. I got an email from a friend with views that were not on target, but perception is reality. The larger issue is that those who spoke words behind my back will not ever be known to me. I could fret the issue, or smile and look for ways to improve tomorrow and become more than I was today.
The only way to avoid the naysayers and those who impose judgment is to be a hermit. Alas, not a good choice for me, so I look for those who will teach me along my path. Some teachers will bring pain. Others will spread joy.
I am sincere in my quest to expand my universe and discover how to make an impact. With this as my quest I am confident that I will stack the wiles of experience on the backs of those who criticize. The trick is to not be one of them in my own discourse with others.
Have A Great Day
thom
Constructive guidance is vital to those who want to expand their universe.
Many people, myself included, when slapped with our own faults, mistakes, or judgments by others will lean toward justification. We want to defend and explain.
But sometimes we are best suited if we quietly reflect the realities of the situation. A deep breath and time to reflect and understand the other players in the moment will bring us perspective.
We cannot go back and correct history, and over explanation will always fall on deaf ears.
I suggest taking time to contemplate how to improve for the future, and moving forward.
I write this now, as I possess the jumble of feelings. I got an email from a friend with views that were not on target, but perception is reality. The larger issue is that those who spoke words behind my back will not ever be known to me. I could fret the issue, or smile and look for ways to improve tomorrow and become more than I was today.
The only way to avoid the naysayers and those who impose judgment is to be a hermit. Alas, not a good choice for me, so I look for those who will teach me along my path. Some teachers will bring pain. Others will spread joy.
I am sincere in my quest to expand my universe and discover how to make an impact. With this as my quest I am confident that I will stack the wiles of experience on the backs of those who criticize. The trick is to not be one of them in my own discourse with others.
Have A Great Day
thom
Five Days To Energize Your Career (Day Five)
Recharge Your Batteries
While working hard gets the job done, there comes a point where you need a break. In today's busy world, our weekends are rarely stress free, and usually full of "To Do's" that include running all the errands that you could not get done during the work week.
To be effective in your job, you must have some time off. In the United States most people only get two or three weeks of vacation time. If you have children, this means that you will undoubtedly need several of those days to cover school holidays and other family events, thus leaving you with very little time for real time away from your daily routine.
For most of my life I strung my vacation days together with holidays to take long weekends. While this seemed like a good strategy, I rarely felt like I ever got a real break from work. I never had the time to decompress before I was back in the office.
I never took an extended two week trip until 2005. I was always nervous about being away from the office for ten work days, but discovered that I was more effective as an employee before and after my long trip. I spent the weeks leading up to the jaunt working extra long hours to ensure that everything was completed before I left, and did the same thing upon my return to catch up and see that nothing has slipped through the cracks.
The funny part was how excited I was about my work life after a long vacation. I had a fresh perspective and new motivation. I have now taken extended vacations every year with the same results.
The down side is that I use up most of my vacation time with this strategy, which limits my ability to take long weekend getaways, but in the long run, I am much happier with one longer relaxing trip.
Thus, with few days in my pocket to recharge all year long, I have developed a strategy for talking little pieces of time to relax. I love to read and wake up 30 minutes early every day to ensure I can take that the time to read a book each morning. Because my commute is long, I often leave home early to beat the traffic and stop for coffee on mornings when I do not have a business breakfast or early meeting. Over my coffee I steal back that half hour from my day and emerge myself in a book. On the days I get this little bonus, I always feel more clear headed and focused.
While reading a book might not be your best source for a mental boost in a 30 minute window, discover what activity would bring you peace and calm, and schedule it into your day a couple of times each week. You will learn to cherish your half-hour vacations.
If you do not find a way to recharge your batteries, you will experience burn-out. This will not be beneficial to you or anyone around you!
Have A Great Day
thom
While working hard gets the job done, there comes a point where you need a break. In today's busy world, our weekends are rarely stress free, and usually full of "To Do's" that include running all the errands that you could not get done during the work week.
To be effective in your job, you must have some time off. In the United States most people only get two or three weeks of vacation time. If you have children, this means that you will undoubtedly need several of those days to cover school holidays and other family events, thus leaving you with very little time for real time away from your daily routine.
For most of my life I strung my vacation days together with holidays to take long weekends. While this seemed like a good strategy, I rarely felt like I ever got a real break from work. I never had the time to decompress before I was back in the office.
I never took an extended two week trip until 2005. I was always nervous about being away from the office for ten work days, but discovered that I was more effective as an employee before and after my long trip. I spent the weeks leading up to the jaunt working extra long hours to ensure that everything was completed before I left, and did the same thing upon my return to catch up and see that nothing has slipped through the cracks.
The funny part was how excited I was about my work life after a long vacation. I had a fresh perspective and new motivation. I have now taken extended vacations every year with the same results.
The down side is that I use up most of my vacation time with this strategy, which limits my ability to take long weekend getaways, but in the long run, I am much happier with one longer relaxing trip.
Thus, with few days in my pocket to recharge all year long, I have developed a strategy for talking little pieces of time to relax. I love to read and wake up 30 minutes early every day to ensure I can take that the time to read a book each morning. Because my commute is long, I often leave home early to beat the traffic and stop for coffee on mornings when I do not have a business breakfast or early meeting. Over my coffee I steal back that half hour from my day and emerge myself in a book. On the days I get this little bonus, I always feel more clear headed and focused.
While reading a book might not be your best source for a mental boost in a 30 minute window, discover what activity would bring you peace and calm, and schedule it into your day a couple of times each week. You will learn to cherish your half-hour vacations.
If you do not find a way to recharge your batteries, you will experience burn-out. This will not be beneficial to you or anyone around you!
Have A Great Day
thom
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Five Days To Energize Your Career (Day Four)
Help Others Succeed
Motivational icon Zig Ziggler says "You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want".
Giving to others is the best way to get others to help you. When people are busy chasing their goals and dreams they can forget to look around at their community and see if they can give a boost to another person who is seeking success. If we are not conscious of those around us, and how we can assist them, how can we expect them to help us?
The thing to remember is that what is difficult for one person is often easy for another. We can each use our talents and connections to make life easier for someone else who is struggling with issues that for us are simple. Our mountains are only hills to someone else.
When someone is open to helping others, they will find that people are willing to return the favor. This is not always the same person, either. It is the "Pay It Forward" concept, or Karma in action. Lending a hand to your fellow man is not about keeping score, it is about doing good for the sake of doing good. But the magic is that people who give find the world to be a very giving place.
The flip side is often true. Nobody likes to help the people who are selfish. "Takers" will be the people who see the world as cold and selfish toward them. Funny how that works out!
Work each day to find a way to offer assistance to others. Focus on the people close to you and see if you can be the catalyst that brings them closer to success. The easiest way to discover how to help them is to ask them what they need. While you will not be able to solve all the world's problems, and you cannot help everybody, once you know what goals others desire, you will be surprised how often you will encounter ways to lend a hand.
What is your goal? Post it as a comment on this blog and maybe someone (maybe me?) will know a way to be of assistance.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Five Days To Energize Your Career (Day Three)
Take a Class / Attend a Seminar
No matter how skilled you are in your profession, you can still improve your abilities. Many people become convinced that they know all they can, and thus become stale.
Lawyers and accountants are required to take continuing education every year in order to keep their professional certifications active. While many complain about the CLE and CPE hours each time they come due, the best ones embrace the requirement as a chance to learn new rules and regulations and "sharpen the saw".
Even if you are not required by law to take annual class hours, learning is a great way to improve yourself, get motivated, and attain recognition within your industry. All of these will ignite the spark that will help you in your job.
Make it a point to attend an industry conference. If your employer will not pay for you to attend a national association annual meeting that is across the country, look for other regional events that will bring together the experts in your field. Regional conferences and seminars are often more reasonably priced and will have more moderate travel costs, thus if the company will not cover the costs you should consider paying your own way.
While at the conference be sure not to skip out on the educational breakout sessions. Look for courses that interest you, but make sure you are in a class at each scheduled time. Even if nothing jumps out at you on the schedule, remember that some of the best things in life come as a surprise.
Beyond conferences attend local seminars that convey useful information. Business groups and your local universities offer a variety of options. A full day class could be just what you need to get you back on track. New information is always a catalyst to creativity.
In addition to attending conferences, seminars and classes you should become an avid reader. If you spend 30 to 60 minutes each day reading a business book you will complete ten to twenty (depending on how fast you read) books each year. Think about that, approximately 150 books in ten years. That knowledge will inspire you to do more than you ever imagined.
Have A Great Day
thom
No matter how skilled you are in your profession, you can still improve your abilities. Many people become convinced that they know all they can, and thus become stale.
Lawyers and accountants are required to take continuing education every year in order to keep their professional certifications active. While many complain about the CLE and CPE hours each time they come due, the best ones embrace the requirement as a chance to learn new rules and regulations and "sharpen the saw".
Even if you are not required by law to take annual class hours, learning is a great way to improve yourself, get motivated, and attain recognition within your industry. All of these will ignite the spark that will help you in your job.
Make it a point to attend an industry conference. If your employer will not pay for you to attend a national association annual meeting that is across the country, look for other regional events that will bring together the experts in your field. Regional conferences and seminars are often more reasonably priced and will have more moderate travel costs, thus if the company will not cover the costs you should consider paying your own way.
While at the conference be sure not to skip out on the educational breakout sessions. Look for courses that interest you, but make sure you are in a class at each scheduled time. Even if nothing jumps out at you on the schedule, remember that some of the best things in life come as a surprise.
Beyond conferences attend local seminars that convey useful information. Business groups and your local universities offer a variety of options. A full day class could be just what you need to get you back on track. New information is always a catalyst to creativity.
In addition to attending conferences, seminars and classes you should become an avid reader. If you spend 30 to 60 minutes each day reading a business book you will complete ten to twenty (depending on how fast you read) books each year. Think about that, approximately 150 books in ten years. That knowledge will inspire you to do more than you ever imagined.
Have A Great Day
thom
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Five Days To Energize Your Career (Day Two)
Go Where The People Are
If you believe that all opportunities come from people, then it should go without saying that knowing more people will produce more opportunities for your career.
One of the best ways to meet others in your business community is to join professional organizations. However, there are many to choose from, and you cannot join them all.
It is best to select two or three groups and participate regularly. Often you will find people who try to attend too many events. They end up not fully engaged with any organization and thus they practice "drop in networking", and never being seen as an important member. To create bonds you must do more than join and passively attend, you must volunteer your time for the good of the organization.
Instead of just dropping in, be an evangelist for the two or three clubs that you have joined. Volunteer for the board or a committee and spend several years attending each of these groups local events. It is okay to "drop in" on other groups from time to time, but you want to invest the time to create real connections with those who are active in your same organizations.
Select the groups based on your interest in their cause. There are tons of local and national professional business associations (Chambers of Commerce, Association for Corporate Growth, etc...), civic organizations (Rotary, Lions Club, etc...), charitable groups / boards (United Way, Young Men's Business League, etc...), etc... I suggest belonging to groups that have different purposes so that you are encountering different people at the different meetings.
Go where the people are if you want to expand your professional network.
Have A Great Day.
thom
If you believe that all opportunities come from people, then it should go without saying that knowing more people will produce more opportunities for your career.
One of the best ways to meet others in your business community is to join professional organizations. However, there are many to choose from, and you cannot join them all.
It is best to select two or three groups and participate regularly. Often you will find people who try to attend too many events. They end up not fully engaged with any organization and thus they practice "drop in networking", and never being seen as an important member. To create bonds you must do more than join and passively attend, you must volunteer your time for the good of the organization.
Instead of just dropping in, be an evangelist for the two or three clubs that you have joined. Volunteer for the board or a committee and spend several years attending each of these groups local events. It is okay to "drop in" on other groups from time to time, but you want to invest the time to create real connections with those who are active in your same organizations.
Select the groups based on your interest in their cause. There are tons of local and national professional business associations (Chambers of Commerce, Association for Corporate Growth, etc...), civic organizations (Rotary, Lions Club, etc...), charitable groups / boards (United Way, Young Men's Business League, etc...), etc... I suggest belonging to groups that have different purposes so that you are encountering different people at the different meetings.
Go where the people are if you want to expand your professional network.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Five Days To Energize Your Career (Day One)
Make A List
A great way to energize your career is to make contact with the key people in your professional network.
Take time to review you contact database and identify the 15 people who are both influential and would immediately take a meeting with you. Look for people who could be good referral sources for both short-term and long term opportunities, and those that are proven to be mutually beneficial friends.
The next step is to email or call them to set up a meeting. Offer to take them to breakfast (or coffee), lunch, or just to stop by their office. Try to set all of these appointments over the next two weeks.
When you meet with these people be honest that you need a boost in your career. Clearly let them know what kinds of opportunities you are looking for, be it advice, sales leads, introductions to new contacts, or job opportunities. If people do not fully understand how they can help you, they will be limited in the value they can provide. It is your responsibility to tell them what you need.
Remember, a real network of professional contacts in not just about you and your desires. Be sure that you also ask the people whom you meet with what you can do for them. Inquire about their business and have them explain about what type of person is their ideal client. Ask them what challenges they face over the next few months. Listen closely and be sure to invest some time over the following days to discover if you have any connections that can benefit the other person and boost their career.
Giving someone a business lead is wonderful, but remember that it is NOT the only way that you can impact their world.
If you only show up on their radar when you need help, then you will be seen as a taker. A taker can only go to the well so many times before they are cut off. However, if you can find ways to assist others then they will enthusiastically return the favor.
You will find after you meet with all 15 of your key contacts that you will be both fired up, and flush with new opportunities and perspective.
Have A Great Day.
thom
A great way to energize your career is to make contact with the key people in your professional network.
Take time to review you contact database and identify the 15 people who are both influential and would immediately take a meeting with you. Look for people who could be good referral sources for both short-term and long term opportunities, and those that are proven to be mutually beneficial friends.
The next step is to email or call them to set up a meeting. Offer to take them to breakfast (or coffee), lunch, or just to stop by their office. Try to set all of these appointments over the next two weeks.
When you meet with these people be honest that you need a boost in your career. Clearly let them know what kinds of opportunities you are looking for, be it advice, sales leads, introductions to new contacts, or job opportunities. If people do not fully understand how they can help you, they will be limited in the value they can provide. It is your responsibility to tell them what you need.
Remember, a real network of professional contacts in not just about you and your desires. Be sure that you also ask the people whom you meet with what you can do for them. Inquire about their business and have them explain about what type of person is their ideal client. Ask them what challenges they face over the next few months. Listen closely and be sure to invest some time over the following days to discover if you have any connections that can benefit the other person and boost their career.
Giving someone a business lead is wonderful, but remember that it is NOT the only way that you can impact their world.
If you only show up on their radar when you need help, then you will be seen as a taker. A taker can only go to the well so many times before they are cut off. However, if you can find ways to assist others then they will enthusiastically return the favor.
You will find after you meet with all 15 of your key contacts that you will be both fired up, and flush with new opportunities and perspective.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Monday, March 23, 2009
Corporate Meetings, Professional Speakers (and other vendors), and The Economic Woes
Okay, I now know the world has gotten nutty.
A meeting planner for a company told me that they are canceling their annual sales conference for fear that the three day educational and motivational outing (at a resort) might end up in the press. While they are a profitable private company (with no government bailout funds), the executive team is worried about someone saying they are not playing it "smart" during the recession.
She said that the CEO was counseled by a consultant to avoid taking his team to a golf resort this year, as they have done annually for two decades, for fear that their competition would use it against them in the marketplace.
Huh?
Now, since I was in negotiation to be the keynote speaker to kick off the company's event, I am obviously bummed out. Professional speakers, hotels, airlines, restaurants, etc... are all impacted by the success of the meeting / hospitality industry.
But more than my speaking fee, I am questioning what our world is coming to when such things such as an annual sales meeting can become a negative event for a private business that has positive cash flow.
One would think that everyone would be happy to see organizations celebrating success in the midst of all the gloomy news that the press reports (I believe there are many successful individuals and organizations all over the world who should be being highlighted in the press).
The following is from the website "Meetings Mean Business":
Value of Meetings
When business meetings and events are cancelled, it’s the hourly-wage workers – not corporate CEOs – who pay the highest price. Meetings, events and performance incentive travel in the United States are responsible for almost 15% of all domestic travel. Generating 1 million jobs and $27 billion in wages, meetings and events can provide a solution to our economic woes. Meetings and events support local communities and working families around the country – something we cannot afford to overlook as we rebuild our economy.
I realize that there are companies (AIG, investment banks, and others) who have taken government money who should be under scrutiny for how they spend money .... but to make the meeting industry the villain in this mess is just crazy.
On the up side, SXSW Interactive - the large conference I attended in Austin last week - had an increase in attendance this year that was up over 25%. We humans are social creatures, and while online social networking communities and teleseminars are nice... they DO NOT replace the face to face meeting. It is not the same.
Have A Great Day
thom
A meeting planner for a company told me that they are canceling their annual sales conference for fear that the three day educational and motivational outing (at a resort) might end up in the press. While they are a profitable private company (with no government bailout funds), the executive team is worried about someone saying they are not playing it "smart" during the recession.
She said that the CEO was counseled by a consultant to avoid taking his team to a golf resort this year, as they have done annually for two decades, for fear that their competition would use it against them in the marketplace.
Huh?
Now, since I was in negotiation to be the keynote speaker to kick off the company's event, I am obviously bummed out. Professional speakers, hotels, airlines, restaurants, etc... are all impacted by the success of the meeting / hospitality industry.
But more than my speaking fee, I am questioning what our world is coming to when such things such as an annual sales meeting can become a negative event for a private business that has positive cash flow.
One would think that everyone would be happy to see organizations celebrating success in the midst of all the gloomy news that the press reports (I believe there are many successful individuals and organizations all over the world who should be being highlighted in the press).
The following is from the website "Meetings Mean Business":
Value of Meetings
When business meetings and events are cancelled, it’s the hourly-wage workers – not corporate CEOs – who pay the highest price. Meetings, events and performance incentive travel in the United States are responsible for almost 15% of all domestic travel. Generating 1 million jobs and $27 billion in wages, meetings and events can provide a solution to our economic woes. Meetings and events support local communities and working families around the country – something we cannot afford to overlook as we rebuild our economy.
I realize that there are companies (AIG, investment banks, and others) who have taken government money who should be under scrutiny for how they spend money .... but to make the meeting industry the villain in this mess is just crazy.
On the up side, SXSW Interactive - the large conference I attended in Austin last week - had an increase in attendance this year that was up over 25%. We humans are social creatures, and while online social networking communities and teleseminars are nice... they DO NOT replace the face to face meeting. It is not the same.
Have A Great Day
thom
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Focus Yourself On What Matters
I'd say the critical perspective shift is from "climbing the ladder, winning prizes, and meeting people's expectations," to "where do I want to use my sharpened skills and limited time and energy to make a difference" -- Steven Tomlinson
I read the above statement about self-actualization on Eugene Sepulveda's "Community Matters Blog". Steven Tomlinson is one of the most intuitive people I have ever met. He has the ability to see right past all the B.S. and instinctively understands the deeper issues at hand.
The quote made me think all afternoon. We all want to make a difference. I believe especially in these turbulent times - creating an impact matters more than anything.
The key point of his quote is about using your "sharpened skills". How are you enhancing your talents? Are you resting on your past successes or are you fine tuning your abilities and creating new levels of your personal wizardry?
Now is the time surpass being average. If you do this well you will "climb the ladder, win prizes and meet people's expectations" without that ever being your goal. Individuals and companies that are self-actualized and focused on what matters seem to be the ones that are recession proof.
Time is limited. Everyone is struggling with making choices of how to best spend their time, often to the determent of what they really want to accomplish. How sad for those who chase the wrong desires all the way to the end.
Have A Great Day and Make A Difference!
thom
I read the above statement about self-actualization on Eugene Sepulveda's "Community Matters Blog". Steven Tomlinson is one of the most intuitive people I have ever met. He has the ability to see right past all the B.S. and instinctively understands the deeper issues at hand.
The quote made me think all afternoon. We all want to make a difference. I believe especially in these turbulent times - creating an impact matters more than anything.
The key point of his quote is about using your "sharpened skills". How are you enhancing your talents? Are you resting on your past successes or are you fine tuning your abilities and creating new levels of your personal wizardry?
Now is the time surpass being average. If you do this well you will "climb the ladder, win prizes and meet people's expectations" without that ever being your goal. Individuals and companies that are self-actualized and focused on what matters seem to be the ones that are recession proof.
Time is limited. Everyone is struggling with making choices of how to best spend their time, often to the determent of what they really want to accomplish. How sad for those who chase the wrong desires all the way to the end.
Have A Great Day and Make A Difference!
thom
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Pizazz Gets Noticed
People don't care about you or your product / service. They care about themselves. Sorry, I hope this is not a shocker.
This is especially true when you are new to their universe. If they are an established part of your community, then sure, they might care about you. However the mistake we make is we assume that others see us as part of their network long before they feel that way.
Even those you have known for years might not really give a damn.
It is like dating. Those who are married did not propose marriage to their spouse the night they met them. If I had done that my wife would have run from the building screaming. It takes time to establish real bonds with others to the point that you develop a mutually beneficial relationship.
Thus, the only way to stand out with clients, prospects, friends, networking contacts and referral sources is to do something bold, unique and new. They will pay more attention to you if you take risks in how you position yourself in the marketplace.
This is hard to do. First, some people are not wired to be bold. Second, you want to appear unique, not freaky. Finding the balance is the key.
Do something bigger than usual before the week is over. If you are not sure what to do, brainstorm with some friends or co-workers. Make all ideas open to discussion. Do not prejudge any concept. While at first glance it might not be the right move, it just could be the catalyst that leads you to your pizazz moment.
Pizazz gets noticed!
Have A Great Day.
thom
This is especially true when you are new to their universe. If they are an established part of your community, then sure, they might care about you. However the mistake we make is we assume that others see us as part of their network long before they feel that way.
Even those you have known for years might not really give a damn.
It is like dating. Those who are married did not propose marriage to their spouse the night they met them. If I had done that my wife would have run from the building screaming. It takes time to establish real bonds with others to the point that you develop a mutually beneficial relationship.
Thus, the only way to stand out with clients, prospects, friends, networking contacts and referral sources is to do something bold, unique and new. They will pay more attention to you if you take risks in how you position yourself in the marketplace.
This is hard to do. First, some people are not wired to be bold. Second, you want to appear unique, not freaky. Finding the balance is the key.
Do something bigger than usual before the week is over. If you are not sure what to do, brainstorm with some friends or co-workers. Make all ideas open to discussion. Do not prejudge any concept. While at first glance it might not be the right move, it just could be the catalyst that leads you to your pizazz moment.
Pizazz gets noticed!
Have A Great Day.
thom
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Cultivating The Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow - Lemonade Day 2009
This is GREAT! And the program needs your support.Lemonade Day - Austin is a free program which introduces kids to entrepreneurship!
This city-wide event teaches kids the skills they need to be successful in the future. Youth learn to set goals, develop a business plan, establish a budget, seek investors, provide customer service, and give back to our community.
If you have the entrepreneurial spirit in your soul, then you will understand the power that Lemonade Day - Austin will have on kids.
The program started in Houston four years ago, and this year is spreading out to other cities. Since it is the first time in Austin, we all need to help get the word out all over town.
Kids can register today to get started. Participants will receive a backpack full of materials including The Entrepreneur's Workbook which will guide them through this entire process.
Participation is FREE! All that the kids need is the signature of a supportive adult to get started. The best part is the young entrepreneurs get to keep the money you earn from selling your lemonade on May 3rd! (although the program encourages them to give part of the profits to the charity of their choice).
Adults - please support these young entrepreneurs by mentoring, volunteering or sponsoring Lemonade Day. Then get ready to BUY LEMONADE on May 3, 2009!
Your sponsorship of $25, $50, or $100 (or more) can help launch this amazing program in Austin. While the kids do not have to pay to learn these skills, the work book, T-shrirts and other promotions do cost money. Your $25 can make a big impact on the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.
PS- Lemonade Day is a "Leadership Project" being brought to you by the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Central Texas. If you do not know the Entrepreneurs Foundation, they are AMAZING!
Have A Great Day.
thom
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Austin City Government Is "Dazed and Confused" (What Else Is New?)
Tim League & Richard Linklater
Invite you to a private screening of the Austin classic:
"Dazed and Confused"
In Support of Brewster McCracken for Mayor.
Event Chairs: Elizabeth Avellan, Robert Rodriguez
Thursday, March 26, 7:00 pm
Alamo Drafthouse, South Lamar
Dazed and Confused memorabilia raffle!
Tickets: $50 (Includes dinner and one drink ticket)
Sponsorship: $350 (Includes reception with Richard Linklater and VIP seating)
Click here to purchase your tickets
Have A Great Day.
thom
Monday, March 16, 2009
More pics of people
More photos in an Animoto Video from today at SXSW. Only took four pics, so the video goes fast.
Have A Great Day
thom
Have A Great Day
thom
Warning: Social Media is NOT a Fad
"Don't let your organization be that company that 'doesn't get it'!!!" - Rob Quigley of the Austin American-Statesman (speaking in regards to social media)
There was certainly too much social media cheer leading at the 2009 SXSW Interactive Conference. iPhones, Twitter, Facebook were all heavily adopted by the majority of attendees. The speakers and panelists were "preaching to the choir" in their evangelizing of just how the world is being effected by the new media tools.
Yet it was Rob Quigley, an employee of an "old media" company (some might say in a dying industry) who hit the core of the whole conference with the quote above.
You see, even if you and your peers are not sold on the concepts of these trendy new modes of communication and interaction .... we are all on board a northbound train. When you are on a northbound train you only have two choices - Go North or Get Off.
But those who get off run the risk of being left behind.
Social media and all the new-fangle tools and applications that come with it are not a fad.
*Because of social media the Iowa Caucuses in 2008 had a turn out over 2000 times higher than in the past election.
*Facebook has over 175 million (and active) members. If they were a country, that number would make their population the 6th largest country in the world. Additionally, most of their users are outside of the USA.
*Members of Congress and politicians in races from dog catcher, to mayor, to President of the United States are tweeting every day. (all the major candidates for Mayor of Austin, Texas are on Twitter, Facebook, etc... and Barak Obama would not give up his BlackBerry!).
While I conceed that if you are reading this blog, you most likely are in the crowd who "gets it" - But look around and spread the word, as this train is in motion.
Have A Great Day.
There was certainly too much social media cheer leading at the 2009 SXSW Interactive Conference. iPhones, Twitter, Facebook were all heavily adopted by the majority of attendees. The speakers and panelists were "preaching to the choir" in their evangelizing of just how the world is being effected by the new media tools.
Yet it was Rob Quigley, an employee of an "old media" company (some might say in a dying industry) who hit the core of the whole conference with the quote above.
You see, even if you and your peers are not sold on the concepts of these trendy new modes of communication and interaction .... we are all on board a northbound train. When you are on a northbound train you only have two choices - Go North or Get Off.
But those who get off run the risk of being left behind.
Social media and all the new-fangle tools and applications that come with it are not a fad.
*Because of social media the Iowa Caucuses in 2008 had a turn out over 2000 times higher than in the past election.
*Facebook has over 175 million (and active) members. If they were a country, that number would make their population the 6th largest country in the world. Additionally, most of their users are outside of the USA.
*Members of Congress and politicians in races from dog catcher, to mayor, to President of the United States are tweeting every day. (all the major candidates for Mayor of Austin, Texas are on Twitter, Facebook, etc... and Barak Obama would not give up his BlackBerry!).
While I conceed that if you are reading this blog, you most likely are in the crowd who "gets it" - But look around and spread the word, as this train is in motion.
Have A Great Day.
Focus on Corporate Culture - Black and Decker Speak at SXSW
One of the most informative sessions I attended at SXSW Interactive 2009 was a "core conversation" hosted by Sam Decker (CMO of Bazaarvoice) and Jason A. Black (CEO of Boundless Network) on the topic of corporate culture.
The two had a very interactive back-and-forth with the 100+ in attendance. They shared their experiences for the how and why to make culture matter in a company.
Investors look at the spreadsheets, while culture is what really makes all the numbers work. Both Black and Decker work for companies that have strong reputations in Austin (and beyond) in regards to employee excitement, loyalty and dedication.
Establishing trust is the key. Many companies talk a lot about trust, but as the company grows, the trust slips away between management and employees. Often management does not even notice (but don't kid yourself, the rank-and-file know right away!).
Bazaarvoice has the "Five Stars of Culture" that the company lives by: Passion, Teamwork, Excellence, Openness and Execution. Every hiring decision is made on these important points.
The presenters shared the belief that everyone has an "entrepreneur" inside them (they want to create), but many companies neglect finding ways to cultivate this within employees. When the individuals let that entrepreneurial spark die, the organization loses. If people are just working for a paycheck they wont have any passion.
Black reminded entrepreneurs to not take money from any source. While investors can be an important part of the mix, if they do not share you enthusiasm for culture, then you are in trouble from the start. Your dedication to culture must run through the all levels of the company "Family", including everyone. Those who don't fit should not be involved - no exceptions.
A company with a real positive culture regularly celebrates the successes, large and small, of the company and the people. Do not wait until the quarterly meeting to praise, do it as the events take place. If the CEO is not prone to remembering to "ring the gong" at each success, be sure to assign someone the task of noting the wins along the way. Always be explicitly conscious about your culture, even if you must schedule reminders in your calendar to ping you to do so!
A tough economy will test the strength of your company's culture. When everyone feels the pressure, will your culture hold up? It will if it is more than just a slogan. RIF's suck, though times suck..... but the leadership of a company must over communicate and let their people know how they fit into the organization. Keep a clear focus on the long-term vision. Be candid and transparent with all team members.
Black & Decker were the best session I attended on Sunday at SXSW, and I think much of the audience would agree.
Have A Great Day.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Cool Company of the Day - Animoto
While roaming around the SXSW Interactive Trade Show I stumbled upon several interesting companies. I think that ANIMOTO was the coolest.
They bill themselves as the "end of the slide show" and with just a few steps you can create a cool video of you pictures set to music.
The site allows you to upload photos and it instantly produces the whole thing. There is no cost for a short video, and a nominal fee for longer compilations.
Check it out, these photos are from day two and three at SXSW. I grabbed a few images off my camera and in just minutes I had created this video.
Have A Great Day
thom
They bill themselves as the "end of the slide show" and with just a few steps you can create a cool video of you pictures set to music.
The site allows you to upload photos and it instantly produces the whole thing. There is no cost for a short video, and a nominal fee for longer compilations.
Check it out, these photos are from day two and three at SXSW. I grabbed a few images off my camera and in just minutes I had created this video.
Have A Great Day
thom
Book Signing at SXSW - and - Constructing Life's Amazing Puzzle
I have been having a great time at the SXSW Interactive Conference. The cool part is meeting many new and amazing people, many of whom read this blog or that I only know on Twitter.
One never knows when you meet a new person how it can impact the path of your life - or how you can influence their lives in a positive way. All opportunities come from people, thus the more folks you know (not just meet, but actually cultivate connections), the greater number of prospects you will encounter in the future.
The photo above is from the book signing that took place yesterday in the SXSW bookstore. I was seated next to author Patrick O'Keefe. I had met Patrick briefly last year, and made it a point to attend his presentation yesterday on the Day Stage.
Patrick is an expert on managing online communities (he is only 24-years-old!), and the author of the book "Managing Online Forums" (which I purchased yesterday). Patrick is a nice guy and one of those unique individuals you can tell has a bright future.
I am always open to having conversations with new people, as I find that when we listen to others, we also find ways to learn and grow. I especially like adding people who are in their 20s to my network. I was once told that after you turn 40 you should make new friends in their 20s every year for the rest of you life. This will not only expose you to unique world views, but also keep you connected to the latest trends in technology and beyond.
I am looking forward to the rest of the conference and then seeing how I can be of assistance to any of those whom I have encountered, and vice versa. Life if a puzzle and half the fun is searching for the right pieces and then discovering how they fit into place.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Friday, March 13, 2009
The Networking Conference Catalyst
Today I had the honor of speaking at the SXSW Interactive Conference in Austin, Texas.
Wow, lots of people in attendance. The lines to get your ID badge were CRAZY!
I lead a "Core Conversation" about how to get the most value out of your networking efforts at a multi-day conference. The audience of about 85 people were both engaging and engaged.
Click here to see the official recap of my presentation.
Search "thom singer" and @thomsinger on www.search.twitter.com if you want to see more about what people thought. We had fun...we laughed, we cried, we hugged eachother (inside joke).
Have A Great Day.
thom
Wow, lots of people in attendance. The lines to get your ID badge were CRAZY!
I lead a "Core Conversation" about how to get the most value out of your networking efforts at a multi-day conference. The audience of about 85 people were both engaging and engaged.
Click here to see the official recap of my presentation.
Search "thom singer" and @thomsinger on www.search.twitter.com if you want to see more about what people thought. We had fun...we laughed, we cried, we hugged eachother (inside joke).
Have A Great Day.
thom
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Warning: Your Competition Is Calling Your Clients
Economic tough times are continuing to impact business. Most companies are continuing along their path, albeit with some bumps in the road, but the uncertainty is causing everyone to get more aggressive with their business development efforts.
It seems everyone I talk with is re-focused on establishing new contacts in their business communities (networking has become very popular again.... although my opinion is it should ALWAYS be popular, as it does not work if you turn "networking" on and off based on the economic conditions!) and there is laser beam attention on all activities that can be considered "revenue generating".
This is all good. Our economic engine is driven by the corporate world and the amazingly intelligent and hard working people in every industry. Raising revenues for companies will get this ball rolling again. We all need that ball to start rolling!
But with the focus on new relationships it is imperative that your company not forget your existing customers. While your sales team is hitting the street chasing new business, you must remember that those prospects are you competitions current clients. While you pounce on their customers and referral sources, do not forget that they are doing the same thing. The difference is that their prospects are YOUR customers.
All customers are going to be interested in listening to any vendor who can save them money in this environment, so be clear that they are inviting your competitors into their offices to hear their proposals right this very moment.
Thus, while you are looking hard to uncover new business, do not neglect your existing clients. Hopefully you have always actively established strong bonds with customers. While it is easy to fire a vendor, it is hard to fire a friend! But in rough times, this becomes more tricky. Value matters more that never.
Continue to reach out to your client base and offer them value. Host them for educational seminars, send them occasional information that will make their lives easier, and meet with them regularly to ensure that you are delivering to all their needs. Look for unique and creative ways to bring them more than they expect from you!
If your only contact with your customers is to provide the work you are hired to do, and then sending them a monthly invoice, you are vulnerable to any competition who can provide them with any little extra.
Have A Great Day.
thom
It seems everyone I talk with is re-focused on establishing new contacts in their business communities (networking has become very popular again.... although my opinion is it should ALWAYS be popular, as it does not work if you turn "networking" on and off based on the economic conditions!) and there is laser beam attention on all activities that can be considered "revenue generating".
This is all good. Our economic engine is driven by the corporate world and the amazingly intelligent and hard working people in every industry. Raising revenues for companies will get this ball rolling again. We all need that ball to start rolling!
But with the focus on new relationships it is imperative that your company not forget your existing customers. While your sales team is hitting the street chasing new business, you must remember that those prospects are you competitions current clients. While you pounce on their customers and referral sources, do not forget that they are doing the same thing. The difference is that their prospects are YOUR customers.
All customers are going to be interested in listening to any vendor who can save them money in this environment, so be clear that they are inviting your competitors into their offices to hear their proposals right this very moment.
Thus, while you are looking hard to uncover new business, do not neglect your existing clients. Hopefully you have always actively established strong bonds with customers. While it is easy to fire a vendor, it is hard to fire a friend! But in rough times, this becomes more tricky. Value matters more that never.
Continue to reach out to your client base and offer them value. Host them for educational seminars, send them occasional information that will make their lives easier, and meet with them regularly to ensure that you are delivering to all their needs. Look for unique and creative ways to bring them more than they expect from you!
If your only contact with your customers is to provide the work you are hired to do, and then sending them a monthly invoice, you are vulnerable to any competition who can provide them with any little extra.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
PubCon South 2009: Chris Brogan and Guy Kawasaki Talk "Twitter"
I had the chance to attend part of Day One of PubCon South 2009. PubCon began in London in 2001 with a conference that was held in a pub (thus the name "PubCon"). Over the years it has grown to a series of conferences around the world which are the leading-edge event for sharing real-world information about search engine marketing and optimization.
The kick-off keynote presentation was a "fireside chat" between Chris Brogan and Guy Kawasaki, where social media maven Brogan interviewed Kawasaki about many things... but mainly the Garage.com founders passion for all things Twitter.
Admitting that he was late to blogging and Twitter, Kawasaki came around. He is now one of the most watched people on the web.
"I was born to Tweet" claimed Kawasaki. It took him about a month from joining the service until he was into if full steam ahead. He now averages over 50 tweets a day (which is why I do not follow him anymore).
For Kawasaki, Twitter is a "weapon to promote AllTop" (his online "aggregator" that covers any all the top sites on all the top subjects). He is not shy that he is mixing a variety of informative links, thoughts and ideas with blatant promotion of his business.
Many have asked him why he does not separate his personal "tweeting" from his business "tweeting" by having separate accounts. He gave the BEST answer I have heard on the subject (I only have one account on Twitter as well. I use it to tweet about my books, professional speaking, my job at vcfo, and any other pontifications I choose to toss out).
Kawasaki compared Twitter as the blending of PBS (high quality content) and QVC (commercial selling of product).
He made is clear that if PBS tried to only put the documentaries on one channel and the fund-raising, tote-bag pushing telethons on another station.... nobody would support PBS with donations and the channel would never bring in money (who would tune into see telethon fundraisers all the time?). By mixing the two, his followers (over 80,000 strong) will put up with his promoting his business if he gives them enough other interesting information.
Kawasaki recommended several tools that make Twitter not only more user friendly, but also make it possible to capitalize on the marketing power:
1. search.twitter.com. This site allows you to seek out what is being said about any person or topic on Twitter.
2. TweetDeck.com. Allows users to break down the vast amounts of information flowing across Twitter into manageable pieces. (Also said you could use Twirl.com for this).
3. TwitterHawk.com. Allows users to send automated replies to anyone on Twitter who is talking about a specific topic of keywords for a charge of five cents per message. (I am not a fan of automated tweets, as I think it harms authenticity of the medium, this application had some controls which made it seem interesting on some levels for marketing).
Addressing his critics who think he is a spammer on Twitter (and the purists who do not like to see Twitter used as a corporate tool), he joked "If I do it, it is good marketing, if someone does it to me, it is spam".
He was right in his statement that following someone is voluntary, and that if anyone does not like the way another person uses Twitter they can simply "Un-Follow". He regularly replies to those who harangue him with "UFM", which stands for "Un-Follow Me". To Kawasaki, tweets being spam is an oxymoron... as people signed up to listen to what he has to say, and thus they volunteered to get any message he chooses to send.
I found the conversation between Chris and Guy to be both fun and informative. My only complaint was that it did not last longer.
Have A Great Day.
thom
The kick-off keynote presentation was a "fireside chat" between Chris Brogan and Guy Kawasaki, where social media maven Brogan interviewed Kawasaki about many things... but mainly the Garage.com founders passion for all things Twitter.
Admitting that he was late to blogging and Twitter, Kawasaki came around. He is now one of the most watched people on the web.
"I was born to Tweet" claimed Kawasaki. It took him about a month from joining the service until he was into if full steam ahead. He now averages over 50 tweets a day (which is why I do not follow him anymore).
For Kawasaki, Twitter is a "weapon to promote AllTop" (his online "aggregator" that covers any all the top sites on all the top subjects). He is not shy that he is mixing a variety of informative links, thoughts and ideas with blatant promotion of his business.
Many have asked him why he does not separate his personal "tweeting" from his business "tweeting" by having separate accounts. He gave the BEST answer I have heard on the subject (I only have one account on Twitter as well. I use it to tweet about my books, professional speaking, my job at vcfo, and any other pontifications I choose to toss out).
Kawasaki compared Twitter as the blending of PBS (high quality content) and QVC (commercial selling of product).
He made is clear that if PBS tried to only put the documentaries on one channel and the fund-raising, tote-bag pushing telethons on another station.... nobody would support PBS with donations and the channel would never bring in money (who would tune into see telethon fundraisers all the time?). By mixing the two, his followers (over 80,000 strong) will put up with his promoting his business if he gives them enough other interesting information.
Kawasaki recommended several tools that make Twitter not only more user friendly, but also make it possible to capitalize on the marketing power:
1. search.twitter.com. This site allows you to seek out what is being said about any person or topic on Twitter.
2. TweetDeck.com. Allows users to break down the vast amounts of information flowing across Twitter into manageable pieces. (Also said you could use Twirl.com for this).
3. TwitterHawk.com. Allows users to send automated replies to anyone on Twitter who is talking about a specific topic of keywords for a charge of five cents per message. (I am not a fan of automated tweets, as I think it harms authenticity of the medium, this application had some controls which made it seem interesting on some levels for marketing).
Addressing his critics who think he is a spammer on Twitter (and the purists who do not like to see Twitter used as a corporate tool), he joked "If I do it, it is good marketing, if someone does it to me, it is spam".
He was right in his statement that following someone is voluntary, and that if anyone does not like the way another person uses Twitter they can simply "Un-Follow". He regularly replies to those who harangue him with "UFM", which stands for "Un-Follow Me". To Kawasaki, tweets being spam is an oxymoron... as people signed up to listen to what he has to say, and thus they volunteered to get any message he chooses to send.
I found the conversation between Chris and Guy to be both fun and informative. My only complaint was that it did not last longer.
Have A Great Day.
thom
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