Social Networking for Busy People - It's a crazy world out there!

I've been talking about social networking for busy people for many months now...the problem is this: I, like you, have a crazy full calendar already and adding time to keep up with all the sites and new mediums can be overwhelming.

After hosting a panel for the Beaverton Chamber of Commerce in December I was encouraged again to invest time researching how to help my readership of busy people use these outlets for business development, branding, and increased visibility. Watch the video - we really get started about 3 minutes in

Even though I had a million things to do in December...I actually took the time over the holidays to figure out how to decide where to show up from those who know and implement tools (recommended by those who know) that make keeping up online easier for those of us time challenged. Do I have your interest yet?

• Twitter - Is it "tweeting" really the hot new thing? Take a few minutes a read these interesting perspectives.
  Fellow Biznik-ite Joe Hage's observations on his Twitter experiment and why YOU should Tweet.
  BusinessWeek talks about Twitter
  Barry Hurd, 123SocialMedia.com gives the best review of Twitter How-To's
  You can follow me on Twitter www.Twitter.com/kathienelson
  
• Keeping up with blogs. Hey, I know keeping up with my own blog takes time so how am I supposed to keep up with others I want to follow? It truly is a great way to keep up with trends in thoughts and ideas. I'd been hearing about aggregators for the last year or so but never had the time to figure them out...I decided to do so over the holiday. I am using Google Reader since I use Google more and more but others have been recommended as well.
  Fellow Biznik-ite Elge Premeau wrote an excellent article on How to Blog without Having a Blog and recommends her favorite, Bloglines.
  
• Keeping up with Social Networks (or even choosing what to add with all the invitations you get). I jumped into social networking many months ago to test and report back where and how to best use the medium for business development. I was expecting a very straightforward process with easy to report results. Guess what...it was not straightforward due to the nature of the medium. The audience (us) is constantly morphing the medium by our use and new providers join the race all the time. It can be a little maddening for those of us who like to learn things once and move on!
  Article on Social Networking Strategy
  Excellent Article on What You Need to Know Today about Social Media by Barry Hurd, 123 Social Media
  Article on Ways to Get Involved with Social Media in 2009 for those just jumping in

Hey, I am a slow adapter of technology or tools until proven they are a good investment of time. I think Social Networking and all that it entails is here to stay. It can be crazy but start by managing the time and how to best use to meet your goal to make the difference for you.

• For Social Networking Newbies - I encourage you to browse around. Ask your peers how they use their social networks. Best case, find a blog you like that provides truly helpful information and subscribe!


• For those of you who are Portland, OR based I am anchoring a series for the Beaverton Chamber of Commerce of "How-to" classes on the 2nd Wednesday monthly. In addition to learning social networking strategy you will hear from experts on Linked In, Twitter, Facebook, & Plaxo in a computer classroom setting. I hope to see you there! Easy registration here.

If you have favorite Social Networking blogs, sites, or articles please share with us!

Happy Networking!

Don't change for change sake! Do what works.

I joined a new marketing mastermind team last month. I found Bernadette Doyle of Client Magnets by referral from Jenny Hamby, SeminarMarketingPro.com.

I find it interesting the gems of wisdom that show up when I reach out beyond my own backyard. In Bernadette's monthly call last week I was reminded of some key principles in creating change.

As I listened to Bernadette share her nine key strategies to her best year ever in 2008 I reflected on my own results. While my business revenue increased overall I sure had a roller coaster year recovering from my adventures in 2007. (Don't know about what happened to me in 2007? Read my blog posts.)

What I learned is that I didn't even know what I didn't know when it came to recovering from a major accident. Reflecting back and wrapping up 2008, I intend to create a different kind of change in the upcoming months. I am not talking about change for change sake...I don't want change just so I have something different because this year was rough. I am talking about following proven practices and pursuing change in areas that WORK. I've already made and plan to continue implementing incremental changes that will create a BIG difference in my life and results in the upcoming months.

What about you? Want to take charge of "being the change you want to see in the world?" (Ghandi) Again, not talking about change for change sake but change on purpose with results!

Unleash some of these common truth principles to create uncommon change:

1. For something to change...some things have to change. We live full lives doing things that produce the results we see today. The truth is basic...if we want something different, something has go. What are you ready and willing to give up to make a change in 2009? What am I changing? I am giving up some of my volunteer work and a few of my networking organizations. Curious? Watch for upcoming teleseminars on how to choose where to show up.


2. If you don't know where you are going...anywhere will do. Without a clear goal, short or long term. It is easy in this unique period in our business economy to become distracted by fear, the media, our peers, our emails...you name it. Wham. Our eye is off goal. The basic truth is that we will be doomed to mediocrity and will not excel without clear compelling goals. What am I changing? I plan to work with my mastermind group and continue re-connecting with my vision to energize, accelerate, and pull me forward.


3. 80% of your best business comes from 20% of your clients, network, and efforts. Conversely 80% of our time is spent creating 20% of our results. The Pareto Principle clearly illustrates the basic truth that not all efforts produce equal effect. What am I changing? I plan to launch 2009 focusing on the highest payoff activities, clients, and network to make best use of time and energy.

It seems like I am always preaching about getting back to basics but the basics are what work....in any economy!

Do you have some basic truths or principles you use to drive your business? If so, please share!

Many things possible in 2009 and a renewed focus on time and energy seem in order. I am moving forward with an eye open for potential and opportunties and looking for others who are doing the same!

Happy New Year...Happy Networking!

Attitude is Everything. Are you "Open for Business"?

I know you are probably as sick as I am of the news, negativity, and general hand-wringing. Here is what I know. Attitude is everything.

I spoke for a small group of focused individuals at the Portland Business Forum yesterday on the topic, "Networking Strategies to Recession Proof your Business". As I was preparing for this short 25 minute talk, I was reminded of the power and simplicity imbedded in smart business practices and a focused mindset. The content was so well received I wanted to share it with you.

If you haven't noticed, talk of recession creates constriction. Physically, emotionally, and psychologically. That constriction subconciously causes us to withdraw. If you are in business or sales, you can't afford to withdraw at this critical time! Being seen and trusted is essential.

Here are 3 keys to get grounded, stay connected and move forward in challenging times.

• First, find your faith. It is easy to lose confidence in yourself, your service, or product anytime there is a shift in the market. Compound that with the media and peer conversations and you are left with a huge load of self doubt and fear. Go back to what you know. Your customers need a voice of reason during this volatile season. You have a passion, talent, or product that serves a market segment. What is it? Find the positives in your industry. Communicate that hope with confidence and understanding. Don't lose sight of what you do well.


• Next, get focused. Focus applies to the three key areas that affect your profit and sales.
  1. Stick to your core expertise. If you choose to expand your scope, look at strategic partnering, joint ventures, sub-contracting, or refer. You can't afford to be distracted doing things you don't do well and can't be profitable. This may require repackaging your core expertise to appeal to the buyers mindset but stay true to your offering. Don't chase dollars.
  2. Stick with your bull's eye. Target prospects and customers who value your service and product and have need for what you do in the near future. Don't know who that is anymore? Go back to basics.
  3. Don't waste energy. Watch who you hang out with, where you spend your time, and what you read. Be selective. You can't afford to the roller coaster of emotions and maintain your position as a leader. Focus on finding like minded people who are not participating in the recession mindset, who are moving forward, and who are adapting.


• Lastly, follow up. Your customers need to hear from you. Not just to sell them something but with sincere interest to see how they are doing. Your professional network needs the same type of contact. The follow up is where you will learn key information on buying trends, needs, and opportunities.

I am not promoting the ostrich approach! This is not about putting your head in the sand and ignoring what is going on. There is a basis of truth in the negative reports and some industries are hit harder than others. But opportunties still abound.

Bottom line, business is still being done. It is being done by those who are reaching out, engaging in conversations, and filling the gap with a voice of reason. That can be you. Decide to be "Open for Business".

Who you hang out with matters! More reasons to get out of your own backyard.

I feel like I jumped on the fast track since attending the eWomen Network conference in Dallas in late July. You can read my earlier blog post about my small world experience meeting Nancy Juetten because of her signature jacket. Since then I've been been jolted out of my comfort zone on many an occassion but none with more joy than the "Gathering of Great Gals" at Nancy's home in Bellevue, Washington a few weeks ago.

Kathie Nelson, Kristen Schuerlein, Betsy Talbot, Susan Harrow

What a privilege to be invited to make the 4 hour journey from Portland to Bellevue to hang out with Nancy and some of her favorite people. This gathering of million dollar women (and those of us on their way) connected quickly coming from a shared focus to serve our clients through packaging our passion. Let me share some powerful moments....

Betsy Talbot, Business Coach to Women Entrepreneurs, inspired me when she shared her excitement about her latest project. Newly married, she is writing a book, "Married with Luggage", about she and her husband travels as they explore the world. More about this project on her blog.

Wow'd by Kristen Schuerlein, savvy business woman and founder of Affirmagy, we raised our glasses to toast her upcoming co-host appearance on QVC Shopping network.

Jean Thompson, Seattle Chocolates, who recently appeared in O Magazine as one of Oprah's "favorite things" how she uses her Extreme Dark Chocolate and the Survivor Chick chocolate bar to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.

Susan Harrow, Jean Thompson, Nancy Juetten

Working with Power (it's easier) founder, Michele Lisenbury Christensen, took a break from her new baby to hang out with us. Gals, visit her website to be inspired to new heights! I know I was. I can't wait to get better acquainted.

Phyllis Heppenstall, owner of the very successful Lover's Package retail chain, regaled us with stories of her early days of building her business in a highly dominated male arena.

Meeting Nancy's guest of honor, Susan Harrow, media coach and author of "How to Get Booked on Oprah" was indeed a special treat. Not only full of fun, Susan is generous and brings a practical wisdom to everything she does.

This was just one event that is serving me to catapult me into the next phase of growth.

What about you? What is your next big thing? Could a "Great Gals Gathering" be in your future? Better yet, get out of your comfort zone and connect with someone who inspires you...and intimidates you as well! Great things can happen from small steps.

Susan Harrow, Phyllis Heppenstall, Nancy Juetten

Business Truth: Adapability = Longevity & Profitability

What if we don't adapt to the needs of the market? What then?

Many years ago I worked for a company in a management position. I enjoyed years of their growth and abundance in the market. The product was fairly easy to sell. The company easy to build. The owners were brilliant. The model seemed sound. The leadership was respected; something to be emulated and sought after. This was a multi-million dollar company with offices in multiple countries. Today, they no longer exist except as a memory for those of us who invested years of heart and energy into building their business while we established our own organizations.

What happened? The same thing that can happen to you unless you respond to the needs of the market as it exists today! They did not respond to a changing market. They hired outside branding "experts" which did not quite hit the mark. Sept. 11, 2001 hit compounding the challenge. Over time they became fear driven which trickled down to the sales team in the field. How did this happen? Was it ego, denial or an inability to adapt quickly that failed them? I don't know. As an outsider at close range I offer the following insights that are eerily familiar in today's economy.

Watch for these symptoms which, if not addressed, can kill you...or lose you quite a bit of momentum, opportunity, and profit.

1. Fear causes confusion, paralysis or withdrawal from the market.
2. Negative news and discussion is a distraction, which results in a lack of focus and exaggeration of current climate, which contributes to number 1.
3. For newcomers, the perception of lack of opportunity or need creates a self destructive cycle of belief. If you are new to an industry or situation, you have no history or reference with which to measure or find assurance, doubt takes over and growth is handicapped.

Solutions:

1. Don't stop doing what you were doing. The vacuum that is created by the ebb of this market actually creates opportunity for those who are inclined to pursue it. Press into the openess created by your competitors withdrawal. This is a great space to collect on the marketing efforts of others.
2. Turn off the TV and radio. Don't listen to those who tell you how bad it is. Yes, it is true that some are losing their jobs, some industries are in a downturn....we quickly forget that even in a growth economy, these same discussions occur. The market has changed. That is true. If you want to stay in business, you will find a way to adapt.
3. Adapt. Ask yourself, in your area of specialty, what is missing in this current economy that you can deliver? This may mean creating a new offering or pursuing a new niche. This is the time to gain laser focus rather than more generalization to capture market share.
4. Take care of your current customers. They are unsure and fearful at this time too. Your confidence and connection will create loyalty, ongoing business, and referrals far beyond what you could imagine. All you have to do is keep in touch.

These solutions work whether you sell a product or service. Your customers, prospects, and network want to see you as secure, confident, and focused...not doubtful, hesitant, and inconsistent. Don't hide or withdraw...this causes prospects, customers, and your network to withdraw from you. Instead, embrace. Step forward. Reach out. Reach out...not to sell, but rather to serve. Calm fears. Answer questions. You wil be amazed at the response.

For some of you, this may be the time to reinvent yourself or adjust your business model... or get back to the basics and update your strategic plan. In every market change there is great opportunity. One of the benefits of being a small business is our ability to quickly adjust.

Instead of looking at this time as a period to cut back, withdraw, shore up...View this as an opportunity to focus with laser sharpness on your customers, ideal prospects, on investments that gain you return (whether time or money) and carry this practice forward as your business grows! These are smart business practices!

Are you ready to shift gears, step forward and grasp what is waiting for you?

Run with the Big Dogs! How hanging out in the Big Leagues can help you play a better game.

Did you start your business with a BIG dream? Do you find yourself wondering what happened? Sometimes all it takes to re-connect to your vision is to get out of your own back yard.

I attended a conference in Dallas in July. I arrived exhausted. Knowing I would be leaving town I was working in hyper-speed (no, that is not only speed at which I operate) trying to make sure everything that needed to happen happened. You probably know what I'm talking about.

This was my state of mind when I arrived at the eWomen Network Conference (blog post below) and ran into Nancy Juetten, PR Brain from Bellevue. This chance interaction kicked my brain into action. I realized I had, due to life circumstances (motorcycle accident in July 08, 5 months in a wheelchair and a few other life happenings), lost sight of what I was really working for. A scary insight for someone like me who coaches on this all the time and values practicing what I preach.

Throughout the 3 day event I connected with professionals from all over the US and Canada. As I shared with them my specialty and learned more about their goals, needs, and passion it occurred to me that somewhere along the line I began settling for less than I imagined. Basically I had returned to pitching in the minor league. Many I encountered were pursuing big goals and making them happen. A person of action, I asked myself what needed to change so I could get back in the game.

THEN I heard Michael Gerber share his original vision for the E-Myth. Michael started out with a vision to help broken businesses. His vision changed when he realized something was missing. He is now pursuing, building, and realizing his BIG dream in The Dreaming Room. This finishing touch to the weekend pushed me over the top to get back on track and gave me permission to return to my own dreaming room.

Here are a couple of quick reminders to inspire you to action as you begin to envision 2009:

1. Visit your "Dreaming Room" often.
2. Hang out with others who are playing in the Big Leagues. Find them in your own back yard, blogging, connect through social networks or attend events in other areas.
3. Ask yourself where you might be compromising your dream.
4. Check your calendar. Does it reflect what you value? Does it contain a balance of activities that move you toward your dream? If not, what needs to change? Insight: How you schedule your time represents what is important to you. Plan your calendar on purpose.

I believe we are given dreams and an ability to acheive them (The Dream Giver, Bruce Wilkinson). Don't squander your talent by settling for less than you imagine!

Have some successes? Please share!

Here are a couple from my corner just since July:

• Scheduled to shoot video for 12 one minute strategic sales tips in 3 weeks with Spirit Media
• Working with editors, layout designers, and publishers to redesign our information products
• Drafting a book proposal to bring a fresh idea to networking that doesn't currently exist in the market...(it is under wraps for right now)
• Working with WordPress expert to convert current website and blog to the latest in technology and support our reader community goals
• Recipient of the Women Entrepreneurs of Oregon Lifetime Acheivement Award
• Networking with Nancy Juetten, DIY Publicity Expert

Can't wait to hear from you! Network strategically....

Kathie

3 Quick Steps to Create Your Business Stimulus Package!

You should be VERY glad you are in a position as a business...nimble and able to adjust to what clients need at this time. Now more than ever you can’t afford to lose sight of the driving force of your sales opportunities. If you plan to survive and potentially thrive you have to stay relevant to your customers and make it easy for them to purchase your products or services.

So here we are…halfway through 2008. Are you wondering if you are going to make your revenue goals? Trying to read the mind of your prospects? Or maybe you are like many that cross my path, still doing the same thing you have done in the past…just working harder and expecting different results.

3 quick steps to create your business stimulus package:

1. Evaluate your offering. Are you still offering the same old packaging of 2006-07? Are your customers balking at the dollar amount or length of time projects take? If you are in a position to adjust your offering, I have some suggestions to keep your product or service in demand.
2. Generate better quality leads. Wait a minute…before you respond “I know, I know!” Let me give some insights to do this more easily.
3. Keep yourself motivated! Quit working with people who cost you time and money. Selling can create an emotional rollercoaster. You can’t afford the ups and downs at anytime…especially in this market.

Make it easy for prospects to buy.
What are your customers buying from you? How can you make it easy for them to say yes without dropping your price? Think about how you might repackage your products or services to make it easy to buy, while increasing the value and profitability. What does this look like?

• If you are a service provider, it might look like an “economy package” that utilizes some templates to deliver your services.
• Learn to reduce your time per customer by offering a valuable service at a level that gains a quick economic return (for your business and your prospect/clients/customers).
• If you sell products, you might create a bundle of products and services to create the same result above. Or consider adding a higher margin item to your bundle increasing the value for the buyer and you.

Buyers are shopping for value. Right now prospects are shopping longer to make sure they get the most bang for their buck. You probably are too. Consider testing your packaging with an “introductory” offer. You don’t have to be married to the package forever. Just test the results. If it works, keep doing it. If not, adjust your packaging. Ask your customers for feedback and find out what your market wants from you. You will be glad you did.

Want more quality leads?
Rethink your ideal customer. The market has changed. Who can you serve doing what you do well? This may mean letting go of some prospects so you can focus on those who have a budget, a need, and can see a return on investment for what you offer. To get more leads in general, you need to visible in one way or another to this group. Who are they and where do they show up, what do they read, listen to, etc.? What are ways you can be in front of them? Network, advertise, partner with other service providers, etc.

To help you focus, ask yourself:

• Who do I serve that might be in a growth industry? i.e. health, baby boomer transitions, etc.
• Are there customers in my database who could benefit from buying more of me or my services?
• Have the psychographics of my ideal client changed? Values, motivators, character qualities? If so, what are they? How can I connect with my prospects on this level?

Review your partnerships. As you rethink your ideal customer, consider who also serves this market. What kind of joint opportunities might you create? Have fun! For example, my ideal clients need PR but do most of it themselves. I am partnering with Nancy Juetten to offer her famous Publici-Tea™ in our area. This gives me another great resource to offer my prospects that complements my service offering. This gives my clients more of what they need to generate business growth. Idea for you…partner with your local non-profits or Chamber and add needed services and value for your community.

Be your own cheerleader!
Keep yourself motivated. Selling your business products or services has its ups and downs but now…even more so. Between the media, your network, and your customers, you hear enough bad news to really bring your spirits down. So what do you do? You put on a happy face, remind yourself this will pass…and fake it till you make it, right? The problem is that is only skin deep. Your contacts sense your lack of authenticity and it subconsciously seeps out your pores.

A bad day costs you. Almost more than the time you lose, consider the energy it takes to pull yourself back up from the dumps. This can be far too costly. Here are a couple of suggestions to keep you UP!

• Keep track of past successes.
• Save the handwritten compliments you receive and review them often.
• Hang out with people who are moving forward.
• Create your own support group. Not to commiserate but for accountability and encouragement.

While this unusual market place brings both unique challenges and opportunities I challenge you to utilize this market as launch pad for growth and change. You can not only survive, but thrive by paying attention, staying relevant, and continuing to make it easy for your customers to see the value of your offerings. Offer them simple and valuable ways to business with you. I guarantee you will create growth for your business by better serving your market.

In the meantime, network strategically!