So you've seen my take on the good, bad and ugly at Ali Brown's Shine event. And if you missed it, check my previous posts.
Today, I wanted to boil it all down to what I actually learned and what my "take aways" were from this event.
I was fortunate in that I was able to spend a couple extra days in Vegas processing, filtering, connecting, and getting more clarity on how to apply everything I gleaned before, during and after Shine.
The biggest take away is that you really do get what you take. Everyone went in with so many varied opinions and ideas - some positive, some negative. But ultimately, each person makes an assessment as to whether or not they'd do it all over again. I definitely would go back because so much good came out of this event for me.
But I was looking for the good in the first place. It didn't come in all the ways I expected, or hoped, but there was a TON of value I never would have gotten had I not gone to Vegas.
For example, one of my core values is experiences. I love participating in and creating experiences where people can connect, share, grow and support one another. Love it, love it, LOVE IT. That's been the missing link in my business and my life, and I didn't figure that out until I was in the room watching a half dressed guy spinning heavy metal objects during the opening of the event. It wasn't the spinning guy that thrilled me (really. not my type), but the oohing and aaahing and "illegal" photography that the audience was doing that interested me. You could tell that people were raising their energy, getting excited, and wanting to find something exciting in this event.
It was all about the experience. And while I won't say I'm a seminar junkie, it does explain why I love direct sales so much - creating experiences for clients to really enjoy themselves and feel good about their own lives.
There Are A LOT Of People Looking For Clarity
Most of the women and men I met at Shine were looking or clarity, direction and the "How-to's" to grow their business idea. They are smart, hard working people, trying to "figure it out" - many trying to balance their heart with their head. The answers, most of the time, are already within us - or within arm's reach. And it doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg to get the answers you need. You just need to know where to look.
I like reinventing myself
A couple of weeks prior to shine, I was at a mastermind retreat where I realized that one of the biggest thrills in my life is helping people get that "Ah-HA!" moment of clarity in their life. I've worked with theater owners, authors, actors, direct sellers, designers, small biz owners, and even heads of multi-million dollar companies. Sometimes it's the teeny weeny little idea that gets overlooked that puts everything into perspective.
So I created these "limited edition" business cards positioning myself as an idea coach and professional brainstormer - helping people get clarity or create new ideas to make their business profitable. It felt like being home.
I wasn't pigeon-holed into a niche, I could communicate effortlessly with all kinds of entrepreneurs - including a rocket scientist whilst in the airport - and offer substantive help that got peoples wheels turning.
I Like That! So we've created RentLisasBrain.com where I'll be doing more of that brainstorming and focus work.
People-Watching Pays
From the waitstaff to the sales reps on the main floor of the Venetian, to the other participants in the event, there was a lot to learn just by watching others. The way they carried themselves, what they said, what they DIDN'T say - there was free education all around just by keeping your eyes open.
Never Leave Anything To Chance
Anne McKevitt said this in an off-hand kind of way during her branding presentation, but it stuck with me. And as the event went on, I looked for places where Ali's team worked hard to leave nothing to chance. While we kind of had to work at applying a lot of the hidden lessons from Shine, this one idea gave me some new directions in my own life and business.
Everything Works. You Just Have To Be Tenacious.
Really. It doesn't matter what business model you choose, or how you set everything up. Every strategy that's being taught will work if you apply enough tenacity to it. Granted, some will work better than others, and not everything will be a perfect fit for you, but people wouldn't espouse it if it didn't work.
Which Means, It's Really About Resonance.
So while everything WILL work, finding the thing that resonates most with you is where you'll be most content. Then, even if it's not the most effective idea for others, you'll be happy and productive.
Bluntly, in the Internet Marketing realm, there are experts that tell you the best way to squeeze every dollar out of a prospect is with upsells, downsells, cross sells, and probably diagonal sells if they could figure that out. But most of us don't resonate with that, and "settle" for a happy medium - a balance of content and pitch that makes us feel we're providing value, developing relationships and getting compensated appropriately.
My action plan is to re-design my business around the way I would want to be treated as a customer - and as a human being. It costs more and means harder work, and it's worth it, because I'm proud of the end result, my true fans appreciate me, and they know what effort goes into producing a quality product. It also means more hands-on, personal interaction with me, because that's where I think people get the best results. And since I'm all about results, I wouldn't have it any other way.
Binders Suck
That was probably the second biggest disappointment of Day One. This gorgeous binder was at my seat waiting for me and inside was nothing but lined note paper and a "resource" section that was filled with Ali's products on discount. It felt like such a waste, even after we were given about 20 pages to plug into it.
I've never found a program where "the binder" met my expectations. It always felt like an overpriced way to share the powerpoint slides. So you'll very likely never see me doing any kind of binder.
Now I know from a sales perspective that when you put it in a binder, it's easier for the customer to lose pieces, which prevents refunds. But if I'm truly focused on helping my clients succeed, why do I want them to lose anything? More importantly, if they want to return it, I want to make that as easy as pie - especially in light of the new FTC rulings. I ONLY want to work with people that WANT to work with me and WANT to get results.
If I Build It (And It Rocks) They WILL Come
Out of one side of their mouth, experts tell you that there are industry "standards" about drop off rates, subscriber open rates, and conversion rates. They tell us to expect that kind of stuff. Then out of the other side of their mouth they talk about attracting perfect clients, abundance and the fact that there is only cooperation, not competition.
So if I subscribe to the abundance, attraction notion, it stands to reason that I can have an amazing business filled with people that love my style, my approach, my outlook and my content. The only thing really standing in my way is what I call the "Emperor's New Clothes Syndrome". We keep spinning our wheels when we know something's amiss, because we're told that it worked for someone else, so it should work for us - instead of trusting our instincts and doing what we know resonates more perfectly in our own world.
I've learned that trusting my gut and expecting - nay demanding - more for myself and my clients makes me a hero to my ideal clients. It's harder work, but it's better rewarded. The half-ass approach of doing the minimum brings people to you that want more than the minimum for minimum prices.
One of my lists has about 1700 people on it. Each subscriber on that list is worth over $100 to me (and growing). I learned at Shine that's an incredible value! And I cherish that, because it means that I'm doing all the right things to keep that list responsive and lucrative.
One of the concepts that Napoleon Hill talks about in Think and Grow Rich is doing more than you're paid for. Going above and beyond is expected anymore. Shirking will just cause you to end up with the dregs.
And just like the Field of Dreams, all the players didn't take the field in the beginning. But some of the players told other players, and eventually they DID show up.
Modeling Will Only Take You So Far - Then You've Got to Innovate
Learning from others is a great place to start when you're stuck, or have no idea how to begin. But there comes a point in time when you must break out of the ruts the other wagons have laid down and forge a path of your own. Otherwise, you're just a pale reflection of those that have gone before you.
I think of some of the greatest musicians of all time - they were all inspired by other great musicians. If all they ever did was model their heroes, everyone would be playing Purple Haze exactly the same way.
But when Hendrix played the National Anthem everyone stood up and took notice. Some people liked it, others were in shock, everyone said it was an innovative approach to an "old standard".
So I'm taking time to learn outside my own field and tap into the expertise of others that have nothing to do with my business - some of them long since dead. Newton, Asimov, Picasso, daVinci all are great sources of inspiration to cross- pollinate your brain and get you thinking outside the incestuous relationships within your industry.
Women Overcome
When put to the test, women are amazingly resilient, enduring creatures that put up with a lot of stuff. We're also deceptive, sneaky, tricky and cunning. We can use our powers for good or evil and when we choose good, the effect is exponential, trickling down through societies, permeating cultures, and changing the world.
Aside from the speakers, I met some incredibly remarkable women - some I was already following, and some new faces as well. Each of them has a wonderful gift to share and I'm confident they WILL share it because they are overcomers. Keri's ability to connect quickly makes it clear she's perfectly suited to social media coaching - despite what Anne might say. Jill's gift for writing is clearly evident in her manner of speaking. Cutressa's enthusiasm lights up her space and the lives of everyone around her - I think everyone knew Cutressa by the end of the event. MonSun, my Faerie Godmother, Sabine, and even Nicole (a client I met up with) all left a lasting imprint about who they are, what they want to accomplish in the world, and how they're taking action on getting it done. And they will, because they overcome. Not to neglect the dozens of other women at this event that I met - each was remarkable. And I know each will overcome. It's in their DNA, so to speak.
I Don't Need Permission. I Need Connections.
Kind of self explanatory. I realized that I can be anyone I believe I am - without waiting for confirmation, validation or recognition from some external source, be it a person, mastermind group, coach or other entity living or dead.
There's no "acting as if". I already AM, therefore, it's not acting.
I met a woman who dubbed herself My Faerie Godmother, and she told me things about me I've never shared publicly - and I couldn't explain it away. She told me about my mom, my kid, my husband and all the things I've been trying to live up to - or live down. The buck stops here. Now.
I'm "smarter than the average bear" and don't have to apologize for who I am. There are throngs of people that actually enjoy the part of me I've allowed to really shine through. That means regardless of my shape, size, texture or hair color (and yes it will stay blonde for many months to come), I'm me and that's groovy. I don't need your approval, program, group or seal of authenticity to be me.
What I do need is to continue to connect with people that expand my thinking like that. People that have viewpoints, clarity, confusion, directions, aspirations and energies that are different from my own. It's part of what drives me and helps me thrive.
Good Things Come To He Who Waiteth If He Worketh Like Heck While He Waiteth
This was actually a little plaque that hung over my Grandma's kitchen sink. There is a process to achieving success - an incubation period - and skipping steps only slows you down. Do things right the first time so you don't have to go back and do them again, and quit trying to get ahead of yourself. Life's not a race, it's a cruise. The buffet's pretty tasty and the view is spectacular fro all sides once you leave port.
So many of us are trying to hurry up and get rich/famous/successful, and we forget there's a process to this stuff. Wolfgang Puck was quoted in INC magazine as saying that slow and steady growth is the best way to ensure longevity in the marketplace. He's watched dozens of restaurants come and go that grew three times as fast as he has - and he's the one still standing.
I've been reading a lot of stories about entrepreneurs from the turn of the last century - some you've never even heard of for that very reason. They wanted to grow too fast, and ruined themselves. On the other hand, the prudent, judicious and successful entrepreneurs that are still known to this day, took their time to carefully grow their businesses in ways that would be sustainable. Don't trade a lot of money later for a little money right now.
I Like Being a Blonde
Several followers asked about the choice to go blonde, suggested I go back, and commiserated with me on the grey hair that lurks beneath the surface. The fact of the matter is I enjoy being blonde WAY more than I enjoyed having brown/grey hair, and it will likely stay that way for a long while. I can't say blondes have more fun, but I can say that I'm easier to spot in the crowd, and it's doing for me what I set out to do when I changed the color in the first place. Purple would probably have been just as effective, but I figured that was a little less professional.
I Like Rocking The Boat
Not to be cantankerous, but I like pointing out the stuff that doesn't work. I'm not trying to be a Negative Nelly here - it's not about being negative for negativity's sake. I think there's great value in sharing what works and what doesn't so that people can improve themselves. Not everyone will agree, I'm sure, and that's fine. They're not part of my tribe. Usually when I point out a faux pas, I'm quick to offer a solution if I can find one. That's how my brain is wired. Find a problem, find some solutions, fix it and move on. I'm not going to apologize for that anymore, I'm just going to rock it out!
So that's the gist. There's more, and I'll be sharing stuff as I go along and wriggle out of the new cocoon, but you get the idea of where I'm headed here. Your comments, thoughts and witty remarks are welcome feedback!
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Building the Cocoon
It's been just over a month since my last blog post for several reasons:
1. I was up to my ears in the Direct Sales SUPER Summit, which was an amazing success in more ways than I think I will realize for months or years to come.
2. I was BOMBARDED by bizops from well-meaning, yet opportunistic consultants (more on that in a minute).
3. I've been building a cocoon, I think, and I'm nearly finished.
If you followed my last post, you know that my career with The Body Shop at Home is officially ending this month. To that end, I have been humbled (and sometimes annoyed) by consultants approaching me with their opportunities - some of them right here on this blog. The comments in my last post that I DIDN'T delete were the posts done right.
Take a look and learn. These people offered quality comments that added value to the discussion BEFORE they shared their business opportunity. So many of the posts to my blog looked somethng like this:
"I'm so sorry to hear about TBSAH closing. It's such a shame, but we have the best products in the world and we'll give you a bunch of free stuff for joining our team becaue you can really make a lot of money with us, and please join my company because we're the best."
Bleh.
Without incriminating anyone, let me just say that this is NOT the way to approach someone with your business opportunity. You come off like a vulture circling prey.
There are right and wrong ways to make a connection. If you want to recieve something (like a new team member), you want to GIVE first. Give content, give advice, give connections, give love, but GIVE.
And shame on you if you didn't give first and have been following my blog for any length of time! You should know better.
If you really want to approach a potential business partner with an opportunity, it's much better to:
a) approach them privately, or if that's not possible
b) approach them discreetly, by first providing value and setting yourself up as an expert that can help their situation.
For example, when I approached a handful of Sarah Coventry Reps last fall, I didn't start with how great I or my company was, but offered to help them in their search. Now it HELPS that I have some authority in my market - but many of the women didn't know who I was.
In fact, some of them didn't even know Sarah Coventry was closing when I approached them. I also talked to them about why I thought THEY would be a great addition to any team - and never mentioned my company.
Of the 5 I approached, 2 joined my business - and neither one of them had ever heard of me. They appreciated that I focused on THEM and not on trying to get them on my team.
That's one of the reasons I ultimately went with the new company I'm with, Sensaria. So please don't approach me about joining your "hot business opp", because I'm all set, thanks. They approached me, and shared how I could be valuable with any company - and then asked to get on my schedule to share more about the product BEFORE we talked about the opporunity.
I'm now in the process of migrating clients, systems and marketing to my new company - which because of the summit has been stalled until this week.
So that's part of the reason for the month-long absence. Transitions like this have usually been more difficult - this one wasn't difficult, just lengthy.
The other reason - the cocoon reason - is really just getting going. And it hit me HARD today.
I'm calling it a cocoon because it doesn't feel like a wall, but there's definitely some kind of barrier around me right now. I can sense that I'm insulated from a lot of people I used to have regular contact with. And it feels like it's leading to a major transformation that will require a bit of struggle to make it work fully.
I talked with a new friend today that cleared up a few things for me, and it's been an amazing couple of hours since then. It's almost time to wriggle out of the cocoon, and get ready for what's next.
I've just launched a 12-month coaching program for direct sellers and am planning for my first ever LIVE event in August, and that's just the beginning of te transformational shift I'm feeling.
It's overwhelming right now. I'm still processing, but I think God's tapping me to take the next big step, and as my friend indicated today, to jump head first into the pool.
But first, I've got to wriggle out of this Cocoon...
1. I was up to my ears in the Direct Sales SUPER Summit, which was an amazing success in more ways than I think I will realize for months or years to come.
2. I was BOMBARDED by bizops from well-meaning, yet opportunistic consultants (more on that in a minute).
3. I've been building a cocoon, I think, and I'm nearly finished.
If you followed my last post, you know that my career with The Body Shop at Home is officially ending this month. To that end, I have been humbled (and sometimes annoyed) by consultants approaching me with their opportunities - some of them right here on this blog. The comments in my last post that I DIDN'T delete were the posts done right.
Take a look and learn. These people offered quality comments that added value to the discussion BEFORE they shared their business opportunity. So many of the posts to my blog looked somethng like this:
"I'm so sorry to hear about TBSAH closing. It's such a shame, but we have the best products in the world and we'll give you a bunch of free stuff for joining our team becaue you can really make a lot of money with us, and please join my company because we're the best."
Bleh.
Without incriminating anyone, let me just say that this is NOT the way to approach someone with your business opportunity. You come off like a vulture circling prey.
There are right and wrong ways to make a connection. If you want to recieve something (like a new team member), you want to GIVE first. Give content, give advice, give connections, give love, but GIVE.
And shame on you if you didn't give first and have been following my blog for any length of time! You should know better.
If you really want to approach a potential business partner with an opportunity, it's much better to:
a) approach them privately, or if that's not possible
b) approach them discreetly, by first providing value and setting yourself up as an expert that can help their situation.
For example, when I approached a handful of Sarah Coventry Reps last fall, I didn't start with how great I or my company was, but offered to help them in their search. Now it HELPS that I have some authority in my market - but many of the women didn't know who I was.
In fact, some of them didn't even know Sarah Coventry was closing when I approached them. I also talked to them about why I thought THEY would be a great addition to any team - and never mentioned my company.
Of the 5 I approached, 2 joined my business - and neither one of them had ever heard of me. They appreciated that I focused on THEM and not on trying to get them on my team.
That's one of the reasons I ultimately went with the new company I'm with, Sensaria. So please don't approach me about joining your "hot business opp", because I'm all set, thanks. They approached me, and shared how I could be valuable with any company - and then asked to get on my schedule to share more about the product BEFORE we talked about the opporunity.
I'm now in the process of migrating clients, systems and marketing to my new company - which because of the summit has been stalled until this week.
So that's part of the reason for the month-long absence. Transitions like this have usually been more difficult - this one wasn't difficult, just lengthy.
The other reason - the cocoon reason - is really just getting going. And it hit me HARD today.
I'm calling it a cocoon because it doesn't feel like a wall, but there's definitely some kind of barrier around me right now. I can sense that I'm insulated from a lot of people I used to have regular contact with. And it feels like it's leading to a major transformation that will require a bit of struggle to make it work fully.
I talked with a new friend today that cleared up a few things for me, and it's been an amazing couple of hours since then. It's almost time to wriggle out of the cocoon, and get ready for what's next.
I've just launched a 12-month coaching program for direct sellers and am planning for my first ever LIVE event in August, and that's just the beginning of te transformational shift I'm feeling.
It's overwhelming right now. I'm still processing, but I think God's tapping me to take the next big step, and as my friend indicated today, to jump head first into the pool.
But first, I've got to wriggle out of this Cocoon...
The BIG Unveiling: What The Heck IS Going ON?
Let's piece the clues together:
I'm closing the doors to something at the end of February (or sooner).
I've gotten very clear on who I want to help and where I want my business to go.
I'm not just addressing the Direct Sales industry.
I'm focusing on working with Christian business women.
I'm giving something away for free.
I'm also creating something even better.
I'm doing it in a BIG way.
There's going to be some VIDEO involved.
And I keep mentioning my "Build a Better Customer" Program
Can you stand it any longer? Okay, here's the BIG news:
Say goodbye to Home Party Solution as you know it. That ship has sailed.
Or it will come the end of February (or when all the current copies are sold out).
Yep. I told you people would think I'm nuts.
More on that in a minute.
What am I giving away? The entire updated curriculum for the Build a Better Customer program. In full - with nothing left out.
See, during the pilot program, I was hesitant to share a lot of what made this program really tick for me. Quite honestly, my faith and belief in God really drives my success, and it's at the core of this program.
I felt like I had to water it down tremendously in order to create "mass appeal" for the product.
But in my coaching sessions, my clients were actually appreciative of the references to God and faith, when I was feeling so apologetic about it. It became clear to me that THIS was the way GOD wanted me to operate. Not from some shady, half-veiled product creation.
And someone once said that knowledge should be free. I agree to a point. I believe that basic constructs designed to improve our human existence shouldn't have a pricetag. I also believe that my hard work and creativity should be rewarded/compensated appropriately.
So after offering up this project in prayer, I've decided that the beginning of my "crack addiction' will be to GIVE the content in my Build a Better Customer Program away. I'm still working out the details, but rest assured, this program will be a fantastic tool in your business building arsenal. I've already charged hundreds for this content, and I feel confident that it's worth ten times what others have paid for it - especially now that I'm dding in all the components, like my P.E.A.C.E. process that brings even more clarity to the method.
Yep, I know. My husband thinks I'm mentally ill, too.
But I say I'm crazy like a fox.
See, when you've gone through this system, you'll feel so empowered, so motivated, and so ready to do what comes next, you'll KNOW what you need to do. And I'll be there to provide you with teh step-by-step coaching to take your business to the next level.
I will, in short, have created my 'crack addiction'.
Yeah, but what about Home Party Solution? Before you stand there, staring at the door, I want you to know that it's not gone forever - it will be making a comeback - but in a completely reborn format.
More comprehensive, more informative, and so much EASIER to follow. This will be a multimedia experience like you've never seen before in the direct sales industry. But it will come at a MUCH bigger price tag.
Yep, there I go, raising prices when everyone else is lowering them. I really am insane, huh?
Not really.
See, I can't afford to keep cranking out the same old stuff that everyone else is churning out on a monthly basis. You're too savvy for that. If you're like me, you're tired of seeing the same stuff, repackaged with a shiny new label.
About every six months, I've released an updated version of Home Party Solution, incorporating the latest information and strategies for using online marketing to grow your business. And each time I do, I raise the price. Because I'm adding more content and more knowledge. I'm shortening your learning curve immensely.
And I think that's worth a few pennies in the bucket.
But the one thing I kept hearing over and over was that people wanted to see some video, hear some audio, make it a little more interactive.
Your wish is my command.
So I'll be spending the next couple of months totally revising, revamping and suping up the engine that is Home Party Solution. In the end, the finished product will actually be TWO products: A solution specifically for Direct Sales consultants, and another solution targeted to small business owners in general.
So much of what I teach crosses over, and I've seen my subscriber base expand from just home party consultants to a wider array of work from home, small business entrpreneurs.
It will be concise, powerful, portable and interactive. And we're going to cover more than just the basics. You won't BELIEVE what you're going to be experiencing. And I can't wait to share it with you.
In the meantime, you best pick up your copy of Home Party Solution before it becomes a collector's item. Once that happens, people could be selling it on ebay for a few hundred bucks.
Don't laugh! I've seen it happen before!
When they're gone, we're closing the doors. And I promise you it'll be at LEAST March before the new version is ready - possibly even April or May. I'm not going to do this thing half way. If you want the insider tips and secrets I've been sharing with my clients for the past year, now's the time to get on the bandwagon before every last copy is sold out.
Yes, the PM2 Mastermind group will still be available, and if you get the complete Home Party Solution package now, you can lock in the lowest PM2 rate now.
Don't stand there staring at the door at the end of February. Jump through the window now while there's still time!
It looks like Lauren is our big winner, although I got a few emails asking all kinds of questions in addition to the posts on the blog. I think you got all the big elements of the announcement: closing Home Party Solution, giving away BBC. email me, girlie, and I'll get your content out to you.
Congrats!
I'm closing the doors to something at the end of February (or sooner).
I've gotten very clear on who I want to help and where I want my business to go.
I'm not just addressing the Direct Sales industry.
I'm focusing on working with Christian business women.
I'm giving something away for free.
I'm also creating something even better.
I'm doing it in a BIG way.
There's going to be some VIDEO involved.
And I keep mentioning my "Build a Better Customer" Program
Can you stand it any longer? Okay, here's the BIG news:
Say goodbye to Home Party Solution as you know it. That ship has sailed.
Or it will come the end of February (or when all the current copies are sold out).
Yep. I told you people would think I'm nuts.
More on that in a minute.
What am I giving away? The entire updated curriculum for the Build a Better Customer program. In full - with nothing left out.
See, during the pilot program, I was hesitant to share a lot of what made this program really tick for me. Quite honestly, my faith and belief in God really drives my success, and it's at the core of this program.
I felt like I had to water it down tremendously in order to create "mass appeal" for the product.
But in my coaching sessions, my clients were actually appreciative of the references to God and faith, when I was feeling so apologetic about it. It became clear to me that THIS was the way GOD wanted me to operate. Not from some shady, half-veiled product creation.
And someone once said that knowledge should be free. I agree to a point. I believe that basic constructs designed to improve our human existence shouldn't have a pricetag. I also believe that my hard work and creativity should be rewarded/compensated appropriately.
So after offering up this project in prayer, I've decided that the beginning of my "crack addiction' will be to GIVE the content in my Build a Better Customer Program away. I'm still working out the details, but rest assured, this program will be a fantastic tool in your business building arsenal. I've already charged hundreds for this content, and I feel confident that it's worth ten times what others have paid for it - especially now that I'm dding in all the components, like my P.E.A.C.E. process that brings even more clarity to the method.
Yep, I know. My husband thinks I'm mentally ill, too.
But I say I'm crazy like a fox.
See, when you've gone through this system, you'll feel so empowered, so motivated, and so ready to do what comes next, you'll KNOW what you need to do. And I'll be there to provide you with teh step-by-step coaching to take your business to the next level.
I will, in short, have created my 'crack addiction'.
Yeah, but what about Home Party Solution? Before you stand there, staring at the door, I want you to know that it's not gone forever - it will be making a comeback - but in a completely reborn format.
More comprehensive, more informative, and so much EASIER to follow. This will be a multimedia experience like you've never seen before in the direct sales industry. But it will come at a MUCH bigger price tag.
Yep, there I go, raising prices when everyone else is lowering them. I really am insane, huh?
Not really.
See, I can't afford to keep cranking out the same old stuff that everyone else is churning out on a monthly basis. You're too savvy for that. If you're like me, you're tired of seeing the same stuff, repackaged with a shiny new label.
About every six months, I've released an updated version of Home Party Solution, incorporating the latest information and strategies for using online marketing to grow your business. And each time I do, I raise the price. Because I'm adding more content and more knowledge. I'm shortening your learning curve immensely.
And I think that's worth a few pennies in the bucket.
But the one thing I kept hearing over and over was that people wanted to see some video, hear some audio, make it a little more interactive.
Your wish is my command.
So I'll be spending the next couple of months totally revising, revamping and suping up the engine that is Home Party Solution. In the end, the finished product will actually be TWO products: A solution specifically for Direct Sales consultants, and another solution targeted to small business owners in general.
So much of what I teach crosses over, and I've seen my subscriber base expand from just home party consultants to a wider array of work from home, small business entrpreneurs.
It will be concise, powerful, portable and interactive. And we're going to cover more than just the basics. You won't BELIEVE what you're going to be experiencing. And I can't wait to share it with you.
In the meantime, you best pick up your copy of Home Party Solution before it becomes a collector's item. Once that happens, people could be selling it on ebay for a few hundred bucks.
Don't laugh! I've seen it happen before!
When they're gone, we're closing the doors. And I promise you it'll be at LEAST March before the new version is ready - possibly even April or May. I'm not going to do this thing half way. If you want the insider tips and secrets I've been sharing with my clients for the past year, now's the time to get on the bandwagon before every last copy is sold out.
Yes, the PM2 Mastermind group will still be available, and if you get the complete Home Party Solution package now, you can lock in the lowest PM2 rate now.
Don't stand there staring at the door at the end of February. Jump through the window now while there's still time!
It looks like Lauren is our big winner, although I got a few emails asking all kinds of questions in addition to the posts on the blog. I think you got all the big elements of the announcement: closing Home Party Solution, giving away BBC. email me, girlie, and I'll get your content out to you.
Congrats!
Clue #6: One Part Mom, One Part Rock Star
If you've read my bio blurb in my weekly ezine, it says "one part mom, one part rock star". That's only slightly tongue in cheek.
When I was a little girl, I dreamed of touring the country, being a rock star, singing songs I wrote. In fact, I've even self-released two albums. You can even listen to some of my music. It's 'defniitely not mainstream pop music' - or at least that's what one of the guys at Universal Music said when I submitted my demo for a listen.
I've never been a conformist - at least not on the surface. I have some core beliefs that are pretty standard, but my mode of operation has always been a little on the rebellious side of things. If people tell me I 'Can't' do something, I almost always say "watch me!" and figure out a way to do it anyhow.
So even though I'm a relative unknown in the music industry, I have fans across the globe that listen to and enjoy my music.
And just to be clear, this post has NOTHING to do with me forming a rock band, releasing a new album or touring whilst playing my music. The Stand Up Coach and I are planning a 'world tour', but you'll hear more about that at another time, and it has nothing to do with these new developments.
It's really been the last couple of days that have crystallized these must do activities for me.
As far as your guesses go, Lauren's on the right track. This isn't about a speaking tour (there's more details about that coming later in Spring), and it isn't about me quitting my DS company (HEAVENS NO!). This is about me stepping into a space that I should have been in all along, and was too afraid to do it.
The only antidote for fear is faith.
I always envisioned Rock stars, in my mind, as fearless. They could get up on a stage, entrance a crowd of thousands and inspire throngs of people with their work. Everytime their music plays freely over the airwaves, you get re-inspired, transported and motivated to feel this kind of empowerment from within the very music itself.
I always wanted to have that kind of effect on people. Without the drugs, scandals and bad habits that many musicians were known for. I wanted to inspire and motivate people with my creations and do it in a very unconventional way.
That means taking a zig when others zag. It means standing out in a crowd. It means going against the grain.
Like a Rock Star.
In this economy, people are still paying $500 a seat to see The Police live in concert. Why?
Because they're Rock Stars! They've established themselves as a household name to the audience that loves them. They don't have to worry about whether or not people will show up to their concerts, or if they'll make enough money to pay the bills this month.
They're ROCK STARS!
Watch what other direct sales coaches are doing right now: they're sweating. They've taught you everything they know. You've heard it all before, and to keep themselves alive, they're doing bargain basement price slashing. One direct sales coach is offring a teleseminar series (5 calls) for $40! That would barely cover the costs of putting on the FIRST call, let alone all 5.
Why is she doing that? Simple, just like you (well, some of you) bookings are down. Her income is tanking, and she needs to stay at the top of mind to keep you buying from her.
Another diect sales coach piloted a monthly telecoaching program at an introductory rate, and couldn't get enough members to raise it to the standard rate she wanted to charge. Why? Because she's just regurgitating her content!
There's nothing new there.
Like a good Rock Star, you have to have new material on a regular basis. Sure, the Greatest Hits are fun to hear, and familiar. They're easy to embrace. And YES, you run the risk of alienating some of your die hard fans when you create something new. But on the whole, your fans want to be delighted with something exciting, different and NEW.
Do you remember the first time your favorite band played a new song on the radio? I do. I would scooch up to the radio as close as I could so I didn't miss a single note. I'd scribble down the lyrics as fast as my pencil could keep up. I wanted to be the FIRST to know that new song, so I could share it with everyone - and look cool in the process.
Sometimes I still do that, although I will admit I'm a bit more restrained as a 'grown up' than I was as a child. i don't actually push people out of the way anymore to get to the radio.
So when direct sales coaches offer "new" products, I get excited! I scramble to the front of the line to see what it's all about.
And I usually shuffle away with my head hung down in shame at another batch of regurgitated content.
Don't get me wrong, booking, selling, and recruiting are the 3 pillars of direct sales. If you want to be truly successful, you have to do all three in some combination.
But there's more to this business than just those three things, and frankly, I'm tired of hearing so-called industry 'experts' that just keep saying the same things over and over and over.
Maybe that list of 100 people ISN'T enough to get your business started. Maybe you DO have to think outside the box - especially in this economy.
So that's what I'm doing. I'm thinking outside the box. I'm doing something that, as far as I know, no other direct sales business coach has ever done before. I'm going against the grain and doing some things that no other direct sales coach would ever DREAM of doing, because to them, it would mean losing money.
But I think like a ROCK STAR!
Think you've got this all figured out yet? Bet ya don't! But the clues get hotter as the day goes on today. We're leading up to the BIG unveil tonight at 7pm eastern. Post your comments below. The first one to correctly guess will win a complete set of all the physical products I've ever created (yes, even my music CD's, if you want them!).
When I was a little girl, I dreamed of touring the country, being a rock star, singing songs I wrote. In fact, I've even self-released two albums. You can even listen to some of my music. It's 'defniitely not mainstream pop music' - or at least that's what one of the guys at Universal Music said when I submitted my demo for a listen.
I've never been a conformist - at least not on the surface. I have some core beliefs that are pretty standard, but my mode of operation has always been a little on the rebellious side of things. If people tell me I 'Can't' do something, I almost always say "watch me!" and figure out a way to do it anyhow.
So even though I'm a relative unknown in the music industry, I have fans across the globe that listen to and enjoy my music.
And just to be clear, this post has NOTHING to do with me forming a rock band, releasing a new album or touring whilst playing my music. The Stand Up Coach and I are planning a 'world tour', but you'll hear more about that at another time, and it has nothing to do with these new developments.
It's really been the last couple of days that have crystallized these must do activities for me.
As far as your guesses go, Lauren's on the right track. This isn't about a speaking tour (there's more details about that coming later in Spring), and it isn't about me quitting my DS company (HEAVENS NO!). This is about me stepping into a space that I should have been in all along, and was too afraid to do it.
The only antidote for fear is faith.
I always envisioned Rock stars, in my mind, as fearless. They could get up on a stage, entrance a crowd of thousands and inspire throngs of people with their work. Everytime their music plays freely over the airwaves, you get re-inspired, transported and motivated to feel this kind of empowerment from within the very music itself.
I always wanted to have that kind of effect on people. Without the drugs, scandals and bad habits that many musicians were known for. I wanted to inspire and motivate people with my creations and do it in a very unconventional way.
That means taking a zig when others zag. It means standing out in a crowd. It means going against the grain.
Like a Rock Star.
In this economy, people are still paying $500 a seat to see The Police live in concert. Why?
Because they're Rock Stars! They've established themselves as a household name to the audience that loves them. They don't have to worry about whether or not people will show up to their concerts, or if they'll make enough money to pay the bills this month.
They're ROCK STARS!
Watch what other direct sales coaches are doing right now: they're sweating. They've taught you everything they know. You've heard it all before, and to keep themselves alive, they're doing bargain basement price slashing. One direct sales coach is offring a teleseminar series (5 calls) for $40! That would barely cover the costs of putting on the FIRST call, let alone all 5.
Why is she doing that? Simple, just like you (well, some of you) bookings are down. Her income is tanking, and she needs to stay at the top of mind to keep you buying from her.
Another diect sales coach piloted a monthly telecoaching program at an introductory rate, and couldn't get enough members to raise it to the standard rate she wanted to charge. Why? Because she's just regurgitating her content!
There's nothing new there.
Like a good Rock Star, you have to have new material on a regular basis. Sure, the Greatest Hits are fun to hear, and familiar. They're easy to embrace. And YES, you run the risk of alienating some of your die hard fans when you create something new. But on the whole, your fans want to be delighted with something exciting, different and NEW.
Do you remember the first time your favorite band played a new song on the radio? I do. I would scooch up to the radio as close as I could so I didn't miss a single note. I'd scribble down the lyrics as fast as my pencil could keep up. I wanted to be the FIRST to know that new song, so I could share it with everyone - and look cool in the process.
Sometimes I still do that, although I will admit I'm a bit more restrained as a 'grown up' than I was as a child. i don't actually push people out of the way anymore to get to the radio.
So when direct sales coaches offer "new" products, I get excited! I scramble to the front of the line to see what it's all about.
And I usually shuffle away with my head hung down in shame at another batch of regurgitated content.
Don't get me wrong, booking, selling, and recruiting are the 3 pillars of direct sales. If you want to be truly successful, you have to do all three in some combination.
But there's more to this business than just those three things, and frankly, I'm tired of hearing so-called industry 'experts' that just keep saying the same things over and over and over.
Maybe that list of 100 people ISN'T enough to get your business started. Maybe you DO have to think outside the box - especially in this economy.
So that's what I'm doing. I'm thinking outside the box. I'm doing something that, as far as I know, no other direct sales business coach has ever done before. I'm going against the grain and doing some things that no other direct sales coach would ever DREAM of doing, because to them, it would mean losing money.
But I think like a ROCK STAR!
Think you've got this all figured out yet? Bet ya don't! But the clues get hotter as the day goes on today. We're leading up to the BIG unveil tonight at 7pm eastern. Post your comments below. The first one to correctly guess will win a complete set of all the physical products I've ever created (yes, even my music CD's, if you want them!).
Clue #4: Scriptually Speaking...
Here's where I'll lose a truckload of subscribers, but I'm okay with that.
I am a Christian.
I am a God-fearing woman that has really struggled with the question "Just how much God can I sprinkle into my work without coming across as a Bible thumper?"
I still screw up. I still make horrible, terrible mistakes in my life. I am FAR from perfect. And I still love God and hear the voice of the Baptist pastor from my youth telling the entire congregaton that if we wanted to have peace in our hearts, "You need JEEESUS!"
I don't think it's wrong to say I need Jesus. I don't think it's wrong to share that love and gratitude with others - or to cite the source. To NOT do so would be contrary to everything I believe, in terms of giving credit where credit is due.
To God be the glory.
That said, I DO think it's wrong to try to ram scripture down the throats of people that aren't interested. That's just a waste of time and energy -two commodities I've discovered this year that are very precious to me. I think it was Victor Frankl, in his book, Man's Search For Meaning, that laid down a challenge to meet people where they are. You can't push people into your space. They have to be led, and desire to go there of their own will. Only then will they embrace the space you're in as their own.
So while my Catholic charge is to preach the good news in the world, as a business person, I have to temper my fervor for God by meeting people where they are. Many of the business women I work with are stay-at-home moms. Many are from a Judeo-Christian background, but some are not. My business is NOT here to convert people. But it IS an extension of my mission to serve God.
So as a Christian, how do I convey to the world that part of why I'm good at what I do is a direct result of the relationship I have with my creator and sustainer?
That was one of the biggest challenges I faced when I was developing the Build a Better Customer Program. In fact part of creating my perfect fit customer was the idea that I wanted to serve more Christian business women - regardless of their industry. But I also wanted to continue to serve my core client base - home party consultants - in a way that would elevate everyone and help me fulfill my mission without burning bridges unnecessarily.
I created Home Party Solution because a number of my friends, family and fellow direct sales consultants said that I should write a book about how I grew my business. 'PartyOn!' was a newsletter I created because I wanted to help consultants grow their business like a real business. Everything I've ever done in this crazy little company has been an extention of serving others.
I wanted to help others. I wanted to bless others as God had blessed me. There's no real secret to my success. I just found something that worked for me and I implemented it. I stayed consistent with it, and I was rewarded for my commitment.
So as I roll into 2009, I'm looking at ways to help even more people, reach even more people, and effect positive change in the lives of even MORE people still.
Think you've figured out my Big Announcement? Post your guess here. I'll announce the big winner (and the BIG Announcement) on the Blog on Sunday night.
I am a Christian.
I am a God-fearing woman that has really struggled with the question "Just how much God can I sprinkle into my work without coming across as a Bible thumper?"
I still screw up. I still make horrible, terrible mistakes in my life. I am FAR from perfect. And I still love God and hear the voice of the Baptist pastor from my youth telling the entire congregaton that if we wanted to have peace in our hearts, "You need JEEESUS!"
I don't think it's wrong to say I need Jesus. I don't think it's wrong to share that love and gratitude with others - or to cite the source. To NOT do so would be contrary to everything I believe, in terms of giving credit where credit is due.
To God be the glory.
That said, I DO think it's wrong to try to ram scripture down the throats of people that aren't interested. That's just a waste of time and energy -two commodities I've discovered this year that are very precious to me. I think it was Victor Frankl, in his book, Man's Search For Meaning, that laid down a challenge to meet people where they are. You can't push people into your space. They have to be led, and desire to go there of their own will. Only then will they embrace the space you're in as their own.
So while my Catholic charge is to preach the good news in the world, as a business person, I have to temper my fervor for God by meeting people where they are. Many of the business women I work with are stay-at-home moms. Many are from a Judeo-Christian background, but some are not. My business is NOT here to convert people. But it IS an extension of my mission to serve God.
So as a Christian, how do I convey to the world that part of why I'm good at what I do is a direct result of the relationship I have with my creator and sustainer?
That was one of the biggest challenges I faced when I was developing the Build a Better Customer Program. In fact part of creating my perfect fit customer was the idea that I wanted to serve more Christian business women - regardless of their industry. But I also wanted to continue to serve my core client base - home party consultants - in a way that would elevate everyone and help me fulfill my mission without burning bridges unnecessarily.
I created Home Party Solution because a number of my friends, family and fellow direct sales consultants said that I should write a book about how I grew my business. 'PartyOn!' was a newsletter I created because I wanted to help consultants grow their business like a real business. Everything I've ever done in this crazy little company has been an extention of serving others.
I wanted to help others. I wanted to bless others as God had blessed me. There's no real secret to my success. I just found something that worked for me and I implemented it. I stayed consistent with it, and I was rewarded for my commitment.
So as I roll into 2009, I'm looking at ways to help even more people, reach even more people, and effect positive change in the lives of even MORE people still.
Think you've figured out my Big Announcement? Post your guess here. I'll announce the big winner (and the BIG Announcement) on the Blog on Sunday night.
Clue #2: Happy Anniversary!?
I've been doing some celebrating lately: Big celebrations and small ones.
In November, I celebrated the first anniversary of "PartyOn!", my weekly ezine. It started as a monthly newsletter that went out to a whopping 7 people.
It quickly grew to a weekly publication in anticipation of the launch of my first physical product. My book, Home Party Solution, made waves in the home party/direct sales industry. I celebrate the anniversary of it's release this month.
And I missed celebrating the one year anniversary of this humble little blog. That was in January. I've had my mug on the cover of this blog for a year now and no one's complained. You can't imagine what that does for my ego!
In the past year, I've seen a lot of changes. The launch of the PM2 coaching group, a joint venture with Ruth Fuersten - Direct Sales JUMP Start, as well as dozens of other new business relationships that are growing my business in new ways. Plus the recent launch of my new Build a Better Customer Program, which has gotten RAVE reviews from the participants.
But there are also a few commemorations this year. In March, I will commemorate the death of my Mom and Grandfather. They died within a week of each other last March, and that has dramatically altered the color and shape of my world. It will be 10 years since my Dad died in May, so I guess that sort of makes me an orphan.
Not to get all melancholy on you, it's just indicative that in life, things change, and sometimes we have to bid farewell to people and things we love to make room in our lives for new relationships and things that will benefit our future in bigger and better ways. Since the funerals, my relationship with my sister has blossomed. My business took a new direction that enabled me to create the Build a Better Customer program. I got very clear on where I want my business to go, and who I want to help along the way.
How to get there, well, that's another story.
Nature abhors a vaccum. Empty space needs to be filled up. That explains why my dining room table always has "stuff" on it.
Think you've got this mystery all wrapped up? Post your ideas below. The first person to correctly guess the big announcement will win the keys to my kingdom - every physical product I've ever created!
In November, I celebrated the first anniversary of "PartyOn!", my weekly ezine. It started as a monthly newsletter that went out to a whopping 7 people.
It quickly grew to a weekly publication in anticipation of the launch of my first physical product. My book, Home Party Solution, made waves in the home party/direct sales industry. I celebrate the anniversary of it's release this month.
And I missed celebrating the one year anniversary of this humble little blog. That was in January. I've had my mug on the cover of this blog for a year now and no one's complained. You can't imagine what that does for my ego!
In the past year, I've seen a lot of changes. The launch of the PM2 coaching group, a joint venture with Ruth Fuersten - Direct Sales JUMP Start, as well as dozens of other new business relationships that are growing my business in new ways. Plus the recent launch of my new Build a Better Customer Program, which has gotten RAVE reviews from the participants.
But there are also a few commemorations this year. In March, I will commemorate the death of my Mom and Grandfather. They died within a week of each other last March, and that has dramatically altered the color and shape of my world. It will be 10 years since my Dad died in May, so I guess that sort of makes me an orphan.
Not to get all melancholy on you, it's just indicative that in life, things change, and sometimes we have to bid farewell to people and things we love to make room in our lives for new relationships and things that will benefit our future in bigger and better ways. Since the funerals, my relationship with my sister has blossomed. My business took a new direction that enabled me to create the Build a Better Customer program. I got very clear on where I want my business to go, and who I want to help along the way.
How to get there, well, that's another story.
Nature abhors a vaccum. Empty space needs to be filled up. That explains why my dining room table always has "stuff" on it.
Think you've got this mystery all wrapped up? Post your ideas below. The first person to correctly guess the big announcement will win the keys to my kingdom - every physical product I've ever created!
What the Devil's Goin' On Around Here?
So my husband calls me from work on Wednesday and tells me we need to cancel our trip. He said that work was a chaotic mess and that he couldn't leave with things out of control. Add to that the fact that a co-worker had to tend to his father's medical emergency, and well, he had to stay, and had to work on what were supposed to be his days off.
I was SO bummed, I almost cried.
My oldest was pouting and pcing the floor, very upset that he was going to miss out on swimming at the hotel. North Carolina is balmy compared to the zero degree weather we have in Flint, right now.
I was more bummed that I wasn't going to be able to hook up with my pal from school and my new pal, Tracy Needham.
But I finally figured out that I could use this time to be TOTALLY productive - since everyone thought I was leaving town anyway!
No phone calls, no distractions, no email just focus on getting things done.
Then I had a MAJOR epiphany. One that will change my business FOREVER.
I make the big announcement Sunday night. But if you can guess what it is, you'll win the KEYS to my Kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created.
I know you'll never guess. In fact, I'll drop clues to you all weekend, and I bet you'll STILL never guess.
It's transformative, and it's going to blow EVERYONE out of the water!
Here's the first hint (as if the above wasn't enough):
My good friend is a Mardi Gras FANATIC. She absoluetly loves the celebration, the history, culture and heritage of the whole event. She frequently visits New Orleans during this festive time, when the whole town becomes a giant street party. She knows more trivia than you can possibly imagine, and is currently holding a trivia contest as a lead up to her big Mardi Gras Party at the end of February. While I'll be at her house getting swept up in the revelry of Fat Tuesday (on a Saturday!), another tradition will have already begun.
LENT.
So what's your guess? Post a comment to this post, and more clues will be coming every few hours. The First Person to correctly guess the big changes will get the keys to my kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created!
I was SO bummed, I almost cried.
My oldest was pouting and pcing the floor, very upset that he was going to miss out on swimming at the hotel. North Carolina is balmy compared to the zero degree weather we have in Flint, right now.
I was more bummed that I wasn't going to be able to hook up with my pal from school and my new pal, Tracy Needham.
But I finally figured out that I could use this time to be TOTALLY productive - since everyone thought I was leaving town anyway!
No phone calls, no distractions, no email just focus on getting things done.
Then I had a MAJOR epiphany. One that will change my business FOREVER.
I make the big announcement Sunday night. But if you can guess what it is, you'll win the KEYS to my Kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created.
I know you'll never guess. In fact, I'll drop clues to you all weekend, and I bet you'll STILL never guess.
It's transformative, and it's going to blow EVERYONE out of the water!
Here's the first hint (as if the above wasn't enough):
My good friend is a Mardi Gras FANATIC. She absoluetly loves the celebration, the history, culture and heritage of the whole event. She frequently visits New Orleans during this festive time, when the whole town becomes a giant street party. She knows more trivia than you can possibly imagine, and is currently holding a trivia contest as a lead up to her big Mardi Gras Party at the end of February. While I'll be at her house getting swept up in the revelry of Fat Tuesday (on a Saturday!), another tradition will have already begun.
LENT.
So what's your guess? Post a comment to this post, and more clues will be coming every few hours. The First Person to correctly guess the big changes will get the keys to my kingdom: a copy of every physical product I've ever created!
4 Simple Strategies Saved My Life
The last 6 months have been a time of tremendous change in my life. Heck, this whole year has been a roller coaster, but especially the last half of 2008.
Things have been so crazy, and stressful, and frantic, and exciting, that my doctor told me I needed to lighten my stress load before I became another family statistic.
So I got cast in a musical, created a new direct sales training course with my good friend Ruth Fuersten, and agreed to help a friend create a website for a local comic and entertainment publication that's being born in my home town.
And I didn't break a sweat. Well, okay, I sweat a lot during the musical, but that was because it was hot on the stage under all those lights.
I've lost 15 pounds (and counting). I feel less stressed most days (remember, I've got 2 kids!). And I have never felt better about my business and financial future.
Why? I'm building better customers. My businesses now revolve around me, instead of revolving my businesses around my frustomers - those frustrating customers that seemed to exist oly to make my life more difficult.
So I finally said "ta ta" in 4 simple steps.
Wanna know the steps?
I'm sharing them FREE of charge on a call this Monday night. I'm not holding anything back, either. You'll not only hear from me, but two of my "guinea pigs" that I've already shared this process with. They'll be telling you how it's helped them. And if it will help us, I know can help you, too.
Clear away the "frustomers" in your life. It could save your life, too!
Things have been so crazy, and stressful, and frantic, and exciting, that my doctor told me I needed to lighten my stress load before I became another family statistic.
So I got cast in a musical, created a new direct sales training course with my good friend Ruth Fuersten, and agreed to help a friend create a website for a local comic and entertainment publication that's being born in my home town.
And I didn't break a sweat. Well, okay, I sweat a lot during the musical, but that was because it was hot on the stage under all those lights.
I've lost 15 pounds (and counting). I feel less stressed most days (remember, I've got 2 kids!). And I have never felt better about my business and financial future.
Why? I'm building better customers. My businesses now revolve around me, instead of revolving my businesses around my frustomers - those frustrating customers that seemed to exist oly to make my life more difficult.
So I finally said "ta ta" in 4 simple steps.
Wanna know the steps?
I'm sharing them FREE of charge on a call this Monday night. I'm not holding anything back, either. You'll not only hear from me, but two of my "guinea pigs" that I've already shared this process with. They'll be telling you how it's helped them. And if it will help us, I know can help you, too.
Clear away the "frustomers" in your life. It could save your life, too!
Breakthroughs Are Often Disguised as Breakdowns
If your whole world tipped on it's axis 3 degrees, what would you do?
What if your whole world dried up and blew away?
Welcome to December, 2008 for me!
In the last 2 weeks, my entire upline at my primary company was dismissed due to breach of contract - the problem? Recruiting downline members into a new biz op using genealogy lists while they were still associated with my company.
We lost 6 Director-level leaders in our state which could be an incredible blow to my business.
Essentially, I am "leaderless".
But honestly, I'm dancing in the streets.
The dead weight is finally gone. YAHOO!
Then I got word that a coaching client was now without a direct sales company because they're closing at the end of the month.
She's also dancing in the streets.
Why?
Because we're both using the concepts of personal branding to grow our reach even in hat would seem like hard times.
But also, because we recognize that BIG Breakthroughs are often disguised as breakdowns.
You know:
Whenever God closes a door...
That's TRUE even more now than ever before. The problem most of us have is that we're too busy looking at the closed door - and knocking on it - that we don't hear or see the window open.
Don't keep staring at a closed door - look for a window!
What's happening for me? Because of the recent changes, I now have more opportunities to create a name for myself in this area - lead training and grow a new culture that doesn't include dead weight.
Plus my new coaching system - Build a Better Customer is slated for release in early 2009 - and having the ability to devote my time to helping others create teh same level of freedom just jumped incrementally.
Can you say excited?
December really came in like a lion for me - and it seemed to be NOT in a good way. But when I stopped staring at a closed door (which didn't last long, I'll admit), The big gaping picture window sure looked inviting.
Where's your window?
What if your whole world dried up and blew away?
Welcome to December, 2008 for me!
In the last 2 weeks, my entire upline at my primary company was dismissed due to breach of contract - the problem? Recruiting downline members into a new biz op using genealogy lists while they were still associated with my company.
We lost 6 Director-level leaders in our state which could be an incredible blow to my business.
Essentially, I am "leaderless".
But honestly, I'm dancing in the streets.
The dead weight is finally gone. YAHOO!
Then I got word that a coaching client was now without a direct sales company because they're closing at the end of the month.
She's also dancing in the streets.
Why?
Because we're both using the concepts of personal branding to grow our reach even in hat would seem like hard times.
But also, because we recognize that BIG Breakthroughs are often disguised as breakdowns.
You know:
Whenever God closes a door...
That's TRUE even more now than ever before. The problem most of us have is that we're too busy looking at the closed door - and knocking on it - that we don't hear or see the window open.
Don't keep staring at a closed door - look for a window!
What's happening for me? Because of the recent changes, I now have more opportunities to create a name for myself in this area - lead training and grow a new culture that doesn't include dead weight.
Plus my new coaching system - Build a Better Customer is slated for release in early 2009 - and having the ability to devote my time to helping others create teh same level of freedom just jumped incrementally.
Can you say excited?
December really came in like a lion for me - and it seemed to be NOT in a good way. But when I stopped staring at a closed door (which didn't last long, I'll admit), The big gaping picture window sure looked inviting.
Where's your window?
Dave Lakhani, Small Business, The BIG "R"
It must be that time of year, where I have time to read ther's blogs and think hard about them. Here's another post, this time, in respnse to Dave Lakhani's post regarding the current economic trends - you know, the recession - and how it affects small business.
This is the revised, expanded edition:
Bravo Dave!
It is true that you can set yourself up for failure by creating a failure oriented mindset - that is, believing that you're doomed to fail just because the economy sucks.
But you are essentially sticking your head in the sand - leaving your butt ripe for kickin' - if you put all your eggs in the "mindset" basket.
And I teach on mindset, so this is critical.
Whether you think you can or can't is only part of the equation. If you think you can't, you've given up before you've even seen the equation. Thinking you can, is the first step - but not the only step.
The Little Engine that Could (i.e. small business) can't just say "I Think I Can". You have to keep moving down the track. Heck, you have to be ON the track in the first place. You also have to know where that track is heading, or you could end up on a one-way path to nowhere fast.
You can't just think positive thoughts, or wish something away. YOU MUST TAKE ACTION, PLAN AND PREPARE for success.
To do otherwise is what got us in this mess in the first place.
The people that are taking action now are the Carnegies and Rockefellers of this century. Thse are people that saw the recession of their day for what it was, and capitalized on it, by making a plan and taking action - when others around them were wallowing in self-defeatism and failure oriented mindset. But these movers and shakers aren't ignoring the fact that there's a recession going on in full swing - they're taking advantage of it, and making swift plans for massive action NOW.
So yeah, you can do something about the recession by looking forward, and even by creating a positive oriented mindset - but mindset alone doesn't change what's REALLY happening in the world around us.
The Physics scholars of yore got it right: and object at rest tends to stay at rest, and object in motion tends to stay in motion, unless acted upon by an outside force.
It's action that makes all the difference - regardless of your mindset.
This is the revised, expanded edition:
Bravo Dave!
It is true that you can set yourself up for failure by creating a failure oriented mindset - that is, believing that you're doomed to fail just because the economy sucks.
But you are essentially sticking your head in the sand - leaving your butt ripe for kickin' - if you put all your eggs in the "mindset" basket.
And I teach on mindset, so this is critical.
Whether you think you can or can't is only part of the equation. If you think you can't, you've given up before you've even seen the equation. Thinking you can, is the first step - but not the only step.
The Little Engine that Could (i.e. small business) can't just say "I Think I Can". You have to keep moving down the track. Heck, you have to be ON the track in the first place. You also have to know where that track is heading, or you could end up on a one-way path to nowhere fast.
You can't just think positive thoughts, or wish something away. YOU MUST TAKE ACTION, PLAN AND PREPARE for success.
To do otherwise is what got us in this mess in the first place.
The people that are taking action now are the Carnegies and Rockefellers of this century. Thse are people that saw the recession of their day for what it was, and capitalized on it, by making a plan and taking action - when others around them were wallowing in self-defeatism and failure oriented mindset. But these movers and shakers aren't ignoring the fact that there's a recession going on in full swing - they're taking advantage of it, and making swift plans for massive action NOW.
So yeah, you can do something about the recession by looking forward, and even by creating a positive oriented mindset - but mindset alone doesn't change what's REALLY happening in the world around us.
The Physics scholars of yore got it right: and object at rest tends to stay at rest, and object in motion tends to stay in motion, unless acted upon by an outside force.
It's action that makes all the difference - regardless of your mindset.
Personal Brand=Reputation
Thanks to twitter pal @emailcopywriter for leading me this blog post on personal branding.
I posted a response, but I also wanted to expand on it here:
Why do we have to extricate brand from reputation? A lot of what I teach is about establishing yourself as a value provider, hence your reputation is PART and PARCEL to your brand identity.
There are some great points in this post. I also believe strongly that throwing out the baby with the bath water, as it were, only makes the situation more problematic.
People who make themselves indespensible are not losing their jobs - they're making their own way. Even if companies collapse, they have other options they can pursue - thanks in part to positioning themseleves and having a great reputation for results.
Reputation=Brand=Reputation
You can't have one without the other.
In real life, when a person knows you by your reputation, that's how you are percieved. It is, in essence your brand. Do you want to be known as a self-centered egoist? That's your brand. You want to be known as a kind-hearted marshmallow? That's your brand.
Don't want to be known at all?
That's your brand
Trust me. The people who have developed a reputation for excellence and delivering results are rarely out of a job - and if they are it's by choice.
Employers clamor for people like that. People who are known for delivering the goods on time, under budget, with an amazing WOW factor.
In my opinion, your reputation is NOT separate from your brand, indeed it is the CORE of your brand. Everything I teach about personal branding centers on who you are, and what you're all about at the core of your being.
Reputation is not the only component of building a solid brand, but my mother ALWAYS equated McDonald's with a clean restroom and cheap eats when we were travelling as kids. It was part of their reputation. It was a core component of what endeared the brand to my mom.
Personal Branding isn't just about your smile, what you wear or having your face on a magazine. It's not just about your message. It's about CONGRUENCE between your reputation and your message, your image and your demeanor.
You can put on a great dress and have a great smile, but an airhead by any other name will be just as useless at a networking event as the one dressed in rags.
Personal Branding is NOT about creating a facade. It's about celebrating the best parts of the real you in a way that makes you marketable, in demand, and gives you back control over your business.
When I talk with Direct Sales reps, so often they focus so heavily on the product. I think in light of the recent company closures, it's safe to say that had those reps been focusing on building their own reputation in the market place (their brand), they would not be in the mad scramble they find themselves in today.
I'm so passionate about this, I've started compiling my thoughts into a new book. It's not just about Direct Sales Reps anymore. Personal Branding is necessary for anyone trying to "be known" in the world. When I think of all the personal brands in high school, I believe even more that there should be a required course on building reputations.
Branding=reputation=branding
Need I say more?
I posted a response, but I also wanted to expand on it here:
Why do we have to extricate brand from reputation? A lot of what I teach is about establishing yourself as a value provider, hence your reputation is PART and PARCEL to your brand identity.
There are some great points in this post. I also believe strongly that throwing out the baby with the bath water, as it were, only makes the situation more problematic.
People who make themselves indespensible are not losing their jobs - they're making their own way. Even if companies collapse, they have other options they can pursue - thanks in part to positioning themseleves and having a great reputation for results.
Reputation=Brand=Reputation
You can't have one without the other.
In real life, when a person knows you by your reputation, that's how you are percieved. It is, in essence your brand. Do you want to be known as a self-centered egoist? That's your brand. You want to be known as a kind-hearted marshmallow? That's your brand.
Don't want to be known at all?
That's your brand
Trust me. The people who have developed a reputation for excellence and delivering results are rarely out of a job - and if they are it's by choice.
Employers clamor for people like that. People who are known for delivering the goods on time, under budget, with an amazing WOW factor.
In my opinion, your reputation is NOT separate from your brand, indeed it is the CORE of your brand. Everything I teach about personal branding centers on who you are, and what you're all about at the core of your being.
Reputation is not the only component of building a solid brand, but my mother ALWAYS equated McDonald's with a clean restroom and cheap eats when we were travelling as kids. It was part of their reputation. It was a core component of what endeared the brand to my mom.
Personal Branding isn't just about your smile, what you wear or having your face on a magazine. It's not just about your message. It's about CONGRUENCE between your reputation and your message, your image and your demeanor.
You can put on a great dress and have a great smile, but an airhead by any other name will be just as useless at a networking event as the one dressed in rags.
Personal Branding is NOT about creating a facade. It's about celebrating the best parts of the real you in a way that makes you marketable, in demand, and gives you back control over your business.
When I talk with Direct Sales reps, so often they focus so heavily on the product. I think in light of the recent company closures, it's safe to say that had those reps been focusing on building their own reputation in the market place (their brand), they would not be in the mad scramble they find themselves in today.
I'm so passionate about this, I've started compiling my thoughts into a new book. It's not just about Direct Sales Reps anymore. Personal Branding is necessary for anyone trying to "be known" in the world. When I think of all the personal brands in high school, I believe even more that there should be a required course on building reputations.
Branding=reputation=branding
Need I say more?
Direct Sales Recruiting: Tips from Trick Or Treaters
New twitter bud, Ann Vertel, made a blog post today that I had to comment back on.
As I thought more and more about it. I figured I could blow this bad boy up into a full blown post of my own. So here it is:
Ann writes that if you look at kids that trick or treat, they don't get all worked up about which houses don't have their lights on. The direct sales correlation is that we as direct selling consultants shouldn't get worked up over the people that don't want to participate in or business - either by booking buying or recruiting. In essence, they've "turned off their house lights" and we shouldn't take it personally - just move on to the next house and collect our goodies elsewhere.
But as I thought more about the correlation to Halloween, there's even more you can cull from this:
1. Those parents at the curb.
On your first Halloween, a trusted adult probably walked the whole neighborhood with you, holding your hand, walking you right up to the door and showing you exactly how to say the magic words that opened the door to candy paradise. As we mature in our business and "get better at trick or treating", these parents and adults stand at the curb, so we don't look "uncool".
You've either been one or had one - a leader that guides you down the path, watches your actions, and helps you be the best you can be. On your first few attempts at working your business, they might have even held your hand and walked you straight up to the door - even did the knocking for you. They're not doing the work for us. But they've got their watchful eye on us, helping us along the path to the next door, giving us tips on how to make the next house even better than the last. Don't be ungrateful, but don't expect them to do the work for you. If you want the goodies - you've got to get the training (from your leaders) - then you've got to say the words to get them!
2. Those "Candy Grabbers"
Every Halloween has it's share of killjoys that run around the 'hood snatching the bags of little kids. Those bullies get their kicks takin' candy from babies and making mischief on Hallow's Eve. Do the other kids stop going from house to house? Naah. Do the homeowners stop passing out the goodies? Of course not!
Whether we want to admit it or not, there's a crowd of people in direct sales that gives the industry a bad name - but it doesn't mean that everyone is going to give up and go home. On the contrary. I know for myself that when I was confronted with a bully on Halloween night, I just went back and tried double hard to recover my losses. Now that I'm older and wiser, I know there are plenty more neighborhood to visit when searching for direct sales gold.
3. Sorting the Goodies from the Maple Buns
Oh how I hated the Maple Bun as a kid. We'd trade those things away as fast as we got them - if we could. We took notes each year about which houses had the best candy, and which ones weren't worth the trek up the long driveway for the tiny little maple bun they'd drop in your bag with a toothy grin. Mom would, of course, check out each wrapper to ensure safety and collect her obligatory fee for so doing.
As network marketers, we have to do our own sorting. Some "goodies" will be great additions to our team, and others will start out looking good, but you'll find the wrapper's not all there. And of course, you'll end up with a Maple Bun or two, but realize that the better you get at identifying the King Size candy from the Maple Buns, the easier the sorting becomes. The only way to get good is to keep practicing.
So this festive holiday, as you're standing at the curb with the little tykes, perhaps do some trick or treating of your own. I frequently pass out free samples to the moms as we're trekking the 'hood together. It allows us to strike up conversations while we shiver in the cold with our little trolls, princesses, and ninjas. Do they all book a party or join my team? Nope. And we all just keep moving on to the next house.
As I thought more and more about it. I figured I could blow this bad boy up into a full blown post of my own. So here it is:
Ann writes that if you look at kids that trick or treat, they don't get all worked up about which houses don't have their lights on. The direct sales correlation is that we as direct selling consultants shouldn't get worked up over the people that don't want to participate in or business - either by booking buying or recruiting. In essence, they've "turned off their house lights" and we shouldn't take it personally - just move on to the next house and collect our goodies elsewhere.
But as I thought more about the correlation to Halloween, there's even more you can cull from this:
1. Those parents at the curb.
On your first Halloween, a trusted adult probably walked the whole neighborhood with you, holding your hand, walking you right up to the door and showing you exactly how to say the magic words that opened the door to candy paradise. As we mature in our business and "get better at trick or treating", these parents and adults stand at the curb, so we don't look "uncool".
You've either been one or had one - a leader that guides you down the path, watches your actions, and helps you be the best you can be. On your first few attempts at working your business, they might have even held your hand and walked you straight up to the door - even did the knocking for you. They're not doing the work for us. But they've got their watchful eye on us, helping us along the path to the next door, giving us tips on how to make the next house even better than the last. Don't be ungrateful, but don't expect them to do the work for you. If you want the goodies - you've got to get the training (from your leaders) - then you've got to say the words to get them!
2. Those "Candy Grabbers"
Every Halloween has it's share of killjoys that run around the 'hood snatching the bags of little kids. Those bullies get their kicks takin' candy from babies and making mischief on Hallow's Eve. Do the other kids stop going from house to house? Naah. Do the homeowners stop passing out the goodies? Of course not!
Whether we want to admit it or not, there's a crowd of people in direct sales that gives the industry a bad name - but it doesn't mean that everyone is going to give up and go home. On the contrary. I know for myself that when I was confronted with a bully on Halloween night, I just went back and tried double hard to recover my losses. Now that I'm older and wiser, I know there are plenty more neighborhood to visit when searching for direct sales gold.
3. Sorting the Goodies from the Maple Buns
Oh how I hated the Maple Bun as a kid. We'd trade those things away as fast as we got them - if we could. We took notes each year about which houses had the best candy, and which ones weren't worth the trek up the long driveway for the tiny little maple bun they'd drop in your bag with a toothy grin. Mom would, of course, check out each wrapper to ensure safety and collect her obligatory fee for so doing.
As network marketers, we have to do our own sorting. Some "goodies" will be great additions to our team, and others will start out looking good, but you'll find the wrapper's not all there. And of course, you'll end up with a Maple Bun or two, but realize that the better you get at identifying the King Size candy from the Maple Buns, the easier the sorting becomes. The only way to get good is to keep practicing.
So this festive holiday, as you're standing at the curb with the little tykes, perhaps do some trick or treating of your own. I frequently pass out free samples to the moms as we're trekking the 'hood together. It allows us to strike up conversations while we shiver in the cold with our little trolls, princesses, and ninjas. Do they all book a party or join my team? Nope. And we all just keep moving on to the next house.
Tweet me, baby
Yep, I'm finally on twitter.
After much dawdling, I'm there, now.
Look me up when ya get a chance!
After much dawdling, I'm there, now.
Look me up when ya get a chance!
Ali Magazine: Inconsistent Messaging
I've been an Ali Brown afficionado for a few years. Her rise to nearly celebrity status as the darling of Internet Marketing, more commonly known as "the Ezine Queen", has been almost metoric in nature. In fact, during a teleclass this summer, she credited the law of attraction and the power of manifestation for her quantum leaps in business over the past few years.
So when I heard tell of a new magazine that was on the way, I was very nearly salivating. My mind traversed the possibilities: powerful interviews and articles on business building and attraction principles. Profiles on Ali disciples that had made good and gone "big time" with their business. Even the possibility of some lifestyle and travel tips. The horoscopes...
... Wait? huh? HOROSCOPES?
You heard me.
In my perfectly blunt style, I wrote my letter of disbelief to Ali. She of course did not reply (she's far too busy for that these days) but one of her assistants did.
"Thanks Lisa - We appreciate your feedback. The reason why we included a horoscope section is because horoscopes are FUN! People like them, Ali likes them. It's good to have fun with your business and enjoy it. :)"
Well, I don't dispute that FUN should be a part of your business. Countless pages in Ali's new magazine outlined style, fashion and travel ideas. And I even appreciated the tip sheet articles and guest spot on Heidi Klum. heck, I'll even give her props for the layout of "behnd the scenes" pictures from her cover shoot. That's fun stuff!
But Horoscopes, to me, seem to go completely against everything Ali spoke about during the summer teleclass on Manifestation with David Neagle. In a class all about setting your sights on a goal, learning the right way to goal set, and how to attain those goals through attraction, putting your "faith in the stars" just seems incongruent at best and insulting at worst.
To say "people like them, Ali likes them" is a means of justification without addressing the issue of congruence.
It draws to mind those old Venn diagrams from logic class.
If people like horoscopes, and Ali likes horoscopes, then Ali is people, too.
...Talk about lowest common denominator.
Don't get me wrong. I still like Ali's work, and she has some valuable content that has taken my business in a new direction, but to lower the qualty of the content to appeal to "the masses" is a bit heartbreaking.
A good magazine - a FUN magazine - doesn't need tawdry little, mind numbing horoscopes.
So when I heard tell of a new magazine that was on the way, I was very nearly salivating. My mind traversed the possibilities: powerful interviews and articles on business building and attraction principles. Profiles on Ali disciples that had made good and gone "big time" with their business. Even the possibility of some lifestyle and travel tips. The horoscopes...
... Wait? huh? HOROSCOPES?
You heard me.
In my perfectly blunt style, I wrote my letter of disbelief to Ali. She of course did not reply (she's far too busy for that these days) but one of her assistants did.
"Thanks Lisa - We appreciate your feedback. The reason why we included a horoscope section is because horoscopes are FUN! People like them, Ali likes them. It's good to have fun with your business and enjoy it. :)"
Well, I don't dispute that FUN should be a part of your business. Countless pages in Ali's new magazine outlined style, fashion and travel ideas. And I even appreciated the tip sheet articles and guest spot on Heidi Klum. heck, I'll even give her props for the layout of "behnd the scenes" pictures from her cover shoot. That's fun stuff!
But Horoscopes, to me, seem to go completely against everything Ali spoke about during the summer teleclass on Manifestation with David Neagle. In a class all about setting your sights on a goal, learning the right way to goal set, and how to attain those goals through attraction, putting your "faith in the stars" just seems incongruent at best and insulting at worst.
To say "people like them, Ali likes them" is a means of justification without addressing the issue of congruence.
It draws to mind those old Venn diagrams from logic class.
If people like horoscopes, and Ali likes horoscopes, then Ali is people, too.
...Talk about lowest common denominator.
Don't get me wrong. I still like Ali's work, and she has some valuable content that has taken my business in a new direction, but to lower the qualty of the content to appeal to "the masses" is a bit heartbreaking.
A good magazine - a FUN magazine - doesn't need tawdry little, mind numbing horoscopes.
I don't make this stuff up, folks: Chicago, the Musical
The show's over, and we've got a get-together tonight as one of our castmembers moves across the state for a new job. But a few people asked, so here's a link to the
review for Chicago, the Musical.
review for Chicago, the Musical.
Overture... Curtain lights... Chicago!
So in my mad ramblings, I don't talk too much about my personal life. I figure there's more important stuff going on in the world besides me.But today, I'm sharing pictures from a recent birthday party.
What makes this party so unique is that the attendees were, for the most part, cast member from a local production of the musical, Chicago.
One cast member, Aaron, celebrated his 20th birthday and invited all of us cast folk to join in the soiree. He's the Blonde in that first picture, standing next to Anthony.
It was such a blast to see the cast reunite for something like this. We spent a few months together working our BUTTS off for this production. Choreography was tough - at least for locals that haven't had a dance class in eons. Music was challenging, but we were blessed with some very talented cast members that could out-sing some of the greats on the karaoke stage - and some of us really tried, believe me. So we ate, drank and had pickles - it's a tradition, the pickles. You'll have to ask me about it sometime.
But why is this in a Marketing Blog, you ask? Well, a couple of reasons. This blog also doubles as an occasionally personal blog (deal with it), and because it emphasizes what a good story (Chicago), a loyal customer base (the cast and crew), and a powerful product (Vertigo Theatrics) can bring about.
Ted, the guy that runs the show over there, is really a humble giant of a guy. In our many conversations, one of the things that he's touched on is the fear that he's not making a difference in the lives of people in our area. Now I've worked with Ted on several other productions where the cast and crew become close in an almost magical way, but he always wrote it off as a fluke. Well, I think the third time's not a coincidence: it's what makes a good theater company GREAT:
Jen and Steve, to my knowledge, have never done a show together before. This show stretched Steve in a leading role. Jen had to dig deep for some amazing choreography. This show really brought them together and gave them a new "thing to do" as husband and wife.
New friendships were forged - some of which transformed lives. People came to this show with broken pieces, and somehow, through the power of theater, shared trials and a good belly laugh, they found themselves on the mend.
Super HEROES came to the rescue. Anthony's folks gave us an amazing set, and raised the bar for all of Ted's future productions. And don't get me started on the amazing job Barb did on the costumes. Selfless giving. Yeah, they'll say it was because they wanted Anthony's first production to be spectacular, but few people give of themselves that way for total strangers - even if their kid is involved. And the tireless day-in, day-out work of Ted's "better half", Jacque is a testament to the passion they both have for this community.
And me? I just took it all in. Making notes so that Ted couldn't backpedal on this one. There was so much joy in a room that never would have been there if it weren't for companies like this, productions like this, and people like Ted and Jacque who found a passion and nurtured it with "Class".There were others in this cast of characters that didn't hang around long enough to pose, and others still that couldn't make it to this seemingly simple birthday party.
But this was a party unlike most. This was a cast of strangers that became friends for a time, who reunited for one of their own to celebrate, remember, and be grateful. These people have their own paths in life and will take new directions now that the show is over.
But I think it's safe to say we were ALL transformed by what a little passion can do.
THANKS, TED! And HAPPY BIRTHDAY AARON!
No I didn't fall in a hole...
I've been absolutely swamped with a plethora of new activities to keep me occupied. My eldest is back in school - and already on his first suspension today. Oy.
We just finished Chicago, the musical to RAVE reviews and a sold out house. I ended up doing TRIPLE duty on this show. I had originally signed on to play the role of Matron Momma Morton (yes, the Queen Latifah role, but please do not compare!) and help out as vocal coach for the show. About a week before opening, I was also asked to take over as BAND DIRECTOR.
Talk about a humbling experience. I haven't directed an instrumental ensemble since my college days. For those of you that think you just wave your arms and music comes out, well, you're partly right.
I was put in front of some of the best musicians our town has to offer - and to direct Kander and Ebb is no small feat - but with a 5 piece ensemble - and at least ONE of them is a band director himself in real life - and did I mention they were all guys?
Yeah, I felt a wee bit intimidated. I mean, the drummer has played with some of the biggest names in modern rock and roll history. The sax player has more years experience than I have been living on this little rock. And did I mention the trumpeter is classically trained and is the high school band director in a Flint Suburb?
My palms weren't just sweaty because it was hot on that stage.
Opening night was more of a trial by fire for me than anything else I've experienced in my life. In my two (Count 'em TWO) conducting classes I had at college - only ONE was for instrumental music - I was taught the very rudimentary basics of conducting:
1. Mark the score for changes in tempo, key, mood, etc.
2. Analyze the music to know what's going on where (see #1 if you're unclear)
3. Note any cues
4. Practice conducting the music BEFORE your do it in front of your ensemble.
Well, I could pretty much scrap #4 because I had to jump right in on a dress rehearsal. Being part of the musical already was helpful because I already knew some of the music, but the incidental, between scene music (walk-offs, etc) I had never heard before, and well, let's just say I'm not the world's greatest sight-reader.
So I over counted, gave too many prep beats, and tried to be OVER helpful with my band. Some of the guys didn't mind, but I could tell there was a bit of derision in the ranks.
The whole show was cues - and with actors sometimes coming in on time and sometimes not, it was a new arrangement every night.
And we pulled it off to thunderous applause every single night.
But the guys who deserve the applause sat behind that bandstand. I waved my arms, and THEY made me look good.
And now that it's over, I'm glad - and I'm gonna miss 'em.
Tom, Frank (and Glenn for one night only), Larry, Gary and Chris: Y'all rock. Thanks for helpin' a girl overcome herself.
But next time, I want more notice.
We just finished Chicago, the musical to RAVE reviews and a sold out house. I ended up doing TRIPLE duty on this show. I had originally signed on to play the role of Matron Momma Morton (yes, the Queen Latifah role, but please do not compare!) and help out as vocal coach for the show. About a week before opening, I was also asked to take over as BAND DIRECTOR.
Talk about a humbling experience. I haven't directed an instrumental ensemble since my college days. For those of you that think you just wave your arms and music comes out, well, you're partly right.
I was put in front of some of the best musicians our town has to offer - and to direct Kander and Ebb is no small feat - but with a 5 piece ensemble - and at least ONE of them is a band director himself in real life - and did I mention they were all guys?
Yeah, I felt a wee bit intimidated. I mean, the drummer has played with some of the biggest names in modern rock and roll history. The sax player has more years experience than I have been living on this little rock. And did I mention the trumpeter is classically trained and is the high school band director in a Flint Suburb?
My palms weren't just sweaty because it was hot on that stage.
Opening night was more of a trial by fire for me than anything else I've experienced in my life. In my two (Count 'em TWO) conducting classes I had at college - only ONE was for instrumental music - I was taught the very rudimentary basics of conducting:
1. Mark the score for changes in tempo, key, mood, etc.
2. Analyze the music to know what's going on where (see #1 if you're unclear)
3. Note any cues
4. Practice conducting the music BEFORE your do it in front of your ensemble.
Well, I could pretty much scrap #4 because I had to jump right in on a dress rehearsal. Being part of the musical already was helpful because I already knew some of the music, but the incidental, between scene music (walk-offs, etc) I had never heard before, and well, let's just say I'm not the world's greatest sight-reader.
So I over counted, gave too many prep beats, and tried to be OVER helpful with my band. Some of the guys didn't mind, but I could tell there was a bit of derision in the ranks.
The whole show was cues - and with actors sometimes coming in on time and sometimes not, it was a new arrangement every night.
And we pulled it off to thunderous applause every single night.
But the guys who deserve the applause sat behind that bandstand. I waved my arms, and THEY made me look good.
And now that it's over, I'm glad - and I'm gonna miss 'em.
Tom, Frank (and Glenn for one night only), Larry, Gary and Chris: Y'all rock. Thanks for helpin' a girl overcome herself.
But next time, I want more notice.
Blast From the Past
So about 10 years ago I lived in Utah. I have a handful of friends from my Utah days, and Kyle is one of them. He was working on a film project and asked if I would narrate "the Jabberwocky"
Well, duh!
Celebrate the power of YouTube, Baby, because here's that video I thought I would never see again.
Kyle and his wife Sharla (another Utah friend) are now proud parents for the second time. So much has changed in all our lives. Kyle was the supreme technogeek back in the day, so it was hilarious to me when he dropped me a note saying "I've gotta learn this new fangled Internet Thang so I can catch up with my old friends" Then he told me about this video.
My voice sounds so young, and I feel so much older now. Thanks Kyle. :-)
Well, duh!
Celebrate the power of YouTube, Baby, because here's that video I thought I would never see again.
Kyle and his wife Sharla (another Utah friend) are now proud parents for the second time. So much has changed in all our lives. Kyle was the supreme technogeek back in the day, so it was hilarious to me when he dropped me a note saying "I've gotta learn this new fangled Internet Thang so I can catch up with my old friends" Then he told me about this video.
My voice sounds so young, and I feel so much older now. Thanks Kyle. :-)
Lex Requests More Accountability
So an "ex" of mine up in Idaho has a blog. I only discovered it today. Hey, I told you he was an "ex"!
I use quotes because our "relationship" defies accurate description. He wasn't really an ex in the traditional sense of the word, and I don't consider him a FORMER friend, although I don't think we've had contact in a few years. Since the last time I recall making contact, I have another kid, and so does he. And both are oldests are old since the last time I actually SAW him in the flesh.
But I digress. In catching up on his posts (yes, I started at the beginning for better contextual understanding), I found a very timely post he calls Great Technical People.
I believe that this doesn't just apply to techs, but the greater world in general. and it all comes down to ACCOUNTABILITY, folks. It should be a required course - along with the 3 R's and whatnot. If we all understood and used accountability in our daily lives, gosh, this planet would totally rock.
Problem is, tehre are too many people trying to live up to some false expectation in the world. Trying to be more than tehy are, or less than they could be because it's too hard to do what's right.
The Marketing lesson? Jeepers, if you haven't figured it out, go read his post again.
I use quotes because our "relationship" defies accurate description. He wasn't really an ex in the traditional sense of the word, and I don't consider him a FORMER friend, although I don't think we've had contact in a few years. Since the last time I recall making contact, I have another kid, and so does he. And both are oldests are old since the last time I actually SAW him in the flesh.
But I digress. In catching up on his posts (yes, I started at the beginning for better contextual understanding), I found a very timely post he calls Great Technical People.
I believe that this doesn't just apply to techs, but the greater world in general. and it all comes down to ACCOUNTABILITY, folks. It should be a required course - along with the 3 R's and whatnot. If we all understood and used accountability in our daily lives, gosh, this planet would totally rock.
Problem is, tehre are too many people trying to live up to some false expectation in the world. Trying to be more than tehy are, or less than they could be because it's too hard to do what's right.
The Marketing lesson? Jeepers, if you haven't figured it out, go read his post again.
7 Secrets of Multimillionaire Entrepreneurs
My mind has been blown wide open.
I took a huge risk and it's been paying off in spades - and it's only been a week!
I made a commitment to invest in a teleseminar series with Ali Brown and David Neagle called "The 7 Mindset & Manifesting Secrets of Multimillionaire
Entrepreneurs". This was not a cheap experience, to say the least - but for coaching direct from Ali and David, the price was well worth it.
We sit on the phone for 5 calls each about an hour and a half long. Each call reveals one or two of the 7 secrets, and we're getting ready for call three tonight.
But those first two calls really had me taking a look at priorities, life focus and "the ultimate questions" for me.
Here's the biggest highlight from the first call:
If you knew you could not fail, and that money, public opinion, and other external factors did not matter, what would you choose for your life?
That question left me - a woman with many words - silent. For a very long time.
I had to take a lot of time to dig down past years of subterfuge and enculturation to get at what was really tugging at my heart.
And what I found almost shocked me. I say almost because I knew it was there all along, it was just hiding under the years of dust and grime.
No. I don't REALLY want to be a rock star. Although music does play a role in this.
No. I don't REALLY want to leave Michigan - contrary to what my husband thinks. I do want to do a bit of travel, but I like being based in the Midwest.
I'm still having a hard time putting it all into words. One thing for sure, I want to start a scholarship fund for young women. So I'm getting the wheels going on that this month. It'll be a while before it's fully realized, but I've learned that you've got to start somewhere, and you've got to START, or dreams never become reality.
So stay tuned. Big things are happening in my life. What about yours?
I took a huge risk and it's been paying off in spades - and it's only been a week!
I made a commitment to invest in a teleseminar series with Ali Brown and David Neagle called "The 7 Mindset & Manifesting Secrets of Multimillionaire
Entrepreneurs". This was not a cheap experience, to say the least - but for coaching direct from Ali and David, the price was well worth it.
We sit on the phone for 5 calls each about an hour and a half long. Each call reveals one or two of the 7 secrets, and we're getting ready for call three tonight.
But those first two calls really had me taking a look at priorities, life focus and "the ultimate questions" for me.
Here's the biggest highlight from the first call:
If you knew you could not fail, and that money, public opinion, and other external factors did not matter, what would you choose for your life?
That question left me - a woman with many words - silent. For a very long time.
I had to take a lot of time to dig down past years of subterfuge and enculturation to get at what was really tugging at my heart.
And what I found almost shocked me. I say almost because I knew it was there all along, it was just hiding under the years of dust and grime.
No. I don't REALLY want to be a rock star. Although music does play a role in this.
No. I don't REALLY want to leave Michigan - contrary to what my husband thinks. I do want to do a bit of travel, but I like being based in the Midwest.
I'm still having a hard time putting it all into words. One thing for sure, I want to start a scholarship fund for young women. So I'm getting the wheels going on that this month. It'll be a while before it's fully realized, but I've learned that you've got to start somewhere, and you've got to START, or dreams never become reality.
So stay tuned. Big things are happening in my life. What about yours?
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