Women With Know How Magazine

TM

Inside the Mind of an

Entrepreneur

From the publisher Dear Readers,

This month’s article about Karen Hund is really an inspiring one.

She really shows what ever life throws at you; you can overcome it with the right attitude.

Thank you to those of you who sent in such great comments about our magazine!

A few women said “Great Magazine, Thanks for Sharing!”

Mimi Zelman

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Publisher

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A male reader said that “This magazine is very inspiring for anyone who has dreams and goals to accomplish.”

We will continue to furnish all our readers every month with inspiring articles to help you grow personally and professionally.

Watch for our awesome new online store!

Are you a Woman With Know How? Well, all of us are, and you can have wonderful clothing and accessories that say “I am a Women With know How”!

Details will be out soon.

Wishing you all a great month, and Happy Valentines day!!

Mimi

Contents 4

PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT

Anna Smith Hibiscus Graphix

For more advertising information call Mimi at 704-491-1207 or email her at: mimi@womenwithknowhow.com

6 Why Spend on

Training and Coaching

8 Stop Reinventing the Wheel

12 Inside the Mind

of an Entrepreneur

18 Commercial or Professional 20 Making a Difference

in your Community can be as easy as Taking 5

26 Sisters 28 YFebruary our Personal Forcast is the Time to be Innovative 30 The Art of the Schmooze

An Age-Old Practice but Does it Really Work?

32 Pan Broiling Steak: Beef 101

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Serving Charlotte and Charleston Publisher/President Mimi L. Zelman mimi@womenwithknowhow.com Vice President Sales & Marketing Lea Ann Meech lmeech@womenwithknowhow.com Creative Director, Graphic Design SPARK Publications Fabi@SPARKpublications.om Copy Editor Cristina Cassidy Sales Representatives Karyn Beach Karyn@womenwithknowhow.com Kim Hughes kim@womenwithknowhow.com Margo Lord Margo@womenwithknowhow.com Contributing Writers Dawn Leitner of Couch You 2Lead Janet Anderson of Anderson PC Training Kim Hughes of Women With Know How Charleston Contact Mimi Zelman 704-491-1207 mimi@womenwithknowhow.com

Copyright Š2010 Cover photography: by Episode XI Studios, LLC

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Professional Spotlight

Anna Smith Hibiscus Graphix

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

By Cristina Cassidy

What inspired you to become a graphic designer?

I always loved problemsolving and coming up with new ideas. Back in high school playing around in computer lab during one art class, was a break from drawing. I asked my teacher “What kind of art is this?”, then did everything I could to find a college that offered graphic design. The rest is history.

What is the biggest marketing and branding mistake that you see your clients make?

Not being consistent with ads, logo placement, or colors, keeping them recognizable to all clients in all medias. Then there are business owners who don’t want to invest money in branding. They would rather have their relatives design

Anna Smith Hibiscus Graphix

4

Start networking early as it will help you decide what you want to do.

What is the biggest satisfaction you receive in your business?

I get great satisfaction from seeing my work up on the web, going out in emails or my sign designs at events. I also take value from each referral coming from someone who hasn’t met me, but they remember my card or someone else’s logo/card I designed.

What is your number one professional goal for 2010?

To build and maintain all the

new business relationships I have forged from last year and starting new this year, and leaving my mark on Charlotte as a graphic designer they need to know in business.

You are an actual Charlotte area native – What is the best change that has come to the area?

The new development in the city really excites me. To know that we are growing and that bring jobs in the down economy. Also, the amount of networking has drastically grown in just four years from where it use to be.

Charlotte is one of the most networked cities. It is the biggest little city I know of.

What is your favorite place to hang out and relax?

I really like to hang out at my place. It is close to downtown and if we all wanted we can ride the transit downtown in 15 minutes or take a cab. I work from home as well, so sometimes it is nice to get out and check out all the new cool spots with Kim of 704Events.com as the events take place.

What is the biggest lesson in business you have learned over the last year?

I guess the big lesson is that

you have to do what makes you happy and for me that used to be creating signs, but everything is going digital and while signs still exist, it is harder to help a client with that when most of the time they need logo help first. I have moved more into the role of marketing by adding website design to my repertoire. If the times call for a new recipe then you have to change your ingredients.

You are a young professional; what advice do you have to give to other young professionals?

Don’t wait to go to college, go right out of high school.

Get college over with or it will suck the life out of you.

I found my passion and ran with it. Start networking early as it will help you decide what you want to do. My first networking experience was awesome. I built my network of businesses that both support me and stand behind my decisions in business. I have those same professionals as my mentors and best friends.

MORE Anna Smith Hibiscus Graphix 704.606.4440 Anna@HibiscusGraphix.com www.HibiscusGraphix.com

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

their logo for free without research and without creating guidelines. Those business owners struggle with each project without having someone there to help with each advertising piece using stuff they create in Microsoft word and think that looks professional. What does that say about their business and how they invest in it? How can you trust them to take good care of you?

5

Career

by Robyn Crigger, CEO

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Compass Career Management Solutions-OI Partners Inc.

Times May be Tough, But Not Investing in Your Employees is Tougher

Why spend on

Training

&

?

Coaching

Many companies are struggling now, and yet few are willing to spend any money on strengthening their workforces. Obviously, it is understandable for those handling the funds to discourage any

“unnecessary spending,” but, there is an old saying that you have to “spend money to make money.”

6

Employees Want More Training How do you put a value on “investing in your employees”? Can you guarantee a company that if they spend money on training or coaching that business will multiply? NO! No one can guarantee that.

Still, if you don’t invest in your employees, what will happen?

There is a good chance those workers will seek out employers who “take care of them.” Employees have responded to surveys for years expressing their desire to receive more training. Chances are fairly good that those employees chose to work with their employers because they liked the work, valued the employer’s reputation, found the workplace a good environment, etc. So why do employees leave?

Sometimes this is due to conflicts, integrity issues, personal reasons, better

benefits, and better salaries, but in most surveys employees do not list bigger salaries as their top reason for leaving. In fact, salaries usually rank fourth or fifth. Employees look for respect, honest work, and appreciative employers. Most employees want to grow and be their best at what they do.

They take pride in doing a good job for their employers.

The Right Coach Can Make a Difference It is hard to measure the impact of training and coaching of employees, but it DOES make a difference.

If the employer selects a reputable, effective trainer/ coach and approaches any efforts strategically, viewing the vendor as a partner, better results can be produced. What is the purpose of the training/ coaching? Who are the appropriate employees to participate and will help to benefit the company?

The Best Coach for the Job How do you select the best resource for this effort? Someone who is experienced, honest and upfront with you/decision maker, who can help you create the most effective program for your workforce and industry, and will see you through this process.

If you are going to spend the money to invest in your company and workforce, it is critical to select the right “partner.” You don’t want a “yes man,” but someone who can help you brainstorm and think through all the pros and cons. You need an “effective program”!

Chances are your CFO or Controller may feel nervous about spending the money, but with the right plan and a quality business partner, brighter days are more likely to be ahead. Being the Decision Maker is a HUGE responsibility. It takes wisdom and courage, but the rewards are priceless!

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Ever think about how these old saying came about?

It is easier for decisionmakers to spend money on something tangible, with the understanding that it will benefit the overall goal.

A company’s workforce, however, isn’t viewed the same way.

7

Communication

by Janet Anderson Anderson PC Training

Stop Reinventing

Using and creating templates

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

the Wheel

8

Stop wasting time Don’t you get tired of doing things over and over again?

There must be a better way.

In your day-to-day use of your PC, there are a lot of ways of at least starting with a form or template that has the information that you are repeating over and over again. Why re-invent the wheel? Or you might open a document someone else created and change some information and choose “Save As” so that you do not copy over theirs. This isn’t bad, but you just might accidentally blow away their file by copying over it.

Uh Oh! If you are using Microsoft products on your PC or Mac, you have a lot of templates

of those and you have the opportunity to not only view the available templates, but also to download them onto your computer to use. Note, however, that there are some templates that non-Microsoft employees have created…. some are good, some are not so good.

Templates on your computer For example, in Word 2007 you would choose Office button/New and on the left “Installed Templates”. For Mac Word 2008 it is under File/ Project Gallery, and “installed templates”***.

Here you would find a listing of the installed templates such as fax covers, resume documents, etc. They even have a few merged documents that if you name your fields in the database the same as the template’s fields, you can merge and you are set to go.

Take a few minutes to look at the choices. There is just about everything you can imagine --agendas, calendars, meeting notes,

In Excel you have templates for billing statements, invoices, expense reports, budgets…even a blood pressure Tracker.

Not what you are looking for? Check out templates on line You haven’t seen nothin’ yet. In that same menu where you choose “Installed templates,” there is a choice for “templates online.” Choose any one

fax covers, reports, resumes, greeting cards, contracts, and flyers ….need I go on?

And that is just in WORD. In EXCEL you have things like agendas, employee time cards, calendars, purchase orders and schedules. Even POWERPOINT has templates to draw from. In 2003 you had an auto-content wizard, which I LOVED, that would guide you through creating a presentation based on certain content. For example, a model (template) to

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February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

at your fingertips. These are files that can be used as models or forms that you can add to and create an original file. When you load Office on your computer, it installs a lot of templates ready for you to use as is, or use to create your own templates.

9

Take the time to look at the existing templates on your computer, templates online, and create your own based on documents you use over and over. communicate bad news would give you slides that would have actual directions in the form of bulleted points helping you create a presentation. They removed that from the 2007 suite.

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

When you find the one you like, simply click on it, then choose download.

This would open it in the application ready for you to

use. When you fill out YOUR information, you save is as a normal file.

Templates you can create You can create your own templates based on an existing template, file or from scratch. To create one based on an existing template, you simply open the template (for example, Office button/

new/choose a template from your computer or online).

Modify all of the pertinent information that you want to become part of the template, then Office button/Save as/ (Word, Excel or PowerPoint) template. This should be saved in the directory your application looks for its templates. Depending on the windows version you have, you may have to change to the templates directory.

How to use the templates To use an online template you simply download it. It will

Karen Hund

Overture introduces you and your colleagues to potential clients using our acclaimed multimedia presentation. Many businesses, especially those in professional services, need more than a website and print collateral.

The prospect has to meet you. Establishing personal chemistry is the key to cultivating a relationship, then earning a client’s business. “ We like to buy from people we like.”

To find out more, call Karen Hund at 704.907.4376 or visit our website — www.cv-vision.com

10

If it is one you created and saved, choose Office Button/ New/ My templates, you will see your templates. To use

it to create a new file, just double click on the template name, or click once on it and choose the create button.

If you want to create a template FROM an existing template, when you are in the dialog box where your templates are displayed, you click on the radio button on the bottom right-hand side that says template, then choose create.

Here’s the good news, the next time you use that template it will appear as the

very first time you opened it.

I encourage you to take the time to look at the existing templates on your computer, templates that are online, and create your own based on documents you use over and over again.

Stop reinventing the wheel!

Invent something else!

MORE Janet Anderson Anderson PC Training 980-438-2066 www.AndersonPCTraining.com

Let me help you find your dream home

Maggie Redmond is your Real Estate Professional Call Maggie Today!

704.779.2992 cell maggie.redmond@allentate.com Go to www.MaggieRedmond.com to View My Featured Properties

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

be opened in the application that created it as a new document, spreadsheet or presentation. You modify it and save it as a normal file.

To use a template already on your computer, you choose Office Button/New/Installed templates. Click on the one you want and choose create.

You can also double click on the template name. Put in your own info an save as normal.

11

By Kimberly K. Hughes

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

This Dynamic Woman Knows the Value of Hard Work and Perseverance

12

Inside the Mind

of an

Entrepreneur

Laying the Ground Work Karen Hund learned at a young age about hard work.

She was raised by a single mom in Detroit Michigan, and was the youngest of five children. Her mother, who got by without child support or alimony, lived and practiced the ‘Midwest Mentality’, where working hard was a way of life.

Karen never forgot her mother’s example.

At the age of 16, Karen got a job as a waitress at a 24hour diner, which gave her the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life. According to Karen, the lessons learned from working the midnight shift were an education in itself.

After graduating from high school, Karen felt completely unprepared for college. Work was all that she had known, so she decided to forego college, with the exception of a few stints at community colleges. “My drive to do my own thing was greater than my desire to go to school”, says Karen. She worked at the diner until she was 19, when she moved to Washington D.C. to help her brother in a business venture.

knew that the used car business was not for her.

She planned on returning to Detroit in the summer to open a booth at the city’s annual Ethnic Festival and was looking for products she could sell. At the time she was working as a waitress at the JW Marriott hotel, near the White House. One day when she was waiting on a gentleman who was conducting a job interview, she noticed he had a stack of catalogs on the table A Move to the Big City with the very items she When Karen arrived in was looking to sell back in Washington D.C., she didn’t Detroit. She started up a feel as if she fit in. The young conversation with him, and woman born and raised in as fate would have it, she a blue collar community ended up interviewing with found herself in a completely him for a sales job. She was white collar, politically active hired and soon was on her environment. Added to that, way to New York City to get her brother Joe, who was her new career started as a in the Air Force, had to do manufacturer’s rep. “Looking a tour in Japan, leaving back in retrospect, landing Karen in charge of running that job was my jackpot as his used car lot business. it changed the course of my Before her brother left, Karen life in a good way.” helped him create a new business model of renting The Next Phase out used cars to members After training, Karen was of the military coming into put in charge of selling in Washington D.C. Karen Washington, D.C., Northern considers this her first Virginia, Maryland, and entrepreneurial endeavor.

Delaware. The experience was fantastic for Karen; she A Chance Meeting had no one to report to, Leads to a no one watching over her Major Change shoulder, and she worked After a few years, Karen out of her apartment. In a

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Some people say that when it comes to being an entrepreneur you either have it or you don’t. Others say it is a learned behavior based on attitude and upbringing. Whatever people say, Karen Hund is a woman who knows firsthand about the challenges of being an entrepreneur. She understands that it requires a life style of taking risks to make your dreams a reality, while never letting your ‘what if’s’ and ‘I cant’s’ drown out your ‘will do’s’.

13

with Tom James, a men’s clothing company that sells directly to gentlemen After seven successful in their offices. She years, Karen left her position relocated to Richmond, and entered what she called Virginia, and opened up a the “dark years,” working at highly successful branch jobs she didn’t enjoy doing of the company in the - from selling handheld Charlottesville, Virginia, dictation equipment to credit market. “Although I was card processing equipment working for a company,“ to working in the “death says Karen, “my leaders care industry.” Karen says, always gave me just “My personality just didn’t enough rope to keep me suit the death care industry. from hanging myself!” Karen The funeral director’s enjoyed a very successful were always shushing me ten-year career with Tom because I was too bubbly!” James and continued to work for them when she While still living in D.C., relocated to Charlotte Karen took a position in 1998, her husband’s February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

sense, Karen was her own boss.

14

hometown. Once in Charlotte a craving for pie changed her destiny.

The Wake-Up Call of a Lifetime In 2001, Karen stopped into Pie Safe, a bakery in Matthews, North Carolina, that was on the brink of going out of business. Karen says, “The strawberry-rhubarb pie was the best thing I ever put into my mouth!” With the help of another investor, Karen bought into the business and soon, instead of going into bankruptcy, the bakery’s name was on everyone’s lips across

That night she began having seizures in her sleep; “I felt like there were explosions going on in my head,” states Karen. That morning, Karen’s husband took her to the emergency room and after a CAT Scan, Karen was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Within weeks, Karen was at Duke Medical Center having her brain tumor removed. “The lesson from this was that I knew that God wasn’t done with me, but he gave me a warning to reprioritize my life. I had put work before my family and this made me stop dead in my tracks and reevaluate my life.”

Karen. “You might fail and realize that it wasn’t the right path for you. Sometimes a perceived failure is a blessing in disguise but regardless, you took the risk. You also benefit from a hands-on experience that you could never learn in a book.”

The blessings in disguise were right on Karen’s horizon. She created a new business, House of Hund, her own custom clothing service , where she could work from home, create a new lifestyle and most importantly, work at her own pace. She spent more time at home, began practicing Yoga and created a much needed equilibrium to her life.

When Passion Meets Purpose In 2007, another one of Karen’s brothers, Chuck Welnack, started a company called CV|Vision, based out of Phoenix, that leverages new media so people can network virtually. Karen admits she knew that her brother was on to something significant back then, but was not ready to partner After Karen recovered, with him because of her own The Pie Safe was sold and venture, House of Hund. In though that was upsetting for the spring of 2009, Karen her, Karen’s positive attitude revisited the idea of working did not waiver. “When with him and though she people say failure isn’t an never wanted to work for option, it’s not true,” says anyone again, she knew

“The lesson from this was that I knew that God wasn’t done with me, but he gave me a warning to reprioritize my life. I had put work before my family and this made me stop dead in my tracks and reevaluate my life.” she needed to be a part of CV|Vision.

“After the market meltdown in the fall of 2008, there is a vulnerability that surrounds all of us,” says Karen. “All of the rules have changed, not only in this economy, but forever. Web 2.0 has given us a medium unlike anything we have ever

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Charlotte. After investing time and energy with her then business partner, the business thrived!! With Karen’s encouragement, her business partner took a much needed vacation, while Karen took over all aspects of running the business for a week. On the very last day of her partner’s vacation, Karen came home and was thrilled with how much energy and momentum the business had taken on. Then things went south very quickly.

15

experienced and we help people leverage the power of it. CV|Vision produces and hosts multi-media presentations for people to promote themselves and their businesses.

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

“We brand business people through our Rational Search system so they can perpetually network themselves via the internet.

You can learn more about an individual through Rational Search than you ever could face-to-face.

Networking is the number

16

one activity that everyone who needs to be relevant in this marketplace has to participate in, regardless if you’re in career transition or not. If you don’t have a web presence you are conspicuously absent.”

A new aspect of CV|Vision’s services called Overture was introduced in late 2009. Karen states, “It’s very exciting, it allows people to introduce themselves to anyone, anytime, anywhere. It’s brief, concise and has impact. It really

is about getting that five minute meeting when it’s convenient for your prospect.

It significantly shortens the sales cycle. At the end of the day, we do business with people we like. Overture gives you the opportunity to get your foot in the door.”

Although Karen didn’t plan on closing down House of Hund, she finds that she is completely immersed in the success of CV|Vision.

“This has given me a fresh perspective on business development and it has

What it Takes to Be an Entrepreneur Throughout Karen’s life journey she has learned priceless lessons and received an abundance of knowledge by working for herself, She does caution that an entrepreneurial lifestyle may not be fit for everyone. “I don’t believe that everyone can be an entrepreneur. It really takes

someone who can embrace and recognize both their strengths and weaknesses, not be afraid to delegate and know when to relinquish control. It’s also imperative to surround yourself with people of integrity who you can use as a sounding board.”

creating your own destiny”, says Karen. “Knowing that your ideas and decisions can enhance the lives of others, how you positively effect people in their lives. is the true measure of success.”

When Karen considers all that she has been through, experienced and overcome, she notes that her personal life lessons and adventures have meant more to her than any monetary gains. “There isn’t a better feeling than

Karen Hund khund@cv-vsion.com 704-907-4376 http://www.cv-vision.com/ Let Me Introduce Myself: http://karenhund. cvvstory.com

Peace of Mind and Long Walks on the Beach Individuals, business owners, and seniors are turning to CPA Nancy Church to help them regain their peace of mind and have more time for themselves. With more than 20 years in financial services, Nancy utilizes her passion for organization and planning to help people track their financial information, establish and stay on a budget, maintain tax documents, prepare tax returns, and even help people with trust and estate issues. She customizes her services to fit the specific needs of each client.

Let Nancy Church help you spend more time enjoying life and less managing paperwork.

Contact Nancy Church today at 704.607.3993 or nancy@myfinancialmanager.com to schedule a free 90-minute consultation.

MORE

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OUTPLACEMENT: We remain Experts in this industry of Change Management.

The winds of change bring opportunity.TM

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

totally energized me. I’m in the business of helping people stay in business and continue to grow by embracing new media.”

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www.CompassCareer.com

17

A d v e r t o r i a l

Hair Products

Alan Daniel Salon

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

“My hair does not behave the same when I wash my hair using a store bought product.”

18

Commercial or Professional?

A d v e r t o r i a l

I would not trust Botox in a bottle, cellulite control or removal, varicose vein reduction or any physically cosmetic look to a bottle from the “five and dime.”

The same can be said for hair. I have vowed not to use commercial hair products for ongoing care of my mane for very good reasons. I have noticed the texture, life and luster of my hair changes.

My hair does not behave the same when I wash my hair using a store bought product. Prior to becoming educated on why and how professional products are beneficial, I was the victim of many commercial products.

When one left my hair hard, I switched to another promoting suppleness, shine and manageability, only to be disappointed by that product when it left my hair limp or weighed down.

A confirmed user of luxury and premium professional products only, I have received many compliments from both genders as to my hair

luster and healthy look. My hair is more manageable, and has grown more than six inches in a year.

My stylist, Leslie, at Alan Daniels Salon marvels at how my hair is growing.

Yes, I am an Alan Daniels Salon guest.

Call Alan Daniels Salon and speak with a professional stylist today.

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February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Economic constraints have forced many to become “kitchen beauticians.” You see commercials touting that the hair care and look sought after through professional care services can be achieved by using over-the-counter hair care products. There are no arguments to dissuade anyone from seeking and using any method they feel works for him or her. But comparing over-the-counter products to professional products is like comparing professional cosmetic services to the topical commercially promoted products.

19

Communication

by Mara F. Campolungo

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Sandbox Solutions

20

Tips for developing an effective social media strategy

Taking the

“Aaaaaaargh” out of

Social Media

Could the dentist possibly seem less painful than tackling the concept of developing a social media “strategy”? Strategic planning may conjure up a feeling of dread, but it doesn’t have to be a negative experience.

Our company’s business focus is about using the right tools in your sandbox to conduct smart business.

So here is a mini-toolkit of tips and ideas about how to successfully develop an online strategy that connects with current clients and helps to drive in new ones.

1.

Understand it. It may feel like a chore and

create some anxiety, but social media can be fun.

Your company’s growth and stamina will be greater in the long term if you are prepared.

Embrace it as you would any other medium in your marketing mix.

2.

Look at the long term: Where does your

company want to be in the next year or two, and how can folding in social media assist you in achieving these objectives?

3.

Define your objectives. These

your competition connecting with clients on line? If yes, how? What is their messaging? How are they delivering the content and is it of value to your clients’ business?

6.

Be choosy in selecting your tools.

Many clients make the fatal mistake of jumping on a site or using a specific application because that’s what everyone else is doing or because that’s what the latest buzz is all about.

Select the tools that work best for your business and your clients.

objectives are the road map for your destination.

Often, the objectives vary by business, but many common ones include increasing customer engagement, finding new prospects, enhancing current client relationships, exposing your brand, or increasing brand awareness.

Develop your Which specific objectives content. Once you have suit your business goals? a defined game plan, formulate a reservoir of Define your three months worth of game plan. Too many content. Seek feedback on times, businesses decide to this content from respected “get into social media” and colleagues and ensure it fail because they lacked a provides helpful tips without game plan, got discouraged giving away the farm. or failed to plan for the consistent and branded Ensure your messaging required to message is relevant. communicate with clients After you crafted the and potential clients on a content and gained your regular basis. feedback, measure it against your objectives. Does the Scope out your message differentiate your competition. Be organization? Will the client knowledgeable of who learn something new or a you are up against and helpful tip after reading this? make yourself aware of Have you piqued the interest competitive advantages of a new or potential client where you can stand out. Is by showing your intelligence

7.

4.

8.

5.

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

If you had to choose between developing an effective social media strategy and heading for the dentist’s chair, would you head for the dentist’s chair?

21

or expertise in a specific area?

9.

Engage. You have a golden opportunity to

communicate with your clients. When they answer your posting, answer back-quickly. Provide them with avenues for creativity in their

own business, discover where they need assistance and investigate what makes them tick. Not only should they be learning from you, but you should also be learning about them.

10.

Build relationships. If you

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

are successfully engaging your clients, you will be building relationships, not simply selling your product or service. Utilize this strategy as a vehicle for strengthening your relationships or developing new ones.

22

11.

Maintain the momentum. At the end of

Month One of your launch, take the feedback you received from your campaign and begin formulating the next three months of content.

Keep the excitement and the energy going so the creation process isn’t always a lastminute rush. Be intentional and purposeful with your content.

12.

Take the time. All of this takes

time. Effective social media planning and implementation is not a wham bam initiative. It takes time. Time to plan.

Time to connect. Time to engage. Time to measure.

But the time spent, if allocated properly, will reap great rewards.

Marketing 101 that developing an effective strategy requires an effective measurement mechanism. Measuring your social media effectiveness is easier than you think and an integral component in the overall strategy. Measurement can be tracked both quantitatively (unique visitors to your website, fans to your page, followers on your blog) and qualitatively (types of prospects you are attracting). The old adage is true: “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.”

MORE Mara F. Campolungo is a partner with Sandbox Solutions, a business and marketing communications, project management and strategic planning company in Charlotte.

With more than 20 years experience in strategic planning, project management and marketing communications, she’s a candidate for SMART certification in social media. Visit InYourSandbox.com or call 704.201.3354.

14.

Repeat steps 1-13. Planning is an

ongoing process. It should be continuous, dynamic and most importantly, fun.

Smart business isn’t child’s play and smart social media execution is the result of embracing online opportunities, planning your strategy and executing effectively. By using this mini-toolkit of ideas and methodically executing your game plan, you can increase exposure, develop deeper relationships and cultivate new ones ...and most importantly, take the “Aaaaaaargh” out of the process. And that’s not child’s play!

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February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

13.

Measure.

We all remember from

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23

Community

5

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Making a Difference in Your Community Can be as Easy as

24

How often have you looked around your neighborhood or community and dreamed up ways you could change things for the better? Yet, for many people, making a difference is easier said than done. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, only 25 percent of Americans volunteer for an organization at least once a year, and nearly 45 percent of those who don’t volunteer cite “lack of time” as the main reason.

Family Features

Taking

Here are ways you can make a difference in your community whether you have a few seconds or a few months:

5

Take Seconds: Tweet your ideas to your followers on social internet websites, encouraging them to take action or learn more about your topic. You can also use e-mail or social networking sites to tell one person every day about your passion and how you want to change it.

5

Take Minutes: Make a donation to a cause that speaks to your passions or consider donating to a nonprofit organization that serves to make communities better, such as

Girls for a Change (www. girlsforachange.org), which empowers and instructs girls on how to implement change in their communities and lives.

5

Take Hours: Write a letter to your local newspaper, elected official, and/or a corporation about your ideas for change. Or pick an organization in your community, such as a nonprofit organization, school, church or park, and volunteer. You might be able to plug into an existing volunteer program or suggest a new volunteer role. You’ll be surprised how much you can help and how good it will make you feel to be a part of a group that’s doing good within your community.

5

Take Days: Organize an event, like a bake sale or neighborhood block party, to get the word out about your cause. Make sure to give participants a way to get active at the end of the event, such as e-mailing

them the link to a Web site for more information and ways to help or encourage them to get involved in a specific cause or organization.

5

Take Months: Design and implement your own social change project. The makers of Pine-Sol cleaners are offering a free “Make a Powerful Difference Action Kit,” which provides a stepby-step guide on how to create change in your community. For 80 years, the makers of Pine-Sol cleaners have been making a powerful difference at home, and now they are recognizing and rewarding women who are making great changes outside the home through its Powerful Difference campaign. To receive your free action kit and learn more about the inspiring work of others, visit www.PowerfulDifference.com.

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Creating social change in your neighborhood or community doesn’t have to be a daunting task or take a lot of time. It can be as simple as identifying an issue and taking one step that transforms your passion into an action that begins the process of positive change.

25

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Womanhood

26

Sisters Sisters

thought. Haven’t I just gotten married? Haven’t I just joined the couple-world? I’m now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup!

Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!’

But she listened to her mother. She kept contact with her sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to

‘Don’t forget your sisters, they’ll be more important as you get older. important as you get older.

No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need sisters.

Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.’

‘Remember that ‘sisters’ means ALL the women... your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too.

‘You’ll need other women.

Women always do.’

What a funny piece of advice!’ the young woman

understand that her mother really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, sisters are the mainstays of her life.

After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I’ve learned:

This says it all: Time passes.

Life happens.

Distance separates.

Children grow up.

Jobs come and go.

Love waxes and wanes.

Men don’t do what they’re supposed to do.

Hearts break.

Parents die.

Colleagues forget favors.

Careers end.

BUT… Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley’s rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley’s end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughtersin-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family: all bless our life!

The world wouldn’t be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead.

Nor did we know how much we would need each other.

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

s

A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter.

‘Don’t forget your sisters,’ she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. ‘They’ll be more

27

Let’s Talk

by Marcie Williams-Browning Owner Chrysalis Hypnosis Center

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Your Personal

28

Forecast February is the Time to be Innovative

Over the coming year I will share with you areas of focus for each month. As you create your plan for success and work that plan, these suggestions will give you a clear focus for the month. Write down your goals, dreams and aspirations and look at them often. Writing them down brings them into the physical world and makes them tangible and real.

As you consider areas to focus your attention on this month be sure to look at each area from your mental and emotional state, your physical well-being, your spiritual needs as well as your financial ones.

The color for the month of February is purple

Inventive Solutions Think outside the box when it comes to changing your life to match your dreams. Use your own brilliance to invent new solutions. See life with unconventional eyes and watch your ideas blossom.

Use your understanding of your life and desires and match those with a deep understanding of how things work to summon the most innovative solution.

The Future As you dream your life, look for new trends and unconventional approaches to old challenges. This is the perfect time to use high technology to help you move forward with your dreams.

This is also an excellent time to plan out your long-range goals. Always follow your heart’s desire.

Be The Humanitarian As you work out your goals and dreams, include seeking

outcomes that are the best for everyone involved.

Choose this time to identify with humankind in the best way that you can. Show interest in others and focus on a larger world view of life’s challenges.

February affirmation: I am the creator and innovator of my dreams.

Revelations Use the energy of this time to create and sustain excitement about every facet of your life. Expect the unexpected. Embrace surprises and receive surprising results. This is the time to revitalize experiences and enjoy and embrace freedom.

The Big Picture View your life and world with objectivity. Seek and absorb knowledge as you project your dreams. See humor in each situation and circumstance and help others to see and find humor in their lives. This is the time to manifest your dreams in the biggest way you can possibly imagine.

Friendship This time is ideal for renewing and rekindling friendships. It is also perfect

for group functions and outings. Use this time to join with others in creative, productive ways. Set in motion the intention of your dreams with open, friendly approaches in all situations.

Give and receive love for humankind.

Detachment Incorporate this time to correct detachment, aloofness and fears of getting involved. Avoid shocking behavior and especially inflexible opinions.

This is the month for circulation in a joyful, loving way and breaking the bonds of self-defeating detachment.

As you create and work your plan this month take a look at yourself with objective eyes and include those areas where you need some work and celebrate the areas where you have done well. Life is a journey and one we are meant to learn and teach from. Every single experience we have we are learning through and teaching from. Learn well and live in joy!

MORE Marcie Williams-Browning, CH Chrysalis Hypnosis Center 1208 The Plaza Charlotte NC 28205 803.493.0332 www.MindBodySpiritBiz.com

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

and the theme is “Dream Your Life as You Want It.” It is the time to look to the future with positive thoughts and with objective eyes. Some of the areas to consider are listed below. The best day in February to write down your desires and wishes is the 13th. This is the day of the new moon which is considered the magical day for wishes to be expressed.

29

Networking

by Cristina Cassidy Cristina Cassidy Productions, LLC

It’s an Age-Old Practice, But Does It Really Work?

Art

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

The

30

of the

Schmooze Schmoozing is a word with many connotations, some good, some bad.

What do you think of when you hear the word? Do you suddenly imagine some Hollywood director wearing dark glasses saying “Let’s do lunch. I’ll have my people call your people”? Or does it sound like a cozy meeting with a friend, where you talk about friends and family over a cup of coffee?

It could be either one of the above, but in terms of business, it is so much more.

First, let’s make sure we know exactly what it means. The online dictionary Wiktionary defines it as a verb that means: To talk casually, especially in order to gain an advantage or make a social connection. Some of us see the word

1. Take your time.

When you arrive at a networking event, take a few minutes to get a lay of the land. Look around, see who is there, who you know and who you don’t know. If you are nervous, seeing people you know may help relax you.

You may want to talk to them first, and they may introduce you to others.

Maybe a little reframing would help here. Advantage, is another word that has postive and negative connotations. The negative is to “use” someone for wrong purposes. But to gain an advantage in a business context isn’t always a bad thing, especially if you believe 2. Introduce in your product or service. yourself casually and comfortably. It’s always Making Prospects better to be introduced by Feel Comfortable someone else if you can If you are “schmoozing with swing it. If that’s not possible, someone and they like you, take your time, walk up to they may be more interested a new person, introduce in doing business with you yourself casually, maybe talk than with someone they about something completely don’t feel as comfortable with. unrelated to business, and By being personable and then, when the moment is friendly you may have gained right, move into a topic that is an advantage over someone business-related. else. In fact, I would say that this is the true art of the 3. Act as if. In other “schmooze.” words, if you are nervous, try not to show it. One technique You all know the over-eager I love to use is to pretend entrepreneur who accosts that I am my favorite celebrity you at a networking event. when I walk into the room.

They have read all the Cindy Crawford is one of latest books on networking my favorites because of her and have spotted you as stateliness and beauty. Now, someone to practice on.

I’m 5’4” and anything but I’m not knocking their sleek, but when I pretend to efforts; everyone has to start be Cindy, I can glide across a somewhere. But maybe room like nobody’s business! they need to use some of the following tips before 4. Listen, listen, they become what I call a listen. This is the golden “schmoozer loser.” rule of communicating

effectively. Schmoozing is not about you talking about yourself. It is learning about the other person and finding out how you and your business can help them achieve what they want.

5. The three-word

rule. This is my favorite schmoozing tool, made famous by television talk show host Oprah Winfrey.

When in a conversation, always repeat the last three words the person has said to you. It forces you to listen intently to what they are saying, and makes them feel heard. Believe me, this one works.

Strutting Your Stuff You can be the best schmoozer in the world, but you have to get out there and strut your stuff, even when you don’t want to. I tend to have this problem myself. I hate getting dressed up and having to meet people I don’t know. But when I make the effort to do it, I not only usually have a good time, but I also often make fantastic business contacts.

So next time you are struggling about whether to schmooze or not to schmooze, remember that it can be an effective tool to promote you and your business.

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

“advantage” and think, “That’s not for me. I’m not into taking ‘advantage’ of anyone!”

31

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Food

32 Family Features

Pan-Broiling Steak:

Beef

Pan-broiling on the stovetop is especially handy for quick and delicious steak dinners. Simply place the meat directly into a preheated nonstick skillet – that’s it, nothing more! Keep the heat setting at medium to guarantee even browning.

The Featured Cut “The flat iron steak originates from the chuck and is well-marbled and tender – holding its own against premier steaks from the rib and loin – and only surpassed in tenderness by the tenderloin at about half the cost,” says Chef Dave Zino, executive director of the Culinary Center for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

“Pan-broiling showcases this steak’s extraordinary flavor. And it should be noted that the flat iron is an excellent source of protein, providing 21 grams per 3-ounce cooked serving.”

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

101

33

Three Easy Steps

February 2010 | The premier women’s business resource guide

Step 1: Heat heavy, nonstick skillet 5 minutes over medium heat.

Step 2: Remove beef from refrigerator and sprinkle with preferred seasonings.

Place in preheated skillet without overcrowding. Do not add oil or water and do not cover.

Step 3: Cook flat iron steak (about 8 ounces each) 13 to 15 minutes, turning once. To determine doneness, insert an

instant-read thermometer horizontally from the side, penetrating the thickest part or center of the steak. Allow 10 to 15 seconds for the thermometer to register the internal temperature. Steaks should be cooked to 145°F (medium rare) or 160°F (medium). After cooking, season with salt, as desired.

For more pan-broiling tips and recipes, visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.

Total Recipe Time: 30 minutes Makes 4 servings 2 beef shoulder top blade (flat iron) steaks (about 8 ounces each) 1 cup balsamic vinegar 3/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper, divided 1/4 cup butter, softened 4 teaspoons all-purpose flour 1 cup beef broth

Bring vinegar to a boil in small saucepan; reduce heat to medium. Cook 20 minutes or until vinegar is reduced to 1/4 cup.

Press 1/2 teaspoon pepper evenly onto beef steaks. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Place steaks in skillet; cook steaks 13 to 15 minutes for medium rare (145°F) to medium (160°F) doneness, turning once. Remove to platter; keep warm.

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Flat Iron Steak with Balsamic Pepper Sauce

Mix butter and flour in small bowl until smooth.

Add reduced vinegar, broth and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper to same skillet. Gradually whisk in butter mixture until smooth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 1 minute, stirring constantly. Serve steaks with sauce.

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self-publishing

custom publishing

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your idea

our expertise

it’s your time to self-publish

Currents PRIDE May-June 2009

Sheri Lynch

Bob & Sheri co-host and best-selling author of “Hello, My Name is Mommy” Stacey Simms is the award-winning

with Al Gardner and Stacey Simms and Health Headlines: The Show, both heard on NewsTalk 1110 WBT. Stacey started

anchor and reporter, first in upstate New York, then in Charlotte at CBS affiliate WBTV. She’s a graduate of Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Public Communications. Stacey lives in Davidson, NC with her family. She tries not to set off the smoke detectors too often.

About the Author

Kroghie Andresen has enjoyed hunting “Having worked with her on the anchor desk, I always knew Stacey could deliver the and the outdoors since his early teens in news.

Now she’s delivered a wonderful book of recipes. This book will not only make eastern North Carolina.

His waterfowl yourexperiences stomachbegan happy; it’ll he help hunting when shotyour heart, since all the profits go to help the millions of two lesser scaupjuvenile from a stake blind in the kids with diabetes.” mouth of Bath Creek at the age of fifteen. sinceJeff thenGlor his passion for hunting has The Show National Correspondent, CBS News grown andEarly flourished.

I Can’t

Cook,

a collection of essays, recipes and culinary tips.

It’s a tell-all collaboration between twenty-five

poured down the drain. Her stories are as honest

Daniel Stowe in Full Bloom

as they are humorous. But Stacey isn’t ready to hang up her oven mitts just yet.

2010 PRODUCT CATALOG

in town to share their favorite recipes for this book.

Many of the featured chefs have generously

cooks like Stacey.

Recipes range from Albóndigas, Bruschetta,

Great Winter Parties

and Cucumber Soup … to White Chocolate Lamb. Some of the recipes are easy, others more complicated, but all of them yield delicious results.

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This book also has another purpose—to raise awareness and funds to help in the fight against type 1 (juvenile) diabetes. Stacey’s son has type 1, and by purchasing this book you are helping Research Foundation of Charlotte.

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Good food, good stories, good cause.

Manufacturer Importer Distributor

to support the work of the Juvenile Diabetes

Bon Appétit!

For founder of real estate firm, priorities are about more than finances

Mooresville’s Artistic Side

offered practical advice, along with their recipes, to help both serious foodies and hopeless home

Bread Pudding, Yam Soufflé, and New Zealand

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Reading, writing and diversity at Trinity Episcopal School

frozen holiday turkey, the emergency visit from the local fire department, and the just-cooked soup

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CATALOGS

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Self-taught topiary artist’s yard is a cut above

George Winston Welcomes Spring in Davidson

Entertainment Tips from Area Event Planning Professionals

Man on a

VOL. 2 NUMBER

MARCH 2009

mission

Richard ‘Stick’ Williams, who’ll be the YMCA’s first black chairperson in 2010, makes community involvement his business

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Kroghie worked as a banker for First union National Bank, now Wachovia, for thirty“This threeis years before retiring inI’ve 2004. the first cookbook seen in all my years of reading them like novels (and Though his work had no connection with writing a few myself) that is for everybody, Stacey delivers a delightful, entertaining, hunting, he continued to pursue his hobby and useful recipes during spare timerepertoire away from of work.

Whilein the same wonderful manner she gives us ‘news livingwe in can raleigh ineach 1979, morning.” his wife ross, use’ bought him his first decoy to decorate Barbara McKay their new den. This started a collection Media Personality that has grown into over 1,100 North Carolina decoys. An early decision to limit his collection to Back Bay, Virginia, “Stacey has been a long and North Carolina decoys led to time a veryadvocate for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. specialized Kroghie tried Whencollection. her two year old always son was diagnosed, she immediately went from advocate to fully to document the history and provenance of committed volunteer. She is not willing to accept that her son and millions of others may his decoys. The lack of information on many have to live the rest of their lives with diabetes. Thank you, Stacey for all that you do to North Carolina decoys led him to research manyhelp previously carvers asthe welllives of so many.” find aunidentified cure and improve as those that are well known. This research Patrick and thirty yearsMcFeeley of collecting decoys have JDRF International Board Member culminated with this book.

Kroghie received a B.s. degree in Civil Engineering from The Citadel in 1966 and an MBA from East Carolina university in 1971. He and his wife currently reside in Charlotte, N.C. They have two grown children, Clark and Hailey.

Charlotte, NC Winter 2009-10

2010 PRODUCT CATALOG

her broadcasting career as a TV news

But I Know Someone Who Can

Featuring The Collection of Kroghie Andresen

GuNNIN’ BIrDs

co-host of Charlotte’s Morning News

I Can’t Cook,

– even dazzling – meals made by you – yes, you! Plus, the fire department has had to visit Stacey’s kitchen, which is bound to make you feel so much better about your own culinary skills.

A Maggie, fun, helpful, yummy read!

Kroghie, with after aand successful duck hunt at Lake Mattamuskeet, N.C. in 2004.

Stacey SimmS

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