Happy Holidays!
I wanted to wish you from the bottom of my heart a VERY Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
I'm grateful to have you in my life and hope that you're experiening joy, peace, and love this holiday season and throughout 2009.
Thank you to all of my wonderful subscribers ... I made donations on behalf of EACH of you to various charities throughout the year.
**Your very presence on this planet has truly made a difference in the lives of others.**
Thanks to all of you who purchased an ebook or program this month...
many bags of toys were donated to Toys for Tots as well as donations made to the local food banks.
**The investment you made in YOURSELF is bringing joy to strangers this holiday**
I invite you to continue this cycle of investing and giving with me at http://www.passion2prosperitybook.com
To love and success in 2009!
Maria Simone
~~Join me for a final LIVE Teleclass on 12/30 http://www.passion2prosperity.com
A powerful session to help usher in abundance in the New Year
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Creating Mutliple Revenue Streams Doing What You Love
I have 3 words:
Buy the book
http://www.passion2prosperitybook.com
I put all my secrets in here plus lots of surprises you can't imagine.
Do you have a vision? Know how to create multiple revenue streams around your talents? How to let the world know about it without knocking yourself out?
If you want help with this, it's in my new recipe book.
"Passion 2 Prosperity: Instant Ways To Profit From Your Skills and Talents"
And then I said---what else would they need?
So I added a bunch of gifts that would be relevant to what you'll learn in the book.
And then I thought, "they could use a mentor to help them execute the concepts..."
So I added 2 months of free coaching.
All you have ot do is click over to the link.
It's all there
http://www.passion2prosperitybook.com
Buy the book
http://www.passion2prosperitybook.com
I put all my secrets in here plus lots of surprises you can't imagine.
Do you have a vision? Know how to create multiple revenue streams around your talents? How to let the world know about it without knocking yourself out?
If you want help with this, it's in my new recipe book.
"Passion 2 Prosperity: Instant Ways To Profit From Your Skills and Talents"
And then I said---what else would they need?
So I added a bunch of gifts that would be relevant to what you'll learn in the book.
And then I thought, "they could use a mentor to help them execute the concepts..."
So I added 2 months of free coaching.
All you have ot do is click over to the link.
It's all there
http://www.passion2prosperitybook.com
Friday, December 19, 2008
Survey Says You Can Strike It Rich In This Economy
I'm not into the "doom and gloom" that's being reported in the media...I think so much of it is speculation just to fill airtime and open to interpretation. To me, it just feels like the planet is cleaning house on many fronts and we'll move through it soon and be in a much better place. There were many changes that were just begging to be made this year, don't you think?
I took it upon myself to find out what's up and I've talked with a lot of REAL people to get some answers. I'll share what I know here...it's all good as far as I'm concerned. Use the information as you see fit!
1. Investors are investing in start-ups
Yes, Virginia, there is money out there. If you're trying to raise capital and think the investor pool has dried up, think again. There's plenty of money out there but you need to be more prepared than ever with a great idea, great plan, and a great team. Validate and work through as much as you can to reduce some of their risk however. I'm experiencing this personally with my projects and received this feedback many times over in my survey.
2. Be as real as possible...and passionate
This is the era of authenticity and people are practically demanding it. Be real, cut out the hype, get to the point. This is not to say that your promotions shouldn't be big and bold---you still want to stand out. But when you get someone's attention, let them quickly see what you're all about and be sure to infuse your passion and enthusiasm. Customers, investors and partners will feel safer.
3.Connection and Relationship Marketing is key
Regular follow-up is critical now...I heard "out of sight, out of mind" across the board in my survey. People are looking for value but they're also price conscious so if you haven't instituted an ongoing communication program in your business (such as an ezine, regular announcements, telephone calls, events, etc) they are more inclined to switch to your competitor if they don't feel the love. No, this isn't dating advice but it could be...for your business.
4. Outside resources are more affordable than ever
If you thought you may not be able to afford graphic designers, additional technicians, a marketing manager, sales support, etc. ---think again. There is a plethora of talent out there willing to negotiate, barter or gift you support so now is not the time to pull back on new projects. Get creative on how you'll acquire these resources. Survey says FORGE AHEAD! It lets customers know you're business is growing and they'll feel comfortable buying from you and referring as well.
5. Collaborations rule
Think Strategic Alliances and Joint Ventures...even figure out ways to collaborate with potential competitors. There's strength in numbers and you can really do more with less when others are promoting you or you're pooling resources. Third party endorsements to a warm market go much further than advertising to strangers. I help people MAKE millions so I like to collaborate with businesses that show people how to KEEP their millions. Same target market with different, yet complimentary needs. Survey respondents all talked about the desire to see businesses collaborating as an insurance policy for success.
6. Think big, start small
Always shoot for the moon but figure out ways to keep carving out pieces of your plan to get off the ground sooner as opposed to launching your entity all at once. Perhaps start in a smaller market to get traction (early sales and recognition), and grow from there. A service business intending to be a national franchise with multiple locations should still start in a local market for testing and validation and to build investor confidence. Build out in "threes" thereafter. You may also need to prove you can do more with less in some instances. One of the companies that I'm helping began raising capital and at the same time was able to show it could create revenue on its own. The more business it gets without outside capital, the faster the investor checks come in.
7. Having an online presence should not be an afterthought
Doing business online can be easy, fast and cheap when you know what you're doing. Besides that, customers, collaborators and investors EXPECT that you'll be there so if you've been putting it off...don't do it any longer. You can easily get started for $7 at Snagadomain.com and DocMurdock.com (my husband's companies). Consensus across the board: If you're a company that has customers, it sends up flags to investors, customers and collaborators when you haven't taken advantage of all the opportunities the internet has to offer...or have a solid plan to have an online presence.
I took it upon myself to find out what's up and I've talked with a lot of REAL people to get some answers. I'll share what I know here...it's all good as far as I'm concerned. Use the information as you see fit!
1. Investors are investing in start-ups
Yes, Virginia, there is money out there. If you're trying to raise capital and think the investor pool has dried up, think again. There's plenty of money out there but you need to be more prepared than ever with a great idea, great plan, and a great team. Validate and work through as much as you can to reduce some of their risk however. I'm experiencing this personally with my projects and received this feedback many times over in my survey.
2. Be as real as possible...and passionate
This is the era of authenticity and people are practically demanding it. Be real, cut out the hype, get to the point. This is not to say that your promotions shouldn't be big and bold---you still want to stand out. But when you get someone's attention, let them quickly see what you're all about and be sure to infuse your passion and enthusiasm. Customers, investors and partners will feel safer.
3.Connection and Relationship Marketing is key
Regular follow-up is critical now...I heard "out of sight, out of mind" across the board in my survey. People are looking for value but they're also price conscious so if you haven't instituted an ongoing communication program in your business (such as an ezine, regular announcements, telephone calls, events, etc) they are more inclined to switch to your competitor if they don't feel the love. No, this isn't dating advice but it could be...for your business.
4. Outside resources are more affordable than ever
If you thought you may not be able to afford graphic designers, additional technicians, a marketing manager, sales support, etc. ---think again. There is a plethora of talent out there willing to negotiate, barter or gift you support so now is not the time to pull back on new projects. Get creative on how you'll acquire these resources. Survey says FORGE AHEAD! It lets customers know you're business is growing and they'll feel comfortable buying from you and referring as well.
5. Collaborations rule
Think Strategic Alliances and Joint Ventures...even figure out ways to collaborate with potential competitors. There's strength in numbers and you can really do more with less when others are promoting you or you're pooling resources. Third party endorsements to a warm market go much further than advertising to strangers. I help people MAKE millions so I like to collaborate with businesses that show people how to KEEP their millions. Same target market with different, yet complimentary needs. Survey respondents all talked about the desire to see businesses collaborating as an insurance policy for success.
6. Think big, start small
Always shoot for the moon but figure out ways to keep carving out pieces of your plan to get off the ground sooner as opposed to launching your entity all at once. Perhaps start in a smaller market to get traction (early sales and recognition), and grow from there. A service business intending to be a national franchise with multiple locations should still start in a local market for testing and validation and to build investor confidence. Build out in "threes" thereafter. You may also need to prove you can do more with less in some instances. One of the companies that I'm helping began raising capital and at the same time was able to show it could create revenue on its own. The more business it gets without outside capital, the faster the investor checks come in.
7. Having an online presence should not be an afterthought
Doing business online can be easy, fast and cheap when you know what you're doing. Besides that, customers, collaborators and investors EXPECT that you'll be there so if you've been putting it off...don't do it any longer. You can easily get started for $7 at Snagadomain.com and DocMurdock.com (my husband's companies). Consensus across the board: If you're a company that has customers, it sends up flags to investors, customers and collaborators when you haven't taken advantage of all the opportunities the internet has to offer...or have a solid plan to have an online presence.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
10 Business Success Killers-- must see video
Check this out and let me know what you think.
10 Business Success Killers! from Maria Simone on Vimeo.
10 Business Success Killers! from Maria Simone on Vimeo.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Be the STAR In Your Local Markets
We're taught to "dream big" when we launch a new project and therefore tend to take a more national or global approach to developing our market base. This is all good but I've found it's also easy--- as well as very cost effective--- to start small and local and use that to catapult you nationally as opposed to putting all your resources into having national exposure right from the start. Here are some strategies you can employ right from the beginning:
1. Plan local educational or demonstration events
Contact your local retailers ---related to your specific industry--- to organize events right in the store. Cooking classes, safety demonstrations, how to use fashion accessories, game challenges...anything related to your product or service. Document all aspects of your demonstration so you can duplicate it over and over, collect participant names and testimonials, and make sure you're photographed and filmed for use later on in marketing and media kits.
You'll be able to leverage this successful activity to show investors you have traction, to create similar programs in other stores, use in all your marketing materials, obtain distribution contracts to other stores, attract online customers, and to obtain lots of local publicity moving into national publicity.
2. Notify the local media of your plans
Once a local event has been planned, I will notify local TV and print outlets of my plan to launch a local campaign to be followed by a national campaign. Local media will be more inclined to cover you in anticipation of your national exposure. One time, a local reporter wrote an article about my charitable giving programs and the article was syndicated in 28 different newspapers around the country.
3. Combine your activities with a local charity
I talk about this often but I can't stress enough what a difference it makes. This time of year, many of the local projects I'm involved with who are hosting events this month are also holding food drives for the local food banks as well as toy drives. There are dozens of charities to choose from but make sure it's relevant to what YOU'RE doing. You'll not only spread lots of goodwill in your community but you'll also attract more participants as well as media coverage.
4. Regularly issue press releases to the local media outlets
You don't have to wait until you're up and running to do this. People are also inspired by the story behind the company as well as your progress. "Local resident makes good" goes a long way. You can fax or email directly to your local newspapers or use an online service such as www.prlog.org
5. Contact your local networking groups for support
Look for ways to be featured by others either as a speaker, a presenter, a sponsor, an award winner, a do-gooder, or some other type of third party endorsement. ENDORSEMENTS from others will help you, once again create leverage in the media and to help you attract other notable resources. If a local group has endorsed you, perhaps you can get their national entity to do the same. I've done this with Macy's department stores as well as a variety of networking associations.
6. Connect with the local movers and shakers
Find out "who's who" in your local market and connect with them for possible collaboration or endorsement. These people may have a national presence but they're always willing to give precedence to a "neighbor". I do this quite often since networking is one of my favorite pastimes! I recently met the legendary sales trainer Tom Hopkins who lives close by...we also share the same hairstylist... and he has since offered to support me going forward. Knowing how to ASK for it was a big plus too.
Maria Simone is a conscious business "architect" and marketing expert who will show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming ideas into products, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com
You may reprint this article in its entirety with author's contact and bio information.
1. Plan local educational or demonstration events
Contact your local retailers ---related to your specific industry--- to organize events right in the store. Cooking classes, safety demonstrations, how to use fashion accessories, game challenges...anything related to your product or service. Document all aspects of your demonstration so you can duplicate it over and over, collect participant names and testimonials, and make sure you're photographed and filmed for use later on in marketing and media kits.
You'll be able to leverage this successful activity to show investors you have traction, to create similar programs in other stores, use in all your marketing materials, obtain distribution contracts to other stores, attract online customers, and to obtain lots of local publicity moving into national publicity.
2. Notify the local media of your plans
Once a local event has been planned, I will notify local TV and print outlets of my plan to launch a local campaign to be followed by a national campaign. Local media will be more inclined to cover you in anticipation of your national exposure. One time, a local reporter wrote an article about my charitable giving programs and the article was syndicated in 28 different newspapers around the country.
3. Combine your activities with a local charity
I talk about this often but I can't stress enough what a difference it makes. This time of year, many of the local projects I'm involved with who are hosting events this month are also holding food drives for the local food banks as well as toy drives. There are dozens of charities to choose from but make sure it's relevant to what YOU'RE doing. You'll not only spread lots of goodwill in your community but you'll also attract more participants as well as media coverage.
4. Regularly issue press releases to the local media outlets
You don't have to wait until you're up and running to do this. People are also inspired by the story behind the company as well as your progress. "Local resident makes good" goes a long way. You can fax or email directly to your local newspapers or use an online service such as www.prlog.org
5. Contact your local networking groups for support
Look for ways to be featured by others either as a speaker, a presenter, a sponsor, an award winner, a do-gooder, or some other type of third party endorsement. ENDORSEMENTS from others will help you, once again create leverage in the media and to help you attract other notable resources. If a local group has endorsed you, perhaps you can get their national entity to do the same. I've done this with Macy's department stores as well as a variety of networking associations.
6. Connect with the local movers and shakers
Find out "who's who" in your local market and connect with them for possible collaboration or endorsement. These people may have a national presence but they're always willing to give precedence to a "neighbor". I do this quite often since networking is one of my favorite pastimes! I recently met the legendary sales trainer Tom Hopkins who lives close by...we also share the same hairstylist... and he has since offered to support me going forward. Knowing how to ASK for it was a big plus too.
Maria Simone is a conscious business "architect" and marketing expert who will show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming ideas into products, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com
You may reprint this article in its entirety with author's contact and bio information.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Giving is GOOD for Business
You've heard all the phrases about the virtues of giving, many with Biblical origins. You may even have experienced moments of selfless giving yourself that manifested in tremendous opportunities coming back to you. I love to give and I must say it's always a wonderful surprise to see what comes back. One instance stands out for me because of the impact it had on my business. Last year I went the extra mile to help a stranger who walked into my office complex seeking assistance. Afterwards, he was so thankful for the generosity, he took me to lunch and it turned out he represented a prominent business contact for me and I have since benefitted personally and financially from this relationship...very effortlessly I might add because I initiated the "giving." Giving is good all around, anonymously or otherwise, and is especially good for business. Here's part of my formula for success.
Establish some type of charitable giving model
Align yourself with a local or national charity that would be representative of your industry and or target market. If you work with kids, then consider charities that support education, Toys for Tots, provide clothing, etc. Earmark a small percentage of your profits or a fixed dollar amount to the organization and let others know you're supporting this group. You may also want to co-sponsor events and fundraising drives that are mutually beneficial. Besides being a good thing to do, you'll receive more attention from the media and clients love it as well.
Give to your customers
Consider establishing a unique rewards program for existing customers and make them aware of the fact they're getting something special. Could be a tangible item, additional services, or special discounts. It should be done "just because" and will not only build loyalty but may also inspire your customers to refer more often. There are companies I pay higher prices to for that very reason.
Give to your prospective customers
Offer something for free to prospects to immediately establish a positive energy flow and to allow them to experience you in a positive way prior to making a purchase. If you can impress them before they do business with you, chances are you'll manifest a loyal customer when they're ready.
Give to your community
Consider positioning yourself as a giver in the community by hosting networking events, hosting online discussion boards, providing a free service that would benefit all, etc. Consider the popularity of a vet who opens a dog park next to his office practice. You can achieve instant celebrity status in the community and will experience an effortless flow of customers at your door.
Establish some type of charitable giving model
Align yourself with a local or national charity that would be representative of your industry and or target market. If you work with kids, then consider charities that support education, Toys for Tots, provide clothing, etc. Earmark a small percentage of your profits or a fixed dollar amount to the organization and let others know you're supporting this group. You may also want to co-sponsor events and fundraising drives that are mutually beneficial. Besides being a good thing to do, you'll receive more attention from the media and clients love it as well.
Give to your customers
Consider establishing a unique rewards program for existing customers and make them aware of the fact they're getting something special. Could be a tangible item, additional services, or special discounts. It should be done "just because" and will not only build loyalty but may also inspire your customers to refer more often. There are companies I pay higher prices to for that very reason.
Give to your prospective customers
Offer something for free to prospects to immediately establish a positive energy flow and to allow them to experience you in a positive way prior to making a purchase. If you can impress them before they do business with you, chances are you'll manifest a loyal customer when they're ready.
Give to your community
Consider positioning yourself as a giver in the community by hosting networking events, hosting online discussion boards, providing a free service that would benefit all, etc. Consider the popularity of a vet who opens a dog park next to his office practice. You can achieve instant celebrity status in the community and will experience an effortless flow of customers at your door.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Who's Got Your Back
I know what it's like --- going a hundred miles an hour pulling in resources as you go, putting deals together, meeting with vendors, investors, and of course taking care of customers. All of these activities are great AND they all require an agreement of sorts. How many decisions do you make each day that will have a long term impact on you or your business? How many of those decisions do you take the time to check in with your attorney or your team? Probably not enough I would imagine. For many up-and-coming companies, it may seem cost prohibitive to constantly be checking in with legal counsel. But you know you probably should. You may also think that some of your decisions are rather simple but since you're not working with a crystal ball, you really have no idea of the full, long term, impact of those decisions.
So here's my list of "must do's" to protect yourself and those you work with. One simple oversight can be devastating to a business but you can easily minimize risks by putting the following safeguards in place
1. Create a list of safeguards that require you to check in with your team before making certain decisions.
I talk about team all the time--- ideally an Advisory Team, business mentor/coach, Board of Directors or Mastermind Group. At the very least, you want to have 1-2 people around you that you trust and have experience in business. Make an agreement with yourself that you'll check in with your team every time you're faced with an expense that is over a certain dollar amount (you choose), a situation where you might be awarding stock, or a decision that requires a large investment of time. This forces you to slow down and get perspective. I have clients that check in all the time (as part of our working together) because we've established their own safeguards. I walk them through their decision to make sure it's in their best interest and they appreciate the feedback.
2. Have Agreements available and ready to execute for every scenario.
One of the best and most cost effective program investments I've ever made was in Jian's Agreement Builder at http://www.manifestsuccessplanning.com . This program contains over 160+ legal contract templates for every scenario including your Company's Operating Agreement. It has not only saved me thousands of dollars, it has also made me thousands because the templates prompt you to address issues you may not have thought about until it's too late. Scroll to the middle of the website, left side under Business Contracts to order. I use them with team, strategic partners, vendors, etc.
3. Enroll in PrePaid Legal to have ready access to an attorney 24/7.
I've had PrePaid Legal (www.prepaidlegal.com/go/dreamscoutllc ) for many years and pay approximately $25/month to be able to contact an attorney anytime I want. In the past, I may have hesitated seeking legal advice so readily even though I really needed the support but I was thinking of the expense--- but not anymore. For example, I'll complete a contract from Agreement Builder and then fax it over for an attorney review to make sure I've covered all the bases. Or perhaps I have a business question or an issue with someone I've hired. They'll write letters for you too. Nothing like having an attorney send a cease and desist letter on your behalf for peace of mind. It's all included! It's silly not to take advantage of this cost effective support if you're a small business owner. I have attorneys in my family and I still find this a more effective option.
4. Establish a relationship with an attorney and other key resources to have as back up .
Develop relationships with some key people so you'll have ready access to certain resources and not scrambling at the last minute during an emergency. This could include an attorney, a notary, backup technology support in case you need to quickly replace your webmaster, an insurance agent, and banker, etc. Having pre-existing relationships will insure smooth sailing for you in the event of a problem or when you need immediate and personal assistance.
5. Maintain access to all important codes, documents and IP in a central location.
As you expand your operations and outsource some of your activities, you'll have different people managing your technology and various accounts. Make sure that you are given access to every account code, especially as it relates to merchant accounts, customer files and your website hosting account. Also be sure to have control over all your intellectual property such as domain names, trademarks, copyrights, and patents. Have a plan for regular computer backups and maintain your files in a safe place.
Maria Simone is a Conscious Business Development Expert who will show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming ideas into products, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com
So here's my list of "must do's" to protect yourself and those you work with. One simple oversight can be devastating to a business but you can easily minimize risks by putting the following safeguards in place
1. Create a list of safeguards that require you to check in with your team before making certain decisions.
I talk about team all the time--- ideally an Advisory Team, business mentor/coach, Board of Directors or Mastermind Group. At the very least, you want to have 1-2 people around you that you trust and have experience in business. Make an agreement with yourself that you'll check in with your team every time you're faced with an expense that is over a certain dollar amount (you choose), a situation where you might be awarding stock, or a decision that requires a large investment of time. This forces you to slow down and get perspective. I have clients that check in all the time (as part of our working together) because we've established their own safeguards. I walk them through their decision to make sure it's in their best interest and they appreciate the feedback.
2. Have Agreements available and ready to execute for every scenario.
One of the best and most cost effective program investments I've ever made was in Jian's Agreement Builder at http://www.manifestsuccessplanning.com . This program contains over 160+ legal contract templates for every scenario including your Company's Operating Agreement. It has not only saved me thousands of dollars, it has also made me thousands because the templates prompt you to address issues you may not have thought about until it's too late. Scroll to the middle of the website, left side under Business Contracts to order. I use them with team, strategic partners, vendors, etc.
3. Enroll in PrePaid Legal to have ready access to an attorney 24/7.
I've had PrePaid Legal (www.prepaidlegal.com/go/dreamscoutllc ) for many years and pay approximately $25/month to be able to contact an attorney anytime I want. In the past, I may have hesitated seeking legal advice so readily even though I really needed the support but I was thinking of the expense--- but not anymore. For example, I'll complete a contract from Agreement Builder and then fax it over for an attorney review to make sure I've covered all the bases. Or perhaps I have a business question or an issue with someone I've hired. They'll write letters for you too. Nothing like having an attorney send a cease and desist letter on your behalf for peace of mind. It's all included! It's silly not to take advantage of this cost effective support if you're a small business owner. I have attorneys in my family and I still find this a more effective option.
4. Establish a relationship with an attorney and other key resources to have as back up .
Develop relationships with some key people so you'll have ready access to certain resources and not scrambling at the last minute during an emergency. This could include an attorney, a notary, backup technology support in case you need to quickly replace your webmaster, an insurance agent, and banker, etc. Having pre-existing relationships will insure smooth sailing for you in the event of a problem or when you need immediate and personal assistance.
5. Maintain access to all important codes, documents and IP in a central location.
As you expand your operations and outsource some of your activities, you'll have different people managing your technology and various accounts. Make sure that you are given access to every account code, especially as it relates to merchant accounts, customer files and your website hosting account. Also be sure to have control over all your intellectual property such as domain names, trademarks, copyrights, and patents. Have a plan for regular computer backups and maintain your files in a safe place.
Maria Simone is a Conscious Business Development Expert who will show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming ideas into products, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com
Friday, October 31, 2008
Is this a GOOD time to start a business?
I'm not getting into the doom and gloom about any "crisis" the media is portraying but it does seem that what's happening now is a natural cause and effect and like anything else, it corrects itself. So I'm just BREATHING and continue to focus on the abundance that I'd like to create in my life.
We don't freak out when the leaves start turning colors each fall, do we? When there is a hurricane, we focus on keeping ourselves safe in the present moment but also know it will pass. If there are others that choose not to get themselves to safety, I'll have compassion for them but I do not need to obsess about how their actions will impact my life.
With that said, I think NOW is still a great time to start a business!
Now more than ever it's wise to start thinking of creating income streams in your life that are not controlled by someone else. There are also more resources available now as larger businesses may cut back on marketing, PR, branding, research, etc. You can scoop these people up at very discounted rates or perhaps work out some collaborative trade.
Need funding? There is still a lot of money in circulation, of course, and investors are now considering new opportunities outside of the stock market or real estate. If you have a good deal put together, don't hesitate to start raising capital.
People are coming together to weather the "storm" so that means you have the opportunity to create unique partnerships and receive mentoring from experts.
So there are an abundance of resources out there for you and, yes, it's a great time to start something new. Make sure you tap into doing what you love so your passion will take you through any rough times --- that will be the true measure of how successful you'll be.
We don't freak out when the leaves start turning colors each fall, do we? When there is a hurricane, we focus on keeping ourselves safe in the present moment but also know it will pass. If there are others that choose not to get themselves to safety, I'll have compassion for them but I do not need to obsess about how their actions will impact my life.
With that said, I think NOW is still a great time to start a business!
Now more than ever it's wise to start thinking of creating income streams in your life that are not controlled by someone else. There are also more resources available now as larger businesses may cut back on marketing, PR, branding, research, etc. You can scoop these people up at very discounted rates or perhaps work out some collaborative trade.
Need funding? There is still a lot of money in circulation, of course, and investors are now considering new opportunities outside of the stock market or real estate. If you have a good deal put together, don't hesitate to start raising capital.
People are coming together to weather the "storm" so that means you have the opportunity to create unique partnerships and receive mentoring from experts.
So there are an abundance of resources out there for you and, yes, it's a great time to start something new. Make sure you tap into doing what you love so your passion will take you through any rough times --- that will be the true measure of how successful you'll be.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
How To Follow Up With Customers Investors And Supporters
The phrase “out of sight, out of mind” sounds rather benign but in a growing business, that could spell disaster! If customers forget you’re out there, they won’t buy as often and referrals will be non-existent. It could feel like you’re constantly starting over rather than building on the goodwill you’ve created with existing customers. What about investors and supporters? People need to hear what’s happening on a regular basis ---even if it’s not all great. The fact that you’re reaching out is sometimes assurance enough, even during tough times. I have found that maintaining a regularly scheduled email communication program produces dramatic results in sales, referrals, and investor interest! In my Passion To Prosperity Protégé Program, I demonstrate how to create highly profitable email campaigns. For now, here are some basic strategies to help you stay in touch on a regular basis:
1. Strategize about what information you’d like to convey.
I recommend ONE communication going to your prospects and customers that’s educational and a SECOND campaign that’s more about the business---for investors, potential investors, team, and close supporters.
Customers should receive “how to’s”, “Q&A”, or some other educational content they will value, positive highlights about what the company is up to, a request for referrals, and any offer (sale/discount) you’d like to share. Your internal communication to investors and team should include a company status report, what your next steps are, and specific action items you’d like support with. Keep it short and sweet so it gets read!
2. Use a professional email service ---they’re affordable and reliable.
Avoid sending emails directly from your own email address like AOL or Yahoo. Not only will your mailing list get too large and cumbersome to manage this way, but mass emails often get pinged as SPAM and may never make it to the end user. You also run the risk of having your email address blacklisted.
I recommend an affordable service such as Aweber which is capable of safely sending email to thousands of people at a time. Your emails can contain colors and graphics, load quickly and can be preprogrammed. The system can be automated so that when someone signs in, they receive an “autoresponse” without you having to take any action. I’ve taken it up a notch and use a complete shopping cart system with built in autoresponder (a private label version of 1ShoppingCart).
3. Create a system and schedule for regular follow-up.
I recommend a communication at least monthly and stick with that day! Develop a template of your email layout so that it’s ready for you once each month and all you need to do is insert updated content. In my ezine Fast Forward, my topic headers stay the same but the content is what changes every 2 weeks. If writing is not your forte, let others help you with content for each topic. Make sure all your contact info is intact and links point back to you.
4. Make back issues available to show your progress.
Nothing sells you more to potential investors, vendors and partners then progress and momentum. Rather than you having to explain your status over and over, post archives of all your communications on your website or blog and direct people to that for updates.
Establishing a regularly scheduled email campaign has been one of the most cost effective and profitable marketing tools I’ve ever used in my business. When implemented correctly, it will dramatically increase your productivity and will help to effortlessly convert prospects into active customers, investors and strategic alliance partners.
Maria Simone is a Conscious Business Development Expert who will show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming ideas into products, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com
1. Strategize about what information you’d like to convey.
I recommend ONE communication going to your prospects and customers that’s educational and a SECOND campaign that’s more about the business---for investors, potential investors, team, and close supporters.
Customers should receive “how to’s”, “Q&A”, or some other educational content they will value, positive highlights about what the company is up to, a request for referrals, and any offer (sale/discount) you’d like to share. Your internal communication to investors and team should include a company status report, what your next steps are, and specific action items you’d like support with. Keep it short and sweet so it gets read!
2. Use a professional email service ---they’re affordable and reliable.
Avoid sending emails directly from your own email address like AOL or Yahoo. Not only will your mailing list get too large and cumbersome to manage this way, but mass emails often get pinged as SPAM and may never make it to the end user. You also run the risk of having your email address blacklisted.
I recommend an affordable service such as Aweber which is capable of safely sending email to thousands of people at a time. Your emails can contain colors and graphics, load quickly and can be preprogrammed. The system can be automated so that when someone signs in, they receive an “autoresponse” without you having to take any action. I’ve taken it up a notch and use a complete shopping cart system with built in autoresponder (a private label version of 1ShoppingCart).
3. Create a system and schedule for regular follow-up.
I recommend a communication at least monthly and stick with that day! Develop a template of your email layout so that it’s ready for you once each month and all you need to do is insert updated content. In my ezine Fast Forward, my topic headers stay the same but the content is what changes every 2 weeks. If writing is not your forte, let others help you with content for each topic. Make sure all your contact info is intact and links point back to you.
4. Make back issues available to show your progress.
Nothing sells you more to potential investors, vendors and partners then progress and momentum. Rather than you having to explain your status over and over, post archives of all your communications on your website or blog and direct people to that for updates.
Establishing a regularly scheduled email campaign has been one of the most cost effective and profitable marketing tools I’ve ever used in my business. When implemented correctly, it will dramatically increase your productivity and will help to effortlessly convert prospects into active customers, investors and strategic alliance partners.
Maria Simone is a Conscious Business Development Expert who will show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming ideas into products, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com
How To Manifest More Abundance In Business
I used to think that I had to make a choice between having a successful business and living an “enlightened” life—following spiritual and universal wisdom. For a long time, I thought it was either or. It didn’t dawn on me that I could have both until some years ago, I found that I was working VERY hard for all the success I had yet there were others around me who seemed to attract what they wanted with ease. The operative word being ATTRACT. I finally realized that these people were tapped into a higher consciousness and used this knowing to create the life of their dreams. Over the years I’ve sought to create that same ease of success and in doing so have completely transformed my life. Here are some things that I’ve learned that have been particularly helpful to me in creating a conscious business:
1. Attract Others To You: Take responsibility for everything that happens to you.
Once you REALLY understand that you’ve consciously or subconsciously created every situation that is happening to you, your perception of the world starts changing. You stop living by default and become much more thoughtful with your actions and your interactions with others. You stop playing the innocent bystander or victim, as the case may be, and start visualizing and expect more productive relationships and different outcomes in your business dealings. You may not have all the answers but this higher level of responsibility is more appealing to others rather than the blame game which has a repelling effect.
2. Allow Abundance to Flow: Create a new relationship with money
The thought of money as a reward is a very strong driving force for many people. It’s also a benchmark of success and status. However, the more emphasis you put on it, the more you may actually be repelling it. Money is just energy and has no value except what we give it. When you think of creating wealth, think in turns of what you will do with the money rather than the money itself. Think of clients as people with problems you have the solution to. The more people you serve, the more prosperous you’ll be…and so forth. This is especially true during the times when you think you really NEED money --- trying to pay bills, raising capital to launch your company, etc. Take the “charge” away from it and everything will start shifting around you.
3. Attract More Respect: Show up equally with everyone around you
We are all spiritual beings created perfectly equal yet we may subconsciously feel less than equal around those who are paying us to perform a service, people who may have more financial wealth or perceived success, and those who seem to be in more of a superior position. You can still respect and admire what they’ve created but you shouldn’t feel less than equal. That behavior will subconsciously cause others to treat you with less respect which may show up as payments being delayed, missed appointments, lack of recognition, broken promises and so on. If that’s happening to you, start showing up more powerfully with this other person and remind them that it’s not OK for these things to be happening and you’d like to turn that around starting today. Be equal and supportive, not subservient.
4. Manifest Quickly: Commit to having what you want first
Do you decide to allow yourself to have something once you know how it’s going to happen? Especially if it’s something you’ll have to pay for? Something like “I can’t have that because it’s too expensive and I don’t have the money for it”. True abundance will flow if you commit to having something first, even before you know HOW it’s going to happen. This works great with money and resources for your business. Without any attachment to how it will occur, continually commit to having whatever you want--- really commit to it without any judgment about the expense, the complexity of it, the logic, etc.--- and see how fast the solutions start lining up before you. What seems to be an issue or roadblock today could disappear tomorrow.
5. Choose what would make you happy, not what is always most logical
Your head may tell you that in order to achieve your goals in business you need to do certain things even though it’s a struggle, go down certain paths that may overwhelm you, or have relationships with people you don’t particular care for…and so you do. I lived like this for years letting my head rule. However, no matter how illogical it may seem at times, when I let my heart make the decisions based on what is giving me the most joy at the time, I seem to create a new unexpected solution. So keep checking in with your heart to make sure you’re enjoying your tasks. If you’re not, then expect a more abundant solution to appear (and allow it) rather than you being miserable doing things you don’t enjoy.
6. Help to create for others what you’d like for yourself
This is “give to receive” from a business perspective. Businesses rely on connections, customers, promotions, etc, to succeed. To easily create that for myself, I continuously do that for others by making introductions to resources THEY need, referrals to customers, investing in others, and creating cause marketing opportunities that support the community. It’s a continuous flow of energy that is constantly looping back to me in a way that’s more magnified from how I originally sent it out.
7. Managing too many tasks promotes scarcity
Thinking that you’re not getting it all done, there’s not enough time, and you need to take on everything at once sends out a message of JUST THAT. The Universe will agree, of course, so you’re never really able to catch up until you exhaust yourself. Learn to manage fewer priority tasks and know that everything will get done in the right time. Non-priority items seem to disappear or become non-urgent all of a sudden or you’ll find that others are showing up more frequently to help you.
8. There’s no real separation between your business and personal life
Don’t think you can have your two lives tucked away in nice separate boxes. They really are connected and as you acknowledge and embrace that, your business will take off. So maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle with plenty of playtime and an orderly home will spill over into how your business operates. If you allow your relationships at home to remain somewhat dysfunctional or disconnected, you are probably recreating those same relationships at the office or with clients.
9. Manifest success by eliminating self-judgement
Ever make a decision that in hindsight could have been handled differently and you carry the thought of “stupid, what were you thinking” around for days, months or even years? Did you ever stop to think exactly how many of those thoughts you continuously carry around with you? It’s mind boggling when you really think how hard we are on ourselves. Those thoughts only add fuel to the “I’m not good enough and I don’t deserve success” fire. When you replace that with more loving “I’m a magnificent human being and I’m doing the best that I can”, you’ll find that success seems to flow more easily towards you and it’s not fleeting.
As a conscious business development expert, I find that developing and implementing the proper business strategies is just as important as removing any limiting beliefs that hold you back. Learn to replace limiting beliefs with new thoughts that will actually help accelerate success at http://www.passion2prosperity.com
1. Attract Others To You: Take responsibility for everything that happens to you.
Once you REALLY understand that you’ve consciously or subconsciously created every situation that is happening to you, your perception of the world starts changing. You stop living by default and become much more thoughtful with your actions and your interactions with others. You stop playing the innocent bystander or victim, as the case may be, and start visualizing and expect more productive relationships and different outcomes in your business dealings. You may not have all the answers but this higher level of responsibility is more appealing to others rather than the blame game which has a repelling effect.
2. Allow Abundance to Flow: Create a new relationship with money
The thought of money as a reward is a very strong driving force for many people. It’s also a benchmark of success and status. However, the more emphasis you put on it, the more you may actually be repelling it. Money is just energy and has no value except what we give it. When you think of creating wealth, think in turns of what you will do with the money rather than the money itself. Think of clients as people with problems you have the solution to. The more people you serve, the more prosperous you’ll be…and so forth. This is especially true during the times when you think you really NEED money --- trying to pay bills, raising capital to launch your company, etc. Take the “charge” away from it and everything will start shifting around you.
3. Attract More Respect: Show up equally with everyone around you
We are all spiritual beings created perfectly equal yet we may subconsciously feel less than equal around those who are paying us to perform a service, people who may have more financial wealth or perceived success, and those who seem to be in more of a superior position. You can still respect and admire what they’ve created but you shouldn’t feel less than equal. That behavior will subconsciously cause others to treat you with less respect which may show up as payments being delayed, missed appointments, lack of recognition, broken promises and so on. If that’s happening to you, start showing up more powerfully with this other person and remind them that it’s not OK for these things to be happening and you’d like to turn that around starting today. Be equal and supportive, not subservient.
4. Manifest Quickly: Commit to having what you want first
Do you decide to allow yourself to have something once you know how it’s going to happen? Especially if it’s something you’ll have to pay for? Something like “I can’t have that because it’s too expensive and I don’t have the money for it”. True abundance will flow if you commit to having something first, even before you know HOW it’s going to happen. This works great with money and resources for your business. Without any attachment to how it will occur, continually commit to having whatever you want--- really commit to it without any judgment about the expense, the complexity of it, the logic, etc.--- and see how fast the solutions start lining up before you. What seems to be an issue or roadblock today could disappear tomorrow.
5. Choose what would make you happy, not what is always most logical
Your head may tell you that in order to achieve your goals in business you need to do certain things even though it’s a struggle, go down certain paths that may overwhelm you, or have relationships with people you don’t particular care for…and so you do. I lived like this for years letting my head rule. However, no matter how illogical it may seem at times, when I let my heart make the decisions based on what is giving me the most joy at the time, I seem to create a new unexpected solution. So keep checking in with your heart to make sure you’re enjoying your tasks. If you’re not, then expect a more abundant solution to appear (and allow it) rather than you being miserable doing things you don’t enjoy.
6. Help to create for others what you’d like for yourself
This is “give to receive” from a business perspective. Businesses rely on connections, customers, promotions, etc, to succeed. To easily create that for myself, I continuously do that for others by making introductions to resources THEY need, referrals to customers, investing in others, and creating cause marketing opportunities that support the community. It’s a continuous flow of energy that is constantly looping back to me in a way that’s more magnified from how I originally sent it out.
7. Managing too many tasks promotes scarcity
Thinking that you’re not getting it all done, there’s not enough time, and you need to take on everything at once sends out a message of JUST THAT. The Universe will agree, of course, so you’re never really able to catch up until you exhaust yourself. Learn to manage fewer priority tasks and know that everything will get done in the right time. Non-priority items seem to disappear or become non-urgent all of a sudden or you’ll find that others are showing up more frequently to help you.
8. There’s no real separation between your business and personal life
Don’t think you can have your two lives tucked away in nice separate boxes. They really are connected and as you acknowledge and embrace that, your business will take off. So maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle with plenty of playtime and an orderly home will spill over into how your business operates. If you allow your relationships at home to remain somewhat dysfunctional or disconnected, you are probably recreating those same relationships at the office or with clients.
9. Manifest success by eliminating self-judgement
Ever make a decision that in hindsight could have been handled differently and you carry the thought of “stupid, what were you thinking” around for days, months or even years? Did you ever stop to think exactly how many of those thoughts you continuously carry around with you? It’s mind boggling when you really think how hard we are on ourselves. Those thoughts only add fuel to the “I’m not good enough and I don’t deserve success” fire. When you replace that with more loving “I’m a magnificent human being and I’m doing the best that I can”, you’ll find that success seems to flow more easily towards you and it’s not fleeting.
As a conscious business development expert, I find that developing and implementing the proper business strategies is just as important as removing any limiting beliefs that hold you back. Learn to replace limiting beliefs with new thoughts that will actually help accelerate success at http://www.passion2prosperity.com
Monday, August 25, 2008
When you don't know what to do next...
During the course of building your business, there may be times when you're not actually sure of what next steps to take or even what questions to ask. I help entrepreneurs with business development, marketing, and funding support and these are the very questions I hear from clients, usually during our first meeting. I'd like to shed some light on these issues and especially to let you know that you're not alone. When you have clarity in all of these areas, you will naturally become more attractive to potential clients, partners and investors.
1. You have several options of what direction to take your business but just can't decide? If you ever find yourself faced with a decision you can't quite seem to make or take action on, the best thing to do is NOTHING. This is the time to slow down and: a) observe how you are feeling about the choices you think you need to make--- your heart could be slowing you down for a reason and all the signs should be there if you pay attention; b) you should absolutely seek out the advice of qualified people who have had specific experience with your situation. You don't want to make decisions without qualified information and neither should you ever feel pressured about making just any decision. Time is irrelevant here--- making a decision that doesn't support you could "cost" you more time in the long run .
2. Having trouble making sense of or communicating all your ideas? Start the business planning process as soon as possible to help keep you on track. Moving forward in your business with just a bunch of ideas swirling around in your head is not the same as having them committed to paper. Organizing your thoughts in a structured fashion gives you instant clarity, your ideas start coming to life, people now have a better understanding of how to support you, and the resources you'll need can start showing up. Just starting the process can sometimes help you get unstuck. I use my own business blueprint tool with clients or you can check out Jian's tools at http://www.manifestsuccess planning.com .
3. You may have limited operating capital initially and you feel pressured to invest in resources and services that should help you grow your business. So what resources should you invest your money in? That all depends on exactly what stage you're at in the "sequencing" of your business. If you buy or commit to resources before you're ready for them, it may just take you down a dead end if you're really not prepared to work with them: a) If you are working on your business plan, you should be GATHERING information about sales, marketing, PR, etc. You should not necessarily be investing in these services at this stage; b) If you are just starting out and about to raise investor money, only invest in those resources that will absolutely bring you more capital; c) don't invest or get committed to product manufac turing before you've developed your infrastructure or understand your markets; d) don't engage in activities that will create a demand for products and services you haven't developed yet unless you are just about ready to launch.
4. You have a great idea but not really sure what it looks like as a business. Very often, people have great ideas and start focusing on one way they think it should be launched. This could be in the form of a retail store, an online experience, a book, a game, a service, etc. If you find that you're focusing on one "expression" that could take much longer or cost more than it seems worth it, start opening yourself up to other ways your idea can get out there. Look for the lowest hanging fruit --- what is the fastest, most cost effective way you can get your idea out to the most people and bring you the most revenue in the shortest period of time (if that's your goal). For instance a retail chain of stores is a huge undertaking. Perhaps it would work best to launch as an online business?
5. How far should you go to prove out your concept? This could be something brand new for you and you haven't fully allocated resources to the project but want to make sure you have a market for your goods and services. Initially do things that do not require a big investment or ongoing maintenance (such as storage issues, insurance, license fees, etc). For instance take surveys, conduct market research, acquire trend reports, "dry test" and then "beta test" with a prototype, and get validation from experts. I would also start building a mailing list of people who would be interested in your product down the road.
6. Are you having resistance to moving forward with your business? Wondering if it will ever get done or if you're the person to do it? Do feelings of fear, isolation, and overwhelm seem to permeate your thoughts? Stop for a bit and be still as this isn't a cue for you to work harder. It means you need to do some internal work on YOU, not your business. There are plenty of great programs and people I frequently recommend that can support you here. It's time to eliminate those old "I'm not good enough" tapes! Issues around money, success, or receiving support shouldn't rule your life. On the other hand, if you're doing anything business related you're not passionate about which will require a huge investment of time, it's not worth doing. This is all about YOU not about business.
7. You have limited financial resources and lots of deadlines you've imposed on yourself---should you just keep plodding along and do as much as you can on your own to get it done and make your deadlines?
First, when you're building a business, I recommend not using TIME as a milestone if possible because it puts too much undue pressure on yourself and oftentimes you won't be able to commit to the deadline because of all the other variables involved. "In six months I will have raised $1 million" or "in 3 months I will be signing a lease so I better have the resources in place by then". How do you know? You're better off using financial milestones if you're raising capital---like, for instance, "when I raise my first million, then I can do xyz"--- or something OTHER than time. Shifting your thinking like this will give you new perspective, alleviate stress and allow you to focus on getting the necessary resources to hire the people you need to get the jobs done. You can try to do it all yourself without the necessary resources just to meet your self-imposed deadline but it begs th e question, "why do that to yourself"?
8. You feel unable to proceed because you have no money. It's not always the money that you need next--- it's determination, passion and having the right people around you. If you ever get stuck here, check in to see which one it is. Having the RIGHT PEOPLE around you will always attract money, so take the time to build a support team and let them open doors for you to money. Your DETERMINATION will always lead you to the next step if you're paying attention--- it could be money or another resource that's even better. If you don't have PASSION for what you're doing, you may want to check in to see if this is what you really want. Always, and only, do what you love
1. You have several options of what direction to take your business but just can't decide? If you ever find yourself faced with a decision you can't quite seem to make or take action on, the best thing to do is NOTHING. This is the time to slow down and: a) observe how you are feeling about the choices you think you need to make--- your heart could be slowing you down for a reason and all the signs should be there if you pay attention; b) you should absolutely seek out the advice of qualified people who have had specific experience with your situation. You don't want to make decisions without qualified information and neither should you ever feel pressured about making just any decision. Time is irrelevant here--- making a decision that doesn't support you could "cost" you more time in the long run .
2. Having trouble making sense of or communicating all your ideas? Start the business planning process as soon as possible to help keep you on track. Moving forward in your business with just a bunch of ideas swirling around in your head is not the same as having them committed to paper. Organizing your thoughts in a structured fashion gives you instant clarity, your ideas start coming to life, people now have a better understanding of how to support you, and the resources you'll need can start showing up. Just starting the process can sometimes help you get unstuck. I use my own business blueprint tool with clients or you can check out Jian's tools at http://www.manifestsuccess planning.com .
3. You may have limited operating capital initially and you feel pressured to invest in resources and services that should help you grow your business. So what resources should you invest your money in? That all depends on exactly what stage you're at in the "sequencing" of your business. If you buy or commit to resources before you're ready for them, it may just take you down a dead end if you're really not prepared to work with them: a) If you are working on your business plan, you should be GATHERING information about sales, marketing, PR, etc. You should not necessarily be investing in these services at this stage; b) If you are just starting out and about to raise investor money, only invest in those resources that will absolutely bring you more capital; c) don't invest or get committed to product manufac turing before you've developed your infrastructure or understand your markets; d) don't engage in activities that will create a demand for products and services you haven't developed yet unless you are just about ready to launch.
4. You have a great idea but not really sure what it looks like as a business. Very often, people have great ideas and start focusing on one way they think it should be launched. This could be in the form of a retail store, an online experience, a book, a game, a service, etc. If you find that you're focusing on one "expression" that could take much longer or cost more than it seems worth it, start opening yourself up to other ways your idea can get out there. Look for the lowest hanging fruit --- what is the fastest, most cost effective way you can get your idea out to the most people and bring you the most revenue in the shortest period of time (if that's your goal). For instance a retail chain of stores is a huge undertaking. Perhaps it would work best to launch as an online business?
5. How far should you go to prove out your concept? This could be something brand new for you and you haven't fully allocated resources to the project but want to make sure you have a market for your goods and services. Initially do things that do not require a big investment or ongoing maintenance (such as storage issues, insurance, license fees, etc). For instance take surveys, conduct market research, acquire trend reports, "dry test" and then "beta test" with a prototype, and get validation from experts. I would also start building a mailing list of people who would be interested in your product down the road.
6. Are you having resistance to moving forward with your business? Wondering if it will ever get done or if you're the person to do it? Do feelings of fear, isolation, and overwhelm seem to permeate your thoughts? Stop for a bit and be still as this isn't a cue for you to work harder. It means you need to do some internal work on YOU, not your business. There are plenty of great programs and people I frequently recommend that can support you here. It's time to eliminate those old "I'm not good enough" tapes! Issues around money, success, or receiving support shouldn't rule your life. On the other hand, if you're doing anything business related you're not passionate about which will require a huge investment of time, it's not worth doing. This is all about YOU not about business.
7. You have limited financial resources and lots of deadlines you've imposed on yourself---should you just keep plodding along and do as much as you can on your own to get it done and make your deadlines?
First, when you're building a business, I recommend not using TIME as a milestone if possible because it puts too much undue pressure on yourself and oftentimes you won't be able to commit to the deadline because of all the other variables involved. "In six months I will have raised $1 million" or "in 3 months I will be signing a lease so I better have the resources in place by then". How do you know? You're better off using financial milestones if you're raising capital---like, for instance, "when I raise my first million, then I can do xyz"--- or something OTHER than time. Shifting your thinking like this will give you new perspective, alleviate stress and allow you to focus on getting the necessary resources to hire the people you need to get the jobs done. You can try to do it all yourself without the necessary resources just to meet your self-imposed deadline but it begs th e question, "why do that to yourself"?
8. You feel unable to proceed because you have no money. It's not always the money that you need next--- it's determination, passion and having the right people around you. If you ever get stuck here, check in to see which one it is. Having the RIGHT PEOPLE around you will always attract money, so take the time to build a support team and let them open doors for you to money. Your DETERMINATION will always lead you to the next step if you're paying attention--- it could be money or another resource that's even better. If you don't have PASSION for what you're doing, you may want to check in to see if this is what you really want. Always, and only, do what you love
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Shortcuts To Get Your Products Into The Retail Markets
If you’re an entrepreneur with a consumer product, you probably find yourself from time to time keeping one eye “on the prize” --- seeing your products being sold on department store shelves. From personal experience I can tell you it has been quite rewarding to be in Macy’s, Bloomingdales, the Waldorf Astoria Gift Shop, the United Nations, etc. and to step back and watch people buy my products. I’ve done the same for ideas that I licensed out to other companies. I didn’t necessarily manufacture the product but I still loved to watch people enjoying something I had a hand in creating.
Now for a reality check: it’s important to have a healthy perspective at all times of the physical and financial responsibility involved in maintaining your place on store shelves. It shouldn’t be taken lightly but when you’re ready, I say go for it and enjoy the ride. That topic is for another day however. TODAY, I wanted to share some of the strategies I employed early on to secure my place in the retail sector so that my journey became almost effortless and I had the opportunity to test and impress the entire time.
1. Once you’ve identified the retail stores you’d like to have a presence in, it’s important to start developing alliances with people known in that space. It could be a current or former executive (ideal), a popular vendor who everyone knows, or a sales rep from another company that knows the ropes. You’ll have to network and do some research here. These people can run interference, open doors for you, help establish your credibility, etc.
2. Introduce yourself to your local buyers or department heads. Most of the retail chains have centralized buying offices these days but the department heads of the local stores still have a say. Find out who your local contact is and arrange for a non-selling visit. This is just an introduction and to get some quick feedback from them on how they think your product would sell in their store--- hypothetically. They can give you priceless information since they tend to really know their customers and what products move quickly and why. Stay in touch and let them know they’ve made a difference as you relay your progress.
3. Request a “trunk show” when you’re ready for some testing. This is a short period of time where you can come in and sell your own product in the designated department. You may need to become an approved vendor in the store’s system to sell nationally but the local stores can allow you to come directly into their store if they want ---without getting you into the system. They all make allowances for this activity but just don’t make it commonly known. Do your own local PR to drive consumers into the store that day---plan a special event, be there to monitor the activity and drive customers to your product. Evaluate afterwards. If your local contacts are pleased, they will endorse you to their national offices to approve you for vendor status.
4. Quickly leverage this experience with investors. Document this in your business plan--- your retail contacts, results of your in-store testing, and the advisors/mentors who’ve helped you. This will help you attract funding for a full product launch when you’re ready.
The retail playing field has changed significantly over the past few years and you may want to work with professionals who can navigate these waters when you’re ready for a full launch. In the meantime, I’ve used these strategies successfully to help me get my foot in the door and quickly build credibility with buyers. Always create a win-win with the people you’re working with and they’ll support your efforts. Relationship building and gratitude goes a long way in this area.
Now for a reality check: it’s important to have a healthy perspective at all times of the physical and financial responsibility involved in maintaining your place on store shelves. It shouldn’t be taken lightly but when you’re ready, I say go for it and enjoy the ride. That topic is for another day however. TODAY, I wanted to share some of the strategies I employed early on to secure my place in the retail sector so that my journey became almost effortless and I had the opportunity to test and impress the entire time.
1. Once you’ve identified the retail stores you’d like to have a presence in, it’s important to start developing alliances with people known in that space. It could be a current or former executive (ideal), a popular vendor who everyone knows, or a sales rep from another company that knows the ropes. You’ll have to network and do some research here. These people can run interference, open doors for you, help establish your credibility, etc.
2. Introduce yourself to your local buyers or department heads. Most of the retail chains have centralized buying offices these days but the department heads of the local stores still have a say. Find out who your local contact is and arrange for a non-selling visit. This is just an introduction and to get some quick feedback from them on how they think your product would sell in their store--- hypothetically. They can give you priceless information since they tend to really know their customers and what products move quickly and why. Stay in touch and let them know they’ve made a difference as you relay your progress.
3. Request a “trunk show” when you’re ready for some testing. This is a short period of time where you can come in and sell your own product in the designated department. You may need to become an approved vendor in the store’s system to sell nationally but the local stores can allow you to come directly into their store if they want ---without getting you into the system. They all make allowances for this activity but just don’t make it commonly known. Do your own local PR to drive consumers into the store that day---plan a special event, be there to monitor the activity and drive customers to your product. Evaluate afterwards. If your local contacts are pleased, they will endorse you to their national offices to approve you for vendor status.
4. Quickly leverage this experience with investors. Document this in your business plan--- your retail contacts, results of your in-store testing, and the advisors/mentors who’ve helped you. This will help you attract funding for a full product launch when you’re ready.
The retail playing field has changed significantly over the past few years and you may want to work with professionals who can navigate these waters when you’re ready for a full launch. In the meantime, I’ve used these strategies successfully to help me get my foot in the door and quickly build credibility with buyers. Always create a win-win with the people you’re working with and they’ll support your efforts. Relationship building and gratitude goes a long way in this area.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Small Business Funding: Business Planning To Attract Investors
Investors will find YOU if your Business Plan is “magnetized”
The process of actively organizing your thoughts on paper in the form of a Business Plan is very important for a number of reasons including the fact that we have a tendency to manifest faster what we can see visually; you can test and validate on paper before investing a lot of time and money on a new project; you begin to develop a roadmap of how you’re going to launch your project; and perhaps one of the most important reasons is with a Business Plan, you can attract the funding and resources you need to fully launch your business. Here are just a few key elements that investors and strategic partners find most appealing:
1. Tell your story. You want to briefly explain how you came to be doing this project to show your connection and the level of passion you have for it. Investors want to see that you’ll be committed to carry it through.
2. Define the problem/solution. The bigger the problem that you are a definitive solution for, the more interest people will have and ultimately the bigger the checks.
3. Identify and quantify your market. The market you are serving has to be big enough to be financially worth the investment in developing it and defined enough to be plausible for investors. The “world” is not your market.
4. Have a great idea. Some ideas are good but not great enough to invest a lot of time and money on. Also, if you can’t properly protect your idea or see it as scalable, it may keep some people away.
5. Understand and state the risks involved. Avoiding this conversation will leave investors and strategic partners questioning the merits of your plan. It’s better to put all the market risks out there and show that you’re dealing with them systematically.
6. Define your business model. Don’t just tell us about your product. Show us how your business model will support the product to get out there in the marketplace.
7. Describe who’s on your team. The more experience you have around you the greater the chance you’ll have for success. Investors look at the people.
8. Define your marketing and sales strategies. The more specific you are about how you will reach your customers, the more attractive you will be to investors.
9. Know your competition. Be realistic here and know what you are up against. Being honest will allow you to work through strategies to create competitive advantages which could include collaborations.
10.Define your Exit Strategies. Investors want to know how and when they will their money back. Strategic partners want to know what the end result will be of working with you. The more you can clearly define the options available, the more attractive you will be.
The process of actively organizing your thoughts on paper in the form of a Business Plan is very important for a number of reasons including the fact that we have a tendency to manifest faster what we can see visually; you can test and validate on paper before investing a lot of time and money on a new project; you begin to develop a roadmap of how you’re going to launch your project; and perhaps one of the most important reasons is with a Business Plan, you can attract the funding and resources you need to fully launch your business. Here are just a few key elements that investors and strategic partners find most appealing:
1. Tell your story. You want to briefly explain how you came to be doing this project to show your connection and the level of passion you have for it. Investors want to see that you’ll be committed to carry it through.
2. Define the problem/solution. The bigger the problem that you are a definitive solution for, the more interest people will have and ultimately the bigger the checks.
3. Identify and quantify your market. The market you are serving has to be big enough to be financially worth the investment in developing it and defined enough to be plausible for investors. The “world” is not your market.
4. Have a great idea. Some ideas are good but not great enough to invest a lot of time and money on. Also, if you can’t properly protect your idea or see it as scalable, it may keep some people away.
5. Understand and state the risks involved. Avoiding this conversation will leave investors and strategic partners questioning the merits of your plan. It’s better to put all the market risks out there and show that you’re dealing with them systematically.
6. Define your business model. Don’t just tell us about your product. Show us how your business model will support the product to get out there in the marketplace.
7. Describe who’s on your team. The more experience you have around you the greater the chance you’ll have for success. Investors look at the people.
8. Define your marketing and sales strategies. The more specific you are about how you will reach your customers, the more attractive you will be to investors.
9. Know your competition. Be realistic here and know what you are up against. Being honest will allow you to work through strategies to create competitive advantages which could include collaborations.
10.Define your Exit Strategies. Investors want to know how and when they will their money back. Strategic partners want to know what the end result will be of working with you. The more you can clearly define the options available, the more attractive you will be.
Visibility Equals Instant Credibility
Lately, I have experienced quite a few people finding me personally using Google searches. This has resulted in new business, investor opportunities, speaking engagements, an article being published in Inventors Digest, and most importantly reconnecting with my “long lost” cousin Phil. I hadn’t seen Phil in almost 20 years but he was easily able to find me on Google and got to see what I was up to even before we spoke on the phone.
Allowing yourself to be visible is so important to manifesting, no matter what you’re working on. People who may be interested in doing business with you, partnering up with you, and even investing would be comforted knowing you are visible online --- that you’re “doing things”. These days, it seems that showing up in an online search is like going to the yellow pages and expecting to find a listing for the business you’re looking for. Not showing up in the phone book may diminish your credibility in my eyes.
In my program Passion To Prosperity, I walk people through 42 different marketing techniques that can be done very quickly to attract potential new prospects. If you’re fortunate to be active enough in business, the community at large, and in the media, then you’ll show up naturally in online searches and that’s great.
If you’re not quite experiencing online visibility naturally, yet not ready to hire someone for search engine optimization, then here are a few strategies that will give you fairly instant results in the search engines:
1. Subscribe to an inexpensive ranking service. This service will get you a #1 position on Google always. Try it for yourself! http://www.qalias.com/af/MM04
2. Start a blog at www.blogger.com or www.wordpress.com. You can talk about your journey, your business, post images, offer surveys. Blogs are easily picked up by the search engines and allow you to have a high ranking consistently. I post all my ezine articles on mine http://www.mariasimone.blogspot.com/
3. Post comments online. Places like Amazon, YouTube, and all the blog services are very visible in the search engines so if you post a comment or write a review for someone else, chances are your name will show up as well. Make sure you use your full name and list your website when posting any comments or reviews. I recommend keeping it positive so it stays up there!
4. Submit a short article. There are article sites where you can post content on any topic for fr*ee. These sites are highly visible to the search engines and having your name show up in conjunction with an article will give you instant credibility. Try www.ezinearticles.com or www.ideamarketers.com.
5. Social & Business Online Networking. There are many out there now but I find that www.Fastpitchnetworking.com is great for entrepreneurs who want powerful business connections as well as online visibility. The site has a press release feature built in plus you can link your blog to your Fast Pitch profile which translates into even higher search engine rankings.
Type in ‘maria simone” (use the quotes) in a search engine and you’ll see what I’m talking about. Out of 800,000 entries for “maria simone” I usually occupy the top few slots plus my info spans 15 pages of Google. When you’ve developed the resources and capital you’ll need to launch your business, you’ll obviously have a more focused marketing plan to execute. However I would still perform some of these basics in the beginning to increase your credibility and visibility.
Allowing yourself to be visible is so important to manifesting, no matter what you’re working on. People who may be interested in doing business with you, partnering up with you, and even investing would be comforted knowing you are visible online --- that you’re “doing things”. These days, it seems that showing up in an online search is like going to the yellow pages and expecting to find a listing for the business you’re looking for. Not showing up in the phone book may diminish your credibility in my eyes.
In my program Passion To Prosperity, I walk people through 42 different marketing techniques that can be done very quickly to attract potential new prospects. If you’re fortunate to be active enough in business, the community at large, and in the media, then you’ll show up naturally in online searches and that’s great.
If you’re not quite experiencing online visibility naturally, yet not ready to hire someone for search engine optimization, then here are a few strategies that will give you fairly instant results in the search engines:
1. Subscribe to an inexpensive ranking service. This service will get you a #1 position on Google always. Try it for yourself! http://www.qalias.com/af/MM04
2. Start a blog at www.blogger.com or www.wordpress.com. You can talk about your journey, your business, post images, offer surveys. Blogs are easily picked up by the search engines and allow you to have a high ranking consistently. I post all my ezine articles on mine http://www.mariasimone.blogspot.com/
3. Post comments online. Places like Amazon, YouTube, and all the blog services are very visible in the search engines so if you post a comment or write a review for someone else, chances are your name will show up as well. Make sure you use your full name and list your website when posting any comments or reviews. I recommend keeping it positive so it stays up there!
4. Submit a short article. There are article sites where you can post content on any topic for fr*ee. These sites are highly visible to the search engines and having your name show up in conjunction with an article will give you instant credibility. Try www.ezinearticles.com or www.ideamarketers.com.
5. Social & Business Online Networking. There are many out there now but I find that www.Fastpitchnetworking.com is great for entrepreneurs who want powerful business connections as well as online visibility. The site has a press release feature built in plus you can link your blog to your Fast Pitch profile which translates into even higher search engine rankings.
Type in ‘maria simone” (use the quotes) in a search engine and you’ll see what I’m talking about. Out of 800,000 entries for “maria simone” I usually occupy the top few slots plus my info spans 15 pages of Google. When you’ve developed the resources and capital you’ll need to launch your business, you’ll obviously have a more focused marketing plan to execute. However I would still perform some of these basics in the beginning to increase your credibility and visibility.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Come meet me in May...
Thursday 5/15/08
You're invited! I'll be part of a panel of women speaking about Strategies for Becoming Your Personal Best http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/eventdetail.do?store=2680&event=22714609
Barnes and Noble 90th & Shea, Scottsdale, 7pm.
Friday 5/16-17/08
Visit my booth for a free sonsultation. I'll be attending the CEO Space Forum Weekend to meet up with some of my clients and collaborators. http://www.ceospacevip.com
Westin Hotel LAX, 5400 W. Century Blvd; Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday 5/27/08
JOIN US! I'll be hosting a free teleclass overview of the "7 Practical Steps To Create The Conscious Business of Your Dreams" If you're a service professional, an inventor, in business now or thinking about starting a business --you'll want to be on this call!
http://www.manifestsuccessguru.com/freeteleclass.htm
Wednesday 5/28/08
A red carpet event complete with paparazzi! I'll be attending the world premiere and VIP reception of the Opus Movie. A big to-do in Scottsdale, AZ!
Scottsdale Center For The Arts, clikc here for details http://visionboardsite.blogspot.com/
You're invited! I'll be part of a panel of women speaking about Strategies for Becoming Your Personal Best http://storelocator.barnesandnoble.com/eventdetail.do?store=2680&event=22714609
Barnes and Noble 90th & Shea, Scottsdale, 7pm.
Friday 5/16-17/08
Visit my booth for a free sonsultation. I'll be attending the CEO Space Forum Weekend to meet up with some of my clients and collaborators. http://www.ceospacevip.com
Westin Hotel LAX, 5400 W. Century Blvd; Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday 5/27/08
JOIN US! I'll be hosting a free teleclass overview of the "7 Practical Steps To Create The Conscious Business of Your Dreams" If you're a service professional, an inventor, in business now or thinking about starting a business --you'll want to be on this call!
http://www.manifestsuccessguru.com/freeteleclass.htm
Wednesday 5/28/08
A red carpet event complete with paparazzi! I'll be attending the world premiere and VIP reception of the Opus Movie. A big to-do in Scottsdale, AZ!
Scottsdale Center For The Arts, clikc here for details http://visionboardsite.blogspot.com/
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Fox 4 TV and the Inventors Club, Kansas City
Just got back from a whirlwind few days. I agreed to come out to Kansas City, MO, to speak to the Inventors Club about raising capital. It was a great night and I got to talk about making yourself attractive to investors, how to prepare yourself, language, where to go, etc. The event overflowed into a luncheon the next day as well. Before the meeting, I was interviewed on Fox 4 TV by Laura Thornqist. Here is me and my friend Carrie Jeske before and during the interview.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Maria is featured in April issue of Inventors Digest
Good news! My article "Haves And Have-Nots: How To Get Investors TO Show You The Money" was just published in Inventors Digest. http:/www.inventorsdigest.com.
The entire article can be seen at this site http://www.edisonnation.com/.
More media and press to follow!
The entire article can be seen at this site http://www.edisonnation.com/.
More media and press to follow!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Press Release: Funding "Inventor Seed Capital"
Maria Simone; national speaker, mentor and author recently featured in April issue of Inventor’s Digest
April 22th, 2008 6:30-9:00pm
The Kauffman Foundation
4801 Rockhill Rd. K.C., MO 64110
Acquiring seed capital for your Invention: The "Haves" and the "Have-Nots"
What’s the difference between inventors/businesses that get start-up capital and those that do not? We’ve heard it thousands of times from inventors and start-up entrepreneurs, "I have the best idea on the planet, why can’t I get anyone to invest in me?
Every entrepreneur has the opportunity in this country to seek funding to help launch their idea yet very few do it successfully. Since the resources are out there and available, it has more to do with the opportunities you can actually CREATE for yourself. In this presentation, you will learn what steps to take to help you be more successful in this process, where to find potential investors, and how to communicate with them.
Maria Simone is a unique and conscious business development and marketing expert who has launched several companies and has raised millions of dollars in funding. In addition to starting and selling her own companies, Maria has also licensed her ideas and has seen her products sold on major department store shelves. She now helps entrepreneurial start-ups, inventors, and service providers attract experts, customers, resources and capital. www.MariaSimone.com
All meetings and this seven month series is free and open to all Entrepreneurs, Inventors and Product Developers. If you have an idea for a product which you think would be a great candidate for licensing or selling to the market place but you need funding to make it fly, don’t miss this opportunity!
About ICKC:
The INVENTORS CLUB of KANSAS CITY is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation with over 150 members. The club was founded in 2004 by C.J. Boylan and Steve Gillespie with the idea that every new business starts with someone's bright idea! They firmly believe that new inventions and technology and unique individuals that create them make up one of our country's most valuable resources! They provide a learning forum for inventor/entrepreneurs and those in allied fields, which supplies mutual benefits to all involved. Their purpose and mission is to provide Innovative Education that will stimulate their members to "Soar to Success" which also benefits both the community and the nation! Please visit www.inventorsclubofkc.org
The Kauffman Foundation:
The Kauffman Foundation works nationwide to catalyze an entrepreneurial society in which job creation, innovation, education, and the economy flourish. They work with leading educators, researchers, and other partners to further understanding of the powerful economic impact of entrepreneurship, to train the nation’s next generation of entrepreneurial leaders, to develop and disseminate proven programs that enhance entrepreneurial skills and abilities, and to improve the environment in which entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. The Kauffman Foundation is the only large American foundation to focus on entrepreneurship and has more than twelve years of in-depth experience in the field. While our work is concentrated in the United States, leaders around the world look to the Foundation for entrepreneurship expertise and guidance. Please visit
http://www.kauffman.org/foundation.cfm
April 22th, 2008 6:30-9:00pm
The Kauffman Foundation
4801 Rockhill Rd. K.C., MO 64110
Acquiring seed capital for your Invention: The "Haves" and the "Have-Nots"
What’s the difference between inventors/businesses that get start-up capital and those that do not? We’ve heard it thousands of times from inventors and start-up entrepreneurs, "I have the best idea on the planet, why can’t I get anyone to invest in me?
Every entrepreneur has the opportunity in this country to seek funding to help launch their idea yet very few do it successfully. Since the resources are out there and available, it has more to do with the opportunities you can actually CREATE for yourself. In this presentation, you will learn what steps to take to help you be more successful in this process, where to find potential investors, and how to communicate with them.
Maria Simone is a unique and conscious business development and marketing expert who has launched several companies and has raised millions of dollars in funding. In addition to starting and selling her own companies, Maria has also licensed her ideas and has seen her products sold on major department store shelves. She now helps entrepreneurial start-ups, inventors, and service providers attract experts, customers, resources and capital. www.MariaSimone.com
All meetings and this seven month series is free and open to all Entrepreneurs, Inventors and Product Developers. If you have an idea for a product which you think would be a great candidate for licensing or selling to the market place but you need funding to make it fly, don’t miss this opportunity!
About ICKC:
The INVENTORS CLUB of KANSAS CITY is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation with over 150 members. The club was founded in 2004 by C.J. Boylan and Steve Gillespie with the idea that every new business starts with someone's bright idea! They firmly believe that new inventions and technology and unique individuals that create them make up one of our country's most valuable resources! They provide a learning forum for inventor/entrepreneurs and those in allied fields, which supplies mutual benefits to all involved. Their purpose and mission is to provide Innovative Education that will stimulate their members to "Soar to Success" which also benefits both the community and the nation! Please visit www.inventorsclubofkc.org
The Kauffman Foundation:
The Kauffman Foundation works nationwide to catalyze an entrepreneurial society in which job creation, innovation, education, and the economy flourish. They work with leading educators, researchers, and other partners to further understanding of the powerful economic impact of entrepreneurship, to train the nation’s next generation of entrepreneurial leaders, to develop and disseminate proven programs that enhance entrepreneurial skills and abilities, and to improve the environment in which entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. The Kauffman Foundation is the only large American foundation to focus on entrepreneurship and has more than twelve years of in-depth experience in the field. While our work is concentrated in the United States, leaders around the world look to the Foundation for entrepreneurship expertise and guidance. Please visit
http://www.kauffman.org/foundation.cfm
Act Out Your Vision Whenever Possible
Visualizing what you want activates the Law of Attraction but I like to take it a step further. I look for opportunities to actually put myself IN my vision. I love being a guest on radio talk shows and have contemplated having my own show in the near future. So last week I connected with my old friend Michelle Corr who hosts the Perfect Game on KXAM and created a situation where I could sit in the hot seat with her for 2 hours on air. Since then, I'm quickly manifesting opportunities to have my own show. Try it for yourself. Here's Michelle and me in the studio (totally un-glamed behind the mike).
Friday, March 7, 2008
Passion To Prosperity For The Service Provider
All too often, practitioners and service professionals who maintain a high degree of integrity with the work they do find it challenging to grow their business--- or to even think of the service they provide as a “business”. What general happens is they find themselves continually trading time for dollars with no room left to pursue other important activities such as marketing, follow-up, networking, operational duties, or developing other revenue streams of their business, etc.
Here are some key elements of how to create a successful service business that not only maintains the integrity of the service people receive from you but is also scalable in nature which allows for unlimited growth. This is because your time is spent growing the business and not necessarily working IN the business.
1. Make sure you are clear about what you want YOUR life to look like so that the business can become a total reflection of what you enjoy doing.
All too often, people get caught up in creating a business that isn’t necessarily what they wanted such as wearing too many hats, providing services that don’t thrill them, working with customers they don’t particularly like, keeping hours that don’t suit them, etc. When you get clear with what you want first, it’s easier to develop a business you’ll be passionate about.
2. Make sure you have identified your specific target or niche market.
The more you can specialize, the more successful you will become. When you know who your market is, you can create products and services that totally support them. You will know their lifestyle preferences, how they like to be communicated too, what they hold most dear, etc. Your customers will feel totally supported and understood and will benefit greatly from what you have to offer.
3. Express gratitude and appreciation often with everyone that crosses your path.
Your team will be totally devoted to you and it will show in the level of care they provide to your customers. Your customers will feel compelled to refer often and will continue to request services from you. Your neighbors will support your efforts with advertising and media support. Prospective customers will want what everyone else is experiencing.
4. Learn to package yourself in ways that serve more people.
This is my specialty when working with service providers. You want to look at different aspects of what you do and see how you can best share it with many at one time as opposed to just one person at a time. This includes finally putting that book together, group coaching, teleclasses, workshops, developing a game to take people through your process, private labeling your products, etc. Taking the steps of really going to the next level is very freeing and will help create true abundance in your business.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.mariasimone.com
Here are some key elements of how to create a successful service business that not only maintains the integrity of the service people receive from you but is also scalable in nature which allows for unlimited growth. This is because your time is spent growing the business and not necessarily working IN the business.
1. Make sure you are clear about what you want YOUR life to look like so that the business can become a total reflection of what you enjoy doing.
All too often, people get caught up in creating a business that isn’t necessarily what they wanted such as wearing too many hats, providing services that don’t thrill them, working with customers they don’t particularly like, keeping hours that don’t suit them, etc. When you get clear with what you want first, it’s easier to develop a business you’ll be passionate about.
2. Make sure you have identified your specific target or niche market.
The more you can specialize, the more successful you will become. When you know who your market is, you can create products and services that totally support them. You will know their lifestyle preferences, how they like to be communicated too, what they hold most dear, etc. Your customers will feel totally supported and understood and will benefit greatly from what you have to offer.
3. Express gratitude and appreciation often with everyone that crosses your path.
Your team will be totally devoted to you and it will show in the level of care they provide to your customers. Your customers will feel compelled to refer often and will continue to request services from you. Your neighbors will support your efforts with advertising and media support. Prospective customers will want what everyone else is experiencing.
4. Learn to package yourself in ways that serve more people.
This is my specialty when working with service providers. You want to look at different aspects of what you do and see how you can best share it with many at one time as opposed to just one person at a time. This includes finally putting that book together, group coaching, teleclasses, workshops, developing a game to take people through your process, private labeling your products, etc. Taking the steps of really going to the next level is very freeing and will help create true abundance in your business.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.mariasimone.com
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
5 Things To Do To "Recession Proof" Your Business Plan And Business
Changes in the economy call for some adjustments in your marketing strategies if you're an existing business. If you're in planning mode, your business plan should reflect these changes as well. Here are some of my top 5 strategies that you can work on right now to help you attract customers and conserve resources.
1. Any hint of a recession and people start spending less on non-essentials. Make sure your plan reflects essential uses of your product. For existing businesses, reposition your unique selling point to reflect essential use or create additional products and services that are more essential in nature. How-to's, improving quality of life, promoting health, increase productivity and financial well-being, etc.
2. Niche it, niche it, niche it. Identify a specific target market that would derive the most benefit from what you have to offer and focus your attention there. You'll spend less in building awareness and have the opportunity to create a more successful viral marketing campaign.
3. Make sure your planning includes research of the fastest growing markets for
2008. Besides luxury, health, seniors, and pets, you'll find some surprises for the next few years. Capitalize on it!
4. Spend more time communicating with existing customers. Create a strong referral marketing program to help increase your customer base. Develop additional products, with varying price points, and continuity programs to offer existing customers.
5. Develop your markets before your products. Avoid manufacturing products prematurely. Build a subscriber base, pre-sell to buyers, joint venture early on. Talk to your market early on and often to make sure you're on track.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.MariaSimone.com
1. Any hint of a recession and people start spending less on non-essentials. Make sure your plan reflects essential uses of your product. For existing businesses, reposition your unique selling point to reflect essential use or create additional products and services that are more essential in nature. How-to's, improving quality of life, promoting health, increase productivity and financial well-being, etc.
2. Niche it, niche it, niche it. Identify a specific target market that would derive the most benefit from what you have to offer and focus your attention there. You'll spend less in building awareness and have the opportunity to create a more successful viral marketing campaign.
3. Make sure your planning includes research of the fastest growing markets for
2008. Besides luxury, health, seniors, and pets, you'll find some surprises for the next few years. Capitalize on it!
4. Spend more time communicating with existing customers. Create a strong referral marketing program to help increase your customer base. Develop additional products, with varying price points, and continuity programs to offer existing customers.
5. Develop your markets before your products. Avoid manufacturing products prematurely. Build a subscriber base, pre-sell to buyers, joint venture early on. Talk to your market early on and often to make sure you're on track.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.MariaSimone.com
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Small Business Funding: The "Haves" And The "Have-Nots"
What’s the difference between businesses that get start-up capital and those that don’t?
I’ve heard it literally thousands of times from inventors and start-up entrepreneurs “I have the best idea on the planet --- why can’t I get anyone to invest in me?” Every entrepreneur has the opportunity in this country to seek funding to help launch their idea yet very few do it successfully. It has everything to do with the opportunities you can actually create for yourself. Those who seem more successful at the process have the following steps in place. Don’t skip out on any of these steps if you expect to acquire funding for your own BIG IDEA:
1. An idea is only an idea unless you do something with it. Do as much as you can with your idea to give it more value --- develop a prototype, patent it, find out if there is a market for your idea, get endorsements from those who would buy it, test any aspect of it that you can. You can accomplish more than you think without money at this stage.
2. Write a business plan showing what you intend to do with the idea and what’s involved to develop it. These thoughts may be floating around in your head still but unless they’re committed to paper, no one can help you. Plus, writing out the plan will show you the work that needs to be done in order for it to be successful. Think of it as a roadmap.
3. Exhibit passion for the project, not desperation, so that people will know you’re committed to seeing it through. An upbeat and confident attitude speaks volumes. Not there yet? Then work on YOU.
4. Have people around you who know what they’re doing. If you haven’t developed an idea or raised capital before, it’s best to surround yourself with people who’ve been down that path. Experience on your team speaks volumes.
5. You need to have contacts to potential investors so you can have investing conversations with them. If you don’t travel in the circles of high net worth individuals, then figure out a way to start meeting them. Attend different networking events or social gatherings. Talk to your neighbors or colleagues at work. Attend events designed for investor connections. Meet people who can start making introductions for you to potential investors. Get mentoring from those who can open these doors for you. The money is all around you.
6. Learn the language of capital so you can relate to investors. There are certain legalities involved with raising capital that you’ll want to learn. Also understand that investors don’t want to know all the details of your invention. They’re more concerned about how you intend to launch your idea, if there really is a market for your idea and how they are going to get their money back.
7. Be humble, grateful and genuine. No one appreciates arrogance or an entrepreneur with overzealous expectations. Be real with potential investors so they can get to know and trust you before investing.
8. Take in and process all comments, critiques or criticism from potential investors. Always. Don’t take anything personally and don’t react negatively to what anyone is saying. You’re getting free advice and those that take it, grow from each experience and can re-visit any “no” later on in the hopes of getting a “yes”. That has happened to me several times. You couldn’t do that if you’ve closed the door and nailed it shut.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.manifestsuccessguru.com
I’ve heard it literally thousands of times from inventors and start-up entrepreneurs “I have the best idea on the planet --- why can’t I get anyone to invest in me?” Every entrepreneur has the opportunity in this country to seek funding to help launch their idea yet very few do it successfully. It has everything to do with the opportunities you can actually create for yourself. Those who seem more successful at the process have the following steps in place. Don’t skip out on any of these steps if you expect to acquire funding for your own BIG IDEA:
1. An idea is only an idea unless you do something with it. Do as much as you can with your idea to give it more value --- develop a prototype, patent it, find out if there is a market for your idea, get endorsements from those who would buy it, test any aspect of it that you can. You can accomplish more than you think without money at this stage.
2. Write a business plan showing what you intend to do with the idea and what’s involved to develop it. These thoughts may be floating around in your head still but unless they’re committed to paper, no one can help you. Plus, writing out the plan will show you the work that needs to be done in order for it to be successful. Think of it as a roadmap.
3. Exhibit passion for the project, not desperation, so that people will know you’re committed to seeing it through. An upbeat and confident attitude speaks volumes. Not there yet? Then work on YOU.
4. Have people around you who know what they’re doing. If you haven’t developed an idea or raised capital before, it’s best to surround yourself with people who’ve been down that path. Experience on your team speaks volumes.
5. You need to have contacts to potential investors so you can have investing conversations with them. If you don’t travel in the circles of high net worth individuals, then figure out a way to start meeting them. Attend different networking events or social gatherings. Talk to your neighbors or colleagues at work. Attend events designed for investor connections. Meet people who can start making introductions for you to potential investors. Get mentoring from those who can open these doors for you. The money is all around you.
6. Learn the language of capital so you can relate to investors. There are certain legalities involved with raising capital that you’ll want to learn. Also understand that investors don’t want to know all the details of your invention. They’re more concerned about how you intend to launch your idea, if there really is a market for your idea and how they are going to get their money back.
7. Be humble, grateful and genuine. No one appreciates arrogance or an entrepreneur with overzealous expectations. Be real with potential investors so they can get to know and trust you before investing.
8. Take in and process all comments, critiques or criticism from potential investors. Always. Don’t take anything personally and don’t react negatively to what anyone is saying. You’re getting free advice and those that take it, grow from each experience and can re-visit any “no” later on in the hopes of getting a “yes”. That has happened to me several times. You couldn’t do that if you’ve closed the door and nailed it shut.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.manifestsuccessguru.com
5 Strategies To Successfully Get Your Products Sold In Retail Stores
Over the years I have personally developed products for the retail market as well as helped others get their products into stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdales, hotel gift shops such as the Ritz-Carlton, airport stores, electronic retailers such as QVC and Home Shopping Network, and many other distribution channels. I have learned strategies of what works best to assure that I will quickly have a place on that store’s shelf when I am ready to launch. I now mentor others who want to achieve the same results and here are just a few of the strategies I share with my clients.
1. Document in your marketing or business plan all the distribution channels where you see your product selling. Your final product may actually look and feel different in each of those markets so understand your channels first before you invest lots of time and resources in actually making your product. My products in Bloomingdales do not look like a product I would sell in Costco. Prototypes work well before you’re ready to commit to manufacturing.
2. Pick your top three distribution channels and very early on, establish contact with the people in the local stores who would be considered the buyer for your classification. Every department in every store has someone who oversees the buying for that department.
3. Develop a relationship with these buyers so you now have access to people who can give you guidance on the best way to develop your products. Utilize their expertise --- they know what people want to buy.
4. When you’re ready with product and want to get a national contract with a retail chain store, it would be easier to go back to your local buyers to help you get into a local store for testing purposes.
5. If you’re selling event in the local stores is successful, work with that buyer in the local stores to help you get a national contract with the chain. Don’t go about this process alone.
Selling to the major retail chains also requires that you have adequate resources for marketing and to be able to handle delayed payments. It might be easier to start with local markets in the beginning to develop your resources and work out any product issues. Also, the more niched your product is for a certain segment of the population, the easier it is to get into your markets and create brand awareness.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.manifestsuccessguru.com
1. Document in your marketing or business plan all the distribution channels where you see your product selling. Your final product may actually look and feel different in each of those markets so understand your channels first before you invest lots of time and resources in actually making your product. My products in Bloomingdales do not look like a product I would sell in Costco. Prototypes work well before you’re ready to commit to manufacturing.
2. Pick your top three distribution channels and very early on, establish contact with the people in the local stores who would be considered the buyer for your classification. Every department in every store has someone who oversees the buying for that department.
3. Develop a relationship with these buyers so you now have access to people who can give you guidance on the best way to develop your products. Utilize their expertise --- they know what people want to buy.
4. When you’re ready with product and want to get a national contract with a retail chain store, it would be easier to go back to your local buyers to help you get into a local store for testing purposes.
5. If you’re selling event in the local stores is successful, work with that buyer in the local stores to help you get a national contract with the chain. Don’t go about this process alone.
Selling to the major retail chains also requires that you have adequate resources for marketing and to be able to handle delayed payments. It might be easier to start with local markets in the beginning to develop your resources and work out any product issues. Also, the more niched your product is for a certain segment of the population, the easier it is to get into your markets and create brand awareness.
To your success!
Maria Simone
www.manifestsuccessguru.com
Saturday, February 2, 2008
AZHCC Creates New Initiative To Help “Recession Proof” Member’s Businesses
The Arizona Holistic Chamber of Commerce announced this week that it is undertaking a new initiative to provide a series of fresh new business resources and tools to its members who are primarily practitioners of Alternative Therapies and service providers committed to living a more holistic lifestyle. The announcement coincides with the third anniversary of the organization. The initiative will be kicked off with a business building program slated for February 23, 2008, and titled “Passions to Profits. This is a workshop facilitated by Scottsdale entrepreneur Maria Simone who will show the members and non-members in attendance how to diversify and market their talents during turbulent economic times. Other programs under development involve creating strong referral marketing programs, understanding the spending habits of their client base during a recession, and how to build more value into services currently being offered.
“Most of our members are solo practitioners who may not have all the resources for packaging and marketing their services, developing new revenue sources and tracking their client base that larger companies have. Part of the mission of the Chamber is to provide access to training so our members can build and maintain solid, successful businesses, even in challenging economic times” says Meredith Davis who co-founded AZHCC three years ago. “We are excited to be launching this series of workshops and we expect to hear some great success stories as a result of this initiative,” adds Davis.
The Arizona Holistic Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) non profit, created as an organization for business people of all professions who are committed to a holistic approach to business and life. For information about the organization and to register for the February 23rd event, visit www.azholisticchamber.com.
About ManifestSuccessGuru.com
Maria Simone - founder of ManifestSuccessGuru.com - is a speaker, trainer, writer and champion of inventors and entrepreneurs, has helped hundreds of start-ups and service providers over the years with “conscious” business planning, capital acquisition, product development and marketing. For more information visit www.MariaSimone.com. Instantly obtain a free "What's NEXT For My Business" Kit at htttp://www.ManifestSuccessGuru.com.
Ms. Simone is also the founder and CEO of a fashion accessory company with products in department store shelves. Her company profile can be seen at http://www.cityscarves.com.
“Most of our members are solo practitioners who may not have all the resources for packaging and marketing their services, developing new revenue sources and tracking their client base that larger companies have. Part of the mission of the Chamber is to provide access to training so our members can build and maintain solid, successful businesses, even in challenging economic times” says Meredith Davis who co-founded AZHCC three years ago. “We are excited to be launching this series of workshops and we expect to hear some great success stories as a result of this initiative,” adds Davis.
The Arizona Holistic Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) non profit, created as an organization for business people of all professions who are committed to a holistic approach to business and life. For information about the organization and to register for the February 23rd event, visit www.azholisticchamber.com.
About ManifestSuccessGuru.com
Maria Simone - founder of ManifestSuccessGuru.com - is a speaker, trainer, writer and champion of inventors and entrepreneurs, has helped hundreds of start-ups and service providers over the years with “conscious” business planning, capital acquisition, product development and marketing. For more information visit www.MariaSimone.com. Instantly obtain a free "What's NEXT For My Business" Kit at htttp://www.ManifestSuccessGuru.com.
Ms. Simone is also the founder and CEO of a fashion accessory company with products in department store shelves. Her company profile can be seen at http://www.cityscarves.com.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
I have a new blog to tell you about....
I started it recently and it's connected to Signature Accents, home of "City Scarves". I wanted to start the dialogue of celebrating our local heroes as well as hearing what people have ot say about the cities they live in... or came from.
Check it out at http://cityinspirations.blogspot.com
To your suucess!
Maria Simone
www.mariasimone.com
www.cityscarves.com
Check it out at http://cityinspirations.blogspot.com
To your suucess!
Maria Simone
www.mariasimone.com
www.cityscarves.com
Maria Simone to Serve as an Empowerment Leader at Amazing Woman's Day 2008
Day long annual event attracts feminine leaders from all over the US and Canada to discuss the issues of the day and form new alliances.
Amazing Woman’s Day brings together feminine leaders in a day-long program to support women in their vision of creating a better life for themselves, their communities and the world. Contributing to this day is Maria Simone, who will join additional empowerment experts to host a series of interactive round-table discussions designed to expand a web of collaborative relationships while empowering and celebrating the individual greatness of every woman. Amazing Woman's Day 2008 is sponsored in part by Journey Circle, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to cultivating the leadership of those who seek to create a better world.
Maria Simone is Founder and CEO of Scottsdale-based Signature Accents, Inc., creators of the popular City Scarves products. In addition to her CEO role, Simone is an author and successful business development expert who helps start-ups with business planning and capital acquisition. Simone joins with women who are leaders in their field, in their company, their organizations and their community. The day presents experiential exercises that link and build on each other as women move between tables, exchange ideas, and discover answers to the questions that impact their life, work, health, family and community. Featured speakers include Women in Broadcast Media founder, Marsh Engle; transformational leader and feng shui master in the Best seller and hit movie The Secret, Marie Diamond; Jeannie Fitzsimmons of Awakened Heart, Ardice Farrow of Smart Talking Smart Thinking Women, Subhadra Bowman of Yoga Angels, and more.
Amazing Woman's Day 2008 joins together women who are leading a cultural shift in our communities, our schools, our workplace, and our quality of life. They are community leaders, heads of women’s organizations, life & career coaches, mentors, mothers and more. The voices among women’s communities and organizations will be represented:
National Association of Women Business Owners
National Association of Female Executive
Gather the Women
Women in Technology International
For You Network for Women
WomensRadio and WomensCalendar
DivineCaroline
And, more!
Amazing Woman’s Day 2008 Empowerment Leaders also include:
Joy Chudacoff, Smart Women Smart Solutions
Marcy Cole, Ph.D Psychotherapist and Coordinator, First Tuesday LA Women's group
Iswari Gonnot, Founding Member of Humanity Unites Brilliance
Carole Lieberman, M.D., Media Psychiatrist/Host of "Dr. Carole's Couch"
Pat Lynch, WomensRadio.com and WomensCalendar.org
Robbie Motter, Contacts Unlimited, American Seminar Leaders and NAFE
Sherrie Quander, Founder, Indelible Grace Ministries
Hillary Smith D.C., DHM, CCT Innovative Wellness Institute
Lauren Solomon, LS Image Associates
Marielle Solti, Awareness Studio
Kira Wagner, Global Connections Networking
Dr. Letitia S. Wright, D.C., The Wright Place TV Show
And many others
DATE: February 9, 2008
WHERE: Amazing Woman’s Day 2008 is hosted at the prestigious Skirball Cultural Center, a Los Angeles, California facility that seeks to welcome and inspire people of every ethnic and cultural identity in American life.
HISTORY: The celebration of Amazing Woman’s Day was first conceived nearly a decade ago by creative development coach and author Marsh Engle. As the activities, programs and outreach of the Amazing Woman initiative has expanded over the years, the core mission remained the same: To serve as a unifying symbol of women everywhere who wish to bring a sense of value and purpose to their life, their community and the world. It was in March, 2001 that women throughout the nation first joined to establish the Amazing Woman’s Day movement in ten cities throughout the United States. To mark the first celebration, over 1,000 inspirational speakers, well-being experts, media personalities, and authors volunteered their time to honor women from all walks of life. In 2002 the celebration grew to 50 cities nationwide. A U.S. Congressional Proclamation establishes Amazing Woman’s Day as a nationwide initiative to celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of women everywhere. Since that time, the Amazing Woman's Day movement has served to inspire thousands across the nation.
More information regarding Amazing Woman’s Day 2008 may be found by visiting: www.AmazingWomansDay2008.com.
Information about Maria Simone may be found at www.CityScarves.com and www.mariasimone.com. Contact: 415-305-2544
Amazing Woman’s Day brings together feminine leaders in a day-long program to support women in their vision of creating a better life for themselves, their communities and the world. Contributing to this day is Maria Simone, who will join additional empowerment experts to host a series of interactive round-table discussions designed to expand a web of collaborative relationships while empowering and celebrating the individual greatness of every woman. Amazing Woman's Day 2008 is sponsored in part by Journey Circle, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to cultivating the leadership of those who seek to create a better world.
Maria Simone is Founder and CEO of Scottsdale-based Signature Accents, Inc., creators of the popular City Scarves products. In addition to her CEO role, Simone is an author and successful business development expert who helps start-ups with business planning and capital acquisition. Simone joins with women who are leaders in their field, in their company, their organizations and their community. The day presents experiential exercises that link and build on each other as women move between tables, exchange ideas, and discover answers to the questions that impact their life, work, health, family and community. Featured speakers include Women in Broadcast Media founder, Marsh Engle; transformational leader and feng shui master in the Best seller and hit movie The Secret, Marie Diamond; Jeannie Fitzsimmons of Awakened Heart, Ardice Farrow of Smart Talking Smart Thinking Women, Subhadra Bowman of Yoga Angels, and more.
Amazing Woman's Day 2008 joins together women who are leading a cultural shift in our communities, our schools, our workplace, and our quality of life. They are community leaders, heads of women’s organizations, life & career coaches, mentors, mothers and more. The voices among women’s communities and organizations will be represented:
National Association of Women Business Owners
National Association of Female Executive
Gather the Women
Women in Technology International
For You Network for Women
WomensRadio and WomensCalendar
DivineCaroline
And, more!
Amazing Woman’s Day 2008 Empowerment Leaders also include:
Joy Chudacoff, Smart Women Smart Solutions
Marcy Cole, Ph.D Psychotherapist and Coordinator, First Tuesday LA Women's group
Iswari Gonnot, Founding Member of Humanity Unites Brilliance
Carole Lieberman, M.D., Media Psychiatrist/Host of "Dr. Carole's Couch"
Pat Lynch, WomensRadio.com and WomensCalendar.org
Robbie Motter, Contacts Unlimited, American Seminar Leaders and NAFE
Sherrie Quander, Founder, Indelible Grace Ministries
Hillary Smith D.C., DHM, CCT Innovative Wellness Institute
Lauren Solomon, LS Image Associates
Marielle Solti, Awareness Studio
Kira Wagner, Global Connections Networking
Dr. Letitia S. Wright, D.C., The Wright Place TV Show
And many others
DATE: February 9, 2008
WHERE: Amazing Woman’s Day 2008 is hosted at the prestigious Skirball Cultural Center, a Los Angeles, California facility that seeks to welcome and inspire people of every ethnic and cultural identity in American life.
HISTORY: The celebration of Amazing Woman’s Day was first conceived nearly a decade ago by creative development coach and author Marsh Engle. As the activities, programs and outreach of the Amazing Woman initiative has expanded over the years, the core mission remained the same: To serve as a unifying symbol of women everywhere who wish to bring a sense of value and purpose to their life, their community and the world. It was in March, 2001 that women throughout the nation first joined to establish the Amazing Woman’s Day movement in ten cities throughout the United States. To mark the first celebration, over 1,000 inspirational speakers, well-being experts, media personalities, and authors volunteered their time to honor women from all walks of life. In 2002 the celebration grew to 50 cities nationwide. A U.S. Congressional Proclamation establishes Amazing Woman’s Day as a nationwide initiative to celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of women everywhere. Since that time, the Amazing Woman's Day movement has served to inspire thousands across the nation.
More information regarding Amazing Woman’s Day 2008 may be found by visiting: www.AmazingWomansDay2008.com.
Information about Maria Simone may be found at www.CityScarves.com and www.mariasimone.com. Contact: 415-305-2544
Friday, January 4, 2008
Who To Approach During Early Stage Funding
I work with many people who are in various stages of preparing, capitalizing and launching their businesses. With regard to raising capital, I have found that spending some extra time on developing the proper foundation helps one attract the money like a magnet. Lack of preparation can make the entire capital raising process a struggle. One of the areas to focus on is to develop an active database of prospective investors. Here are some simple guidelines I recommend during this process.
1. Define who would have the most benefit from your success? This group of early investors could be family, friends or colleagues who know you and want to support your efforts from the beginning without requiring a lot of information about the business initially. Also, these people could ultimately become manufacturers or service providers to your new business so investing in you early on would assure them a place in line down the road.
2. Who could be a potential Strategic or Joint Venture Partner to your new business? Their investing early on would be likened to pre-selling your product or service. Could be a potential licensing partner as well.
3. Define who would be your ultimate customer or end-user of your product or service, and who would be emotionally connected to what you were doing? This is the next group I would focus on. For my fashion Company (www.cityscarves.com) it was typically women between the ages of 40-80 years old who loved beautiful things. For my first business, a chain of dry cleaners, people who were hotel or franchise owners that required dry cleaning services in their businesses were my early investors.
4. Look at ways to fund part of your start-up creatively through pre-selling of products and services, bartering of services, licensing deals, purchasing order financing, small regional sales tests, etc.
As you move out from your “warm market” you will be required to prove out more of your business concept but this will be easier to do with the momentum you will be building with early investors.
To Your Success!
Maria Simone
www.manifestsuccessguru.com
1. Define who would have the most benefit from your success? This group of early investors could be family, friends or colleagues who know you and want to support your efforts from the beginning without requiring a lot of information about the business initially. Also, these people could ultimately become manufacturers or service providers to your new business so investing in you early on would assure them a place in line down the road.
2. Who could be a potential Strategic or Joint Venture Partner to your new business? Their investing early on would be likened to pre-selling your product or service. Could be a potential licensing partner as well.
3. Define who would be your ultimate customer or end-user of your product or service, and who would be emotionally connected to what you were doing? This is the next group I would focus on. For my fashion Company (www.cityscarves.com) it was typically women between the ages of 40-80 years old who loved beautiful things. For my first business, a chain of dry cleaners, people who were hotel or franchise owners that required dry cleaning services in their businesses were my early investors.
4. Look at ways to fund part of your start-up creatively through pre-selling of products and services, bartering of services, licensing deals, purchasing order financing, small regional sales tests, etc.
As you move out from your “warm market” you will be required to prove out more of your business concept but this will be easier to do with the momentum you will be building with early investors.
To Your Success!
Maria Simone
www.manifestsuccessguru.com
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