Passion To Prosperity Diva

A Village has YOU to thank...

2011-12-30T19:09:00.001-08:00

I wanted to take a moment to wish you many abundant blessings as we usher in 2012!

As a token of my gratitude to all those in my life, I've taken a percentage of my revenue
and donated to something very special on YOUR behalf.

This year I purchased livestock so different villages would have continuous access to fresh milk, eggs
and the ability to plow their land.
I did it through an organization called www.heifer.org where you can choose water buffalo, goats, milking cows, etc.

(FYI: this is a SUSTAINABLE donation as the Village has ongoing use of this gift--they don't eat their "assets".)

I've also contributed to www.donorschoose.org , various local food banks and organizations that
empower others through education. My local charity of choice this year is www.WorkingWardrobes.com .

I enjoy giving back and especially enjoy doing so on someone else's behalf so THANK YOU!

I know we've all experienced many changes these past few years and it feels like 2012 will be
a year of miracles!

Wishing you Peace, Love and Holiday Blessings! ~M

Shifting Overwhelm Into Opportunity

2011-07-06T15:34:00.001-07:00

Feeling overwhelmed? So much to do you’re not even sure what’s next?

Breathe. Just stop for a moment.

What you consider overwhelm could merely be a series of OPTIONS the Universe has laid out before you.

It doesn’t need to get done all at once and it doesn’t all have to get done by you.

Slow down. Choose 1 or 2 priority items.

Let go a bit. Ask for help. Delegate.

There is no race and you won’t miss out on an opportunity.

That’s fear talking.

You’ll create opportunities over and over in your life.

The SOUNDS of my life near the beach as the 4th approaches...

2011-07-01T14:05:00.001-07:00

Waves crashing and kids yelling out to their parents, Police and Coast Guard helicopters circling around periodically, lawn mowers out in full force, grills being scraped and cleaned, watermelons getting chopped up, golfers being announced overhead at the golf course, cars honking at surfers running across PCH rushing to catch their perfect wave, bicycle bells sound like a chorus as people give up driving for the weekend, music blaring from convertibles…. All music to my ears and I’m ready to go out and play too. Wishing you a fabulous Forth of July!

You Haven't Failed-- You Just Need A New Plan

2011-06-14T12:18:00.001-07:00

Feeling stuck is not the time to give up…it’s not the time to judge yourself or label your efforts failed. It’s just time for a new plan. It means you’re ready for the next level of support. There’s something that needs to break through. Give yourself some breathing room, let go a bit. Build a new team. Tap into new sources of funding. Do something else. Just don’t give up. You haven’t failed…you just need a new plan.

Present in front of our investor panel...

2011-04-30T09:32:00.001-07:00

The Enlightened Entrepreneur Summit can be summed up as an “experience” more than anything else!

Not only will you have the opportunity of immersing yourself for 3 days in getting dynamic business building support from a very enlightened group of thought leaders and pillars in the business community, but you’ll also have the complimentary opportunity to present your idea or existing business to a group of investors who will give you valuable feedback whether you’re raising capital or want accelerated growth strategies.

Are you clear about what you have to offer and who you’re serving? Do you understand how to move your products and services quickly into the hands of your customers? Are your values in true alignment with your business? Have you taken the time to surround yourself with people that have achieved similar goals? These are some of the answers you’ll discover by attending the summit.

http://EnlightenedEntrepreneurSummit.com

Moving into ease and flow

2011-03-14T11:20:00.001-07:00

The more clear we become about what we want to accomplish, the people we want to attract, & the life we want to live, the easier it can become. It's the lack of choosing--- that living by default and dealing with whatever shows up-- that creates chaos and disappointment. Allow your heart and soul to share truth and see what shows up. Commit to the allowing and stop denying yourself the very things you want simply because they don’t seem logical or others are telling you there’s no way. There’s always a way.

We continue to send love

2011-03-13T20:38:00.001-07:00

… and healing energy out from our hearts, allowing it to wrap around the planet and blanket those who are suffering such loss in Japan this day.

The most wonderful of all things in life...

2011-03-13T14:23:00.001-07:00

"…I believe, is the discovery of another human being with whom one's relationship has a growing depth, beauty, and joy as the years increase. This inner progressiveness of love between two human beings is a most marvelous thing; it cannot be found by looking for it or by passionately wishing for it. It is a sort of divine accident, and the most wonderful of all things in life." ~Hugh Walpole

The only people for me are the mad ones

2011-03-12T09:18:00.001-08:00

…the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn, like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars and in the middle you see the blue centerlight pop and everybody goes "Awww!" ~Jack Kerouac

A Very Special Welcome Home

2011-03-10T19:23:00.001-08:00

6 young soldiers were on my flight to Salt Lake City today. This was their final destination after serving 18 months in Afghanistan... They were tired and missing their families.
What was beautiful was the crowd of people waiting for them in the terminal. Family, well wishers, vets, cycling clubs. They were all there and It was quite beautiful to watch! Knowing how much they deserved it brought tears to my eyes!

Sent from my iPhone

Celebrating International Women's Day 2011...TODAY!

2011-03-08T11:59:00.001-08:00

Here’s a look at some of the world’s most inspiring women http://huff.to/f1dvQj

What is passion?

2011-03-08T09:05:00.001-08:00

“It is surely the becoming of a person. Are we not, for most of our lives, marking time? Most of our being is at rest, unlived. In passion, the body and the spirit seek expression outside of self. Passion is all that is other from self. The more extreme and the more expressed that passion is, the more unbearable does life seems without it. It reminds us that if passion dies or is denied, we are partly dead and that soon, come what may, we will be wholly so.” ~John Boorman

Jen Aniston Sex Video---Now THIS Is Marketing

2011-03-07T18:19:00.001-08:00

How do you convey your message, connect with your market, be authentic AND go viral.

Hmmmm…I would check out this video for some pointers.

http://bit.ly/etC4fQ

Innovation with a feminine twist...

2011-03-02T08:56:00.001-08:00

Looking forward to my coaching sessions today--- all with women putting together new business models, creating a “new way” of doing something. Feels great to be a part of all these new paradigms and blazing new trails.

5 Simple Strategies To Help You Achieve Your Goals

2011-01-03T15:35:00.000-08:00

I’m all for having a milestone, a goal, or an “end game” on any project I’m working on. It gives me something to focus my intention on and ultimately moves me towards what I most desire with more ease and flow. It’s manifestation at its finest! So here are some ways to make your goals S.M.A.R.T so that you’ll actually FULFILL your New Year’s resolutions or take that dusty business plan off the shelf and put it to work!

1. S- SPECIFIC. Before you start out on your Yellow Brick Road, make sure you’ve addressed the 6 “W’s”—Who, What, Where, When, Which and Why. This will help you put things in perspective and understand up front the people and resources you’ll need to succeed. For example you might say “lose weight” but perhaps a more specific goal would be to “join Weight Watchers, follow their program and attend live meetings once each week until I lose 20 pounds.”

2. M – Measurable. You need to be able to track your progress—of lack thereof—with anything you’re working on. Make sure that’s built into any goal you’ve set out to achieve. If you can chart progress then you’re more likely to keep moving forward. If there is no progress based on what’s being measured, then you need to be able to make immediate corrections.

3. A- Attainable. I love dreaming big but when aiming for the stars, it’s a lot easier to take a series of smaller steps to get there then it is to keep trying to actually JUMP up to stars. So hold on to that big, hairy audacious dream of yours but plan a series of shorter, more attainable goals that are more likely to get you there AND you believe that you’ll achieve!

4. R- Realistic. Could be a great goal but if you don’t own it, you may never achieve it. Make sure it’s something you really want AND willing to do what it takes to get there. If not, it may not even be worth starting.

5. T- Time. Putting a TIMEFRAME on achieving your goals helps you achieve it faster since it’s now rooted in something specific. If not time, then choose something else that’s tangible and can be experienced such as one of the senses.

To schedule your complimentary “Passion to Prosperity Strategy Session” to discuss creating your own S.M.A.R.T goals, contact Maria Simone by sending an email to admin@passion2prosperity.com.

Let It Flow---Importance of Establishing Lines of Credit For Your Business

2010-09-24T23:02:00.000-07:00

Having the access to the capital resources you need to start or grow your business is critical for business success. One of the funding strategies I recommend for every business is to establish your business credit platform so that you have ongoing access to business lines of credit. Your business is a separate entity and can (as well as should be) totally disassociated from your own personal credit. That means it’s not necessary to use your social security number to access business financing but people often do so, not understanding the alternative.

So, regardless of your personal credit situation, there is a specific process you can follow that will walk you into potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars in lines of credit that you may use to grow your business. I you want to start the process right now to access up to $100K, go to http://businesscreditspot.com and you’ll start seeing results within days.

Here are facts you should know and ways to get started in establishing your own business credit:

1. Regardless of what you’ve heard, “business credit” has not gone away for businesses. While the guidelines for individual financing may seem to be more stringent, there are still plenty of financial resources for businesses if you know where to look. The stimulus money authorized by Obama’s administration is still available using this process.

2. Best time to start is now. The more time you have to “germinate” the process, the more success you will have so start it as soon as you incorporate or when you don’t even need the money. It will always be there for you.

3. The process is easy to follow IF you know the process. Years ago I attempted to do this process on my own and unbeknownst to me, made several simple reporting errors that caused me to get denied a couple of times. Either spend a bit of time educating yourself on the entire process OR simply work with someone who knows the exact next steps.

4. Your business credit is built on a Paydex score, not a FICO score. In business credit we use a Tax ID number to apply for a DUNS number which starts the reporting process, NOT your Social Security number. It’s a totally different reporting system but if you haven’t started the process, there won’t be anything for the lending institutions to look at. A perfect Paydex score is 100.

5. Start with trade lines who report your DUNS number. Best way to ensure success is to start with a few small trade lines of credit that you know report your credit status thus naturally building your Paydex score. This takes just a few days to complete. At BusinessCreditSpot.com, we share no less than 10 resources for you to quickly establish credit trade lines.

6. Establish several unsecured lines of credit starting at $5000-$10,000. From trade lines you’ll quickly move into credit lines and now the money is flowing. It will be much easier to quickly step into larger lines of credit from there.

7. This is not “expensive” money. Business lines of credit generally have very low interest rates, generous terms and do not require you giving away equity in your company. Also, they are unsecured and uncollateralized for the most part which means you’re not required to put any of your tangible assets into the mix.

8. Having a solid business credit platform will help you attract more lucrative resources. Being able to show a positive credit status may help you attract SBA funding, private investors, larger contracts and strategic alliance partners.

Manifesting Made Easy In Your Business

2010-09-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

For many, many years I had programmed that getting ahead was associated with hard work. Every success I had early on in my career---and I’ve had many--- were often as a result of long hours and personal sacrifice. Fast forward to 12 years ago when I started becoming more conscious to Universal Wisdom and the notion that we literally create our own reality. The more responsible and accepting you become with that knowledge, rather then blaming or relying on outside influences, the easier life becomes. Most of the world was introduced to Law of Attraction through The Secret movie but it goes so far beyond that.

My claim to fame is in applying Universal Wisdom with real-world business strategy for accelerated results. I’ve created my own formula for success over the years and is ingrained in the work I do with clients. My goal with people is to align thoughts, circumstances, and inspired actions in such a way that you literally feel like you’re floating on a moving sidewalk towards your desired results rather then climbing up a steep hill. Can you FEEL the distinctions in this analogy? That’s what the shift feels like in business. Does my formula involve physical work? Absolutely but the experience overall is more joyful, inspired and abundant on many levels. The choice is yours of course. Here are some of pearls that stand out from my manifestation formula:

1.Get clarity on what you want first. Very simple concept but many people have trouble actually articulating what they want because they’re so accustomed to living by default. Suspend “the how will it happen”, or what it’s going to cost, or how long you think it would take. Define, in a perfect world, what you’d like to create in your business

2.Never use money as an end result. Money is a resource, it’s an energy in your business. So focus on something that evokes more emotion. Get into the feeling of what success would be like. Could be what you would accomplish with the money, who will be served, and so forth.

3. Commit to having what you want. Make a no matter what decision to having the success you desire and expect it to happen. Decide up front what’s negotiable and what’s not and then commit.

4. Schedule time for meditation and processing. The key is to allow solutions, people and resources to show up in your life without you having to work too hard at finding them. In order to do that, you’ll want to slow down or better yet--STOP--each day to express gratitude for what you have and set your intention on what’s to come. Situations will progress more smoothly for you as a result of this.

5.Be more compassionate with yourself. Self-judgment will always slow down this process. Infuse more positive, kinder language into your vocabulary. Using language like failure, bad, or stupid to describe something you’ve done only reinforces the negative. Learn to be as tolerant with yourself as you would with a 3 year old.

6.Seek out a model of what success looks like for you. Some people create vision boards but I recommend finding a business, a person or a situation that most closely represents what you’d like to achieve and learn as much as you can about that business or person.

7.Take inspired action. Don’t try to do everything at once. Organize your "chaos" and learn to work on just a few priority items at a time and you’ll notice you’re actually having bigger results. Continuous multi-tasking does not necessarily produce positive outcomes!

8. Never go at it alone. Constantly reflect on “what talent would best serve me now” and expect the most perfect people to show up. Allow others into your world to help you pick up the slack or lend their expertise. Ask, receive, ask, receive. Practice it, become accustomed to it and watch your results skyrocket.

Get out of your way!

2010-07-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

If you want to achieve extraordinary results, dare to make choices based on what it is you TRULY want, not what you think you can have. You’re limiting yourself by charging what you think people can pay, not what you’re worth, or compromising on what you want from a relationship based on what you think the other person can give you. It’s not about THEM---it’s all about YOU. Decide what it is you want to create in your life ---without even full knowing the HOW---and then learn to step aside and let it happen. Do you deserve it? Absolutely YES! Will people be there to support you? Absolutely YES! Will the “how” to do something be revealed? Absolutely YES!

Strategies For Becoming a Customer Magnet

2010-07-10T11:17:00.000-07:00

You’ve gone to great lengths to produce your products and services so how come they’re not flying out the door? The saying “if you build it they will come” may apply to dreamy baseball fields but you may want to take a different approach when it comes to being a customer magnet otherwise you’ll spend way too much time selling your product. Yes, it’s possible to become a “Master Manifestor” when it comes to customers AND it also helps to position yourself with proper marketing strategies in place. You’re have a more enjoyable experience if the focus is not just to sell products but to engage your prospects. Here are some action steps you can take that will help attract your most perfect customers.

1. Know who your customers are. You want to be crystal clear when it comes to the knowing the demographic and psychographic profile or your ideal customer otherwise it will always fell like hit or miss with your sales and marketing efforts. You not only want to know their age, sex and ethnic makeup but it helps to know their goals, aspirations and what their lives are like in general. If you sense your market is too broad, then focus on a smaller segment for awhile. The more you know about them and can authentically relate, the more they’ll flock to you because –guess what – you “get them”.

2.Go where your customers go. Get as close to your ideal customer as possible by being online if they’re online, attending the same events or participating in the same community activities they do. In a NON-STALKING WAY of course, become interested in whatever is near and dear to their heart so you can relate to them on many different levels. This strategy can be applied individually OR it can be scaled to reach the masses.

3. Create a memorable experience for your customers. Several years ago I had the opportunity to be mentored by Nick Graham whom most know as “Joe Boxer”. Nick built the wildly successful Joe Boxer brand before selling it to KMart for many millions of dollars back in 1997. His company became a household name not because of a lot of paid advertising (he would proudly tell me) but because of memorable marketing strategies that were remembered. His mantra was “your brand is the amusement park and your product is the souvenir.” What can you do that will create a memorable experience for your prospects and customers? More importantly, how do you make them feel?

4. Engage your customers in ways that will inspire them to come back to you. What is the “glue” that will keep your customers inspired and stay connected to you. A membership, a rewards program, interacting in a community, loyalty, gifts, bonuses, etc.

Conducting Simple Market Research Saves Time And Money

2010-06-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

Stepping into product creation and production is the goal of many entrepreneurs. When you have an idea, the next natural impulse is to turn the idea into form but there are several other stages of the process you may want to go through first before you invest too much time and resources into actually producing the product. Without some testing and market research, you may find yourself continually going back to the drawing board to make a product that will actually sell. You may not have the resources available to conduct more thorough research but here are a few testing strategies you can use to get market validation for your product or service whether you’ve invented a widget or you’re a consultant with a process to offer. When you’ve gotten a YES in these areas, then you’ll know it’s time to proceed to the next step.

1. Talk to your customers AND end users. These two groups are not the same and usually represent the retail buyer and their customer or your distributor and the person who buys from them. For instance, you may interview Home Depot customers who would buy your product if it was available but if the store’s buyer doesn’t get it, he won’t place an order from you. This also applies to online marketing when you’re working with affiliates. You want buy-in from BOTH groups.

2. Know where your product will sell first. Your product may look different on a store shelf, selling online, selling in Costco or bundled with another product. Discover which distribution channel will be most lucrative for you first and then make a product that will suit that channel. I knew someone that invested his first round of capital developing a product for Lowe’s Home Improvement only to find that the packaging was totally inappropriate and the buyers weren’t interested in carrying the product but he hadn’t taken the time to discuss it with them. It would have been better suited as a direct response product and sold via infomercial to start.

3. Test your price points. Karen Neuberger makes a famous line of loungewear for women. Her primary market is high-end Nordstrom’s but her outfits also sell in lower-end Marshalls stores. Even though the products may look very similar, there are very distinct quality differences between the two. The quality of the product made is a reflection of the price point that is most suitable for that particular market.

4. Pre-sell whenever possible. There is nothing that provides validation as much as early traction—knowing there are people willing to pay for your product. You can pre-sell by selling small orders or pre-sell the idea and then make the product later.

5. Be sure you can fulfill orders in a reasonable time and with minimum cost . You may have a great idea but the costs related to getting the product to the customer are greater then any demand would be so it may not make sense to even produce or promise the product. This is also true of a service when your time is involved. Regardless, make sure you know you can deliver on your promise before you commit to producing your product. For instance, think of the logistics and resources involved for FedEx or Super Shuttle Transportation to deliver on their brand promises of rapid transportation. A dentist who promises rapid response for walk-ins and then is faced with 500 new patients walking through the door will need to rethink his/her fulfillment and distribution model.

To schedule your complimentary “Passion To Prosperity Strategy Session”, contact Maria Simone by sending an email to admin@passion2prosperity.com. You may reprint this article in its entirety with author's contact and bio information.

Prospering With Systems In Your Business

2010-06-11T14:38:00.000-07:00

Your business infrastructure is the series of systems, strategies, processes, and automated activities that correctly combined will allow any small business to safely grow to a 6, 7 or even an 8 figure business. Your business infrastructure is not unlike your body’s skeleton. Without your skeleton (I’ll keep this G-rated), things would get pretty messy and we wouldn’t have the ability to be very mobile let alone GROW. As they say in pop culture, you’d be a “hot mess” without it. Solopreneurs and small businesses experience this all too often when they wear too many hats and literally become the bottleneck of their business. Even with the realization they’re severely limiting their growth, it may seem difficult to break out of this exhausting cycle. Here are some action steps you can take to create more structure, experience more freedom and experience more prosperity in your business.

1. Remember it’s a BUSINESS not a BAKE SALE. You want your business to take on an energetic life of its own and that will only happen if you allow it to develop its own culture and brand that’s independent of you so it has the chance to be a formidable entity that serves the greater good. The objective is to lead the process responsibly, not treat it like a part time hobby, take anything too personally or be too controlling with it.

2.Define what the most productive activities are in your business. These would typically be specific revenue generating activities OR if you’re in start-up mode, raising capital. Start doing more of THOSE and less of the busy work

3.Define and document all pertinent tasks in your business. If you’re the ”chief, cook and bottle washer”, it’s going to be difficult to delegate unless you’ve taken some time to document all that you do so that others can follow in your footsteps.

4.Automate your customer service and marketing activities. If you’re going to invest time and money attracting new customers, the last thing you want to do is ignore them after the sale. Consider using an automated marketing tool that will manage your customer intake, product sales, track referrals, and will send preprogrammed reminder and marketing messages to continually engage prospects and customers. I’ve been using http://www.prosperitycart.com/ for several years in multiple businesses and it has been responsible for bringing in more revenue then any other tool in my business.

5.Avoid doing an activity more than once. If you have activities that must be carried out repetitively and are not the best use of your time, then make plans to automate, delegate or package them in a way so you no longer have to spend time doing it.

6.Create timelines and schedules that have beginnings and endings. Structure your days so that you’re working on manageable tasks, stick to realistic timelines, and create ways to measure completions for yourself and your team.

7.Institute basic Quality Control standards. How do you measure if something is working or acceptable in your business? Especially with regards to safety, training, productivity, profitability or customer satisfaction.

In my 30 Day Revenue Makeover Program (http://30dayrevenue.com), you’re guided through a series of strategies similar to these that help you create a more solid infrastructure in your business and thus improving your revenue potential. You may reprint this article in its entirety with author's contact and bio information.

Is it time for a REVENUE MAKEOVER?-- Here's your sign

2010-05-28T15:59:00.001-07:00

The other night I was in stitches watching comedian Bill Engvall perform his wildly popular routine “here’s your sign..” where he points out people who are oblivious to the obvious and then gives them a “sign” as a warning to the rest of us to stay clear. I got to thinking about how as business owners we get so caught up in the “doing” of our business, we may not always see if these activities are in our best interest to be doing, if they’re really helping us achieve the results we desire or if there is an easier and more cost effective way to achieve similar or better results.
I’ve been very busy these past few months strategizing with people who want to move from what they feel is a “stuck” place and into a position of creating true abundance in their business. The place of being in the zone as it relates to revenue, relationships, recognition for your work, happy customers, etc. I use a 4-part process that is guaranteed to get you results and this month I packaged it into a complete system that you can take into your business and in 30 day increments, can completely transform the results you’re getting. The people I’ve been working with have reported that all my strategies have been fairly easy to implement and have produced profound results. They were just so close to their situation, they couldn’t always see what the very best solution for them was. Go to 30 Day Revenue Makeover for pre-launch specials or to download a FREE program overview which will help address some of your most immediate needs.
Wondering if you need a revenue makeover? Here are a few “signs” to look for:

1. Feeling less than passionate about what you’re doing these days and find yourself doing tasks that don’t bring you joy.

2. Too busy trying to stay ahead to focus on long term goals or your vision.

3. Business you were counting on seems to go away very easily.

4. Feeling like you can’t really handle on any new business even though you need the revenue.

5. Don’t have enough resources to accomplish your goals.

6. Revenue coming in the door but there aren’t enough profits going into your
bank account.

7. Having trouble delegating to others so you find yourself doing most of the work.

8. Too much time being spent on busy activities and serving customers and not enough time bringing in new revenue.

9. Constantly having to attract new customers who’ll buy your products and services and it feels like you’re recreating your business each month.

10. Have a great product or service but people don’t seem to get it.

11. Feel like there’s too much competition and no one is buying from you.

12. Can’t seem to attract or retain the right support people who see your vision and are willing to carry it out.

13. Expenses so high you’re not sure if you’re even making a profit.

14. Marketing strategies that used to work don’t seem to have the same effect anymore.

15. Have a negligible budget to invest in any additional advertising or marketing.

Sometimes people think if they just had more money, their problems will be solved but that’s not necessarily the case. You can make some simple changes in how you approach your business, how you approach your customers, streamlining your operations, and zero- cost marketing efforts and this may completely change your revenue landscape without any additional financial investment. So if you feel like YOU could use a revenue makeover, think new strategies and simply go to 30 Day Revenue to make a purchase at the special pre-launch price AND use coupon code 50 off to get an additional $50 off. To discuss next steps to creating spiritually rewarding and financially abundant businesses, email admin@passion2prosperity.com to schedule a private consultation.

Ways To Build Your Company’s Karma-01K Plan

2010-05-13T14:30:00.000-07:00

Years ago I became acutely aware that our actions in the present set the stage for all our future circumstances. Some people know it to be “karma”, or the Universal Law of Cause and Effect. I believe understanding and appreciating this dynamic at play in our lives is at the core of living a conscious, enlightened life. I’ve seen this cause and effect manifest instantly and at other times, it shows up months or years later. But it’s there nonetheless. For instance, someone who is regularly disrespectful to those around him cannot expect to be treated with much respect himself or at least won’t be able to see it even if it is happening to him. The same actions are true with regard to money, love, and success.

With this knowledge, I’ve committed to living more responsibly and impeccably in the present –and to always be in the present – and know that I’m paving the way for a more joyful and abundant future. Especially as it relates to Business. When I’m working with clients, my “secret sauce” is to balance business knowledge with Universal knowledge so that true success can be realized more effortlessly. I’ve watched my clients become magnets for money relationships and resources while having a lot more fun.

There are actions we can all take each day in our business to set the stage for more respect, love, joy and financial abundance to flow into our own lives. For those that have a 401K plan established in their life, you know that it requires small, regularly scheduled contributions to reap the rewards later on. Same with your Karma-01K plan. If you take the time each day to make a deposit into your “Good Karma” account, you’ll have a wonderful cushion of support to fall back on. Unlike your traditional 401K Plan however, you can begin reaping the rewards immediately and there are no early withdrawal penalties. Think of all the wealth you’ll accumulate with simple daily deposits.

Here are just a few of mine...please share yours as well!

1. Invest some of your time and money in those who are coming up behind you.

2. Look for ways to collaborate with a competitor.

3. Tell your team how much you appreciate them.

4. Reduce waste, conserve energy and recycle as much as possible.

5. Take a day off once in awhile to recharge “just because”.

6. Make it easy for others around you to do the same.

7. Give gifts for no reason.

8. Volunteer with a charity organization dedicated to improving quality of life.

9. Create a community project that your team, customers and vendors can get involved with.

10. Set aside products or services to regularly give away for fundraising activities.

11. Offer to write an endorsement or letter of recommendation for someone before being asked.

12. Let someone’s boss know what a great job their employee did.

13. Give something away to a prospective customer.

14. Connect two people who you know should meet.

15. Back away from profit activities that exploit or take advantage of others.

To discuss next steps to creating spiritually rewarding and financially abundant businesses, email simone@passion2prosperity.com for a private consultation.

Share your "Good Karma" deposit tips below!

Creating Abundance With Joint Venture Alliances

2010-05-11T01:08:00.000-07:00

Intentionally creating WIN-WIN-WIN promotional opportunities with those who have a vested interest in your success can set the stage for abundance to flow effortlessly into your business. Collaborating with like minded individuals can be one of the fastest ways to promote and sell your products and services. I have experienced substantial growth in many areas of my businesses including revenue, attraction of customers more aligned with my offerings, a substantially larger mailing list, reduced marketing expenses, and so forth. A Joint Venture (JV) happens when 2 or more entities come together to create a mutually beneficial relationship that not only supports one another’s success but also creates more value for the customer. Because it has become such an important and effective marketing strategy over the past few years, I devote a fair amount of time going over the nuances of creating and sustaining these relationships in my business development programs. The strategies include:

1. Establishing a common objective to base the relationship on.
2. Finding your ideal Joint Venture partner.
3. Making that initial contact and inspiring a JV to do business with you.
4. Crafting a WIN-WIN-WIN scenario beyond basic financial compensation.
5. Execution of the promotion.

There are many reasons WHY one would want to create a JV relationship. Here are a few scenarios that tend to produce the most fruitful outcomes for me and the clients I’m working with:

1. Rapidly expand your subscriber base. It’s easy to quickly increase your list of prospective customers when you can tap into someone else’s list and the goodwill they have already established.

2. Establish instant credibility. If you’re new to your industry and would like to quickly establish trust with your market, having an endorsement from a well-respected player could be exactly what’s needed.

3. Create a successful program or product launch. Allow your JV to assist with promotions of your products and services to their already established markets that contain your ideal customer. For instance, if I owned a scrapbook supply company and my JV had a substantial mailing list of scrapbookers, it would be in my best interest to collaborate with them for my product promotion.

4. Offer more value to your customers. Who doesn’t enjoy a “gift with purchase”! Bundling your products and services with those of your JV partners truly creates a WIN-WIN-WIN because your JV partner gets exposed to a new market, you get to offer more value which will help increase sales and your customer gets to take home the prize.

5. Use the JV partnership to establish a milestone. There’s strength in numbers and your JV partners may be able to help you achieve bestseller status if you’re an author, win an award or contest or help you make an outstanding contribution to a non-profit simply by reaching out to their database.

6. Use it to attract necessary resources. There are resources you need in your business to be able to serve more customers. Your JV partners can help you attract these resources and may include capital, media attention, team, and manufacturing support.

To discuss next steps to creating profitable and rewarding Joint Ventures and how to include them in your business, email simone@passion2prosperity.com for a private consultation

BE Your Magnificence

2010-04-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

I've found there are many activities in life that are more quickly mastered by not only DOING that thing
but doing it alongside someone who has done it and can demonstrate success to you.
Like learning to drive, paint, cook (my grandmother taught me) and especially growing a business.
In the past, the times when I’ve launched a new project on my own are the times I’ve struggled more, felt overwhelmed, spent more money then I should have and took a lot longer than I thought it would.
This also seems to be an obvious truth with many of the people I work with, is it the same for you?
My clients start taking off in ways they only imagined once they’ve had the opportunity for immersion with me.
That means I’ve gotten into the “doing” with them as opposed to them just reading about how to do it or listening to CD’s.
I’m committed to helping Conscious Entrepreneurs create their millions in a meaningful way over the next couple of years
and that’s why I want to make it as easy as possible, as well as IRRESISTIBLE for you to work with me and my team.
For those who appreciate structured support---we’re now taking enrollments for our latest support program for entrepreneurs, speakers and service professionals.

Doors are officially open for “BE Your Magnificence- A Transformational Business Experience” beginning May 11th, 2010.
This COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT Package was created with women entrepreneurs in mind and includes:

*Weekly calls for 16 weeks with a small group as we walk you step-by-step into creating more sustaining revenue in your new or existing business.
We create a Business Blueprint so you have a plan to execute, support in clarifying your passion and purpose, help structuring your marketing funnel so we can automate many of your business activities, develop products and services that will quickly get you into revenue, online and offline marketing strategies so you’re attracting customers with ease, social media marketing, funding strategies, learn to charge what you’re worth, and breaking through any obstacles you may have about money and success.
This support alone is valued at almost $15,000.

* One-on-one support throughout the months from myself and my technology expert husband as we work specifically on your business agendas, valued over $1000.

*Monthly Call-in Q & A Coaching Afternoons for 6 months where the spotlight is on you and your progress, valued at $600.

*Access to our database of resources. Includes templates, people, promotional opportunities, investor contacts and so much more.

*One month of SEO and social media promotional support to help you jumpstart your marketing campaign, valued at $500

*A ticket to my 2-day BE Your Magnificence Intensive in Scottsdale, AZ, June 26-27, valued at $3500.
My team of millionaires, marketing, systems, transformation and funding specialists will work with you personally on Joint Venture development, product creation, design, mindset, funding, implementation of your social media marketing plan and so much more.

*A ticket to “Powered With Passion”, a 2-day unique abundant living retreat in breathtaking Sedona, AZ, http://poweredwithpassion.com valued at $497.

*We create an AUDIO PRODUCT and design other products/programs for you that you can sell over and over again, valued at $600

*ADDITIONAL BONUSES focusing on wealth creation, branding, publicity, creating instant revenue streams, and developing a conscious business valued at over $1000.

How’s that for immersion?
This total business building support package has a real value of $22,700 but we’ve bundled it into an incredible offer that starts at just $599.
I know it's hard to believe--- I think it's a pretty wild offer myself! You can see all the program details once you sign in at http://passion2prosperity.com
(NOTE: all the bonuses listed above are included but are not all visible on the website).
Go ahead and register today if you're heart is saying "YES" right about now. We only have 16 spots available and will sell out.
We’re serious about helping you move into meaningful, financial success and if you’re serious about it too and want to discuss it, send an email to simone@passion2prosperity.com and my team will schedule us for a heart-to-heart chat.

How To Dramatically Change Your Revenue With An Automated eCommerce Platform

2010-03-19T23:02:00.000-07:00

No matter what your product or service is or how great it is, you won’t achieve measurable financial success unless you have a platform to sell from. The more you sell, the more money you make. Seems simple enough but developing a productive sales and ecommerce platform that works to attract customers and sell products 24/7 is often a great challenge for people in business. For the past few years I’ve been helping entrepreneurs develop their own successful selling platform. Here are some solutions I’ve used that are scalable which means you can start this process even before you have a product or service to sell.

1. Install a multipurpose eCommerce-ready Shopping Cart. My revenue changed dramatically the day I automated my selling process. If you’re manually taking orders or collecting payments, this will have an effect on your ability to grow. I recommend implementing more automation and switching to a Shopping Cart such as http://www.prosperitycart.com . This is my cost effective private label of 1ShoppingCart and I’ve been using it in multiple businesses for many years. This allows you to catalog and sell your products, services and digital products; integrate all your payment methods; and automate a follow-up sequence. There are multiple service options available which means it grows as your business needs grow.

2. Install a merchant account. You could be losing out on new business if you don’t accept credit cards these days. People will take their business elsewhere if the buying process is too tedious. The easiest payment gateway to use is PayPal.com but it comes with higher transaction fees and lots of restrictions (they can hold/suspend your transactions at anytime and business comes to a halt if that happens). Also, your business may not be thought of as highly professional if you’re only using PayPal as a payment gateway. I recommend obtaining a professional merchant account from a reputable company or banking institution. Make sure you compare transaction fees and discount fees, which is a percentage of each transaction, to get the best deal. Some of the lowest fees and fastest money turnarounds I have ever seen are with wholesale merchant accounts that are backed by reputable banks. My husband Michael Murdock is a resource for those accounts. Feel free to see what a difference this type of account would have in your business by contacting him at ceo@docmurdock.com . His clients are now saving upwards of $5000-$6000 in fees each year.

3. Place email opt-in areas everywhere you can. Think of your Shopping Cart as a bucket that can collect names for you 24/7. You want to attach that bucket anyplace where people visit you. That includes your website, product landing pages, blogs, social media profiles, email signatures, etc. The more names you collect, the more people will have the opportunity to get to know you. Ultimately, you’ll be offering your product solutions to people you now have a pre-existing relationship with. The “gold is in the list” as internet marketers will tell you.

4. Plan a follow-up email marketing campaign. The strength of your relationship with your subscriber list will be in how well you follow up with this group. This includes thank you messages, product offerings, invitations to try new things or attend virtual events, newsletters, surveys and a variety of other regularly scheduled communications. This can all be written and loaded into the system in advance when using an automated shopping cart system. With ProsperityCart.com, our communications are planned up to 2 years in advance and passively work for us 24/7 even while on vacation.

5. Create products or offers of different price points. It’s easy to inspire someone to try you out when you’re offering them something for free, not to mention the Goodwill it creates. Following the tried and true marketing funnel formula, you may want to offer something of a lower price point for the next level of commitment and so on. We’re all comfortable buying, and continuing to buy, from people we know and trust so you want to create that scenario in your business whenever possible.

To discuss the creation of a robust and profitable eCommerce platform in your business, email simone@passion2prosperity.com for a private consultation.

How To Connect With Your Most Perfect Contacts

2010-02-25T11:37:00.000-08:00

We don’t operate our businesses in a void so no matter where you are in the success continuum, you’ll always be in search of PEOPLE to help you fulfill certain roles. If you’re just starting out, you’ll want mentors and advisors. Investors are out there as well as people to help you with marketing, manufacturing, operations, etc. Of course you wouldn’t be in business very long if you didn’t have customers.

Here are some strategies I use to constantly put me in the right place at the right time to be able to connect with any “human” resource I may need at any given time. People constantly say “Maria knows everyone.” It’s more like “Maria knows how to MEET anyone”.

1. Regularly create profiles of the contacts you need. Whatever you’re looking for, it really helps to have an idea of the person that can help you get it...not just what “it” is. Most of the time, you’ll find you already KNOW someone that fits your new profile. You just hadn’t yet thought of that person as a resource. I use this technique to help manifest strategic partners, investors, clients, etc.

2. Attend industry events. If you want to meet the movers and shakers of your industry, start attending the same tradeshows and conferences they do.

3. Put it out to your network. Don’t forget to tell the people you know WHO you’re looking for.

4. Hang out where they hang out. I’ve met my investors exactly where I’d thought they’d be--- at fundraising events, out with other investors, at various community events, social and business gatherings.

5. Attend networking functions to meet with the organizers or featured guests. Many people will attend a networking event to meet potential clients but my mission goes a bit beyond that and is usually to create strategic alliances with people who have complimentary talents as well as their own following. Those people can usually get you in front of a much larger group of your ideal “whatever”. So mingle with the participants but also make yourself known to the experts and organizers in attendance.

6. Search for people online or in your local press. If you do a Google search using industry specific terms you’ll find out who the talent is within that industry. This is great if you’re looking for C-level folks and advisors. Once I can associate a name with an expertise I’m looking for, it’s just a matter of tracking that person down. Same goes for a name you read in a newspaper. EX: You’re looking for an advisor in waste management and one day you read about the retirement of the Chairman of the Board of XYZ Waste Management Co. Chances are, THAT’S the person you need to connect with.

7. Use search functions on the Social Networks. Nothing has accelerated my connecting as much as the social networks have. You can pick a few people who are your perfect contacts and easily connect to who they know using the follow functions. In the search boxes, simply put in keywords that describe their industry or what they would be talking about and see who pops up. People are also generally more accessible on the social networks as well.

8. Let them come to you. Consider hosting an event or being part of something bigger that will put you directly in front of the contacts that you would need. This is a great time to support others who are doing similar work as a way to increase your visibility.

9. Meditate on attracting the most perfect contacts. Success does not happen by just working hard you know! I meditate daily and visualize the most perfect people showing up to support my efforts. Usually during that time or shortly afterwards, names will pop into my head or the phone will ring with a perfect opportunity. If you want success that’s more flowing and effortless, that’s a sure way to create it.

Strategies For Getting Early Traction For Your Products and Services

2010-02-12T09:27:00.000-08:00

Like the adage “which came first, the chicken or the egg”, many entrepreneurs find themselves at a crossroads when trying to launch their product. To do it properly requires financial or other resources they may not have but in order to get those resources, they’re asked to “prove” their concept. One of my specialties is supporting people through this stage so that they have the opportunity to prove out the validity of their concept & get early “traction” (interest from buyers) while being very prudent with resources.

What’s important to note here is that before you invest lots of time and money in creating a product or service and then trying to sell it, it’s more prudent to SELL the concept before you actually create the product. In the past, I’ve gotten 5 and 6-figure commitments before I even produced a product. Obviously, your risks are greatly reduced if there is a nominal investment required to produce and distribute your product--- that’s why I love working online and with digital products.

Why do this? You’ll save yourself time and money as you avoid risks and produce a product that’s exactly what your market wants; establish credibility; attract investors and sponsors who can now see the validity of what you’re creating before it’s fully launched; and finally, have a market already established when it comes time to actually sell tangible products and services.

My complete list is quite extensive but here are some ways to get proof of concept and early traction:

1. Conduct some basic market research. Make sure you have really spoken to your customers and end users (if the two are different) to see if this is something they would like have and would purchase if available. Thoroughly document this research.

2. Build a list. Start creating a list of followers who would be potential customers when the time is right. The bigger the better and I recommend managing your growing list with one of the Autoresponder tools listed at http://intentionalincome.com

3. Network Within Your Industry. It’s much easier to garner the support of your industry if you’ve already established a good reputation. That’s why it’s imperative to show up and network at industry tradeshows; events where your peers and potential customers would be; media outlets; and online via social media activities.

4. Create and test a prototype as soon as possible. Depending on the resources you have available, develop a working prototype or sample of your vision as soon as possible. Even it’s just a graphical mockup. Having something tangible for people to look at will dramatically improve their interest.

5. Sell your “concept” as soon as possible. Before you commit to manufacturing your product, look at establishing your distribution channels first. Knowing where your product will sell will make a difference in how you package it. Also, it would be ideal if you can pre-sell your product (within legal parameters of course). I’ve gotten contracts and letters of interest for products prior to manufacturing. You can do the same for information products, books, events, etc.

6. Can you start small and scale up? You my not have the resources to be fully operational but is there some aspect of your business you can launch with limited resources, test and then expand? This will not only provide further validation but can also help fund other stages of growth.

7. Partner up with someone that has the resources you need. Perhaps consider licensing, private labeling or co-branding with another company to help you initially launch a product. Manufacturing and marketing could be your biggest expenses initially so find people who will cover that for you.

8. Get the media talking. Having the media pick up on your “story”, the circumstances surrounding your journey, or any tie in to current events really helps to establish credibility and interest from buyers and partners.

9. Gather testimonials. Paint the picture about how great your product or service is through the eyes of someone who has experienced it (or you). This will help make your Company more real to potential customers.

Shifting Overwhelm Into Opportunity

2010-02-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

You can turn what appears to be “overwhelm” into a more positive experience. When the anxiety starts to creep in, simply stop and take a few deep breaths. Then express gratitude for all the new choices that are before you ---because that is what’s really happening, isn’t it? Ask for guidance as to which feels like the best option for you to pursue and wait for an answer coming from your heart, not your head. If you can be still in this process, the answers come much more quickly. If you find yourself faced with too many tasks, know that you don’t have to do everything at once and you never have to do it all alone. Do what feels right for you in the moment and know everything else will get taken care of when it should.

Strategies For Staying Focused

2010-02-08T07:56:00.001-08:00

Many years ago business mentor Mitch Santell said to me “Maria, lots of people are running their businesses like they’re folding deck chairs on the sinking Titanic”. I’ve never forgotten that and quite often as I’m making decisions to do something I stop to ask myself “am I just folding deck chairs”? There’s so much pressure to work harder to stay ahead and to try different things to get new results or create new revenue. Many others are taking on more and more responsibilities as they try to “do it all” in their business hoping that something will payoff. The fact of the matter is, without FOCUS, it’s easy to get caught up in the busy-ness of your business and ultimately feeling that you’re not really progressing. Here are some strategies for maintaining focus and staying on a clear path to success:

1. Work from a master plan. I enjoy life more when I live in the present moment at all times but I’m always working from a master plan. With my plan of action laid out for me, the activities I’m inspired to take in that present moment are continually leading me towards my long term objectives because I took the time to “pre-program” what those objectives are. I know in a moment’s notice whether or not I’m deviating from my long term goals.

2. Focus on fewer priority items. Working from a huge TO-DO list that you create is not as productive as you may think. It keeps you busy but not feeling very accomplished for the most part. I suggest establishing 1-2 very clear objectives for the month that feed into your long term goals. This helps you create simpler daily to-do lists that actually get completed. It’s easier to stay focused on fewer items and you’ll experience more personal satisfaction as you have more completions instead of unfinished lists each day.

3. Segment your workday. This is one of the best productivity lessons I learned more than 10 years ago. My day is broken into 2 hour segments for the most part and the segments include sales/marketing, operations (usually delegating), creative, ME, and follow up (or long term planning). I stay focused yet touch all aspects of my business and the day flies.

4. Do the things you enjoy doing, delegate the rest. If you have trouble focusing on the task at hand, it could very well be you just don’t enjoy doing it or don’t have an expertise for it. Stop faking it and start delegating ASAP. Give yourself permission to take it off your plate so you can focus on the things you’re good at.

5. Create a system for accountability. If you’re missing your deadlines, consider a mandatory donation to your favorite charity or some other activity that will help condition you to stay on track. Also consider having others hold you to your word. Having to report in to someone on your progress is incentive enough to stay focused.

6. Limit distractions. You my not be able to stay focused simply because you’re too distracted chasing bright shiny balls. That’s what I call the “opportunities” that we have trouble passing up yet in the end steer us further from our path. Learn to say NO, at least for a limited time, if you’re really committed to achieving your primary goals. You won’t miss out. There will be another similar opportunity right around the corner that’s just perfect for you.

7. Are you “folding deck chairs”? Ask yourself that each time you start something new. Make sure the activities you are pursuing are in your best interest and really moving you toward achieving your goals. Learn to let go immediately of the busy-ness and move into more productive activities. Staying busy yet not quite productive could be you “hiding out” from success.

8. Take a break. When you’re having trouble focusing, working longer hours won’t make the situation better. Taking time to regularly refresh and rejuvenate as well as natural supplements that help with mental clarity will work wonders. I carve out time each day for gym, nap, pampering and/or meditation and schedule some down time on the weekend--- no matter how much work I have on my plate.

Give To Get--- An Exercise In Abundance

2010-01-22T15:02:00.000-08:00

I’m known for connecting people who are looking for certain resources to those who have the resources….for compensation when feasible. To help attract opportunities to profit using your contacts, I suggest paying it forward to keep the momentum and energy flowing. What works for me and what I love to do is to connect 2 people EACH DAY who I think should meet. It could be people I know well or hardly at all. Sometimes it’s for a very simple reason, and always by email to save time. Try it for yourself and you’ll be surprised what comes back to you!

Managing Change Around You

2010-01-13T00:33:00.000-08:00

During our holiday trip to NYC, we went downtown to visit the site where the World Trade Center once stood. They’re currently working on a memorial at the site and I wanted to check on the progress. I visited St. Paul’s Chapel and Cemetery, just across the street from where the Twin Towers once stood. Built in 1766, it was quite a miracle that the Chapel was spared destruction on 9/11 and many said it was because it had a very important purpose to serve. Turns out, it would be needed to provide shelter to the thousands of rescue workers in the days that followed. They all came to seek solace, take a nap, or have a meal there for the next several months. I never tire of the stories of the amazing human spirit that were told from the Chapel.

My lesson learned here is that there is a purpose for everything that happens in the grand scheme of things and while we may not be able to change what’s happening, we’ll ALWAYS be able to change our experience of it. With so many people and businesses in transition right now, I thought it would be helpful to share some of my recommendations for creating a more positive experience in all your dealings:

1. Refrain from taking immediate action with a confused mind. If you’re not sure what next steps are, sometimes the best thing to do is to be still. Breathe, take time to get grounded and allow your mind to quietly contemplate what’s ahead rather than jump into action just to stay busy. It’s time for a new perspective. Working in chaos only produces more chaos.

2. Start choosing differently. Do you have a predictable response when confronted with something unpleasant? Is it serving you or does it cause more harm than good? If you’d like for things to shift in your life, start choosing a different response. Pay attention to all your reactions and ask yourself if this is how you really want to show up?

3. Allow others to support you. It may like you have the weight of the world on your shoulders but you’re never really alone. Don’t be embarrassed or ashamed to speak up and ask for help. It’s a sign of a responsible leader, not of weakness.

4. Follow your heart, always. Make decisions based on what it is you truly want and what’s in your best interest. As if you’re protecting a child. Don’t make decisions from a place of fear, obligation or based solely on what others think is best for you.

5. Know yourself. We get so caught up in our business, it’s easy to lose track of our authentic selves, especially when times are challenging. Know what you stand for, what is most important to you, what makes you happy and most importantly who you really are without all the titles, money, and possessions.

6. You’re having learning experiences, not failures. Life is about growing, learning and evolving so don’t be so hard on yourself with the decisions you make. Keep learning and moving on without judgment. New opportunities present themselves quickly the less detached we are to the past.

7. Maintain a high vibration. A positive, hopeful attitude is crucial to attracting what it is you truly want. One way to do that is to put yourself in a state of continual gratitude for what it is you do have. Don’t suppress any feelings of fear or sadness or whatever else comes up but continue to stay with the gratitude to maintain your vibration.

8. Focus on what it is you do want. Situations shift constantly and rather than be consumed by a scenario you don’t want such as declining sales or lack of resources, continue focusing on the exact scenario you want to create in your life and business. You’ll get there so much faster

9. Know who your core customers are. If you’re in business, you’ll find things are shifting quickly these days as consumer trends change, people react to the economic forecasts, etc. If you truly know who you’re serving in your business, you’ll be able to innovate quickly and always come up with the right solutions for them.

10. Take inspired action. As you slow down to contemplate next steps, new opportunities, options and people will begin showing up in your life. Pay attention to all of this because these are the very answers you’re praying for. Also know your new solutions may not look anything like what you’re used to so I recommend being open and evaluating every opportunity.

~Maria Simone is a dynamic speaker, author, and transformational business strategist. As the “Passion To Prosperity Diva”, http://passion2prosperity.com ,she helps entrepreneurs package and monetize their talents to create 6 and 7 figure businesses. She’s appeared on ABC News, Fox TV, and in Business Week, Success Magazine, and many other publications.

Getting Ready For New Business In 2010

2009-12-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

It’s not uncommon to hear the New Year chiming in with shouts of “out with the old, in with the new”. In many instances, these are words to live by, especially when it comes to growing your business. There’s a palpable energy that’s felt when you’re building on a clean, strong foundation as opposed to PILING more on to a shaky foundation.

Here are some things you can do to “clear the path” for new business in 2010:

1. Are your desires in alignment with the path you’re on?

Many start out full of purpose and passion and then somewhere along the way start losing steam. The further you stray from what truly drives you, the more difficult it is to grow your business. Make it a priority to re-align your goals with what’s driving you.

2. Re-evaluate relationships that aren’t serving you.

Having strong support around you can feel like wind beneath your wings. However, when you’re experiencing conflict or lack of support, it can drain your energy and slow your progress. Gracefully back away from people that aren’t supporting you or have your best interests at heart.

3. Take time to create a process for your major activities.

The more systems you have in place, the more your productivity will increase. This includes everything from intake of information, how you follow up with customers and investors, and a marketing schedule.

4. Organize your office.

Working with clutter or disorganization will have a direct correlation on the flow of revenue coming into your business. Make it a point to properly organize your work areas.

5. Evaluate new technologies.

You’ll want to know what the latest technologies are that will help you automate some marketing aspects of your business, increase your productivity, and provide for more mobile interfaces. Take time to learn and then implement some of these in 2010.

6. Communicate regularly with your customers.

One of the fastest ways to increase your revenue is to offer additional products and services to existing customers as well as receive referrals from those customers. Creating new ways to stay in touch with your customers in 2010 could prove to be very profitable.

7. Connect with your prospects.

Prospective customers require up to 7 impressions from you to make a buying decision. Plan on creating more connection and building more value with this group of people. This could occur via email or direct encounter with you.

8. Create a plan for acquiring resources to support your new growth.

As you plan for various growth spurts in 2010, make sure you’re similarly planning to fund this growth. This could include self-funding strategies, pre-selling, raising money from private investors, etc. You don’t want your growth to exceed your ability to service this growth otherwise you’ll find yourself imploding.

9. Determine what levels of expertise/experience will be required.

Unless you’re planning on having “more of the same” in 2010, you may require some new skills to help manage the new business. Plan for continuing education for yourself or consider building a team with all the expertise you require.

10. Re-evaluate your priorities as it pertains to revenue.

What may have worked last year may not be as lucrative in 2010. Market trends are shifting so this is a great time to develop new revenue goals. I recommend doing some basic research and speaking with existing customers to get a feel for any shifts.

You may reprint this article in its entirety with author's contact and bio information.

Maria Simone is a dynamic speaker, author, and transformational business strategist. As the “Passion To Prosperity Diva” www.mariasimone.com, she helps entrepreneurs package and monetize their talents to create 6 or 7 figure businesses. She’s appeared on ABC News, Fox TV, and in Business Week, Success Magazine, and many other publications.

In A Small Village, A Goat Bears Your Name

2009-12-15T10:00:00.000-08:00

Every year I make donations to various organizations that provide food and education to the poor on behalf of my clients and subscribers.
This year I decided to expand my support and purchase goats and chickens that help sustain lives in various villages around the world.
The contribution seems nominal considering the overall impact it will have...and it was blessed in your name.

One of the driving factors of creating abundance is the ability to give back and help change someone's life and I have found that if I focus on that goal in business, financial abundance seems to flow in a lot easier.

Think about this: What would you do with an extra $1000, $10,000, or $100,000 per month in revenue?

If you're interested in doing the same, I encourage you to contact your local food banks or perhaps connect with one of these organizations to make a donation or to make a micro-loan:

http://www.mercycorps.org/

http://www.kiva.org/

http://www.bracusa.org/

http://www.cambodiaschools.com/

If you're committed to creating more financial success in 2010, don't forget to join me for my 30 Day Revenue Makeover starting TONIGHT

http://passionatebiz.com <--- click here to register

I'll be sharing specific strategies of how to put more to your bottom line, leveraging what you already have to create more revenue, and attracting more customers.

Wishing you many blessings during this holiday season!

Maria Simone
http://passion2prosperity.com
http://the15minutementor.com

8 Ways a Mentor/Advisor Can Help You Grow Your Business

2009-11-25T16:13:00.000-08:00

There are several distinctions that can be made when describing someone who is thriving, or has the potential to thrive, in business. One of the things I look at is how well they’ve surrounded themselves with movers and shakers in their industry, influencers, investors, business experts, and so forth. Having such a diversity of talent close by can help accelerate your success in ways beyond your wildest imagination. Here are 8 mutually-agreeable ways you can work with Mentors and Advisors to help achieve your goals. Please visit http://the15minutementor.com to make your own requests.

1. Let them share their experience of having made the journey.
Have someone on hand who has traveled a similar path in business and ask them to help you with future pacing. They can easily stay a few steps ahead of you because they’ve been there and know the trail. Knowing your options means fewer obstacles, less risk and acceleration to your goals.

2. Allow them to offer Moral Support.
It’s imperative to have someone around you who can be your moral compass and/or provide emotional support. That will help you stay grounded and reduce the number of “what was I thinking” crazy kind of days that occasionally do pop up.

3. Position them as a funding magnet.
Someone who has raised capital and turned it into profit or has achieved success in your industry can probably duplicate their efforts. This is a huge risk reducer and investors like that.

4. Receive CEO/Leadership Development Support.
You’ll want support as you evolve your inner-self so that as your business grows, you’re able to effectively lead your team.

5. Help understanding financial forecasting.
You may have “people” that manage your books or run your numbers but it’s also helpful to get perspective from someone who has managed millions or even billions in revenue if this person isn’t already on your payroll.

6. Let the connectors open doors for you.
Why stand in line when you don’t have to. Let someone else make the necessary introductions to new business and other opportunities. Move past the gatekeepers.

7. Ask the creatives to help you innovate.
Brainstorm with your creative and visionary advisors to come up with amazing new product or marketing ideas or ways to package it all.

8. Allow the influencers to help celebritize you.
If you are associated with people who are highly regarded in the public’s eye, chances are your status will also be elevated as they make your connection public. Similar to what a book endorsement does for an author.

Ready for a makeover?

2009-11-23T20:06:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like a new look, a yoga class, or perhaps a massage to help put that spring back in our step.
Whatever "it" means to you--- we all have something we go to for that pick-me-up.

Makeovers allow us to resume our lives re-invigorated, confident and joyful.
I feel the same is true for our businesses...plus add INCREASED REVENUE to the mix.

So, beginning December 5th, I'm offering you a POWERFUL "30 Day Revenue Makeover" Teleclass Series --my treat.

http://passionatebiz.com <--the video will give you perspective!

I'll share strategies covering 3 specific areas to help you create massive shifts in the New Year:

*New growth--
I'll help you with some marketing tips that work FAST to help expand your current customer base.

*Leveraging what you've already created-- You have assets and resources that aren't being fully utilized.

*Putting more to the bottom line--
Today, less is more. I'll show you how to improve efficiencies and mindset to increase profits.

Good things come in 3's and I've organized the event in 3 parts over 30 days.
Don't underestimate the value of this call...this is good stuff!
I'll be sharing strategies I help clients with during our paid sessions.

This is a great time to be in business, especially if you're getting the results you want.
If you're stuck or thinking "what's next", it may be time for a 30 Day Revenue Makeover.

**I can help but you have to be registered.**

http://passionatebiz.com <-- register here today.

I truly look forward to connecting with you on the calls...

YES ---Social Networking Is Good For Biz

2009-11-05T22:56:00.000-08:00

Social Networking and Social Media Marketing are all the rage these days but there are still many people who don’t get what it can do for their business and haven’t quite gotten involved. Many others who are active on the social networks tell me that haven’t figured it out yet and are not seeing tangible results. If you prefer to keep your experience personal and use Facebook and Twitter just to interact with your friends and family, then that’s fine. If you’d like to use it for more business building, then here are my top 10 Social Networking strategies I’ve been using this year to expand my reach, attract media and speaking opportunities, create powerful new alliances and generate new revenue. Try them for yourself and become your own Pied Piper of Social Networking.

1. View your social networking activities as an extension of your marketing plan.

Consider duplicating online the activities you participate in to attract and educate prospective customers. The more of a strategic marketing plan you already have, the easier it is to execute this strategy on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

2. Identify and follow your prospective customers.

You probably have an idea who your ideal customer is so it shouldn’t be so difficult to search for them either by name or descriptive qualities. Follow them and who they know and you’ll create a snowball effect of followers thereafter.

3. Identify and follow people you’d like to partner with.

There are plenty of people out there who have complimentary services and who reach a similar demographic. It’s easier to meet and start a conversation online. You’ll take it offline and strike up a deal in no time! Same approach applies for investors, mentors, and other resource people.

4. Share yourself authentically.

Give information freely, answer questions, ask questions, share resource links, start conversations with people on your list, chime in on conversations of others. Also, if you regularly share and promote the postings of others, your periodic self-promotion will be accepted.

5. Connect to the media.

I like to follow anyone involved in radio, TV, or print not only to follow their perspective on current events but to also be in ready mode to be interviewed or take advantage of some other publicity related opportunity that comes my way.

6. Be gracious at all times.

What happens online stays online. Period.

7. It is what you make of it.

Approaching this in a focused, systematic way while engaging in daily conversations will yield you positive results. If you don’t think Social Networking is worth it and participate only sporadically, it will NOT yield measurable results.

8. Rave about your colleagues, friends and customers.

What goes around comes around--- they will talk about you too and others will notice the buzz!

9. Keep a schedule and automate some of your activities.

There are tools such a FriendFeed. Ping.fm and Posterous allowing you to update all your profiles at the same time which multiples your efforts. Also, just spending as little as 15 minutes twice daily has an impact.

10. Invite people to cross over to your “island”

Where do you do business? If you want people to join you in a program, come to your store or visit your website, it’s a lot easier to simply ASK them to join you once they know who you are.

Your ability to SCALE is an indicator of growth potential

2009-10-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

One of the cornerstones of a business that experiences healthy growth is its ability to scale or increase its volume without impacting the contribution margin (Contribution margin= revenue - variable costs). The ability to do more with less. If you haven’t created scalability in your business, you’ll always struggle with growth and especially with breaking through revenue ceilings. If this becomes an issue then it doesn’t matter how much marketing or sales support you may have. If you’re business isn’t set up to scale, you’ll max out on the number of customers you can serve and cap out on revenue.

Even before you launch your business, you’d have a difficult time getting an investor or bank to bank you if your revenue potential was limited.

Here are some key areas you may want to avoid as a start-up or small business:

1. Trading time for dollars.

You may have started out getting paid for your individual services but at some point you’ll want to be compensated for VALUE, not time. If you want to put a price on your time, it would then become a premium item. This could include moving into group facilitation and away form one-to-one experiences. Perhaps turn a process or instruction into an online automated activity, a book, or audio/video experience. The opportunities to transform a talent into a scalable product or service are bountiful. People will then be able to compensate you for value, not time.

2. Intellectual Property that serves a finite purpose.

The technical word here is obsolescence which is when something loses values because the world around it (tastes) have changed. Streetlamps and streetlamp lighters became obsolete when electricity was invented. The pet rock became obsolete after it’s first wave. Whatever your “it” is, make sure it has the ability to expand, grow and evolve as time goes on. Rather than a title for one book, Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen created an anthology franchise of Chicken Soup books that are still breaking records. Over the years, how many variations of Windows have you had to purchase for your computer?

3. Lack of automation.

If your dream is to help as many people as possible, then you’ll want to serve your market without limitation and in a way that is most cost effective to the business. Virtually every area of your business can have some type of automation to increase efficiencies and output--- more people being served! Start with manufacturing then on to the delivery of your goods and services. Order processing, follow-up and marketing are key areas to look at as well. Also, is there any continuity with existing customers or does your relationship end after a sale? This is why even a follow up email Autoresponder system can make such a difference.

4. Lack of trained personnel.

That’s often a bottleneck in a business…especially if the CEO is wearing all the hats and hasn’t taken the time to train & delegate. Make sure there are people around you that you can offset responsibilities too. Outsource these functions initially if you’re a start-up but treat it as a priority, not a secondary thought.

5. Undefined business model.

It’s difficult to create scalability if you’re just trying make money from a variety of sources but haven’t tied it all together. What’s at the core of your business? Is it just you or is there a website or some other presence that’s independent of you?

You may reprint this article in its entirety with author's contact and bio information.

Use the Triple S formula to grow your business

2009-10-19T11:13:00.000-07:00

I can usually tell very quickly what kind of revenue someone has and how sustaining their growth will be by using my Triple S formula:

* Systems

* Structure

* Scalability

Without it, you may feel that you own a job and work hard to stay ahead.
Without enough of the Triple S, you may not be able to break through revenue thresholds.

Want a million dollar business? Think Triple S!

We'll be discussing what it means and how you can have all this on our next Abundance Mastermind Group Call.

Tuesday, October 20th at 12pm pacific/ 3pm eastern.
You can join this call and next month's call for FR*EE when you purchase my ebook:

"Passion To Prosperity: Instant Ways To Profit From Your Skills and Talents".
http://passion2prosperitybook.com

During our call, I'll lay out key areas of your business where you want to create systems, structure and scalability to help you break through any revenue plateuas you may be experiencing.

I'll also take questions about how to integrate it in yours.
I'll help you shift your thinking about how to create that million dollar business AND you'll have specific action steps to take after the call.

Can funding too early on actually slow you down?

2009-10-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

You may be scratching your head with this title but hear me out: if you’re just starting your business or in an early growth phase, throwing too much money into the mix may not be the best thing to do. Many people think what’s slowing them down is lack of funding but actually the opposite can be true if you recognize the gift that’s before you and shift your thinking accordingly. Here are some reasons why. If you realize any of these could be true for you, perhaps take the money out of the equation to gain new perspective.

Here are some issues that I’ve seen crop up with those who had access to unlimited funding early on:

1. The people on your team may be more interested in a paycheck than your vision.
Oprah says it best “everyone would like to ride in the limo with you but you really want people who would also ride the bus with you too.” It’s easier to see who’s in it for the money or the dream when times are lean. Surround yourself with these people early on when it’s easier to make the distinctions.

2. Rushing into production before “selling” your concept.
When funds are limited, you’re inclined to do more testing with your product or service to see if this is what your market REALLY wants. I’ve seen way too many people invest too much early on into production without properly understanding their markets only to have to go back to the drawing board over and over again. The saying “measure twice, cut once” applies here.

3. Lack of validation for your concept.
The business planning process is the best way to sketch out your core business model for others to see and improve upon and to “dry test” in the market BEFORE launching. What are your primary revenue streams, who are your customers, exactly HOW will your get your product or service in their hands and how much will this cost? Those with unlimited funds often skip the planning and testing part and get into the DOING part sooner than later which can prove costly.

4. Managing too much initial growth.
I’m all for planning and thinking big but there’s nothing wrong with taking small steady steps to achieve your goals. You want to manage growth by focusing on 1-2 core revenue streams at a time, creating systems, structure and scalability so that you can become unstoppable. Throwing funds at a situation for rapid growth does not ensure success. Creating the proper infrastructure, having a product customers really want and topping that with a great sales and marketing plan does foster success.

5. Loss of creativity and innovation.
Some of our greatest solutions are derived when we’re under pressure, have limited resources and must improvise, or have naysayers telling us it can’t be done. Has that ever happened to you? This is precisely the moment when we create that “entrepreneur’s magic” and become the “MacGyver” of our business. Conditions must be ripe for it and I’ve found that type of innovation and creativity doesn’t have as often when there are unlimited resources at our disposal.

6. Less apt to seek out guidance
I notice that people that have limited funds are more likely to actively and creatively seek out support and ask lots of questions. And there are plenty of people who will graciously and truthfully answer your questions if you should ask! I have found that if you are paying all your advisors, they are less likely to be truly forthcoming with their opinions for fear of losing their paid engagement.

So next time you think “if only I had the money” perhaps be grateful at that moment for the opportunity to really test the merits of your idea and to enroll people in your vision, not just a paycheck.

You may reprint this article in its entirety with author's contact and bio information.

Ways to build VALUE in your business, part II

2009-09-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

Many people think the value in their business is primarily tied to revenue only so they tend to undervalue their worth when it comes time to sell. I’ve spoken to many CEO’s (including yours truly) who felt they left “too much on the table” when it was time to sell their business or negotiate a deal because they didn’t take many other factors into consideration.

This is also an important issue when it’s time to attract investors or put together strategic alliances. The more you learn to value every aspect of your business, the more bargaining power you have when it come time to negotiate. There are literally dozens of ways to build value in your business---we discuss many of these in our Protégé Program. Here is part II of my list...

6. The people on your team

Relationships are important and can be used as a bargaining chip in many negotiations. Includes your advisors, producers, creatives, sales stars, as well as who’s in your “golden rolodex”.

7. Goodwill ~ “Blue Sky”

What is your name worth to you? Have you been involved in community outreach? Featured in the media? Your reputation, good name and the credibility of your business can increase your value.

8. Access to capital and other resources

Do you have access to resources you may not have fully utilized yet but could be considered a valuable asset to someone that wants to do business with you.

9. Aged corporation

Age before beauty applies here! The longer your company has been in existence, the easier it is to establish business lines of credit…and take advantage of other perks. Often times, a younger company may buy an existing shell of a company for this very reason.

10. Ability to create new Intellectual Property

If you have patents, trademarks or other intellectual property that hasn’t been fully expressed or developed, the potential of its development may be worth more than you know. Case in point if you own a PC, how many versions of Windows have you purchased since you’ve had your first computer?

Reserve a spot in Maria’s 16-week Business Building Protégé Program and walk step-by-step into creating your dream business http://passion2prosperity.com

Ways To Build Value In Your Business, part I

2009-09-01T23:35:00.000-07:00

Many people think the majority of value in their business is tied to revenue only so they tend to undervalue their worth when it comes time to sell. Most of the valuation formulas deal strictly with revenue as well. However, I've spoken to many CEO's (including yours truly) who felt they left "too much on the table" when it was time to sell their business or negotiate a deal because they didn't take many other factors into consideration.
This is also an important issue when it's time to attract investors or put together strategic alliances. The more you learn to value every aspect of your business, the more bargaining power you have when it come time to negotiate. There are dozens of ways to build value in your business and we discuss many of these in our Protégé Program. Here are a few that will help you negotiate higher fees, attract investors, bigger deals, and ultimately sell for a premium price.

1. Intellectual property (IP)
Take inventory of not only your patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets but also brand identity, websites, domain names, blogs, and social network profiles. You can create as much IP as you want and the more you do with them, the more valuable it becomes.

2. Tangible assets
What else do you own that is attached to your business? Includes real estate, inventory, collectibles, and so forth. I remember years ago a friend sold his business including the building it came with. In the final purchase contract, his broker forgot to exclude the huge billboard that sat on top of the building and produced an extra $22,000 a month in revenue. Therefore it was automatically conveyed to the new owner and my friend literally gave up that revenue because of an oversight. Ouch!

3. Contracts and other agreements
You may have agreements that could be tied to current or future revenue, produce residual revenue or allow for something of value other then direct revenue. COuld be the use of an image, name, access to a resource, etc. During the time I sold my first business, we had an existing contract to provide services to a major hotel chain. The contract was new and we hadn't yet finished the rollout to all their locations but included the potential of it in the final purchase price. If you're doing business with people right now without a writen agreement, consider putting one in place ASAP. Go to http://manifestsuccessplanning.com and download Jian's Business Contracts (rigth side of page) for over a hundred templates.

4. Customer or Subscriber list
Your list is golden and would be coveted by many! It can be a tremendous bargaining chip in a sale or partnership negotiation. The people on your list may not all be customers but have the potential to be which translates into revenue. Go to http://intentionalincome.com and click on our ecommerce listbuilding tools.

5. Systems
You're adding value anytime you've created backend infrastructure in sales, marketing, operations or production. Same thing if you've systematized any process you do in your business or have brought offline services online. Creating automation and structure in business is a big aspect of the work I do with clients and is what paves the way for a multi-million dollar business. That's why I like to use Kickstart Cart (1ShoppingCart private label) as one of the automation solutions for my business.

Reserve a spot in Maria's 16-week Business Building Protégé Program and walk step-by-step into creating your dream business http://passion2prosperity.com/program

How To Stay ON The Road To Success!

2009-08-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

We're so hard on ourselves! I've met so many entrepreneurs who regularly chastise themselves for "not knowing better" or taking longer to launch, or needing more money then originally thought. Pul-eeze! How are you supposed to know everything? The fact is, no one really taught us "success" in school and I don't know about you, but Business Ownership 101 was not offered as a class in grammar school or high school. In fact, it's only been in the past few years that they're actually offering more entrepreneurial classes in school. The road to success is not really a ROAD as far as I'm concerned. It's more like a LABYRINTH with lots of twisty turns---some seem to go nowhere and others take you one step closer to the prize. You can really learn to enjoy those twisty turns if you just start easing up on the self judgement, breath e, be more compassionate with yourself and know it's more about the journey. So while most entrepreneurs barely know what they're doing when they first start out in business (it's so true), here are things you can do to keep yourself moving forward successfully:

1. Don't wait until it's perfect
Don't hold back. Start bringing your dream to life by putting your product or service out there in one form or another and let it evolve from there. You may not have a product ready for instance, but you can easily start building your markets.

2. Surround yourself with people who model success in different areas
Don't operate in a void. Seek out those who really know their stuff and are willing to share their wisdom and open doors to new opportunities. Ask for help, ask lots of questions..always!

3. Focus on your passion, not the money
Let your desire to be part of something bigger than you be your driving force and you'll maintain the momentum you'll need to see it through. Money is not a long term motivator. Focusing on your PASSION will bring you more joy and inspiration.

4. It's none of your business what others think about you
Stay true to yourself, your passion, what you know is right, your plan, the desire to be a trailblazer who thinks outside the box---all of that---and don't let others bring you down or insist you can't do something. Always consider the source if you're ever going to react to what others may say about you.

5. Have a "no matter what" vision
You won't always know how to do something---you couldn't possibly know it all--- but you should have a clear image of what you really want. Stay focused and committed to THAT and you'll always be guided to the next step.

6. Every resource you need is within your grasp
If you really pay attention, you'll soon realize that every people or material resource you'll need to accomplish your goals, including money, is close by and well within your grasp. It's how God works with a great idea and a driven entrepreneur.

7. Keep immersing yourself in learning and growing as a human being
It's not just about doing your business--- you'll also want to regularly invest in your education--especially in the areas of finance, sales, marketing, spiritual and personal development--- so that you can become more strategic and intentional about your success and not so much "flying by the seat of your pants".

8. Be creative and solutions based
That's also a nice way to say never take no for answer. Be the MacGyver of your business. If you feel that you're lacking in resources, find a new way of acquiring them. Know there's a solution for every challenge!

Reserve a spot in Maria's 16-week Business Building Protégé Program and walk step-by-step into creating YOUR dream business http://passion2prosperity.com

Are you working with STRATEGIES?

2009-08-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

I spoke to a new client today who'd like to transform her talents into a "real business."
She thought she had been working way too hard, fleeting revenue, & not getting the results she wanted.

Here are some of the priority items we're working on. See if you can relate:

* Using a strategic blueprint to form an organized marketing effort.
*Moving her business online as much as possible to take advantage of SEM.
*Integrating the most appropriate automation technology tools.
*Creating a scalable back end foundation to manage a hundred or a million clients.
*Creating ongoing followup email campaigns for customers and collaborators.
*Plan to create multiple, passive revenue streams that allows her to attract funding more easily.

GET THIS FOR YOURSELF: Join us for part 3 of my FR*EE "Passionate Business Telesummit" on Thursday 8/13/09.
http://passionatebiz.com/ <-- click here for details

Secrets To Being A Customer Magnet In Your Business

2009-07-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

Do you have people in your life who are on the fence about doing business with you, or potential investors that haven't quite committed to writing that check? Do you know where to even find these people? Here are some simple strategies that help people take action. The process starts even before this person comes into your life!

1. Have your prospect's best interest at heart
People connect with authenticity and someone who is passionate and enthusiastic about what they're offering. Is that you? Are you genuinely interested in providing the right solution or just interested in making a sale. The more aligned you are with this process, the safer your prospective customer will feel.

2. Know who your ideal customer is
Many people try to serve too broad a demographic and therefore don't come across powerfully to anyone in particular. Narrow it down so that you can show up as a "specialist" to a certain group. They'll take action much faster. You may also be communicating to the wrong group altogether. Success here is not necessarily dependant on the number of people you're speaking to but the quality of those contacts.

3. Get crystal clear about the needs of your prospective customer
Ask questions that allow them to share what's true for them --- what are their priority needs? what is an ideal situation for them? This info can be conveyed in a conversation OR become proactive and address their needs in all written communication. Don't just keep pushing your agenda on them without understanding what they truly need.

4. Become useful or indispensible to them, regardless
Some time ago I had a desire to create a Joint Venture with another organization. Before they had decided to do business with me, I took the initiative to make some additional contacts for them and supported them in other ways because I was very clear what their overall needs were. Getting them to say "yes" to my agenda was a much easier process afterwards. You can even create this same situation when serving the masses online...what can you give first?

5. Communicate your value
You want to be crystal clear about what you're offering your prospects and the VALUE of that offer expressed in dollars, time, potential, peace of mind, etc. A confused mind will take no action. Don't make assumptions they have all pertinent information. There should be a very direct and clear connection between your solution and their pain.

6. Go where they go, know who they know
If you truly understand who your ideal customer is, then you'll know exactly where they "hang out" so you can join them and not waste time and resources trying to find customers in places where they aren't. If you're a restaurant, you'll want to connect with people who are hungry or planning to eat out. You'll also want to connect with people THEY look up to who can help boost your credibility with endorsements and testimonials. People in pain would be referred by medical practitioners, pharmacies, etc.

Join Maria for the "Passionate Business TeleSummit" to learn more about attracting the right customers and increasing your revenues http://passionatebiz.com

Resistance is futile!

2009-07-16T20:15:00.000-07:00

If you don't have something you really want, is your first inclination to work harder for it? That's happened to me in the past. If you're familiar with the Law of Attraction, you know that having a clear vision of exactly what it is you want will help to manifest it in the physical a lot faster. Holding a vision and then taking inspired action is a much more efficient way to work. With that said--are you experiencing today all it is that you desire? Is there a gap between the two? If it feels like there is some distance between the two points, consider this: The moment you express a desire to have something in your life, the Universe/God/Divine Source instantly surrounds you with all that is necessary to make that a reality. How exciting is that! Knowing in my heart that to be true, if I'm not experiencing what I desire, then I look to inward to see what I'm resi sting. I need only acknowledge that I'm resisting and instead of having a need to explain or justify myself, I'll just begin letting go so that I can receive the support I need to help me achieve my goals.
Here are some "resistance points" that I've experienced over the years. I have hundreds I could share but these are just a few:

1. Is what you're asking for your deepest desire?
If you're not steadily moving towards your desire, it may not be what your heart wants. Have you compromised and asked for something that's not exactly what you want but may seem easier to attain? We want to learn to trust, regardless of the magnitude of the request, that if it's something our heart desires then it is most certainly within our grasp.

2. Regularly lowering your standards
Instead of focusing on achieving your dream, have you lowered your standards to accommodate your current situation? It's easy to live with the "discomfort" rather than going full out and pursuing your dreams, especially if you have any doubts about whether you may even deserve it or not. Keep aiming higher and know the place where you're currently at is a passing phase, a springboard to another level---enjoy the journey but don't get too comfortable there!

3. Not following up with people who are offering support
Support from someone with perhaps more experience than you can make all the difference in the world. There are times, however, when I've offered support to someone who never followed up. If help is a phone call away, why not make the phone call? Are you judging your "worthiness"? Are you attached to the pain and not as interested in moving forward? Start saying YES and allow others to help you.

4. Making MONEY an issue
This is a mantra of many people --- "I can't afford to have that" or "I can't move forward because I don't have money". Money is energy and it follows the opportunities--- opportunities don't necessarily follow money. So a more abundant stance would be to make decisions based on what it is you want to have or create in your life--- truly commit to having it regardless--- and then allow the resources to start showing up for you.

5. Making time an issue
Time is irrelevant when you're doing your dream. You'll find you're able to actually create more if it when you're doing things you love. It may also be better not to use time as a milestone--imposing too many deadlines in your life induces stress and you'll start sabotaging yourself at different points.

6. Being resistant to learning something new
If you're not experiencing all that you desire, chances are you don't know what you don't know. If you can embrace the fact that we're beings in a perpetual state of learning and growing, your next "teacher" will quickly appear. Do you resist immersing yourself in learning new strategies or building new support systems?

7. Feeling judged by those who may be trying to support you
Well wishers may step in to give you guidance, or point out areas that need to be corrected. Do you have a tendency to dismiss their support as judgement? Take any of it personally and feel slightly victimized? If you're taking support or feedback as an attack, it may be just your own feelings of inadequacy coming up and you're just reflecting it back to them. Allow others to share and resist the need to take any of it personally.

Join Maria's "Passionate Business Telesummit" to learn more strategies that will help you keep moving forward in business. Register for FR^EE at http://passionatebiz.com

Let's support each other!

2009-07-09T23:07:00.000-07:00

Hope all is well with you this summer!

I'm always at my best--and have way more fun-- when I'm collaborating with othersas I help people create spiritually rewarding and financially abundant businesses.I wanted to share some win-win opportunities I think you'll enjoy.

*Affiliate openings
*Joint Venture alliances
*Be a guest on my radio show
*The Women's Information Network

1. Become a Passion To Prosperity Affiliate
Be part of my expansion efforts AND create "now money" for yourself!

I'll be announcing a new program next week and we're looking for quality people who'll help to share it with others.If you have a calling to empower others with resources they need to succeed...then you'll love this lucrative opportunity!
As an Affiliate, you'll be compensated for promoting your unique link to your mailing list and to talk aboutus on the social networks.

Simply sign in as an Affiliate at http://mariasimone.com/ and you'll immediately receive 2 emails.Hold on to those--this weekend you'll receive more specific details about language & compensation and a chance to get on a training call with yours truly.
For now, that's all there is to do!
***No need to register again if you're an Affiliate already***

2. Would you like to partner with me for a Joint Venture Alliance?
I'm looking for like minded individuals who have products and services that support entrepreneurs.Please send an email to simone@passion2prosperity.com so we can explore the possibility of promoting each other business.

3. Would you like to be a guest on my RADIO SHOW?
I'm excited to share that I'll be launching a new radio program and will begin booking guests soon.If you have a message to share with enlightened entrepreneurs, please send us a short emailwith your website link and brief description of what you offer to admin@passion2prosperity.com for consideration.
No attachments please!

4. Would you like to be a SHOW HOST yourself?
I'm currently helping to launch an exciting new venture, The Women's Information Network, and we're interviewing quality content providers.
Check out http://thewinonline.com/ (beta) and then send an email to simone@passion2prosperity.com for further details.
Your message could potentially reach millions of subscribers....this is a great promotional opportunity!

Hope to connect with you soon---have a fantastic weekend!
Maria Simone
http://passion2prosperity.com/
http://passion2prosperitybook.com/
http://the15minutementor.com/
http://twitter.com/mariasimone

7 Steps to eCommerce Success

2009-06-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

I work with a lot of start-up business owners and during the initial entrepreneurial stages, the emphasis is usually on planning, product development, establishing markets, gathering resources and attracting the right people. When it actually comes time to hang out the OPEN FOR BUSINESS sign, it's not uncommon to see some very key elements missing ---such as the actual operational infrastructure of the business, for instance. The following are necessary tools you'll want to have in place to not only be taken seriously as a business owner who conducts business online but to also be able to systematize and scale your online operations for growth.

1. Protect your IP--Register all corresponding domain names.
Secure any domain name related to you, your company and your products at Snagadomain.com . You may have a vanity site with all your Company info and links but it could be more profitable to also put your main products on their own mini-sites or landing pages. Spreading your name around the internet helps to create a bigger footprint.

2. Establish an online presence conducive to selling
Most people put up a website that does everything but inspire people to buy. Wherever your product is being sold should have a strong, clear call to action without other distractions. It should also establish your credibility within seconds AND have an opt-in area with a compelling free offer in exchange for your visitor's contact info.

3. Use a shopping cart with autoresponder.
Your product catalog should be loaded onto an online shopping cart so people can browse then click to buy in 1-2 easy steps. Even more importantly, you want to be able to follow up with automated (autoresponder) marketing messages to your customers and prospects to inspire them to buy more frequently and to refer. The #1 Shopping Cart with autoresponder I recommend to get you started is Kickstart Cart(1ShoppingCart) . I've had multiple accounts for years and it's served me well! Digital orders are processed and shipped to the customer automtaically. Services can be performed without have to worry about collecting fees. Physical product orders can go directly to whomever is doing your fullfillment and shipping.

4. Sign up for a professional merchant account.
You can use PayPal to process money transactions online but I recommend signing up for a bank backed merchant account to establish a more professional presence. It also happens to be more cost effective in the long term. My husband, Michael Murdock, offers wholesale merchant accounts with discount fees starting at 1.59% (PayPal fees average 3.5%). Contact him at murdock@docmurdock.com for details. Your merchant account will then be connected to your shopping cart for complete automation. Orders are processed and money appears quickly in your bank account.

5. Optimize your website so your customers can find you
Once you've set up your eCommerce site, make sure you've physically submitted it to the search engines like Yahoo and Google. More specifically, if you've researched and are using the most appropriate keywords for your product, people can more easily find you when searching online for your product category. You may have a great product but it won't really matter if no one can find you. Michael is an SEO expert and offers FREE info about this at Docmurdock.com .

6. Follow-up with ongoing email communication
Your prospective customers may not buy on their first visit so frequency is important to establish a connection until they ultimately make a purchase or at least tell others about you. The easiest way to do this is with a pre-planned email or video campaign. It should start the moment they make a purchase or give you their contact info and continue for as long as they're on your list. You can dramatically change your conversions with the proper follow-up.

7. Use measurement tools to track your results
There are many strategies you'll want to employ for traffic generation, sales conversions, and copywriting. You'll find that even the smallest change to your website or marketing strategy can produce big results. Google Analytics is a great first step and one of the many tools you can use for monitoring website visitors, page views, conversions, etc.

Join Maria's Abundance Mastermind Group call on 7/21 @ 12pm pacific and learn specific steps to creating a successful eCommerce presence. Get 2 months FR^EE when you purchase her eBook at http://www.passion2prosperitybook.com

One of my favorite OFFLINE marketing strategies

2009-06-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

I'm heading out for a little R & R this weekend--hope you are too-- and I wanted to get this important announcement out to you before I take off:

Launching some aspect of your business using online marketing strategies is one of the fastest and most cost effective ways to get into revenue and to quickly build a following-- it's one of the key elements of our Protégé Program.

When it comes to OFFLINE marketing, however, one of my favorite strategies is the use of (in-store) live events and product launches. They're especially effective if you're just starting out or have a limited marketing budget! They produce instant connection to your market, offer plenty of media opportunities, quick revenue and so much more.

LIVE EVENTS & APPEARANCES can be organized at almost any venue, for any industry, for virtually zero up-front marketing costs and can be easily duplicated.

In my next ABUNDANCE MASTERMIND GROUP call scheduled for Tuesday, June 16th, at 12pm pacific, I'll share specifics of :

*How to create a live event that positions you in front of your perfect target market.

*How to determine the best venue and pay ZERO for the event.

*How to get thousands of dollars worth of fr*ee media and marketing exposure.

*How to recreate the event for ongoing national exposure.

*How to leverage each event to get contracts for new business.

*How to use the event to beings tons of new visitors to your website or store.

Each event I've organized has produced thousands in immediate revenue and the goodwill, media exposure and ongoing traffic to my websites continues on MANY MONTHS after the event.

If you're currently a Member in good standing, you'll be sent specific details. If you'd like to join this event for FR*EE, simply purchase my Passion 2 Prosperity ebook at http://passion2prosperitybook.com and you'll receive 2 MONTHS FR*EE
in my Abundance Mastermind Group which includes Tuesday's session!

The value of this gift is $150 but you'll join me as my guest for 2 MONTHS by simply making a purchase...and a portion of all ebook sales goes to the local Food Bank.

Maria Simone is a speaker, author, and transformational business strategist who helps entrepreneurs and services professionals with "next steps" in creating 6 and 7 figure businesses.
http://passion2prosperity.com

CEO Space: a life changing experience AND a free cruise

2009-06-09T18:24:00.000-07:00

We all have turning points in our life and I wanted to share one of mine...

Over ten years ago I wanted to completely transition from my profession into my own business.
I had already started and sold ONE profitable business by then but the process had been a struggle and I knew for sure I'd want to have more critical resources next time around:
Influencers who could open doors, industry experts to mentor me, the most current entrepreneurial skills, and access to funding.

Mama didn't raise no fool. There was no reason to go without these things again and have to work way too hard to achieve my goals. The second time around in business, I was committed to having an easier time of it.
I knew the WHAT I wanted, but how and where to find all these resources in time was my challenge back then.

Someone mentioned joining a group called CEO Space and I hesitated thinking it was just a seminar and "another one of those". I was VERY wrong.

I finally took a chance and attended their Free Enterprise Forum which turned out to be a life changing experience for me...and could be for you too!

The experience was like strapping a rocket to my business ventures and the ongoing benefits have been sustaining.

CEO Space is not a seminar--- it's a life-time membership in a cooperative group of incredible thought leaders and CEO's who all commit to helping each other succeed.
When you attend a week-long Forum, you're DOING business, not just being lectured or sold to non-stop.
Meals are structured working sessions where partnerships are formed, mentoring takes place, and investors review projects.

My results were dramatic... Within 6 weeks of joining I retired from my profession, created new income streams that completely replaced my salary,
acquired wonderful new customers for my consulting business, replaced all toxic relationships with an incredible support team & connected with a number of investors.

***If you're not a member right now, I STRONGLY encourage you ---from the bottom of my heart --- to consider joining CEO Space! ***

Could you use similar resources to accelerate your business to the next level in this current economy?

There are dozens of benefits to joining CEO Space and here are my recommended next steps to get the full picture:

1. Contact CEO Space Regional Director, Kehau Kali, for a list of all current benefits of membership (huge list) and to get plugged into your local free chapters. kehau@ceospacehawaii.com or call 808-342-0375.
(Let Kehau know I referred you to receive a gift I put aside for you valued at over $650)

2. Go to http://ceospace.net and scroll down to watch the most current video overview.
If you have any doubts that what you're watching is REAL...believe me, it's real!

3. Suspend any thoughts about whether you can afford this. Most entrepreneurs these days CAN'T afford NOT to. They have complimentary programs to help you acquire the resources you need....just ask Kehau

Contact Kehau before June 15th and you'll be eligible for one of the FREE Caribbean Cruises they're giving away. Next event is in Las Vegas the week of July 20th. I'll be there supporting the participants as a mentor. Join me!

Maria Simone helps those who want to transform their talents to create 6 and 7 figure businesses using these sequencing steps. Learn more at http://www.passion2prosperity.com/

7 Steps To Create The Business of Your Dreams, Part II

2009-06-04T16:28:00.000-07:00

Planning and launching a successful business calls for many elements to be aligned including, vision, planning commitment, etc. There’s a sequence of events that lends itself to success in our Free Enterprise system and if you follow them, you can dramatically improve your chances of success. In my last issue I wrote about the first 4 steps you want to take when organizing or launching a new business. Here are the next 3 steps to consider. If you’re in business now and feeling stuck about moving forward or feel like you “own a job”, be sure to look over all these steps, including Part I, to see if you’ve covered all the bases.

Also know that I’m a big advocate of getting your ideas out there ASAP as opposed to being perfect first. Following these guidelines will help you get out there quickly, yet with the least amount of risk.

5. Set-up your DISTRIBUTION/OPERATIONS.
The WHERE your product will be sold will determine WHAT it will look like. Before you commit to product development (beyond the prototype and testing phase with the final product) make sure you take the time to set up your distribution channels and logistics. Who will be buying or selling your product? This also includes all the nuances of storage, ordering, shipping, backend support, etc. If you don’t set up some infrastructure, systems and sales channels first, you run the risk of implosion if you aren’t scalable or if you allow operational chaos. This is common in small businesses when the Founder/ CEO manages too much responsibility and doesn’t have the ability to delegate to others because there aren’t systems set up. You’ll also see this in businesses that focus on making product which just sits there because they haven’t set up their sales channels first. There are a variety of ways to create demand for your product before you’ve actually made it. The same principles apply for offline and online businesses.

6. Manufacture your PRODUCT.
People are always surprised when I place this so low on the list but there are good reasons for it. I’m an advocate of product testing and validating up towards the planning stage but in this step I’m talking about making that commitment to your final product development where some type of manufacturing investment is made and now you have to deal with storage and shipping issues. Obviously this isn’t as much of an issue with digital products as it is with more tangible products but regardless, I would let your product ideas evolve a bit before committing to their development. I know of many instances where entrepreneurs rushed into this stage-- spending $10,000, $50,000, $150,000—without fully getting a handle on who their market was and what their market desired in a product. Many had to go back to the drawing board after making such investments. I’ve also seen people invest in product development before they had outlets to sell their products and were amazed that product didn’t “fly off the shelf” simply because they had made it. Hello, reality check! Bottom line is don’t jump into major investments in product development before you’ve done some testing, understand your ideal market, have the capability to manage the inventory and know for sure where the product will be sold at least in the beginning.

7. Execute your sales, marketing & PR effort.
If you’ve taken the time to cover all the previously mentioned steps, then once you’ve gotten to this stage, you should be an unstoppable evangelist for your business. You’ll have systems in place as well as support and access to financial resources to handle the growth that will ensue form everyone raving about your business. You’ll be spending time with the media, creating new and exciting marketing opportunities, and establishing strategic sales alliances. You’ll experience slow, steady growth and avoid many of the headaches experienced from underplanning, underfunding, lack of experience, etc.

There’s good news and there’s good news: Always congratulate yourself for taking ANY action, even if you feel out of sequence. Most people don’t take any of these action steps in their life and are perfectly content to watch you do it! Also, if you feel like you may be off track, know that it’s never too late to course correct and start moving through the steps you may be missing. You’ll get caught up faster than you think!

Maria Simone helps those who want to transform their talents to create 6 and 7 figure businesses using these sequencing steps. Learn more at http://www.passion2prosperity.com/

Embracing the overwhelm?!

2009-06-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

I know, I know…it sounds off the wall but I hear so many people say they’re feeling “overwhelmed” these days and then tend to stay there. Consider that the energy of overwhelm is really that of EXCITEMENT of what’s to come as you reach a crossroad during your journey! What’s coming up are all the choices you have & the decisions that need to be made. The anticipation mingled with fear may not feel exciting in the moment but you can easily shift it to raise your vibration. I suggest when you feel this way, acknowledge the feelings that are coming up and know they are perfectly fine. Acknowledge the exciting crossroad you have arrived at and know that you’ll always make the right decision. Regardless of what may seem like confusion or chaos in front of you, just take a moment to be still and ask what your heart wants right now. Listen for an answer… it will be clear in the stillness.
Take action only after you feel you’ve received your answer and you feel confident in making choices that totally support you. When I regularly practice this technique, I glide through making business & life decisions at a much higher vibration, and not out of fear.

7 Practical Steps To Create The Business of Your Dreams, Part 1

2009-05-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

Planning and launching a successful business calls for many elements to be aligned including, vision, planning commitment, etc. There’s a sequence of events that lends itself to success in our Free Enterprise system and if you follow them, you can dramatically improve your chances of success. Businesses that get stuck or lose momentum are usually out of sequence and you merely need to refer back to the model to get back on track.

I’ve put together 7 very practical core steps to launch a business successfully. These strategies apply primarily to an offline business and when I use them for online projects, they help me accelerate.

1. Clarify your VISION.
Take some time to understand what you want YOUR life to look like and are you passionate about what you’re doing? Does this new concept fit the lifestyle you desire? Check in with experts to help initially validate your idea. It’s critical that you’re personally aligned with your business otherwise you’ll lose steam or possibly sabotage efforts along the way. Could be a great idea but if you don’t love it you won’t follow through. You may absolutely love your idea but if the risks outweigh the rewards or the market isn’t big enough, it may not be worth the effort. If you’re in business now but losing steam, go back and find your purpose for it again to renew your passion!

2. PLAN for success.
You may opt to do this in stages but some business planning is essential for success. As with any journey, a roadmap is necessary in order to quickly and safely get to your destination. Same premise applies for your business. It’s also much easier to test your concepts on paper first before investing too much time and money. The planning stage is a great time to detail your markets, the products & services you’ll be offering, how you’ll serve your customers and how much it will cost to accomplish all of the above. This is where I would also perform beta testing or achieve local sales to “test the waters” so to speak. Validate along the way before launching full out! I have worked with many clients who thought their business would look one way but when we worked it out on paper, they realized another expression would be best.

3. Build a TEAM.
The sooner the better! Start looking for people who can assist with industry expertise, business development, those who represent your market, support you emotionally, mastermind your concepts, etc. Those who will fill in the gaps of your plan--- will you be a retail store, an online entity, print catalog?? These people will work ON your business. You’ll also want to attract operational, sales and marketing support when the time is right--- plan for it so that you can activate a wonderful manifestation cascade! When we work through this process with our clients, they inevitably come to realize that the people they most needed in their business were already in their life. They just hadn’t properly defined the support they needed. This was the case for Cathy who realized, after working through this step, a high level contact she needed to a sports organization was someone she actually knew and had access to!

4. Plan for and access Funding Resources.
There are literally DOZENS of ways to fund your business so it’s not necessary to struggle without having the proper resources. Unless you’re completely capable of self-funding, skipping this step could result in sluggish starts, lots of stress and a general failure to launch. Establish a funding plan early on and start accessing the resources BEFORE you need them so that you’ll have what you need for salaries, product development and to execute a proper sales and marketing plan. HINT: “create a viral marketing campaign through word of mouth” isn’t necessarily without costs. Funding could include pre-selling strategies, corporate sponsors, business lines of credit and private investors.

In our next issue I’ll share Part II and the remaining 3 strategies. Maria Simone helps those who want to transform their talents to create 6 and 7 figure businesses. Learn more at http://www.passion2prosperity.com

Build your business without working harder?

2009-05-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you I was brought up with the notion that financial success = HARD work & struggle.
Even though my family was financially comfortable growing up, I hardly saw my father as he managed his busy law firm.
I also don't recall many people in my life expressing passion for the work they were doing... mostly working to make a living.
I do remember a fun-loving cousin who was the only real entrepreneur of the family yet who was regularly laughed at for having "pipe dreams".
Ah, such is life! I'm sure I wasn't alone.

Needless to say, I worked very hard for all of my past professional and financial successes but 7 years ago that started to change as I immersed myself in spiritual transformation and personal growth.
I was absolutely committed to creating abundance with more ease and flow!

Today, I've learned to infuse more CONSCIOUS business building strategies into everything I do and it has had a dramatic impact on my professional advances, relationships, opportunities presented, flow of income, and so much more.

Tuesday, May 19th, is our next monthly "Abundance Mastermind Group" Coaching call and I'll be presenting :
"Creating Prosperity with Conscious Business Building Strategies"

You've heard about the Universal Laws but do you know how they specifically apply to your business?
I've found out many people either don't know or just get think it's all about Law of Attraction.
On Tuesday, I'll share my secret recipes with you. I specifically focus in on the areas of money flow, productivity, joy, & relationship.
This is where they've had the greatest impact in my life and business. Believe me, we're going BEYOND Law of Attraction.

How would YOU like to join us and receive 2 months FR*EE in my Abundance Mastermind coaching group?
Simply go to http://passion2prosperitybook.com/ and when you purchase my ebook & audio program at the discounted price, you'll receive your complimentary membership.(Existing Members in good standing will receive specific details soon...you're invited to simply share this with others.)

Without working HARDER in your business, on our call I'll show you how to:

*Dramatically increase productivity
*Improve your business relationships so people are really supporting you
*Gain more respect & support from your peers as well as mentors
*Attract more customers, investors and contracts for accelerated growth
*Quickly increase your revenue to move into ease and flow

I've done it for myself, I've been showing my clients how to do it and now I'm sharing it with you----for FR*EE.
http://passion2prosperitybook.com/ <---- click to purchase & teleclass details will be emailed immediately.

If after our call you feel that the strategies I share have no bearing on YOUR life, I would be HAPPY to issue you a refund. I know this call will change your perception of how you do business AND life so don't miss out!

To your SUCCESS!
Maria Simone

PS Want more step-by-step support? There's still room in our Protégé Program http://passion2prosperity.com/program

Marketing Strategies I Learned Studying Epidemics

2009-05-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

During my years training to be become a pharmacist, I studied epidemiology ---the study of disease origin & spread--- and subsequently did a rotation at the New York City Poison Control Center & Bellevue Hospital. Not exactly cocktail party conversation! Studying the history of epidemics taught me a lot about marketing although I didn’t realize it until years later. Most of us have seen the media hype about the swine flu but what you don’t see is the behind the scenes activities of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), WHO (World Health Organization) and other agencies involved. There are very controlled, predictable, scientific and highly measurable methods being applied to quickly isolate the origin of the illness, know ideal conditions for infection, ID the organism markers to create a vaccine, and ultimately prevent the spread of it. So while the media was questioning whether or not this would prove to be a devastating pandemic, I had 100% confidence that it would be contained sooner than later (with prayers going out to those who have been affected).

The nature of an epidemic is predictable once you understand what to look for and while the world is working on activities to PREVENT the spread of the illness, some of these same activities can be applied BACKWARDS in marketing to achieve “epidemic” results (or “viral” results as it’s more commonly called). I apply these strategies when marketing for new customers, meeting ideal investor candidates, or attracting perfect Joint Venture candidates.

1. Identify the point of origin.
Every epidemic has a first encounter--- the first infected--- and it’s important to know who that person is to better understand the inherent characteristics that activated the spread of the disease. In marketing, those would be your IDEAL clients. What conditions must be present for them to not only have a sense of urgency working with you or buying from you but also cause them to TALK about you? Who benefits the most from what you do? Who has the most to gain? Experiencing the biggest results? It’s not necessarily a demographic but a physical person --- especially if you want to recreate the same conditions in others!

2. How is it specifically transmitted?
As it relates to the Swine Flu epidemic, the method is close airborne transmission. Therefore people are encouraged to wear masks, avoid contact with eyes and wash their hands frequently. When you understand who your ideal client is, then it’s important to understand how to enable them to quickly spread the word about you. Word of mouth, video, some type of collateral material? You’ll want to do what it takes to make it very easy for your client to carry out this activity. Study their patterns and then completely enable and simplify the process. Don’t make it complicated!

3. Follow the formation of clusters.
You’ll inevitably have isolated clusters of individuals being infected. From a marketing perspective you want to study and recreate those conditions to increase the frequency of clusters until all the clusters are ultimately connecting. You could start out simply by following in the footsteps of your ideal client by going where they go, know who they know, etc., until you connect with others with the same characteristics.

4. Focus your efforts on those most “susceptible”.
The entire population could be at risk for infection but realistically there’s always a smaller subset that is most susceptible and that’s usually where resources are allocated. If the risks are dramatically reduced with that smaller group, then the larger population will most likely be safe. So in marketing, it’s wise to allocate your resources on a subset of the population—your niche. You’ll be able to penetrate that market quickly with laser focus and then will be able to spill over to the rest of the population.

5. Watch for mutation and respond according.
It is expected that the infecting agent will change and mutate as time goes on--- that’s precisely why a new flu vaccine is released once each year in August and then destroyed after May. Accepting that “change is constant” in your market will help you stay on top of your game and prepare accordingly. Stay in touch with your ideal clients, make sure you’re regularly meeting their needs.

6. Gather all your data and formulate a vaccine.
Ideally there will be enough initial epidemiology data to immediately start working on a cure (if none is available) and a vaccine for prevention. As part of your marketing campaign, you’ll want to carefully study what’s working and package that into a process that can easily be duplicated over and over. That’s a key to automation and quickly getting your message out to the masses.

7. Be bold, communicate big, make a lot of noise!
The agencies involved with any epidemic have a very defined emergency response program in place to reach the general population with warnings and instructions. They depend on the coordinated support of others to help them in this regard. Includes reverse 911, daily reports to the media outlets (newspapers, TV and radio), schools texting students, and much more. Your marketing (in the form of education, instruction, relationship building, etc) should also include big and bold communication with the help of others so people will listen to YOUR message and take action.

You can actually watch these events being played out during the current Swine Flu epidemic. ~~ Maria Simone helps those who want to transform their talents to create 6 and 7 figure businesses. Learn more at http://www.passion2prosperity.com/

Seriously, is that what you're wearing?

2009-05-04T00:35:00.000-07:00

I'm not a makeover specialist but I do know that intuitively, how you present yourself can make a big difference on how you energetically feel as well as how others perceive you. If you maintain impeccable grooming and dress at least one notch more formally than everyone around you, you will immediately be placed in a subtle position of authority, safety and trust with those around you. If that's you're desire, than go for it. Also, beware of clothing that's too restrictive, no matter how fashionable it is. Others may actually feel that way around you and not know why. So be conscious of how you want to be perceived and the scenario you'd like to create in any situation, then dress accordingly.

9 Ways to Keep Yourself Motivated and Moving Forward in Business

2009-04-25T23:12:00.000-07:00

Part of the excitement of being an entrepreneur is often in the creation mode of having a brilliant idea, getting the thumbs up from those you admire, and seeing your concept take on a life of its own. Right? A benchmark of "success" could be in seeing that idea fully expressed with products and services being sold at a profit. However, it's how and if you make the journey from CONCEPT to FULL EXPRESSION which really makes all the difference of whether you succeed or not. It's not necessarily about how great your idea is. With that said it's no wonder that many great ideas never make it out there in a big way. Looking back it's often because the entrepreneur just gave up.

So if you have a great idea and you're passionate about what you're doing, here are some strategies you can use to maintain a high vibration around your project and help keep you motivated and moving forward:

1. Celebrate after each milestone is achieved.
Don't think you have to wait for the end of the journey to celebrate as success will occur at many points along the way. So take the time to acknowledge and celebrate these milestones and you'll stay motivated for longer periods of time. Could be that you've finished building your team, prototype being ready, first investor check has arrived, first order, etc.

2. Stay focused on what's driving you.
Keep constant reminders around of why you're doing what you're doing to help you stay motivated. It's easy to lose site of why you're in business during the rough patches. Also, it helps to have a vision that is much bigger than just making money such as helping the community or healing the planet.

3. Surround yourself with incredible people---ditch the downers!
Gracefully let go of relationships with people who do not know how to support you on your journey. Replace them with people who know how to lift you up, have traveled a similar path and can alleviate your fears, will open doors for you and generally make your life easier.

4. Create a routine that fosters creativity, accomplishments, & manageable tasks.
I find my productivity is maximized and I can keep my vibration high if I break my day down into 2 hour activity increments as well as create a priority list that is reasonable. Part of my time is spent in creative activities with no interruptions, specific revenue generating activities as well as operational tasks. I also include daily breaks and quiet time in the mix. Keeps me engaged and motivated throughout the day!

5. Give yourself permission to do the tasks that you love and delegate what you don't.
Entrepreneurs think they have to wear ALL the hats in their business and work on everything all at once. If you're consistently doing activities you don't enjoy, you'll quickly lose your passion and motivation to see it all the way through. Give yourself permission to focus on those activities you enjoy and are good at and commit to attracting the right people who can do the rest.

6. Respect the learning curve.
Chances are you're traveling down a path you haven't traveled before so in addition to having to make the best decisions for your business, you'll also need to set aside some time to learn about the resources so you can make the best informed decision. It's important to add your learning curve into the equation otherwise you'll always feel you're lagging behind and this could be very de-motivating. Another way to overcome this is to make sure you have people around you who possess the very skills you may be lacking.

7. Take time out for self-care no matter what.
No, you won't necessarily get there any faster if you work nonstop. You'll probably burn out first. Even just taking 15 minutes a day to be still, meditate or just process your day can make a world of difference. This is also a good time to maintain a daily exercise regimen and healthy diet. It's also important to have some down time once a week, no less than once a month. Stepping away will keep you fresh, rested, motivated and more productive.

8. Stay connected, avoid isolation.
It's important to immerse yourself in your industry and to network with peers and mentors. This can be accomplished by "showing up" at various events for direct contact to these people and other prospective resources. Besides the relationships, the exposure to people in similar situations will help you stay connected and motivated. This can also be accomplished with the use of social networking tools. I love Twitter for this reason!

9. Take time to acquire the resources you need.
Struggling for long periods at a time on a "shoe-string" can be tiring and will quickly lead to lack of motivation. Take the time to acquire the proper funding, equipment, etc., before you put yourself too far out there on a limb.

Application of these strategies will help you stay motivated and experience more joy as you're ramping up your business! Maria Simone helps those who are in various stages of planning, packaging, and launching their businesses acquire the resources they need AND STAY MOTIVATED at http://www.passion2prosperity.com

7 Strategies To Help You Quickly ATTRACT Investors

2009-04-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

This week's article is about positioning yourself to become more attractive to capital. If you're not raising capital however, just substitute any comparable resource you desire to have. It still works since the emphasis is on attracting what you need next!

Prospective investors are all around you ---there is no shortage of money. The key is, the more prepared you are, the more compelling your investment opportunity becomes. Raising capital from investors or acquiring the proper resources you need is a right of any entrepreneur and one of the best ways a growing business can assure its success. Learn how to compel others to invest rather than you "chasing" the money. Here are the top 7 things you can do right from the beginning to build value in your business and help you become more ATTRACTIVE to the money. This list is only a guideline and it should not be implied that all these are absolutely necessary to be successful in this process...it just helps to accelerate your efforts.

1. Develop a healthy relationship with money and know that you deserve to have it.
Money is just energy and capital is just one of the many resources necessary to grow your business. If you become too attached to this process or have a sense that your self-worth is tied to how much money you have, you may actually repel investors.

2. People invest in PEOPLE.
Make sure you've taken the time to attract the right mentors and advisors to support you during this process to help you attract the resources you need. There are others who have made this journey successfully before you so find out who they are and attach them to your project somehow. Investors and sponsors are more inclined to put their money into a project with a management and advisory team that has a proven track record. If they've done it once, they are more likely to re-create their success.

3. Do what you can to prove out or VALIDATE your concept.
Includes developing your markets, monetizing some aspect of your business, building a database of prospective customers, forming strategic Alliances and Joint Ventures, and/or obtaining purchase orders and letters of interest whenever possible. Bottom line, investors and sponsors are more inclined to take notice if you can show that there really is interest in your products and services.

4. Develop a Business Plan.
One that illustrates the market you're serving, describes your products and services and details how you plan to get them in the hands of your customers. A plan is also a great visual representation of what you desire to have and that alone will help you begin manifesting whatever you need to make it happen.

5. Obtain as much protection for your Intellectual Property (IP) as possible.
Having a patent, or the opportunity to patent your IP, is generally the most attractive IP opportunity to an investor. If not a patent, make sure you have the opportunity to create future IP such as trademarks and copyrights to show that your products and services will not become obsolete. Protect what you can up front to assure interest from investors but if that's not possible now, make sure you have a plan to do so in the near future.

6. Get connected!
Investors will have a higher degree of confidence and interest in an entrepreneur who knows how to network and easily connect to the resources he or she needs. Join groups that support your agenda, connect with your community, show up at industry related events, tap into the power of social networking.

7. Make sure you are passionate and invested in this process yourself and be able to clearly articulate that to investors. Investors want to know how much time and money YOU'VE invested, how passionate YOU are, how far YOU'RE willing to go with it and how stable YOU are emotionally and financially so that they know you'll have staying power. The more committed you are to making the "journey", the more attractive you will become to investors.

Application of these items will help you become super-attractive to money and other resources! Maria Simone helps those who are in various stages of planning, packaging, and launching their businesses acquire the resources they need at http://www.passion2prosperity.com

Abundance Strategies for Business Building-- Thursday Teleclass

2009-03-30T13:15:00.001-07:00

If you haven't noticed, the rules of business are shifting.
* Technology has ushered in new opportunities, closed the door on others.
* Consumer buying criteria has shifted, as have the tried and true marketing techniques.
* Competition is being replaced by more conscious biz building strategies.
* Opportunities to create early traction and revenue with limited investment are ABUNDANT.

JOIN ME for a 2-part teleclass as I discuss what's hot, what's not for business.
Learn where to make adjustments so you can THRIVE doing what you love.
http://passion2prosperity.com/passionatebiz.htm < ---- details here

This series is PERFECT if you're a service professional, solopreneur, speaker or entrepreneur
trying to jumpstart new revenue OR desiring to take your current business to another level.

You'll learn with us
* Key elements to help you get into revenue sooner than later.
* Learn to have breakthroughs, not breakdowns as you're moving forward with your dream.
* The power of creating multiple revenue streams to exponentially grow your revenue.
* Reaching the masses without compromising the integrity of your products and services.

http://passion2prosperity.com/passionatebiz.htm < ---- details here
Join me April 2nd --- the series is FREE.
Register today...Only those registered will get the playback recording from the series afterwards.

Ready for step-by-step support? Doors open at http://passion2prosperity.com

Build A Power Team To Attract Customers, Contracts, and Funding

2009-03-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

Starting a business is an exciting adventure but at the time when we need the most support, many entrepreneurs suddenly develop “Lone Ranger” syndrome. Could this be you? This isn’t the time to hide out and think you need to do it all yourself. This is the time to surround yourself with experts who have skills, talents, contacts and access to other resources to help you launch and grow your business. Let others open doors for you as well as become magnets for what you need next.

So the old saying goes "if I only knew then what I know now". I say "why wait to have the experience"?

Avoid the "hard knocks" that people insist on having by building a TEAM of people that have demonstrated success in the areas you're about to venture into. Think about what it would be like to have someone in your life that has been down the same path that you're about to go down, who is freely sharing with you what's in store. You'll be able to plan better, make better informed decisions, as well as save lots of time and money by avoiding the most commonly made mistakes. These are not employees or people working IN your business. These are people who are working ON your business with you and pop in and out as the need arises.

1. What do I call my TEAM?
Make it something formal and professional to lend credibility. I like ADVISORY TEAM or ADVISORY BOARD as it relates to business. Others call it MASTERMIND GROUP, and MENTOR GROUP.

2. Who should be on it?
Here are a few examples of the "profiles" of those who would provide a well-rounded experience:

a. Someone with experience developing a business--- starting a business, operations, experience with acquiring funding, dealt with legalities of having a business, launch, growth, exit strategies, etc.

b. Someone that has demonstrated success in your industry…actually launched or worked with a company that has achieved your desired revenue goals in a similar industry. For example, one of my companies is a fashion accessory company so I sought out the priceless advice of Nick Graham who had founded the very successful "Joe Boxer" brand in 1987.

c. Someone that responsibly represents YOUR desired target market. They can give you feedback and help establish your credibility along the way. For example, my husband’s friend launched an animation company that produces cartoons promoting environmental issues. Former Vice President Al Gore is on their Advisory Team. This relationship has given them tons of exposure right out of the gate, opportunities to acquire large contracts and interest from investors.

d. Someone not related to your business but well-grounded and "wise" in other areas of life. During stressful periods, this person will help give you perspective, make objective decisions and support your desire to have balance in your life.

e. Others who fill in the gaps of your experience such as marketing, media, promotional, and finance. For instance, I’m putting together the platform for a radio program and I don’t necessarily have media business experience. So I surrounded myself with Advisors that do. People that have successfully raised millions from corporate sponsors, and a publicist whose specialty is radio syndication.

3. What to say?
Approach these people and request a short meeting so you'd have the opportunity to ask them some relevant questions about your business that they would completely relate to. Can they validate what you're doing? Did they have similar experiences they could share with you? Is there anyone else they would recommend you speak to? Any special advice they could give you?

4. How to follow-up?
Request that they allow you to check in with them once a month to share your progress and to seek their guidance. People generally will be honored to support you at such intervals and probably won't think to ask for anything in return so money shouldn’t be an issue here.

Not only will they get to help the next generation succeed, the relationship itself will start attracting more resources, customers, contracts and funding to your business as you share who’s on your TEAM with others.

Maria Simone is a transformational business development expert. She’ll show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming talents & ideas into products that sell for millions, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com

Leno, Fallon, Ellen & Me: Marveling The Twitter Phenomenon

2009-03-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

Unless you've been living under a rock, you can't help but hear everyone talking about TWITTER! It's been the topic of all the daytime & late night talk shows and every mainstream media outlet out there.

For entrepreneurs, Twitter has become an amazingly efficient & fun way to quickly build your network and your business.
It's like instant manifestation and I'm going to prove it to you on our next Abundance Mastermind Group call on Tuesday 3/17 at 12pm pst.

Are you Twittering yet? If not, go to http://twitter.com/ to create your own account.
Start following me at http://twitter.com/mariasimone and you'll see what I mean.

Here's what's amazing:
Over the past few months I've used it to quickly build strategic alliances, attract new business ($$), media opportunities, contacts with investors and make very powerful connections to influencers. All of this coming from a place of connecting and supporting of others.

I'm going to walk my Members through the strategies I use to build my business using Twitter. This is not just a "how to use it" session ---There are many wonderful people who share THAT information. Instead, I'll be revealing specific business building strategies.

Want this powerful session for FR^EE? You'll get the next TWO months of Membership FR^EE when you acquire my program at http://passion2prosperitybook.com/

Current Abundance Mastermind Members in good standing: you'll be receiving call-in details shortly.
Join us TUESDAY and you'll notice a difference in your business by WEDNESDAY.
Anyone tell you they "don't get Twitter"? ...send them to this post!

To your success!
Maria Simone
http://passion2prosperity.com/

Thinking about lowering your prices?

2009-03-10T21:42:00.000-07:00

With all the negative economic news being reported by the media, your first inclination as a business owner may be to lower your prices fearing that unless you do, you won't have a customer segment willing and able to pay your desired prices. Consider that once lowered, however, it may be more of a challenge to raise your prices in the very near future. You're also assuming that your customers can no longer afford your standard prices. In actuality, pricing may not be the issue but rather customers are becoming more thoughtful with their purchases and merely need to be further convinced of the VALUE before plunking down their money. I recommend an energetically more ABUNDANT approach to this. Here are some new strategies and possible alternatives to consider in lieu of lowering your prices.

1. Have a sale or extend payment options.
Maintain your current pricing but establish defined sale periods with beginning and end dates to maintain the integrity of your pricing model but still offer customers a break. Also consider stretching payments over a period of time if feasible. I regularly offer a 6 pay plan with my Protégé program in addition to timed discounts.

2. Bundled offerings or gift with purchase.
Add additional products and services to your core offerings (for no additional cost) to substantially increase the value but without necessarily increasing your overhead. Can you add a "gift with purchase" that doesn't cost you any more money? Digital products & excess inventory items work great with this. Such as a gym offering complimentary towel and locker service for a year with a new membership.

3. Bonus gifts from other providers.
I still chuckle at an article submission site I subscribe to that would send me a 1lb box of fudge from an outside candy company every time I chose A $100 service package instead of a $60 package. Can you bundle with others to provide more value? I offer over $1000 in bonus gifts when you purchase my eBook and audio program at http://passion2prosperitybook.com/ . I created tremendous value for my customer that I did not have to pay for! Win-Win!

4. Rewrite your collateral materials to convey benefits.
This is a good time to review the benefits of your products and services line- by-line to be sure you're communicating maximum value to your prospective customer. One client wanted to lower her prices to attract more customers. Before she did that, I had her dissect her service, list out each benefit and assign a monetary value. This created a paradigm shift when she realized how much value customers were actually getting from her. She didn't lower her prices then, she raised them and customers are still showing up to pay.

5. Offer a sampling of complimentary products or new price point combinations.
Consider building in a new layer of products and services that you can offer for free so that prospective customers can easily experience you before making a purchase. When you sign in to http://passion2prosperity.com/ , you receive 3 free gifts from me. Also consider a new level of product offerings at lower price points without changing your premium price points. Even Starbucks is now offering bundled product combinations.

[Maria Simone is a business development expert with a spiritual twist. She'll show you "NEXT STEPS" for transforming ideas into products, effortlessly attracting investors and sponsors, and manifesting customers with ease. http://www.passion2prosperity.com/]

Priceless Pricing Strategies

2009-03-09T23:38:00.000-07:00

The following article was written by my CFO buddy Aisha Jones-Scheffel. There are four basic pricing strategies which can be drawn out on a grid or matrix:

1. Economy pricing: Low quality and low price.
This would be the no-frills pricing, think of Wal-Mart or Southwest Airlines. Compare this to Nordstrom and first class on Virgin Airlines.

2. Penetration pricing: High quality and low price.
This strategy entails initially setting a lower than market price to gain entry into the market. Think back to when the Japanese initially introduced cars into the U.S. market. They were cheaper cars, but with equal or better equality. Now Toyota is poised to become the number one selling car manufacturer in the U.S.

3. Price skimming: Low quality and high price.
With this strategy a company will set a relatively high price initially and then reduce the price over time. Over time, they are able to get consumers at every price point. The perfect example of this is the Apple iPhone, it was originally $499 when it was introduced. Apple is now introducing the second version on July 11th at a price of $199.

4. Premium pricing: High quality and high price.
Every luxury brand follows this pricing strategy, which is keeping the price of a product or service high, so that buyers will favorably perceive it as superior or exclusive. Think of Coach or Bentley or even the Ritz Carlton.

How to use the matrix:

Step One: Determine where you are on the grid. You might have products or services that fall in one or more categories.
Step Two: Determine which quadrants your competitors fall into
Step Three: Determine holes in the market. Do you and your competitors fall under the premium and penetration quadrant? Then, there might be opportunities in the economy and skimming quadrants. What products or services could you introduce to take advantage of these "holes" in the marketplace.
Step Four: Determine if you can have products or services that would fall into every quadrant. For example, Toyota has a Toyota Corolla (Economy), a Prius (Skimming), and Lexus (Premium). H

ow do you know if a change in pricing strategy will be successful? Well you don't know what is going to be successful. The best thing is to do your research upfront before investing too much in a new pricing strategy or product or service. The three biggest questions are:
1. Is there a market for it?
2. How can I reach that market?
3. Do you have the talent and resources in order to reach that market?

So give some thought to your pricing strategy. What is the cost of increased market share, more customers, higher revenue, and increased profits - priceless.

Aisha Jones-Scheffel is "The Doctor CFO." Get her FREE SPECIAL REPORT, "7 Never Before Told Ways to Make Your Practice Stop Bleeding Money (That Has Nothing to do with Insurance or Billing)" and her FREE money management how-to tips at http://www.DoctorCFO.com.

10 Ways To Grow Your Business With Twitter

2009-02-10T23:03:00.000-08:00

I wasn't a very early adopter of social networking but I did finally join in a few years ago and began building my network. I've always been intentional about it but probably not as avid with it as some people I know. Last year I discovered Twitter and everything changed. If you’re not already doing so, please follow me at http://twitter.com/mariasimone . I found it cumbersome at first but since Michael swore by it, I decided to stick with it and it quickly began paying off once I got the hang of it all. Fast forward to today: I've developed incredible relationships and amazing business opportunities have come to fruition at lightening speed. I find it a much more efficient way to connect to the resources I need which would typically require more of a time investment on some of the other sites.

Twitter is a cross for me between Facebook, micro-blogging, text messaging and a chat room. It's fast and easy to connect and you're limited to putting out only 140 characters of info at a time so it forces you to speak in "soundbites" which is how most of us think anyway. It's easy to get into the flow once you start following people and people are following you. Spend some time learning the basics of how to reply to others, DM (direct message) for private chats, and how to search using http://search.twitter.com/ . Here are a few of the strategies I've used that have helped me create powerful connections, attract new customers, promotional and media opportunities:

1. Develop relationships with your industry influencers
Search for and then follow people who represent your industry, report trends, make trends, have large numbers of followers, demonstrated success, etc. You'll be updated regularly about what's happening in your industry and if you "speak" to them regularly (not sell), others will begin taking notice of you which IS A VERY GOOD THING as this may open doors to (fill in the blank) opportunities for you.

2. Connect with your perfect target market
Who is your perfect customer? Connect with them online and let them get to know you. Give things away, share yourself, and answer their questions. They, and who they know, will regularly follow what you have to say if you're being genuine. Your followers could ultimately become new customers for you.

3. Connect with those who have complimentary products and services
I'm always looking for additional resources to introduce to you, my subscriber--- anything I know would help you grow your business. Others are doing the same so it makes sense to connect to these people with the intent of developing win-win cross promotional opportunities. Twitter is one of the fastest ways I've found to do that.

4. Connect with those who represent the media
You want those who work within the print, TV or radio markets to know about you as well as those who are popular bloggers or freelance writers. The quickest way for that to happen is to connect with them first and let them get to know you by your posts. They'll eventually start talking to you and about you. I've manifested a number of media interviews this way. One of my posts---and my name--- recently appeared live on CNN during a news report.

5. Connect with potential Mentors (and investors if applicable).
There are always going to be resources or expert advice that you'll regularly need to help you get to the next level. Connect with these people right from the beginning so you can immediately defer to when you need the support the most...and fast.

6. Lift-up, validate, congratulate, and regularly acknowledge others.
This goes much further in solidifying your relationships (not to mention the Good Karma involved) than any other activity you could engage in. People naturally want to do business with those who make others shine. Don't use this platform to correct, admonish or try to be "right" about anything.

7. Consistently put out relevant useful information.
Let others see what you're all about by putting out tips, resources, links to current events in your industry, or other relevant info (90%+) more often than a promotion (less than 10%). However, make it very easy for others to find out more about when they're ready. If you really have nothing to say, try forwarding useful info from others.

8.Craft a profile that speaks benefits to the reader and has clear contact info.
You want to instantly establish your credibility in a line or two but don't lean too heavily towards what you've done. Make it more about what you can do for others. Next, where do you really want to direct people after that and why?

9. Check out the tools and resources that others are continually offering.
People are VERY giving on Twitter and tend to offer lots of value for FR*EE. Soak it all up to improve your situation, and save yourself lots of time and money knowing that your learning curve in your business will be reduced once you're properly connected.

10 Establish a regular routine of connecting on Twitter.
Networking should not be an afterthought and should be included as a scheduled component of your business development. People connect with those who are regular visitors, not those who periodically pop in. If you find you're currently having sporadic results, it's probably because you're not regularly connecting.

Once you start implementing these strategies and work to build your list of followers (as well as following others) you'll begin experiencing accelerated results with your business agenda---all while having fun and developing meaningful connections.

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/

Action Manifestor: Just Let Go

2009-02-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

Lots of drastic changes being portrayed in the media and now being felt by us all. Business changing, markets changing, values, etc. Not that it's good or bad--- but it does feel like our world is changing so rapidly, it’s difficult to keep up. Routines are upset, rules are changing, not getting the same results from familiar strategies. One woman I know has been so anxious by constant changes at work she confessed to having a need to use the same bathroom stall each and every visit to the ladies room just to maintain some sense of familiarity and routine. If you're not comfortable with change, the fear of loss that is associated with change can creep up unbeknownst to you and cause you to hold on even tighter to your "realities", even if they no longer make sense. Take note: Are you holding on to material possessions that create clutter but not serve a useful purpose for you anymore? Have relationships that no longer support you? Clients who are draining and you no longer have a desire to serve but you continue to do so anyway? Watching your sales dwindle but not making the changes really necessary to turn it all around?
Become keenly aware of these situations and start giving yourself permission to begin letting go. The fear is an illusion and cannot harm you. The moment you let go, you'll allow more abundance will step in to fill the void not to mention the sense of peace and relief you'll experience by letting go of an uncomfortable situation that really isn’t serving you.

For more Action Manifestor tips, subscribe to my ezine at http://mariasimone.com

Celebrate The Success Of Others

2009-02-05T23:55:00.000-08:00

You work so hard on birthing a project, acquiring the resources you need or landing that big contract. It may be easy to see others succeeding in areas you’d like to be and think enviously “that should be me”. That WILL be you and if you’d like to accelerate the process, simply raise your vibration of gratitude and begin genuinely celebrating their success. Support their efforts, look for ways to collaborate, give them words of encouragement. The accomplishments of others will quickly become yours.

Small Changes That Lead To Big Results

2009-02-05T23:50:00.000-08:00

Obama’s campaign platform was about CHANGE ---“yes we can”--- but change can be a scary proposition, even when it’s in our best interest. Some changes are comparatively bigger than others. Changing careers, change in marital status, a new child, and moving to a new city are the big ones. Entrepreneurs seem to be in a continuous state of change in the hopes of achieving our desired results. Today, I thought I’d present some relatively simple changes you can make that could produce significant results. I like to make THOSE types of changes and hope you do too!

1. Include more financially successful and accomplished individuals in your circle of influence.

Watch your own abundance increase the more you adopt this. Socially, you can meet new friends via introduction, through your place of worship, getting involved in your children’s school, volunteering for local charity fundraising projects, attending socially oriented networking events, and getting involved in the community. For your business, attend a variety of functions, industry tradeshows, or networking events that could attract wealthy people. Mix it up until you find the combination that works for you.

2. Eliminate some obligations to increase productivity

If there are activities that you engage in or people you maintain relationship with simply because you feel obligated to do so, it may be time to re-evaluate. Give yourself permission to (gracefully) eliminate simple activities you deem an obligation that lack your desire and may not serve a real purpose for you anymore. Choose one thing at a time and you’ll see a dramatic increase in your own productivity as a result.

3. Take time to process during the day to increase performance

Spend at least 15 minutes each day in quiet meditation to “re-boot” your brain. Get to a quiet place, breathe deeply, and clear your head of busy thoughts. The silence allows you to process the events of the day, get a quick re-charge and receive new inspiration and solutions to issues at hand. This simple task helps me to continue functioning at higher levels during the day and I find solutions I’m looking for present themselves much more quickly.

4. Personal branding as a CEO can connect you quickly to your market

If you’re running a small business, it’s a lot easier to accomplish this and could produce dramatic results with regard to marketing and PR efforts. Associate yourself in unique ways to your company’s message. Be a more visible representative of your company’s brand so customers, investors and the media can develop trust and quickly buy into what you have to offer.

5. Communicate more frequently to your market, team and investors

Begin looking for ways to increase the frequency of your messages to every person who is connected to your business. In-store appearances, simple email and social networking activities could have dramatic results with regard to customer and investor relations. This is not a “when we have time” activity, make it an ongoing part of your daily activities.

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

Working Past The FEAR To Take The Next Step

2009-02-05T23:42:00.000-08:00

This topic is worthy of an article, a book…even several days devoted to it.

Many people are simply paralyzed with fear and unable to move forward these days. One of the most effective ways to deal with fear is to DEAL with it. What are you so afraid of? Give it context so it’s not this illusive, looming monster. Rejection? Failure? Not being good enough? Success? Risking your life savings? Losing a relationship? Look at each of these one-by-one and do what you can to reduce the risks or simply realize the issues are not as “dangerous” as they feel. Worst case scenario? Chances of it actually happening? You’ll find it’s all an illusion anyway and can be shifted quickly but you may have to work through some it this to get to that conclusion. The fears will start shrinking and you can keep moving forward.

7 Ways To Get The Media Talking About You

2009-01-28T14:48:00.000-08:00

Publicity is not just for celebrity-type individuals or companies that are wildly successful. There are many ways that entrepreneurs can capitalize on media exposure during pre-launch and ramp up mode and even use the press to help attract investors and strategic alliances. Ultimately the exposure will translate into an increase in business. And to think it’s all FR^EE! In our upcoming program for entrepreneurs (http://explosiveresultspublicity.com/ ) one of my publicists and I will walk you through the creation of a campaign that will land you in the spotlight time and time again. Today at least I’ll share 7 ways to get the spotlight shining on you.

1. Announce your team during the formation stage
Tap into the media to share who’s joining you to launch your company. Emphasis is on people here to start the buzz and attract potential investors and partners.

2.Celebritize yourself
Start getting used to telling your story early on and/or position yourself as an authority so people start following you. It will spill over to any business you’re associated with when you’re ready.

3.Publicize Events
Create offline events or associate yourself with a community event to get the buzz going about you. Events get lots of media play across the board.

4.Product launch
Any launch of a product or service in your company should be an event and could get lots of media attention. However, you want to be sure and properly coordinate this so it doesn’t come across as an advertisement in which case the media will tell you to take a hike.

5.Cause Marketing
Associate yourself with local charities making a difference in the community. Help them get what they want which is usually money and resources and they can help you attract lots of media attention.

6. Chronicle the story of your company
As your business is moving along, consider all the human interest angles in your company and share that with the media as often as possible. Could be related to the people you hire, the materials you use, the values you’ve adopted.

7.Look for tie-ins to current events
Pay attention to what people in the media are talking about to see if there is a relevant tie-in to your business to keep YOU in the news. War, economy, layoffs. Take your pick.

Once you understand the fundamentals of publicity, you’ll be able to implement effective campaigns on a regular basis that will keep you in the spotlight and customers at your door. For more information, go to http://explosiveresultspublicity.com/ and register for our next event. The program comes with a guarantee!

Now Money Now: 6 Quick Revenue Strategies

2009-01-11T22:33:00.000-08:00

I don’t work with individuals one-on-one as much as I have in the past but one of my favorite activities to do with people is what I call a “Now Money Now” session. It’s a 90 minute strategy session where we quickly go over what’s working, what’s not working and also create a plan to create new revenue with minimal effort in a short period of time. I thought I’d share some quick strategies that I use over and over for clients, including for myself. When the real estate market shifted last year, my investment company was caught having to cover mortgages on several properties for a period of time until we straightened the situation out. I used these strategies to create quick revenue in different areas of my business without missing a beat to cover the additional mortgages. Other people may have not been able to respond so quickly and this event could have been financially devastating. If you’re interested in having a “Now Money Now” session for yourself, please email me directly for details at simone@passion2prosperity.com .

1. Do a quick comparison of your gross and net revenues
You may be so busy trying to make more money you could be missing opportunities to put more of what you make to the bottom line. Activities or expenses that are really eating up your profits should be eliminated or modified. Reduce inefficiencies, look at ways to automate quickly. Include your time in there as well. One client was making over $1 million a year but hardly seeing any of that in his bank account. Within 60 days, just by changing the way he was creating his revenue and how the service was being delivered, he found more money going in his bank account. Creating new revenue was a lot easier as well once there were more operational efficiencies in place.

2. Offer new products and services to existing or past customers
You have a group that has already experienced you ---no new marketing or selling involved ---but perhaps your services are complete. This is a great time to devise additional services for them or offer complimentary products. You may not have anything in-house to be able to offer them but someone else may and this could mean commissions (affiliate revenue) for you.

3. Start looking at continuity revenue
In the past you may have charged larger upfront fees for a product or service. You may want to create a win-win situation by charging lower fees to help people get in the door and spread them over a period of time. Perhaps allowing monthly payments or creating a membership program. This will allow more people to experience you overall and create a steady stream of revenue for you.

4. Create opportunities to approach your target market directly
Many people beat around the bush when it comes times to promote their wares to their target market. Have a clear understanding of your market demographics (age sex, income, etc) and APPROACH those who have direct access to those people. Ask them specifically to promote you via email or telephone endorsement. Create a win-win situation by offering a special gift or some other value because of the relationship they have with your endorser. These relationships are called Joint Ventures, Strategic Alliances, and Affiliates (online). My friend was promoting a deep tissue healing device and thought the people who were continually getting hurt and needed instant relief were cage fighters (don’t ask). He developed relationships directly with those groups to promote his device.

5. Go with the lowest hanging fruit for speed
If you’re planning on creating something new to sell, make sue you really think through not only time and money involved in product development, but also how it will get out to your market. Do you have the contacts here? Is this an area you have expertise in or will there be a learning curve for you and new relationships that have to be developed? Do you have a passion for this product and an affinity for the market? Don’t get caught trying to make a fast dollar creating something new and get stuck midway to market without the steam and resources to see it through. Try working with what you have already…or FIND someone that can open these doors for you quickly.

6. Tap into social networking for speed and lowest cost to market
I know there are volumes being written on maximizing your efforts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and others. I'm addicted to Twitter now and have found that I can create more new business and alliances in one day then I may be able to do in one month offline (with travel involved). If time is of the essence, get online with all the other movers and shakers and start networking but have a very clear agenda. Look to create new relationships leading to new Joint Ventures and new customers. Follow me and my husband on Twitter and starte getting connected http://twitter.com/mariasimone and http://twitter.com/docmurdock .

There at least 20 points that I would go through with each business and usually within 30-60 days their financial landscape changes fairly dramatically. These are some basics that could help make a difference in your business right away---put them to work! You can modify them to use if you’re in capital raising mode. “Now Money Now” Strategy Sessions are by appointment only so please send an email to simone@passion2prospertiy.com for details.

Jump on the Karma Wagon

2009-01-08T20:52:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true... http://the15minutementor.com is LIVE.
Sign in as a Mentor but you can also make a request of the group if you have a question related to...
Creative
Customer Acquisition/Retention
Distribution Channels
Finance
Management/People
Marketing
Sales
Start-up
...the list of categories goes on.
Sign in and spread the word. It's completely FR*EE.
Just play nice and keep the vibration high!
You don't ever want to get HIT by the Karma wagon, you want to RIDE it.

To your success!
Maria Simone
http://passion2prosperitybook.com
...Your economic stimulus package

Build A Power Team To Attract Customers And Contracts

2009-01-04T23:23:00.000-08:00

Starting a business is an exciting adventure but at the time when we need the most support, many entrepreneurs suddenly develop “Lone Ranger” syndrome. Could this be you? This isn’t the time to hide out and think you need to do it all yourself. This is the time to surround yourself with experts who have skills, talents, contacts and access to other resources to help you launch and grow your business. Let others open doors for you as well as become magnets for what you need next.

So the old saying goes "if I only knew then what I know now". I say "why wait to have the experience"?

Avoid the "hard knocks" that people insist on having by building a TEAM of people that have demonstrated success in the areas you're about to venture into. Think about what it would be like to have someone in your life that has been down the same path that you're about to go down, who is freely sharing with you what's in store. You'll be able to plan better, make better informed decisions, as well as save lots of time and money by avoiding the most commonly made mistakes. These are not employees or people working IN your business. These are people who are working ON your business with you and pop in and out as the need arises.

What do I call my TEAM?
Make it something formal and professional to lend credibility. I like ADVISORY TEAM or ADVISORY BOARD as it relates to business. Others call it MASTERMIND GROUP, and MENTOR GROUP.

Who should be on it?
Here are a few examples of the "profiles" of those who would provide a well-rounded experience:

1. Someone with experience developing a business--- starting a business, operations, experience with acquiring funding, dealt with legalities of having a business, launch, growth, exit strategies, etc.

2. Someone that has actually launched or worked with a company that has achieved your desired revenue goals in a similar industry. They have demonstrated success in your market. For example, one of my companies is a fashion accessory company so I sought out the priceless advice of Nick Graham who had founded the very successful "Joe Boxer" brand in 1987.

3. Someone that responsibly represents YOUR desired target market that can give you feedback and credibility along the way. For example, my husband’s friend launched an animation company that produces cartoons promoting environmental issues. The Honorable Al Gore is on their Advisory Team. This relationship has given them tons of exposure right out of the gate, opportunities to acquire large contracts and interest from investors.

4. Someone not related to your business but well-grounded and "wise" in other areas of life. During stressful periods, this person will help give you perspective, make objective decisions and support your desire to have balance in your life.

5. Others who fill in the gaps of your experience such as marketing, media, promotional, and finance. For instance, I’m putting together the platform for a radio program and I don’t necessarily have media business experience. So I surrounded myself with Advisors that do. People that have successfully raised millions from corporate sponsors, and a publicist whose specialty is radio syndication.

What to say?
Approach these people and request a short meeting where you'd have the opportunity to ask them some relevant questions about your business that they would completely relate to. Can they validate what you're doing? Did they have similar experiences they could share with you? Is there anyone else they would recommend you speak to? Any special advice they could give you?

How to follow-up?
Request that they allow you to check in with them once a month to share your progress and to seek their guidance. People generally will be honored to support you at such intervals and probably won't think to ask for anything in return so money shouldn’t be an issue here.

Not only will they get to help the next generation succeed, the relationship itself will start attracting more resources, customers, contracts and funding to your business as you share who’s on your TEAM with others. Learn more strategies for building team at http://www.passion2prosperity.com/

Thinking of you...and let's play 'show me the money'

2009-01-02T12:37:00.000-08:00

While some people quiet down during the holiday season, I seem to get a burst of energy those last few days and I always look forward to really jumping into the New Year.
How about you?

On Tuesday I held part 5 of my complimentary teleclass series.
I promised you the playback link:
Limiting Beliefs That May Be Holding You Back In Business http://www.mariasimone.com/playback.htm

2 quick things to remind you about:

1. Our 16-week Protege Program starts 1/7 and we still have some spots left.
If you want dramatically different results in 2009, then join us.
http://www.passion2prosperity.com/program.htm

If you think MONEY is the only thing stopping you, then think again.
Join me for a special conference call on Saturday...
I'm going to review ways to manifest the money you need for the program and beyond.
"Lack of money" should never be an issue in your life and we're really going to look at that.
Ways to make the shift, how to create instant income, attract short term investors, etc.

It's powerful and the strategies work but since I'm giving up my Saturday afternoon, I'm only interested in working with people who will be joining me in my Protege Program.
That way I'll know you're serious about creating real success. I know I am.

If you're ready to committ to that level of support, send an email to simone@passion2prosperity.com ...like today.
I'll send you details privately.

2. Want the "receipe" book so you can do more on your own?
Get 2 months of business coaching and $500 in bonus gifts.
http://www.passion2prosperitybook.com/

To your success!
Maria Simone
http://www.blogger.com/www.passion2prosperity.com

Together we made a difference this year

2008-12-23T12:31:00.000-08:00

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

Creating Mutliple Revenue Streams Doing What You Love

2008-12-20T13:01:00.000-08:00

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

Survey Says You Can Strike It Rich In This Economy

2008-12-19T15:34:00.000-08:00

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.

10 Business Success Killers-- must see video

2008-12-17T07:08:00.000-08:00

Check this out and let me know what you think.

10 Business Success Killers! from Maria Simone on Vimeo.

Be the STAR In Your Local Markets

2008-12-02T15:34:00.000-08:00

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.

Giving is GOOD for Business

2008-11-28T17:04:00.000-08:00

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.

Who's Got Your Back

2008-11-18T17:07:00.000-08:00

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

Is this a GOOD time to start a business?

2008-10-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

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.

How To Follow Up With Customers Investors And Supporters

2008-10-23T00:31:00.000-07:00

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

How To Manifest More Abundance In Business

2008-10-23T00:13:00.000-07:00

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

When you don't know what to do next...

2008-08-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

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

Shortcuts To Get Your Products Into The Retail Markets

2008-07-06T02:04:00.000-07:00

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.

Small Business Funding: Business Planning To Attract Investors

2008-05-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

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.

Visibility Equals Instant Credibility

2008-05-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

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.

Come meet me in May...

2008-05-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

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/

Fox 4 TV and the Inventors Club, Kansas City

2008-04-24T19:40:00.000-07:00

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.

Maria is featured in April issue of Inventors Digest

2008-04-20T13:14:00.000-07:00

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!

Press Release: Funding "Inventor Seed Capital"

2008-04-19T22:06:00.000-07:00

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

Act Out Your Vision Whenever Possible

2008-04-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

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).

Passion To Prosperity For The Service Provider

2008-03-07T15:26:00.000-08:00

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

5 Things To Do To "Recession Proof" Your Business Plan And Business

2008-02-26T21:19:00.000-08:00

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

Small Business Funding: The "Haves" And The "Have-Nots"

2008-02-03T16:49:00.000-08:00

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

5 Strategies To Successfully Get Your Products Sold In Retail Stores

2008-02-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

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

AZHCC Creates New Initiative To Help “Recession Proof” Member’s Businesses

2008-02-02T00:27:00.000-08:00

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.

I have a new blog to tell you about....

2008-01-26T13:36:00.000-08:00

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

Maria Simone to Serve as an Empowerment Leader at Amazing Woman's Day 2008

2008-01-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

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

Who To Approach During Early Stage Funding

2008-01-04T21:56:00.000-08:00

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