Entrepreneurs' Notebook Secrets

When common sense died . . .

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:21:00 +0000

So many meaningful articles are focused on ideas that used to be known as "Common Sense." It may be common to one generation and not another. Here is an example on innovation. Sound contemporary advice founded on what the Silent Generation already knew!

Consider the American Revolutionary, Thomas Paine, who wrote a pamphlet with that title. His effort to stir the Colonists to oppose British rule was successful because it spoke in "plain language," everyone could understand and he inspired the readers.

Every generation must define what Common Sense means to them. In the world of social media, abbreviations have become the common language that baffles older folks. However, Common Sense exceeds a simple definition of words.

In my universe, Common Sense is a method of thinking something through to include the impact of the action or words. It relates to timing. It is not just stating the obvious. It opposes short-sightedness.

Consider the recent statement of Bank of America's CEO, Brian Moynihan, who said he has a right to make a profit for his company. Is this view one that advances good will or positive presence in the marketplace?

If he was my client, I would "play back" his response and watch his body language. My guess is he would cringe when he heard his words played back and he could hear them outside his internal voice. We would dig deep to get to what he really meant and craft a new comment in Plain English. We could discuss how it matters what people think, especially when they feel robbed and cheated with the threat of rising fees!

I would remind Mr. Moynihan about Peter Drucker's business wisdom about the purpose of business—to create a customer—and, how his focus on profits makes him appear cold and greedy. Also, I would show him how he can drive away his existing customers with his lack of sensitivity that will ultimately cost him money he so dearly protects. A dose of Common Sense would have served Brian.

So, Common Sense can be a business tool to test a message before broadcasting it:

The unintended consequences of statements made, for example, by politicians and business tycoons, are more powerful than ever because of the speed and repetition of digital media.
Words matter and stand the test of time (and You Tube video!).
Select words that support your meaning rather than have you appear out of touch with the moment. Consider Eric Cantor's use of the word, "mob", to describe the Occupy Wall Street participants. Given a do-over, I bet he would choose a different word like "protesters." See how less inflammatory that word is?
Above all, say what you mean. Ask for what you want. Double talk and hyper-speak turn people off. (Consider the usage of "utilize" when "use" is the accurate word.)
Earn the trust of your audience by being authentic and accurate. The "fact checkers" on news channels and interview programs must have migraine headaches with the tsunami of misinformation pounding us everyday.
Avoid clichés. They muddy meaning because Gen Y does not get the older references, for example.
Offer your audience a message that helps them align with what you are seeking.
Avoid motivating by fear—it is negative and short-term. You will be forever associated with it, too.
Listen to generations different than your own. They "hear" things differently.
Align your actions with your words. Generation Y is watching and they despise phonies—have your word mean something.

Now, go and inspire someone with your ideas. There is so much work to be done. mc

Tell Congress to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act Now!

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 19:35:00 +0000

Tell Congress to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act Now!:
Take immediate action to end pay discrimination against women.
Join Senators Boxer, Gillibrand, and Klobuchar to tell Congress
that equal work deserves equal pay - pass the Paycheck Fairness Act now.

How is it we are still hammering on this topic of pay disparity? Here are thoughts I have about it:
1. Is this because there are not enough women in top tier positions to improve this?
2. How is such a blatant discrimination not viewed as a crime?
3. Here's the silver lining—Wait for it—More women start entrepreneurial enterprises because of such stupidity.
I know that was a primary motivator for me to start my business coaching practice.
The idea of asking for time off, when to leave my desk and how to think about my work was deplorable to me.
I took the plunge from two major corporations where I received several low-level promotions,
but was told by a senior vice president, "That is the plight of women in corporate America!"

The law is not on women's sides here. No class action suit can be brought (remember Walmart?) for reasons I do not understand.

Remember the "list" that was He Said/She said?
He is strong and assertive: She's a x@!*+.
He is decisive: She's stubborn . . . and on it goes.
If anyone finds this list, please forward it on.

All you constitutional scholars out there, please shed light on this issue.
Consider this a group topic to pursue!

Just keep on going . . .
MC

Solved the riddle of the Sphinx!

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 23:42:00 +0000

Thanks to Paul Krugman, I feel sane again. Although his book isn't new, it is prophetic as in 2005 he outlines what is playing out in Washington, D.C. today.

Hint for the revelation (not revolution!)—It's not about the debt ceiling!

Look up A Revolutionary Power in your dictionary (Google) and see what it says. Then search Heritage Foundation, then let's talk.

Please join my read-along blog that will point to pages for discussion. Looking forward to your comments.

Regards,
Michelle Cubas, Enterprise Business Coach

Jerry Chautin: Boost Your Sales and Enhance Your Brand With Little-Known QR Codes

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 23:34:00 +0000

Just made QR (quick response) codes in a minute! Wow. This is where technology shines.

This article address how realtors can use this tool, but the impact is universal. Any business can benefit.
Jerry Chautin: Boost Your Sales and Enhance Your Brand With Little-Known QR Codes

Try yours here. Have fun and send me your ideas. I will post accordingly.
Thanks.

Your coach,
Michelle Cubas

Pay to Play or Work? Hot topic for HR Professionals

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 18:28:00 +0000

What is your opinion on performance pay? Have you experienced it?

I find it curious how industry compensation is arbitrarily designated to promote performance. The spotlight is often on the teaching profession, yet bonuses to Wall Street financiers are considered bonuses on their production. What is the distinction?

Interestingly, money is not a motivator for everyone. Also, depending on how performance pay is handled,
it can open the perennial can of worms as to the criteria used and if all employees are able to participate.
Worst of all, the perception of a bribe must be avoided at all costs. (More on bribe v. reward in another post.)

Here is top issues that motivate employees today:
• Job security
• Appreciation
• Bonuses attached to a specific "well done" project.
• Educational reimbursement
• Promotional and career paths.

What do you think? Please mention your industry segment. Thank you.

Regards,
Michelle

The Benevolent Business Person Phenomenon

Thu, 19 May 2011 10:00:00 +0000

Today's chaotic world produced a phenomenon—the benevolent business person. The wealthiest people on the planet like Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett are giving away their fortunes through their foundations.

On a smaller scale, you may be considering offering your time and expertise to an organization as community service.

From my involvement in corporate giving, a few items come to mind for you to consider:
1. It is important to know the nature of the charity's work. How do your values align with the work?
2. What is the global symbol or face of the organization? Each executive must decide how that fits with their own mission, vision and values.
3. What is the "wish list" of the organization? A comprehensive outline is helpful to people to contribute tangibles, not just money. It is easier for the donating company to "sell" the idea to their audiences that way.
4. Each company decides how realistic they find the goals and how they align with the company image. Is this information likely to be posted to your website?
5. What checks and balances are in place to assure funds reach the targets? A complete listing of where the monies are held and a contact person are helpful to prospective donors. People are skeptical when the cause appears too huge to manage.
6. What is your "feel good" payoff? Younger leaders today have a different perspective on causes. It is not just about a tax deduction for them. They are eager to participate when they see the sense of the big picture and how the parts work together. Is this present for you to devote time and attention.
7. For those of you considering to a start a non-profit or be involved with a new organization, I advise writing a comprehensive plan, like a marketing map, that demonstrates the outreach goals and intended efforts. It is easier to align your values with the mission when you can see it on paper. This will support you to obtain sponsors and in your fund-raising efforts.

Hard times can bring out the best in people. Follow the CNN Heroes and other wonderful efforts around the world. Get involved on some level. Your soul will thank you.

Best of luck. And welcome to a positive idea that emerges from the chaos.

Links
http://www.bcccc.net/
Gates Foundation
CNN Heroes http://bit.ly/cdxruh

How New Paradigms Affect Your Company Culture

Thu, 19 May 2011 00:06:00 +0000

5 New Paradigms for a Socially Engaged Company

This article raises several salient issues that are emerging as the core of new companies.

One comment sounded the death knell for the top-down driven organization. The model has been on the downslide since the 1990's. Large corporations will have difficulty with this one especially since they associate power with offices and titles.

Also, this discussion makes the most sense about social media, the outlets, measurement and influence.

Carolyn Myss, Anatomy of the Spirit, supports the writer's findings as well. She describes how we have moved from a tribal mindset, through the independent mindset and must embrace an interdependent mindset to continue our evolution as people and a species.

Another important resource is Peter Senge's work, The Fifth Discipline, on the learning organization.

This is a lively topic for debate and I welcome your insights. Please comment below.

Your coach,

Michelle

Reach out and touch your audience's concerns

Sun, 15 May 2011 23:48:00 +0000

Host Deb Scott gave me a platform to discuss a pertinent business coaching issues on job creation and how to apply the 4P's—People, Profits, Purpose, and Performance/Productivity in your business. Enjoy. Please leave feedback in the comments section. Thank you. MC Enjoy the show here!

Complimentary materials download is available at http://www.positivepotentials.com/jobdownload.htm

Protecting Consumers at the Pump: The Oil and Gas Price Fraud Working Group | The White House

Tue, 03 May 2011 07:30:00 +0000

Protecting Consumers at the Pump: The Oil and Gas Price Fraud Working Group | The White House

While fuming and being frustrated, I'm not feeling protection at the pump of anywhere else right now. I don't understand how oil companies make windfall profits and the market reacts otherwise. What will stabilize it?

I'm all for free markets, but sometimes conditions must be contained. There is no standard for behavior here. Is the dingy cloud of apathy at the root of the issue? How can we shake politicians to using their reasoning rather than dogma? Is writing to our Congress Member an act of futility? Do the calls matter?

A glimmer of hope is how Wisconsin put "recall" back on the map like early Arizona history days. Yes, Arizona was a progressive state until the 1970's. Look how far back we've slipped.

I want to know how Eric Holder can investigate the investors and speculators who are driving the fuels market? It is clear "Wall Street" has no conscience and is betting on the "No Come" line (craps game lingo), against itself, by inflating gasoline futures.

Can someone please help me understand this better?
Please leave your comments. -MC

When Revenge Feels So Good . . .

Tue, 03 May 2011 00:07:00 +0000

This is the least we can do. MC

Praise to President Obama, the tactical team and the Troops. We are in your debt. Respect for your effort is underscored by the fact there were no leaks, and this mission could be carried out to a successful end.

Judging from the understandable visceral reactions across the social media networks wanting revenge, it is imperative that cool heads prevail.

The situation reminds me of the Cuban Missile Crisis. The generals were goading Kennedy to attack first and talk later. Thankfully, JFK could use his high emotional intelligence to step into Krushchev's shoes. His ability to envision the retaliations like moves on a chessboard, were remarkable and averted annihilation.

Or, imagine Hitler being captured and how that would have shortened WWII and saved lives. I am sure some people would say we would dignify the monster with a trial. However, that's not the question in my view. I ask who are we, who do we want to become, and do we relinquish our values and laws to such criminals?

Do As I Say Not As I Do?
My view is the U.S. raised itself up by burying the murderer under Islamic law. Why—to do otherwise would feed a frenzy to justify more killing by UBL's followers already in reactive mode, not that they need excuses. We cannot allow others' despicable behavior govern our choices.

We do not want to continue the destructive cycle of an eye for an eye. Our global interdependence offers us a new opportunity to move forward. This is a time for the U.S. to regain our inner strength without using weapons to resolve everything.

Energy Shift
There is a definite shift in energy around the world, emotions on all points of the scale. The storms and devastation were horrific. Then, we experienced a hat trick of a weekend with the Royals, a Blessed Pope and now the demise of bin Laden. Like the sunshine that shone on the young married couple this weekend, (a miracle in England that was predicting rain), let us celebrate that we have clipped the wings of Evil and can live in a more enlightened time.

Peace to all. –MC

Email killed the conversation

Sun, 24 Apr 2011 01:48:00 +0000

Email killed the conversation
The ol' bard has nothing to fear.

Please leave comments.
MC

Do You Make Your English Teacher Cringe?

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:39:00 +0000

SmartBlog on Leadership - http://smartblogs.com/leadership/

Quickly discover what is plain English. Enjoy this timely post. Thanks to Mary Ellen Slayter, Senior Editor, for publishing my article.

Please leave a comment.

Regards, your coach,
Michelle Cubas, CPCC, ACC

Are You A Hero Or A Goat?

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 22:18:00 +0000

This question can be a useful tool to measure your intentions or to assist you while making a decision. We know intentions count when seeking a solution or serving a client.

Just stopping long enough to ponder this silly comparison may add perspective to your choices.

Here are a limited list of conditions for comparison:
Heroes—

Heroes are selfless. They DO something for nothing.
Heroes put others first.
Heroes give others credit.
Heroes can act and respond quickly.
Heroes are self-directed.
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes
Independent thinker.

Goats—

Goats are always looking for a handout for something to "eat."
Goats are friendly and need to be herded.
Goats can give milk, one flavor, and you do the work!
Goats are sure-footed and climb rough terrain when guided.
Herd mentality.

Ultimately, I ask myself, "Do I want to be a hero or a goat?" What am I willing to do, to step up for my friends, family, or clients? Sometimes, we have to break our own "log jam."

What are your steps to make a decision? -MC

One window closes, another one opens

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 19:31:00 +0000

Happy holidays to you. Each new season provides a clean slate for ideas and activities to continue to move forward.

In my S.O.S. (Simple Open Strategies) for Challenging Times group on LinkedIn, you can "drop in" on discussions raised by small business owners and enjoy tips and tactics to move through this daunting time. Find us under Groups in alpha order.

Here are some topics we're working on:

Listened to your voice message lately? If U hear, "Sorry I missed you . . . or "We're either on the phone or ...," or, "I'll return your call at my earliest convenience," change it instantly! Instead, use this moment as a 30 second invitation to your website or next event or invite people to leave their phone number and message and let them know what's new from you.
What clever marketing angles do you observe from clients and companies you patronize?
Looking for seed money? Check this out. There is little risk and adds energy to your site. http://www.kickstarter.com/
Other terrific resources are Aardvark for research and crowdsourcing elements, Squidoo and all things Seth Godin -MC

It's the little things that make a difference. Please join us on LinkedIn and innovate together.

Oh, Just One Thing . . .

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 16:00:00 +0000

Business Influences!

It has been a tumultuous year for many of my colleagues and me. This time of reflection allows for a self-applause that we are still standing!

One question I have for you is what do you need to do to get out of your own way?

Sounds philosophical, but sometimes we need to be challenged. Consider these questions to rev your engine:

What will be different next year? Pick one thing and DO it. Consider where you perceive the largest gap to be and fill it.
Will you go back to school, participate in social media, add new equipment, hire a marketing coordinator, or continue to do everything yourself? At least stop long enough to ask the question.
What social or networking group can I attend to improve my marketing skills?
What computer skill needs attention? In my business coaching practice, I find 90% of productivity problems begin with lack of computer skills.

Please help me to inspire others. What are your innovative ideas for the coming year? Please comment and I will post them in my January newsletter. -MC

What Better Time To Be Contrarian?

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 20:53:00 +0000

Call it what you will. It cycles around every decade. AKA innovative, creative, progressive—it means you are different. Isn't that the intention of marketing and earning top-of-mind share?

In my business coaching practice, I am ever amazed at what little people understand about the art of running a business. My favorites, the "Widget Makers," are darned good at what they know. BUT, they are limited by that same trait. They can borrow on a bit of the vision they pour into their wares.

Being contrarian can make people feel uncomfortable because they are heading into new terrain. Isn't that what innovation really is? Fear of failure is the biggest obstacle people face for a variety of reasons:

1. Don't want to own the idea. (Consider classical comedic set-up when someone is about to be scolded and it turns into a promotion!)

2. Affects budget allocation next time 'round.

3. Appears not to know what was doing.

4. All of the above and more . . .

If other similar businesses have already blazed a trail, why would someone want to tread the same path? Safety in the "me-too" mindset. Then, the so-called leader can claim they weren't responsible. It's a convoluted way of working. Consider the inertia of U.S. Congress.

Own the idea

Put your name all over it. Seth Godin agrees with me on this. Once you own it, your more likely to attract champions to the idea. If it is so appealing, others will want to 'steal' it and make it their own. Good; let them. After all, innovation isn't about our name in lights; it's about falling forward. They will improve it so it looks like their idea!

Tom Edison Had It Right

When asked how he continued to experiment with the light bulb after so many disappointments, Edison (I paraphrase) replied, "I found 999 ways that didn't work."

The Secret Sauce
To put yourself into an innovative place, you only need one ingredient—curiosity. It is so powerful because it keeps you objective. Curiosity engages you and your audience.

Your Assignment
1. Write down how many ways you offer curiosity as a "pull" toward your company offerings.
2. Consider your web and ad copy, presentations and personal interactions.
3. Think crayons, paste and paper. Remember how much fun that was in art class?

4. Ask about my Legos and Leadership™ Program for up tight, Type A people ;-).

5. Paint something with your fingers. What does it "say" to you?

This can be the beginning of an exhilarating experience and can spice up your relationships, too. Let me know how it goes.

Your Coach, MC

TQ for a useful tool

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 20:24:00 +0000

I like the ease of use of this tool.
MC

in reference to: What is BlogThis! ? - Blogger Help (view on Google Sidewiki)

Rules of the Social Media Road

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 20:08:00 +0000

As I have been cruising through several social media sites, I am still amazed at how many people do not understand the purpose of these outlets. The sales pitches are overwhelming. I guess the attraction to "selling" is because the sites are free, and people see this as an advertising opportunity. However, in my opinion, they would benefit by selling themselves through their messages.

Remember, the name of the vehicle is social media. Social means to engage with others. In my PC dictionary, social means "relating to the way groups behave and interact." This is a powerful research space doing that.

Social media is a dynamic force. It is a vehicle, and it has “rules of the road”:
1.    No overt selling.
2.    Build a pertinent message first.
3.    Connect with people at their interest level, not yours.
4.    Be resourceful and responsive
5.    Entice interest with integrity, not gimmicks.
6.    Provide content.

Please let me know how you are using social media to connect with your group's behavior, and I will post the results in January's newsletter. (Of course, you can opt-in at http://www.positivepotentials.com subscription box.) -MC

Marketing Budgets 101—An Easy Introduction

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:37:00 +0000

Congratulations. You stopped long enough to read this and get out of the task mindset.

Often, clients ask me how to budget for marketing. As we are in unchartered territory, the usual “left-overs” approach to marketing will sink a business today. At the core, it is not about the money. It is not about competition. It is about how you make your case to assure your prospect of a smart buying decision. They must feel secure that you will deliver on your promise. The prospect wants to feel good about a relationship with your company. Provide that link with your marketing message.

Amazingly, when companies are concerned about making payroll or staying afloat, the first place they cut is sales personnel. Think about it: how does that make sense when these “boots on the ground” or the voices on the phone or at the networking meeting are the circulatory system of your company. My personal favorite is how marketing money is slashed because it is a non-revenue producing department.—Try running a company without it.

The other mystery is how many small business owners do not understand marketing beyond a phone book ad. Advertising is a tool of marketing.

Here are a couple of tips as you review and revise your marketing plans. (Yes, I trust that you have one!)
1. Have a written marketing plan.
2. Define your primary, secondary and ancillary target audiences.

Assign a percentage of budget to each category.
Include research to map the psychographics of your audience:

Where do they shop?
What are similar values they hold and relate to your company values?
What causes are important to them?
What do they read?
What percentage of time are they online, reading print and want to be contacted?
Answers provide a place to start about placement of your marketing messages.

These are sampling questions for your website to conduct an online poll, survey after you have established and earned the trust of your visitor.

3.   15% designated to search engine optimization (SEO) functions. For example, if you have $500 for online marketing, $75 would go for SEO.
4.   Calculate your annual sales and take 5-7% as your marketing budget. Of course, if you are launching new products or services, you may want to assign a separate budget for those items.
5.   Who can best implement and manage your marketing? If you are doing everything, you are doing nothing well. This book will change how you view running your business, The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber. You can easily order a copy by clicking on the Amazon box.

If nothing else, a simple outline encompassing the issues above will help you to run your business, stand above and look down (meta view) and begin to see how all the moving parts work together. If nothing else, consider ways to apply the suggestions. -MC

Will Female Majority In the Workplace Force Changes?

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 19:35:00 +0000

The title of this article, The End of Men, prompted this post. I think it is deceiving. More accurately, it may mark the end of male domination in the workplace and be the final step toward pay parity.

I am not a "basher" on any topic, especially the "battle of the sexes." What I took from this commentary was the opportunity to progress. Jeannie (Genie) is not going back into the bottle

Here are ways I see from my experience and practice that can influence the work arena:

Just like women perceive colors differently, they can lead differently, too. Feedback and active listening are key success factors and leave a "quarterback" mentality in the dust. Leading a team rather than being the lone star is highly effective.
Women work differently than men. The female perspective is different. More cooperation and less competition is welcome in this strange economy.
We may see a return to a committed work ethic because historically women would do tasks and take on projects that men would not touch. Generational attitudes affect this, too.
The rigid vertical organizational "chart" will change as women gain in leadership positions. We will likely see more circular and matrix linked organizations working together. This thinking began in the late 1980's under the "innovation umbrella" a la Tom Peters and quality circles. Women enjoy collaboration so we may see a surge in this activity.
Recruiting attitudes and energy will change. Women now have a stronger voice and will ask for conditions that serve them beyond on-site nurseries.
We are moving into an age of diplomacy like never before. Remember, it was Eleanor Roosevelt's attention and support to the League of Nations at a time the U.S. was turning toward isolationism. Her efforts helped move the League of Nations into the United Nations.
As the world population is more than 50% female, we are finally employing the full force of half our resources into play. Imagine splitting yourself in half and attempting to be fully functional.

What are your current and past experiences?

Do you see any changes in your own lives?

Please comment. -MC

Are You An Accidental Consultant?

Mon, 03 May 2010 22:33:00 +0000

There is a local group in Phoenix for Baby Boomers to connect called Boomerz. A recent notice came to me from them about “accidental consultant.” It tickled me, so, I am addressing the topic here. Rather than take a negative tack, here is my summary of what makes an accidental consultant.

See how you track with this criteria:
1.    The masterful participant has unintentional good luck founded on emotional intelligence. This person knows how to read people and has a high likeability quotient. Listening to contacts and supporting others’ visions is a snap for this one.
2.    Exceptional curiosity about one’s surroundings abounds with this observant individual. This person finds opportunity in a thundercloud and would find a way to sell rain gear rather than give in to the weather.
3.    Networking is a sport and fun for this consultant. The energy of attending events and meeting people stirs this one’s soul. Rather than talking, our accidental consultant is listening around the room for cues, not clues, to engage and share to build rapport.
4.    Genuine humor and patience attract others’ attention. This lively sort emanates attractive energy that makes others curious about this person. There is an air of openness, calm and playfulness (not too serious) while being attentive to what is happening at the moment.
5.    Commitment to lifelong learning is rocket fuel for this energetic leader (perceived as such even if not in the driver’s seat.) This driver sees every situation as a learning laboratory. There is a kernel of knowledge in every circumstance and our Accidental Consultant makes it into viable contacts to pursue similar interests.

I invite your comments. -MC

Binder Clips as Cable Catchers Redux - binder clips - Lifehacker

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 07:58:00 +0000

Binder Clips as Cable Catchers Redux - binder clips - Lifehacker

See how simple life can be? These tools are in our hands every day. Creative, inexpensive organizational idea. I feel a marketing campaign coming on! How did the clip companies miss this one? -mc

What Have You Done To Earn A Place In My Inbox

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 22:23:00 +0000

When was the last time you were excited to open your email?

How many items were there to support you and serve you in some capacity?

How many items were there to “sell” you something?

Disproportionate, huh.

With Gen X and Y dominating the social media (not an indictment, simply an observation,) something jumps out at me. Their sense of relationship is different than mine. Their social skills or lack of them are glaring. I see it with clients who want to know and understand how to “network.” They think it’s a surgical procedure we can implant in them.

News flash "ozone-0-sphere"™—Relationships are cultivated, yes, like a garden. They require attention, resources like time and care. So, how does an ad in my inbox do that?

My point diverts from the opt-in issues. This is about why so many people think they know what I need—and they haven’t asked nor do I know them.

Quick tip—please use plentifully:

Each contact I have and make is accompanied with the promise that I will only offer relevant information relative to what we’ve shared or I learned a topic is of particular importance to them.

When I forward an article or make a call, it is with intention. I want to “show up” and serve my contact. It’s simple really.

Interestingly, it’s the authentic care and attention that is my best marketing tool. People like that they are being heard, served and supported. It can be as simple as pronouncing and spelling someone’s name right.

Often in our “humongous” spheres of contact, we make little of our spheres of influence. That is what I take seriously.

Want to make a difference? Make someone’s day by acknowledging, caring and supporting who they are. –MC

Why Small Talk Gets Bad Rap

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:33:00 +0000

Anyone who "shows up" as a Thinker, Analytical or Problem Solver, this is for you. Chit chat or small talk is the bane of many people's time. These are people who have not yet discovered the hidden gems embedded in the tiny conversation.

Consider these tiny conversation highlights:

1. They provide a tone of voice so that when you respond, you can echo back in kind. E.g. if someone speaks quickly, quicken your own pace when you speak. They are more likely to pay attention to you.

2. Non-verbal (body language) cues indicate mood of the speaker. If people move in closer to hear what you're saying, they're interested. If they quick glance away, they want to escape!

3. Word choice—Are they expressing or impressing? Verbal judo can be fun, but save it for when you know someone better. This can be perceived as "one-ups-manship" rather than your education. It can also be misconstrued as combative and confrontational . . . Just saying!

Tune in for more next time.

What are your observations about small talk?

What are your observations about small talk? Please post here.

Please Tweet http://twitter.com/coachcubas
Email: mcubas@positivepotentials.com
Post: http://www.linkedin.com/in/coachcubasmarketing (Group S.O.S)

Calling All Veterans Who Want To Start A Business

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 06:09:00 +0000

Sometimes frustration is the first cousin to necessity in regard to invention! I attempted almost a year to contact the Veteran's Administration in Phoenix to offer this program. After ten months, I finally got an appointment. What I found was the idea had a better chance of survival launched by me as a private citizen than attempting to obtain approvals and recommendations from VA departments.

Personally, after observing my granddaughter’s return, who served in Iraq, struggle with her “re-entry” into civilian life, I wanted to offer a way to support her and her comrades. When she returned I saw how disoriented and seemingly lost she appeared. I wanted to help her but didn't know how. What better way than with what I knew how to do as a certified business coach, (www.positivepotentials.com).

So here I am . . .
This program is designed for our returning military and veterans from 2000 to the present. Although veterans can be highly skilled, they may need time to decompress and to adjust to civilian life. This way we can lend a hand.

As a former USO (United Service Organization) entertainer, I served our troops in the Northeast Command. The experience taught me how much bringing a touch of "home" and understanding means so much to our warriors.

Daily, the news spouts all the difficulties with job issues. With current economic circumstances causing everyone to be more conscious of their employment options, as an optimistic coach, I say there's another way! I can offer another success factor to our military.

No red tape, no bureaucracy to deal with, just genuine interest and concern to support people to fulfill their goals and reach toward their dreams. Sponsors and participant coaches are key success factors for this program.

Criteria:
Every veteran can apply to open enrollment and complete the application (questionnaire.) The more coaches registered, the greater number of veterans we can serve.
It is one-page and easy to manage. Candidates will self-select how serious they are by completing Part 2 of the application describing their vision.

Criteria to participate in this program:
The criteria is simple:
1. Submit a letter of interest to participate in the program.
Applicants will self-select which direction to pursue:
A. Start a business or join an existing business like family-owned.
B. Refresh interviewing and job seeking skills like how to answer the interviewer, posture and presence.
C. Have an idea and needs direction to give it form and function.

2. The applicant will demonstrate in their applications a steadfast desire to start or own a business. Not all applications will be selected. However, all applicants will have access to additional resources.

3. The applicant will provide a two-page essay on the vision they have.

4. They will indicate existing resources and support they will bring to the project. 5. Coaches will conduct a primary interview for selection based on the reality of the situation. No one will be sent away empty-handed. We will provide other resources like SCORE and Chamber services they can access. ___________________________________________________

Letters of Interest Applications
Candidates can apply online http://www.positivepotentials.com/Biz4Vets.htm. All veterans will have access to our resources. Please complete the attached application and submit for review by email or regular mail to:
Positive Potentials
12756 W. Maya Way
Peoria, AZ 85383

Coaches interested in participating in the Biz for Vets™ Registry click here to send email. Please put COACH in the Subject Line. Include details about your certification, experience, and training. I will contact you for a phone interview within seven days of receipt.
Sponsors seeking a fulfilling project, please click here and put SPONSORS in the subject line.