d-mars.com Business Journal 31

June 20 - July 20 2009

31

Inspire, Inform & Educate

Kevin Davis Vice President of d-mars.com

Edition

Dr. D. L. Jones d-mars.com Contributing Writer

Learn how the Power of Networking & Technology can help you and your business Members of HISD, HMSDC, A.O. Phillips & d-mars.com

(left to right)

Keith J. Davis, Jr., George E. Fraser & MR. D-MARS

Charlene F. Taylor Alpha Compliance Consulting

Cedric Jones Cubes

Chris Y. Ardoin, M.B.A. ABC Office Managers

Making it Happen through Networking See pg. 12

James King King’s Electrical Services

Minister Loretta Glover Passing the Baton

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

2.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr. SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. JR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Jr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT ReShonda Tate-Billingsley OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Jennifer Cobb ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla PHOTOGRAPHY Leon Galbreath MARKETING CONSULTANTS Lenore Benoit Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Myron Davis

In the game of life, talents and skills are only a portion of what’s needed to win. It’s not about what you know. It’s about who you know.

That’s why you will always find me pushing networking. Getting connected to the right people is the key to building a successful business. While it is crucial to know your business, knowing the people who can help you out in your business is just as important.

That’s why we’re dedicating this issue to getting connected and not just any old connection…. connections formed through technology that can help you advance to the next level.

I know I always say this, but I’m confident that this edition will arm you with the necessary tools to make your business a success.

For years, d-mars.com held networking receptions. I loved watching people work the room.

These people didn’t just come to our events to mix and mingle. They came with a purpose to get connected.

This issue is designed to help you get connected to the people who can help build your business.

You’ll hear from experts that will tell you everything you need to know about networking, and how to use technology to your advantage. This issue is stock full of news you can use and it is my hope that you will pass the word and the business journal.

As always, please support our advertisers. It’s because of them that we’re able to keep inspiring, informing and educating you at no cost. Your support is the best way of saying thanks.

CONTENTS FraserNet, Inc………………………………………………........................4 Alpha Compliance Consulting…………………………...........................5 Formula for Success in Video Security……………........................……11 HISD: Keeping Their Promise...............................................................12 Building an Effective Team……………………….......................…….....13 Let’s Facebook It…………………………….......................……………..14

DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

What’s Your Summer Plan?..................................................................15

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Carla Lane Alana Hall Eddie Reynolds with Katy Roe Charlotte Jackson Tasha Bowen Christina Robinson-Grochett Michael Thomas Dr. D.L. Jones Ron Reynolds Victor Walker Gee Powell Stephanie King C.J. Eaden Cedric Jones Kenny Banks

Women Who Look Ahead Mentoring…………………......................….23

june 20 - july 20 2009

VoIP…………………………………………………….......................…... 17 Social Networking with a Purpose…………………......................…….18 Networking Mistakes…………………………………......................……24 Small Business Marketing Tips-Pt. II…………………......................….25 A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed……………………........................26 Get Your Network On……………………………………......................…28 There is Power in Networking……………………….....................……..30

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month Business is 60 percent what you know. Forty percent who you know.

www.

®

D-MARS Business Journal 7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 806 Houston, Texas 77074 713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax 1-800-453-8752 . Toll Free www.d-mars.com 3.

FraserNet, Inc:

Bringing African-Americans Together through Networking & Technology

in life, (i.e., team, church, Organization)

Strategic People who are smarter than you, who drag you into the 21st Century, your mentor or coach “You have to work and build those networks your entire life,” he said. “A combination of those networks will

is no excuse not to be connected to hun- help you build a complete life.”

And above all else, Fraser urges dreds, if not thousands, of people,” he said. “Your life will be determined by African-Americans get familiar with the books you read and the people you techonolgy. associate yourself with. Don’t spend major time with minor people.”

“We have not chosen to write, teach por publicisize to our children

Fraser offers insight into three about technology. Only now are we beginning to learn from each other.” kinds of networks:

Personal Close circle of friends at home

Operational

For more information on George Fraser and his upcoming conferences, visit www.frasernet.com

People who help you get specific tasks done

A

n article in USA Today America (selected as one of ten best several years ago, prompt- business books of the year by Booked businessman George list), says he’s hoping his efforts help Fraser to action.

alleviate a huge problem in the Afri-

The article said Black baby boom- can-American community. ers will be the first generation to raise “While we are a $920 billion another generation that is worse off economy, less than five percent of that than them.

money is recycled into the Black com-

“I didn’t want to contribute to munity. We (African-Americans) take that statistic. I felt the way to over- the art of consumers to a whole new come many of those problems was to level. We earn a lot but we spend it all. help Blacks to understand that they We need to help African needed to use networking to secure Americans and convince them wealth transformation, job creation, that we must extend and give back to supporting our business and collec- our entrepeneurial roots,” Fraser said. tive resources. It was an opportunity One way to do that the businessto create a business that services that man adds, is by not just trying to get problem,” Fraser said. jobs, but rather create them.

For that reason, Fraser started Fra-

“We must become the number

serNet, Inc., a company whose motto one employer in the 21st century. It is networking together to make mon- is important that we understand the ey while doing good. As Chairman & importance of creating work and jobs CEO of FraserNet, Inc., he is con- for our people. Less than two percent sidered by many to be the new voice of African-Americans are business for African-Americans and one of the owners, yet we are 13 percent of popforemost authorities on networking ulation,” he said. “I want to inspire, and building effective relationships. motivate, empower and teach a stratFraser, the author of two books: egy for African -Americans to employ Success Runs In Our Race; The Com- themselves and others.” plete Guide to Effective Networking

Fraser says networking is critical in the African American Commu- to achieving those goals. nity (a critically acclaimed bestseller) “Only now are we beginning to unand Race For Success; The Ten Best derstand the power of networking. And Business Opportunities for Blacks In in this era of advanced technology, there june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

4.

Charlene Taylor

Alpha Compliance Consulting Helping People in Healthcare & Business Management

I

f you’re looking to start a business in the healthcare field, then Charlene Taylor is the woman to know. Taylor makes it her business helping others start theirs.

“Every single thing you’re going to need to start and provide your business, we’ll provide for you,” Taylor said. “A lot of our clients have full time jobs so they can’t track anything.

We track everything for them.”

Her company, Alpha Compliance Consulting, has over nine years of experience in healthcare and business management. She incubates individuals interested in establishing home health, hospice, PAS, adult day, assisted living and DMA facilities. Alpha Compliance Consulting is known for its fail proof provider startups and compliance review services.

“Basically we have four or five packages we give them. We can actually start an agency, they can walk into an agency that’s already up and running for them or we can help them get license, accredidation, certification, or help them develop their policy and june 20 - july 20 2009

procedure,” she said.

The full service-consulting firm has in-depth knowledge and connections in the healthcare industry.

“We provide a OneStop shop to accommodate all your business needs.

We specialize in policy development and consulting services for healthcare providers. Alpha Compliance Consulting provides a fail proof system to starting a new agency. We will lead you from beginning to end,” said Taylor.

According to their website, www.alphacomplianceconsulting.com some of their services provided include:

an exact replica of what the State Surveyors do upon agency arrival and exit.

Mock Surveys are great training tools for new Administrators & Supervising Nurses (DON). An entrance interview, exit interview and a deficient report are provided to the agency. (Vital for all New Agencies)

QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAMS

ADMINISTRATIVE CONSULTING Fast In Fast Out The more forms you have, the longer it takes for the surveyors to audit your files. We have a proven system that is highly recommended by members of the State Surveyors. Our staff is available to audit and setup your company personnel files and clinical chart for easy auditing.

MANAGEMENT CONSULTING

Alpha Compliance Consulting can implement a quality assurance program and assist agencies in implementing comprehensive and efficient compliance tools.

Pass State Survey--Use Alpha Compliance Consulting All clients seeking help from Alpha Compliance Consulting have PASSED STATE SURVEY since 2001. Our system is fail proof. Join our team of successful Health Care Clients.

Alpha Compliance Consulting assist all agencies on their various levels CHART AUDIT & ASSISTANCE develop and maintain an efficient and WITH CORRECTIONS Experience the difference. Healtheffective organizational structure. We care consulting with a personal touch! are the incubator for new agencies.

State and Federal Regulations require agencies to conduct quarterly audits.

Services Include Alpha Compliance Consulting skilled • State Application Process staff will audit personnel and clini• Medicare Application Process cal files for accuracy and compliance.

• Medicaid Application Process Upon request, our staff will also assist • Structural Office Development POLICY & PROCEDURE the agency in correcting errors and • General Office Setup The policies and procedures deimplementing plan of corrections.

• Corporation Setup veloped by Alpha Consulting are de • Human Resource Management veloped by an individual whom actuSTAFF EDUCATION ally owns an agency. Therefore, you Commitment to excellence-Join can rest assured that systems, forms PRE-SURVEY AUDITS Skilled clinicians & our highly us for a fun interactive learning expeand policies are implemented to eliminate paperwork and maximize trained Administrative staff will re- rience. Our staff provides training in a efficiency. “Remember a good house view the agency’s programs, human fun and flexible environment.

We offer comprehensive compecan not be perfected without a good resource setup, clinical charts, patient tency evaluations for blue print.” Let Alpha Compliance notes and all policies to ensure comskilled nurses and Consulting provide you the up to pliance with both State & Federal home health aides. date blue print (foundation) for your Regulations. The Staff will also assist Send all your staff company needs. Our setup is highly agency with necessary corrections and to be well trained. recommended by the members of the tools.

State Surveyors.

STATE MOCK SURVEYS

CLINICAL CONSULTING We have highly trained staff available to evaluate your agency’s clinical operations. Our staff provides confidential clinical assessment of notes, charts and program setup. Agencies are provided with day to day resolutions through root cause analysis and effective, efficient tracking tools.

www.

Let Alpha Compliance Consulting find your mistakes not the State. The word “Mock” means practice. All of our staff conducting mock surveys are trained by an ex-State Surveyor. Our trained staff will conduct a survey for your agency and staff. The mock survey will be ®

5.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

6.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

7.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

8.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

9.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

10.

Eddie Reynolds & Joni Hamasaki Iluminar/Ocusure

of success. Customers demand the very latest innovations. As a leading security

By Eddie Reynolds (with Katy Roe) manufacturer it is vital that my business Contributing Writer stays ahead of the technology curve.

Together with my partner Joni In the rapidly growing video securi- Hamasaki, I founded two unique comty industry, delivering the most cutting- panies to serve the security marketplace. edge technology is a critical component Iluminar is a specialist manufacturer and

supplier of infra-red illuminators and license plate recognition systems. OcuSure Inc. is an importer, supplier and manufacturer of a wide range of video security products including domes, bullet cameras, CCTV lenses, and much more. These companies are dedicated to delivering high-quality security products, backed by an unsurpassed level of customer service.

With customers actively pursuing manufacturers who are first-to-market with products that deliver new features and functionality, it could be easy to make technology the focus of our business. This approach, however logical, ignores the fact that sales are ultimately driven by personal relationships.

The importance of networking cannot be overstated. That is why I spend more than 200 days every year traveling around the world to visit customers, suppliers, and attend tradeshows. My involvement with associations like the International Security Conference West and the American

Society of Industrial Security help to secure my company’s position as a major player in the industry.

Traditionally, the video security industry has been dominated by men, but in recent years more woman and minorities are entering this marketplace.

Despite the advances toward making the industry more inclusive, Iluminar and OcuSure stand out as one of the only video security companies owned by minority women. Given this climate, it was important to receive recognition as a certified minority owned businesses.

With that designation I have successfully leveraged minority business councils to cultivate leads and generate sales.

My partner and I share more than 30 years of combined industry experience. This vast knowledge of the marketplace, coupled with our extensive experience working with customers, make us uniquely qualified to deliver reliable and innovative security products and superior customer support.

former life as a recluse, I had the unfor- 2) Learn to communicate more easily tunate experience of a very costly lesson.

Articulate, Make small talk I continuously passed on several opportunities to network at huge events and 3) Identify your prospects lost a contract to a competitor who had

always been present and knew the art 4) Start with people you know of schmoozing. In the exchange of inDust off old contact lists formation, you learn first-hand of what 5) Get involved

By Alana Hall, Contributing Writer

the concerns are of a prospective client,

who is currently fulfilling them needs

My President said it best:

“It was the building and mobilization of a network that help make the campaign successful.”

do? And how will it benefit me?”

6) Make networking a part of who you are and cultivating relationships!

Be generous in giving away business Until a business is self-sustaining industry. Such a vital tool for building

will listen.

In developing my business plan and

Here are some steps that helped me

giving great consideration to key ele- develop the art of networking: ments, one of the most crucial areas of 1) Prepare a plan investment was in marketing and networking. The best marketing device is networking; which is simply spreading the word about your business. It is an effective and least expensive way to grow your business. Meet key people who Networking is such an effective could become your clients and support way of prospecting clients and seeking systems.

Organizations, professionals groups, social clubs

and what’s happening in my particular

particular company and their scope of one should be spreading the word services. “Who are you? What do you about your venture to everyone who

out people who can help your business

Know your market

Going out of your comfort zone and challenging yourself is the key to successful networking. It does not happen over night; however, with careful orchestration, one can master the art of being a Master of Networking.

How will you build relationships and tell your story

Advertise Your Business Online!!!

We received over 3 million hits on our website last year. d-mars.com 10 year anniversary Online Specials: Online Directory, Event Calendar, Classifieds & News

Keep in mind that everyone you

Visit d-mars.com or call 713-272-9511 today for more information!

flourish. The growth of any business or meet is a potential customer or should organization is directly linked to the be ‘tagged’ as a valuable step drawing number of people who know about that you closer to the decision maker. In my june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

11.

Keeping Their Promise by Rebuilding its Schools and Giving MBEs Opportunity

By Bridgett Holden

mixers working event directly ties into HISD’s

luncheons,

and one-on-one ses- three core messages. sions. However, with the

Talking

“We want to make sure HISD gets

Stick, across our three core messages through

HISD is excited about this event,” stated Burroughs. “One of the potential opportu- the core messages which is very impornities an event like this tant is commitment to the communities. We want to keep our promise to

can have.

“This is a unique build better schools in each communiopportunity for HISD ty,” expressed Burroughs. “Then there’s who

has

partnered communication. By making sure the

with the Houston Mi- information is available to people who nority Supplier De- are interested in doing business with velopment Council to HISD or just wanting know about the really target certified program. Lastly, a commitment to conMinority and Wom- tractors by engaging MBE and MWBE en owned firms with funds so they are able to participate in trades in areas that our this program. That is why events like

H

ISD is holding true to we decided to use construction hats. general contractors had not identified these are so important.” their word by helping You can not speak unless you have the as being needed for their projects startIn addition to HISD’s core mesout Minority Business construction hat in front of you.” ing this summer and in the fall,” stated sages, Burroughs offered some golden Enterprise (MBE). Re“Each individual has three minutes Kandyce Hernandez, MPA Manager of nuggets contractors should know about cently, HISD held a networking round to speak and there is a timer at each Supply Diversity Business Operations in order to become a part of the HISD table discussion called HISD Talking table. After three minutes they pass the in HISD. “This is a really good oppor- Bond Program., “A few nuggets or sugStick a concept based on the Native hat on to next person and once every- tunity, we (HISD) are excited to have American Talking Stick Ritual, held at one has spoken, it’s just general con- everyone here and we hope for more atthe United Way, located at 50 Waugh versation,” stated Freeman. “It gives an tendees at the next one.”

Drive, Houston, TX. 77007. atmosphere of respect but still enforces Hernandez also admits the Talking

gestions I would give someone who was trying to get involved in this program would be communication, keeping your eye on the newspaper by looking for

In an attempt to offer MBEs pieces that networking environment by giving Stick networking event is her favorite updates from HISD and logging onto of HISD’s billion dollar project to re- everybody the opportunity to spotlight format of networking because the con- their website,” stated Burroughs. build Houston Schools, 100 companies their individual companies.”

At one time the world of construcstruction management firms are able to were invited which comprised of 20 Five construction management sit down and find out what the compa- tion was dominated by men. Today corporate members and 80 MBEs. firms acted as HISD’s new general con- nies can do, what their capabilities are that statistic is losing ground which was Although 76 out 200 invitees at- tractors for their new schools, ten tables and who their current clients are. This demonstrated during the HISD Talking tended this first time event, Angela were set up with two individuals from information gives the management Freeman Director of Business Develop- each of those construction managing firms what they need to source out difment for the Houston Minority Sup- firms and MBEs, MWBEs and people ferent opportunities on current projects plier Development Council, remained certified with the City of Houston to diverse companies at the table. very positive about putting together this moved around from table to table using Even though HISD is striving to

Stick. Approximately three-quarters of the attendees were from the Minority and Women Business Enterprise organization.

Although challenging, being able to

networking event for HISD.

a matrix system as a guide. With the ro- promote and extend their bond pro- have the opportunity to participate in “This Talking Stick event was pri- tation, no one sits with the same person gram to MBEs and MWBEs, Willie the same networking events as her male marily created for relationship build- twice.

Burroughs, General Manager-Con- counterparts has proven successful for ing,” explained Freeman. “Instead of Before implementing the Talking struction Services of Rebuild HISD first time attendee Dee Harris, owner using a decorated stick to pass around, Stick concept, HISD had networking points out how the Talking Stick Net- of DH RediMix & Concrete, a leading june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

12.

supplier of ready-mix concrete in Hous- get that one on one time. You just can’t one is right up there with them,” said they participate. This is really targeted get this anywhere else and I can’t say Herrera. “They tried to intermingle us and it’s a value,” said Freeman. “You get

ton.

“I think as far as networking events, enough about being able to take advan- with the decision makers here. This is that time with the decision maker to the third time for us and we’ve done a spotlight who you are and your capabili-

there is an opportunity to put a face tage of this opportunity.” with the company name and get indi-

Floors to Adore has been in busi- lot of these schools and it does work. ties. Not only do corporate and buyers

vidual points of contacts. For me it’s ness for 10 years as a subcontractor and HISD wants to use what’s in the com- hear you, but all of your colleagues and been very enlightening, very education- also found the networking of the HISD munity, I’m a product of HISD and I MWBEs hear you.” want to give back!

al and knowledgeable,” said Harris. “It Talking Stick to be beneficial. gives me places where I can go versus

“Finding out about different com-

Due to the bond project utilizing

“It’s important because in our econ- tax payer’s money, HISD can not target

in theory you don’t know anyone and panies, what they’re looking for and be- omy today, there are still opportunities just one organization and offers many you’re just out there, fumbling with no ing able to present our company to them out there but they are limited,” said networking events and opportunities sense of direction. This event has a sense has been very beneficial,” said Robert Telpsen who has been a Prime Contrac- throughout the year. of direction, you can see a little light at Marbley, Jr. “It cuts out a lot of “red tor for the city of Houston since 1980.

After the HISD Talking Stick Net-

the end of the tunnel and you can actu- tape”, everybody is getting something “Until we start building relationships working Event, attendees can expect the ally sit and talk to people. I got a little out of it and they are looking for assets. with a lot of these contractors we’ve following: The contracting firms will bit out of it and I like the networking.”

Everyone in here is an asset to someone never met before and don’t even know have their pre-proposal conferences for

Another MWBE Brenda Chavez and if you are then it helps build rela- what we have available, this kind of for- the school(s) that are their beginning has been in business since 1991, agrees tionships with that company”.

mat offers us to talk about HISD’s pro- projects. These conferences will take

that networking events like these are a

gram and an opportunity for me to get place at the school they will be work-

plus for construction companies.

Eugene Herrera of EDH Plumb- to know these newer companies.”

“This is a perfect set up and op- ing agrees that the HISD Talking Stick

ing on, which is an opportunity for the

HISD will have future Talking Stick MBE’s and MWBE’s to ask about the

portunity to come in and meet the gen- was a quality event and as a product of networking events. These events will documents, specs, the drawings and eral contractors in person and be able to HISD, this gives him an opportunity to give the MBE’s and MWBE’s an oppor- take a walk through of the school. tunity to meet more contractors.

talk about what opportunities there are give back. available,” said Chavez. “We are able to

“I’ve been to a lot of these events

HISD is on its way to showing

“Sometimes individuals really don’t MBEs and MWBEs the Power of Net-

let them know who or what we do and and HCC is a very good one and this know the value of these events until working!

HISD MBE/MWBE Talking Stick Networking Event Attendees

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

13.

By Christina Robinson Grochett, University of Phoenix – Houston Vice President

ily, connect with those who share the clude photos and videos that will enUniversity of Phoenix, which cursame interests and hobbies and inter- gage your target audience. rently has six locations in the area, act with friends by sending gifts, pokOnce you’ve made the initial con- launched its own Houston Campus ing them and joining group activities nection, give them the opportunity to Facebook page last November. Since and birthday parties. interact with your brand by allowing then, almost 700 students, alumni, As a direct result of its popular- them to post comments and their own faculty and staff members have beity, Facebook has blossomed into one photos and videos. Ultimately, this come fans of the Web site to promote of the top online social networking will make your business more person- a community of learners who support resources, as well as rapidly trans- able. As users become more enam- each other and show University pride. forming into a business platform for ored with your Facebook community, Students who are members of the self-promotion, advertising and mul- they’ll be more likely to invite their University’s Facebook page collaborate timedia interaction. With fun applica- friends and family to join. You could on assignments, ask questions, discuss tions and new widgets, marketers can even consider posting special offers on issues they are experiencing and share engage customers, host events, adver- your page that are only available to ideas. They engage with other stutise their business and increase chat- your Facebook fans. dents, alumni, faculty and staff memter about their brand. Below are three bers who share similar interests. Being easy tips to help create a Facebook Promote your Facebook page. part of this community often leads to network for your business: After launching your Facebook strong relationships with like-minded page, send an announcement to all individuals, networking opportuniTechnology has helped all genera- Feature up-to-date information and of your employees, friends and fam- ties, finding out about new events at tions – from Baby Boomers to Gen- communicate regularly. ily members who already use the Web the campus, open forum discussions As you set up your page, draft a site. Their friends will see they have about education and access to Univereration Y – create customizable virtual communities to find old friends, description that is relevant to your become a fan of the brand and this sity videos and news updates. network with other professionals and, brand and will appeal to your target might peak their interest and help Please visit http://www.facebook. in some cases, find love. These online demographic. Include as many details them join your network as well. com/uopxhouston for more information. resources, such as Facebook, have be- as possible about your company, such

One of the biggest misconcep-

Christina Robinson Grochett is

come an ordinary part of every day as including your contact informa- tions about promoting your Facebook the State Vice President/ Director of life. In fact, this particular Web site tion, location and purpose. Facebook page is that you should only do it in South Texas for University of Phoenix. has gained so much popularity since does have rules governing business use Facebook. This isn’t the case. The Web An accomplished leader and champion its inception that it currently has of its pages, so as you build your page site allows you to send invites or your of higher learning, she was named one more than one hundred million users ensure that you are working within Facebook link to your contacts in e- of the Top 10 business women by the around the world and has seen signifi- their restrictions. mail programs such as Outlook, Hot- American Business Women’s Association Once your page is set up, be sure mail, Gmail and Yahoo. Furthermore, in 2008 and led the Houston campus to cant increases in participants over the to distribute regular updates to your promote your Facebook community receive the 2008 Alfred P. Sloan Award According to a recent ComScore group members. Keep them informed on your company Web site and in from the city of Houston for Workplace report on Facebook, there has been a with the most recent news and event press releases and e-mails.

Flexibility and Innovation.

181 percent increase in users in the details, but don’t overwhelm them age of 25.

25-34-year-old demographic and a 98 with too many posts. This can be conpercent increase from those 35 years sidered spam and might lead users to and older. The main reason people are “defriend” you.

We received over 3 million hits on our website last year.

drawn to this Web site is because it offers a unique community that indi- Build buzz and interaction. viduals can use for professional and

Advertise Your Business Online!!!

Be creative. Don’t just add mar-

d-mars.com 10 year anniversary Online Specials: Online Directory, Event Calendar, Classifieds & News

business networking as well as social keting content – your page should be

Visit d-mars.com or call 713-272-9511 today for more information!

relationships. People can customize a community where brand loyalists their own page to share with fam- can gather and share. Be sure to injune 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

14.

What’s Your Summer Game Plan?

Keith J. Davis Jr. Author of Young? So What!

do you want to be at the end of summer? Having a clear picture of where you are, what you have, and what you need, puts you in a better position to move forward to the next idea, venture, or expansion.

Here are some helpful tips to having an exciting, fun, adventurous, educational, progressive, learning, and achieving summer:

Tip #1 Do a self-assessment- evaluate what your goals for the summer are

S

ummer is finally here, are you excited? I know you’ve been waiting to show off your new swim suit or re-

lax with your close friends. But before you get too excited, think about this, do you have an objective this summer?

Tip#2 Put your passion on paper- write down a list of things you love to do or are very skilled at

Tip#3

Tip#5

Have your calendar dates been filled Write down ways you can make mon- Become relentless in your pursuit- like with all play and no work? And if you ey- think outside the box and expose Kanye West says “Go hard” think about it, are you really moving your creative side towards a goal this summer? If not, why not? Before the summer jumps

For more information visit:

Tip#4

KeithJDavisJr.com

off you should have a solid “Sum- Set short term realistic goals- set 30, mer Game Plan.” Why, because where 60, 90 day short-term goals

Marketing Consultant Cousin D-MARS

For daily updates follow: twitter.com/KeithJDavisJr or Facebook search Keith J. Davis Jr.

Order: Young? So What! 10 Steps to Become a Successful Young Entrepreneur @ KeithJDavisJr.com

though he is not aware of this process. in the organization. You should always In other words, programming intro- make the customer feels like he is speduces the customer to the basic prod- cial. That extra attention will help in uct information so the customer can closing the deal. But that’s something

In our world of sales and marketing, two of the most important ingredients are presentation and closing.

keep this information in mind during we will discuss at another time. the rest of the sales presentation. Re-

You should also share with the

member for a customer to remember customer a little something about any sales information it has to be re- yourself and your family. Make it inpeated several times during the sales teresting to catch the customers’ atpresentation.

tention, but say it with sincerity. Re-

While doing your presentation member there are several techniques

First I will discuss presentation:

Let’s say you are going to meet you must be sure to target every sin- you can apply in presentations, and a potential client. Before you jump gle member of the organization. A you should use whatever works for into the basic show and tell presen- customer doesn’t want to do business you. Be sure to remember the three tation, you should give a demonstra- with someone who is average or medi- P’s: Polite-Positive-and Patience. tion pitch or what we call a “warm-up ocre, so you have to be ready to pres-

By Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. Contributing Writer june 20 - july 20 2009

Just a little advice from COUSIN

pitch”. This gives you time to program ent special deals (all customers want D-MARS. the customer and get him relaxed, al- deals) to the person who is higher up www.

®

15.

If you want to succeed in a business with multiple employees, you have to make sure it’s a team effort. There are several ways to build an effective team: First and foremost, choose the right people. You may have a person who, five years ago, was a great employee. Today, however, because demands on your business have changed, they’re not the

june 20 - july 20 2009

right person anymore. You have to put emotions aside and do what’s best for your business. Maybe that just means moving them to another area. Most often, it means getting rid of the person altogether.

Know their strengths and shortcomings. Choose group members with specific skill sets to accomplish

www.

your goals.

State clear expectations. Companies whose employees understand the mission and goals enjoy a 29 percent greater return than other firms, according to a Watson Wyatt Work Study.

Without a clear vision for team members to support, there’s a real opportunity for people to go astray.

Get everyone involved. Research shows that members tend to spend more time discussing shared knowledge than privately held ideas, says Edmondson.

As a result, teams can fail to leverage the unique contributions each member may bring. Leaders must engage in active inquiry, involving everyone in the group rather than assuming that team members will speak up spontaneously.

Don’t be afraid to change course.

Some people are so adamant about sticking to their original plan, they stick to it at the expense of really getting a high-performance team. You’ve got to be flexible and build flexibility into the team.

It’s no secret, times are tough, and your employees may be feeling the pinch brought on by the faltering economy. Not only are they dealing with it in their own private lives, but they’re probably also concerned about their jobs, and what the future will bring in terms of possible layoffs, lower pay and the need to get out and look for work.

Combined, these factors can result in stagnancy – something no small to midsized business can afford right now.

With concern mounting over not just your own job security, but that of your family and friends, its no wonder that fear can have a paralyzing effect on both the individual, and on the workplace as a whole.”

The easiest way to buck this negative trend is by taking a proactive approach to employee creativity. Here are some strategies that you can start using right now to help your employees break out of the stagnancy: Be their information source.

Keeping important information (such as the state of your company’s overall industry) from your employees is an outdated strategy that simply doesn’t work anymore. Knowing that your workers are going to get the information they want from some source (such as the Internet, the media or a rumor), wouldn’t you be better off telling them yourself?

Share the good, the bad and the ugly, and you’ll eliminate a lot of the worry that can plague a company in these economic conditions.

Make them “huddle up.” They gather at the water cooler and take

lunch breaks together, but do your employees really work like a team? If not, go beyond the yearly department meeting when coming up with ways to get people to work together in a creative manner. Maybe they need to huddle for 10 minutes every morning or take a daily coffee break together to talk about what’s working within the company and what’s not.

Focus on areas that are within your control. It would be great if company management could control everything that goes on both inside and outside of a firm’s four walls, but that’s just not possible, particularly when the economy is in a slump. Instead of trying to cover all of the bases, focus on those employee-oriented issues that you can solve. A sales representative who doesn’t understand how his individual performance impacts the firm’s overall success, for example, should receive a quick overview of exactly why those eight hours a day he spends on the road are valuable and appreciated. Or if customer service ratings have dropped in the last few months, set up an educational program that helps employees understand the value of excellent service in today’s economy.

Keep them inspired. A 2006 Gallup study found that just 59 percent of workers feel their jobs bring out their most creative ideas. To get the other 41 percent onboard the creativity train, companies should make an effort to get all employees engaged in their individual tasks, and in the company’s overall performance.

®

16.

Ask any small busi- there is room to cut day-to-day opera- Distance calls, Music on Hold, Autoness owner what he tional expenditures like phone service. Attendant, Extension Dialing and From rural towns to large cit- Meet Me Conferencing to name a few, phone service and, most ies all across America, businesses are and with no upfront capital expenlikely, he won’t have a adding Internet-based VoIP digital ditures and no ongoing maintenance clue. Until now, most phone service as a cost-cutting mea- agreements! We also added the Videopays each month for

companies never looked sure. VoIP technology lets companies Phone for face-to-face conferencing. twice at this recurring deploy a full-featured business phone Switching to Globalinx® will save us expense, which is a system using their existing broadband thousands of dollars annually. It’s the necessary cost of doing network for a fraction of the cost of best move we’ve made.” traditional alternatives.

business.

IP-based telephony solutions like

Leading the way in changing the Globalinx® offer numerous cost bennovative and cutting edge telecom- way the world communicates is Glo- efits and advanced features that can munication alternatives, more and balinx®, a premier provider of Video- help your business stay competitive.

Now, with the evolution of in-

more companies are cutting the cord phones and VoIP. Globalinx® can cut Visit Globalinxsolutions.com and call on traditional business phone systems the cost of most businesses by up to GlobalTalk at 281-969-9062. and switching to lower cost, more 50 percent or more. versatile solutions which incorporate

“My phone bill dropped to $200

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) a month from $800 a month when I switched to Globalinx®,” says CJ

technology.

Now that the recession has hit, Eaden, CEO of Payday Kings. “We finding new ways to cut cost have be- were able to keep all of our existing come even more difficult than before. numbers, but were afforded upgraded Most companies have put the brakes Cisco phones with more features, in-

CJ Eaden, National Expansion Leader

on new spending altogether. However, cluding Unlimited Local and Long

I’m Living Online: Shoot me an email

hooked

cy- down at your place of employment or conclude by saying that the Internet berspace, being you lose electricity, it stops productiv- is driving mostly all commerce today; disconnected in ity. Most companies rely on the Inter- networking is done online as opposed a

to

totally

con- net for a least forty percent of the day to offline. Companies in the past that nected world is to day operations. With the Internet have gotten their work by word of like being on a being used for much more than email- mouth need to move their networking bicycle in the In- ing, not having online access can be online otherwise their word of mouth dianapolis

500 big hindrance to business productiv- reputation is going to dry up. motor speedway. ity. So much information is harness Knowing these things, I encourage For me, using the within cyberspace I don’t see how any everyone whether in business or planInternet is like a professional can afford to not have ning to enter into business to network

By Dr. D. L. Jones, Contributing Writer Do you ever think about how much you use the Internet and wonder what you did before it was around?

During my high school years I actually had to go to the library to do my research and check out books. Today, it’s amazing how much I use the Internet to research things now, whether

drug; without my constant access. through the Internet. The concept of daily fixed I feel The negative side to having the networking remains the same. It’s just like I’m going to world at your fingertips is the con- where that networking takes place has die. Many of you stant infringement on your personal moved - from offline to online.

know the feeling, if you’re not online time. People literally have access to doing business, emailing, talking on you twenty-four hours a day. Given Twitter or Facebook you’d probably today’s technology of the Internet die. I spend at least two hours in the and cell phones the world has become morning reading and responding to hooked on this powerful drug. Withmy emails and/or networking via the out argument, the Internet addiction, Internet.

i.e. games, emailing, working, etc.

Most jobs today in the business defaults Americans to a lack of socialworld require Internet access from ization and is a threat to their people

the janitor to the CEO of a fortune skills. Many Americans feel worse not 500 business. Most job requirements being online than not being around NBA scores, or emailing friends and include some type of computer skills family and friends. family. How often do you use the Inbecause technology has totally satuDespite the many distractions, ternet and what would you do withrated the world of work as we know it. being connected has become a treout it?

Think about it, when the servers are mendous benefit for Americans. I It seems like the whole world is it’s buying products, getting last night

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

Dr. D. L. Jones 17.

By Carla Lane Contributing Writer With the rise of social networking, employers are left wondering if or how the trend affects their bottom line.

Many have decided that Facebook and MySpace in the workplace are not appropriate (for content or productivity reasons) and have banned the sites from being accessed at their offices.To which I say: Good luck with that!

With the onslaught of cell phones and mobile media, resisting social media (and I don’t mean for marketing purposes) will prove to be futile anyway. Go ahead. Fire someone for accessing their Facebook iPhone app.

But don’t be looking for any “Best Places to Work” awards anytime soon.

And when morale is down, productivity goes down. Call it anecdotal, but the places I’ve worked with low morale lose productivity to gossip and office politics. What employees are really looking for is support in a difficult workplace. So ban social media all you want, your employees will still find ways to “waste time.” Or as I like to call it, not go completely mental.

On the flip side, social networking more often than not helps your business. Think of all the contacts that your employees have. All those college and high school pals now have careers in a variety of industries. Perhaps there are great partnerships to be had in these vast social networks. june 20 - july 20 2009

One of the new hot things in social media is internal social networking, sometimes referred to as enterprise social media. This can foster genuine channels of good communication among departments across your company. It is more than an electronic water cooler. Companies may start with the idea of helping employees feel more connected, but that’s just the beginning. With easier and faster connections among people, suddenly collaboration happens more naturally, leading to greater innovation. People don’t just chat; they connect with people and end up talking about things that have an impact on the business.

Or when it’s time to hire a new employee, these networks are a great place to start! Social networking is a great way to gain access to great candidates through referrals. However, employers should tread very carefully in using social networking sites as a screening device. There are very little substantive advantages to using such sites as screening methods and there are several landmines employers need to avoid. While they may satisfy an employer’s curiosity, the time-worn principles of checking references, conducting interviews and, background screening, should typically satisfy most employer’s need to hire the best candidate.

On another note, social media is also a great way to stay on top of your industry - to learn about things that are happening, what’s new. You can’t do it all yourself - or even with just your marketing team. What if a guy in IT catches wind of a new program being implemented at a competitor?

Chances are, they’ll find it out via a social network, blog, Twitter, etc.

Being able to “hear and feel” current and potential customers is one of the most powerful components of social media Companies can gain valuable insights by simply paying attenwww.

tion to online communities. What’s the latest trend for your business?

What are your clients looking for?

By listening to what consumers in your target demographic market say about your competitors and their products, small businesses can avoid being blindsided by trends and issues that have been overlooked by traditional market research tools, such as focus groups and online surveys.

Social media can also offer insights about your competitors – information that you may not otherwise have access to. A company that learns about the competition’s upcoming customer appreciation night via a brief posting on Facebook, for example, can use this knowledge to move quickly and match the event.

®

At the very minimum, companies should be monitoring their brand online. You need to listen, and be prepared to respond accordingly. Start with free or moderately-priced “listening” tools that are perfectly suited for small to mid-sized firms.

I say kill those largely unfounded fears and allow social networking in the workplace. Like the rest of business and life, it won’t be perfect. But it can be reasonable.

18.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

19.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

20.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

21.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

22.

Women Who Look Ahead Mentoring

Loretta Glover Loretta Glover, Founder John Glover, Board Chairman Ronda Riven, Executive Director

Passing on the Baton….

Women Who Look Ahead Mentoring (W.W.L.A.M.) is a non-profit (501 © (3), mentoring program, founded/ organized, in 2002 by Minister Loretta Glover. As a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother (as well as a surrogate mother to those in her community), her involvement with young

people made her aware of the spiraling number of youth being exploited.

Wanting to make a difference in the lives of our youth Women Who Look Ahead Mentoring was formed. Minister Glover’s mission was to “Encourage, Enlighten, Edify and Empower our youth to look ahead in spite of any past or present circumstances, to change their “Mess Into A Message”.

Minister Glover transitioned, March 30, 2009, however her light shines on in her family and staff as they continue to carry out the vision and bring it to fruition.

W.W.L.A.M.’s, aim is to assist youth in the surrounding Houston community, who may be at-risk, under-served, or have one or both parents, incarcerated. Many of our youth live daily with various socio-economic challenges. In the Houston metropolitan area a growing number of youth are exploited. Sadly, many of these young people are victimized in alarming ways - life burdens them with a profound in-

crease in the high school drop out rate, a substantial increase in teen pregnancy and experimental drug and alcohol use, in addition to a significant increase in self-esteem problems that (typically) contribute to unhealthy and sometimes lewd behavior. WWLAM actively and aggressively seeks to combat many of these life-threatening issues by providing the invaluable resources that unknowledgeable but very impressionable youth are less likely to seek on their own. Allowing this community of persons in need to have the required support which would disconnect them from the life cycles of poverty, abuse, mis-education, and other negatives that have entrenched itself into many of the challenged communities in the Houston area.

The organization’s goal is to be an effective nationwide organization that contributes to the positive influence and empowerment of our youth, to be confident, productive and to maximixe their potentials through our mentor-

ship program.

Women Who Look Ahead Mentoring is committed to making America a better place by targeting the most significant members of society – our children our future. The organization provides one-on-one mentoring, academic tutorial and GED test preparation, life/job skills training, self-esteem building, and social etiquette training.

Also included are components, which engage in guidance and exposure to the multi-cultural arts resources available in the metropolitan area. WWLAM also provides clothing as needed, job referrals, counseling, and a nurturing relationship in both group settings and one on one mentoring components.

All services are provided free to its clients, as our staff and volunteers have a passion for and helping those individuals who have lost hope.

Donations should be made payable to Women Who Look Ahead Mentoring c/o Amegy Bank. For additional information on becoming a mentor, ontact: (800)208-6573, or (281)9702236, www.wwlamentoring.com, or chosen2srv@yahoo.com.

James King

S

ince

King’s

Electrical vided their expertise in the ElectriService was established cal Industry for Clients such as Siin 1995, James King erra Classics, Chanley Homes, Sweet has worked tirelessly at Home Baptist Church and Francesca’s building a rapport with Collections just to name a few.

both his Clients and his Employees.

Kings Electrical Service was in-

He currently staffs six employees strumental in the rebuilding of homes whose skills are a constant reflection damaged in Bridge City after Hurriof the many successful years of being cane Ike hit the Gulf Coast in Septemone of the leaders in the Electrical In- ber 2008. dustry.

They are conveniently located at

King’s Electrical Service is licensed 238 Avenue E Stafford, Texas 77477 within the state of Texas as well as in- Phone (281)235-4454 or (281)969sured and bonded, specializing in Re- 7038. Feel free to contact us for estimodeling & New Construction. mates and/or consultations.

Mr. King and his Staff have projune 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

23.

Mayor Bill White invites all people living in the Houston area to register for CitizensNet, a City of Houston (COH) email system through which he and COH departments and divisions can communicate directly with citizens via email on specific topics of interest selected by the individual citizen, and/or pertaining to his/her neighborhood.

CitizensNet sends out an E-Newsletter to the entire database roughly four times a year on a multitude of topics useful to all citizens of Houston, such as information about recycling and safety precautions for the holidays. there and want to meet.

Periodically, emails are also sent to Do a little research on each of them. a subset of the database based on the A little knowledge goes a long way. If topic(s) of interest the citizen selects. you know something about the people If a person is interested in energy conyou approach, it’s much easier to start a conversation -- and keep it going.

You’ve heard that you should always have proper etiquette, well perhaps nowhere is that more important than at networking events. Networking events are one of the best ways to find job leads and expand your Rolodex. But attending events is only half the battle.

You also need to know how to behave Pitch In at them.

Don’t forget to prepare your elevaIf you talk too much, say too little tor pitch. or arrive unprepared, you can ruin your You’ll need it to introduce yourself chances to leave with a job lead. to people at a networking event.

An elevator pitch is brief -- brief This Ain’t No Party enough to share during an elevator ride.

Remember why you’re here.

In your pitch, give a three-minute sumThe purpose of a networking event mary of who you are, your experience is to help you advance professionally. It’s and abilities. a social event -- but a professional one.

Practice your pitch before the netThink of it as a conference social or a working event so that it’ll sound natural. business dinner.

Be confident, but not pushy. RememThe cardinal rule of networking ber, a networking event isn’t a formal events: Never get drunk. We all remem- interview. And don’t forget to smile. ber what happened to Melanie Griffith in “Working Girl.”

Quality, Not Quantity You want the people you meet to reFocus on the quality, not quanmember you as capable, competent and tity, of your connections at networking polished -- not as the guy or gal who events. You’ll get better results by makwas wearing a lampshade on their head ing a few good connections than by at the end of the evening. handing out dozens of business cards Dress appropriately. Err on the side indiscriminately. of conservative and choose an outfit you And first impressions matter, so could wear to a job interview. Your at- mind your manners. tire should say, “I’m a professional,” not Always stay focused on the person “I’m a party girl (or boy).” you are talking to and maintain eye conAfter all, you’re not at a party. tact. Don’t scan the room trying to de-

Do Your Homework Don’t arrive at a networking event without a plan of attack.

First, find out which person or organization is sponsoring the event. Next, see if there will be speakers, presenters or any special guests in attendance. Last, make a list of people you expect to be june 20 - july 20 2009

servation, then he/she might receive an email announcing a green building tour or based on street address, he/she might receive an email concerning capital improvement projects in the neighborhood.

Examples of other recent emails included information about the conversion to digital TV, free childhood immunizations at the Houston Fire Department, notice of a public hearing regarding the proposed transit corridor ordinance, how a citizen can adopt a dog or cat at the Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care (BARC), an email about the city’s new neighborhood recycling program, and information about the Swine Flu.

cide whom you’ll talk to next.

Also, show interest in the people you meet. You can make a great impression by asking a few thoughtful questions. Above all, be genuine and sincere.

A strong professional network is based on relationships, and it takes time to build a relationship. www.

®

24.

self with affordable organization that natural human endorphins to be more enhances your lifestyle! productive. For one day take a small Look around your existence and section of one closet or room and put be perfectly candid with yourself. Can away one (1) pound worth of items. you live with yourself and accept the Why one pound? Whether it is pasurroundings of your closet, pantry, per, shoes, garage items or just stuff garage, laundry room or any storage around your area, putting way even a area and say you are happy with it, small amount makes your feel better every day? Do you luv it? When you and the better you feel the more inner even question it, do something about peace you gain. Do it now! it. Call a professional organizer or Want to totally de-stress for life, neatfreak or nicenasty? When your custom cabinetry team to make your feel free to contact Luv Closets & Ororganized spirit is in order you can world more in-line with finding ev- ganizers or click LuvClosets.com or dismiss all three and give yourself erything and having an organized more. Free consultations for your lifepermission to enjoy all that life as to place for everything. When you have style can start the process! Call 281offer without feeling guilty. Yes there an organized system, it hardly matters 820-2220 or visit our showrooms in are challenges in the economy, yes how disorganized you may become Houston, The Woodlands, ClearLake

By Gee Powell, LuvClosets.com Contributing Writer

the world is constantly changing, and naturally on certain days because the or Galveston for custom closets and yes you have to maximize your time system keeps all your stuff within it’s accessories, pantries, laundries, garages, hometheatre units, wallbeds, wall and money to be productive. Stop for on place.

Low on funds? Call a friend to units and any custom storage cabineWhere is your comfort zone for spirit needs you. These times are only get you motivated. Having someone try. You’ll Luv It For Life! being organized? Are you a packrat, temporary. Yes you can reward your- else process your mess stimulates the moment and breathe, your organized

Small Business

• How can you position your and develop activities to achieve them.

Marketing Tips – Part II

product/service in an appealing Define your marketing methods. How manner?

• Look closely at your target market. ternet marketing, direct marketing, What’s their age, sex, profession, or public relations? Consumer inter-

this, you’re going to have to come up

income and educational level?

with both a marketing strategy and a marketing plan. The marketing plan can be thought of as the practical application of your marketing strategy.

It includes details about your business’ unique selling points, pricing strategy, the sales and distribution plan and your plans for advertising. Think of how much advertising you run into every day. Magazine ads, television, radio...in some places you’ll even find advertising in bathroom stalls!

By Lenore Benoit, d-mars.com Marketing Consultant

Develop a Marketing Plan Running a successful business is not like a field of dreams; you can build it but they might not come.

Marketing is all about letting people

You must make a marketing difference. You need a strategy. You have to be unique. So just how do you stand out from the competition? It’s a long, well-thought out process. And it begins with your marketing plan.

There are several key factors you must identify to make your marketing plan a strong one:

will you advertise: Will you use In-

Develop a Marketing Strategy

ests, competitive pricing and industry standards are constantly changing. It is important to conduct ongoing research and study what new markets

Your marketing strategy is shaped are emerging. by your overall business goals. It includes a definition of your business, a description of your products or services, a profile of your target users or

Develop a Marketing Budget Marketing is an investment. Op-

clients, and defines your company’s erating an effective marketing plan role in relationship to the competi- requires money, so you will have to tion. It is essentially a document that allocate funds from your operating you use to judge the effectiveness of budget to cover advertising, promoyour specific marketing plans, which tional and all other costs associated are the specific actions you’re going to with marketing. Develop a marketundertake to achieve the goals of your ing budget based on the cost for the marketing strategy.

media you will use, and the cost for

There are many benefits of having collecting research data and monitora planned marketing strategy. Busi- ing economic activity which could afness owners often rely solely on their fect your industry. If you have to cut intuition to make business decisions. back on expenses, cutting your marWhile this informal knowledge is im- keting and advertising budget should portant in the decision making pro- be considered last. To grow your busi-

know about the product or service

• Who are your potential customers?

you offer, and persuading them to buy

• What’s the most effective way to cess, it may not provide you with all ness you need to keep promoting what

or use it. For effective marketing you

inform them of your products/ the facts you need to achieve market- you do and exposing your business to

have to let people know about your

services?

product or service repeatedly. To do june 20 - july 20 2009

ing results. A marketing strategy will the masses. Always remember: “You

• What do your customers want? www.

help you in defining business goals Can’t Grow If They Don’t Know”. ®

25.

A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed opened up another door that would forever change my life. I met someone who would become not only my immediate supervisor but my mentor in many ways. Charles Grant would wake up every day and decide that he was going to have a great day. He would often tell stories about how when his children were growing up, they would roll their eyes as he told them daily, “Attitude is your latitude to success.”

Those words not only stuck with them, but you guessed it, with me.

Charles introduced me to Rotary International and doors have opened and so

By Charlotte Jackson Contributing Writer

many friendships have been made.

Perhaps among the people, who influence me the most, even today, is Rev.

Over the years, I have been fortu- Irvin Clark. In 2005, after what had nate enough to have many people help been a difficult struggle at the church me in many ways. Likewise, I am finally I had been active with for more than at a position in my life where I am often 14 years, I felt the urgency to look for asked if I can assist in some way. It feels a new spiritual home. From the first so good.

Along the way to reach this time I heard Pastor Clark say “Welcome

position, I have several influential peo- home,” I have felt a peace that only ple who poured wisdom into my life so a servant’s heart can feel. Among the that I would be the person I am today.

many strengths that he has, is the abil-

I first met Walter Lilly back in 1975. ity to meet people where they are, help He was my Physical Science teacher. them discover their hidden gifts and During the course of the year he was my talents and to help plug them in where teacher, yet he taught me so much more needed. than the curriculum. Perhaps the most

To give honor to these men, ironi-

important thing I remember him shar- cally who are all fathers, can best be ing was, “You go to school to learn how done by sharing their wisdom as well as to learn.”

the many other lessons I have learned

Mr. Lilly would tell me that at least in life. Instead of meeting people with once a week and I can’t count how many the attitude of “Look what I know” it is times have I found myself repeating that so much easier to meet everyone with to someone younger?

a meek spirit, ready to learn, ready to

Fast forward to 1985. I met a rough serve and ready to help make the world motorcycle rider who told me, “Char- a better place. lie, always remember, relationships are a luxury, not a necessity.”

To each of them, I owe so much.

Words can never tell them how much I

Again, I have found myself quot- appreciate their willingness to teach in ing that many times to both men and ways that have helped me to network women who find themselves devastated with countless people.

By network-

when what they thought was the love of ing, I am doing what is best not for me, their life has walked out on them. Once but for all of us. Be blessed and have you find the confidence to be yourself, a Happy Father’s Day….not just to my things fall into place and you can stand four mentors but to all of you who pour on your own two feet.

life into others.

Move forward to 1995 and God june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

26.

By Attorney Michael Thomas, Thomas & Thomas Attorneys at Law, Contributing Writer Any criminal lawyer within the United States relishes the opportunity to accept a hearty handshake and a smile from a client who has escaped the indignity of incarceration for a pronounced period of probation, or better yet, community supervision

without any sentence at all. Such results are causes of celebration with a toast, if not a soothing pat on the back by counsel himself, when dexterity allows. Yet, in Texas particularly, and other jurisdictions as well, the above scenario has a potentially dark underside when the client is a non-citizen of the United States. For the noncitizen, the consequences of a judgment of guilt or conviction can not only lead to removal or deportation from the United States, but can also affect his or her family, including any immediate family members of such non-citizen, wiping out years, sometimes decades, of immigrant status in this country. In trying to confront this wall of exclusion, the non-citizen will usually resort to one last alternative of relief, ineffective counsel against the very counsel whom the non-citizen had given the hearty handshake and smile to earlier.

Ineffective assistance of counsel derives its genre from legal precedents established by the Fifth and Sixth Amendments to the United States Constitution, responding specifically with due process and equal protection, as well as the right to counsel, respectively. What the criminal practitioner must be aware of regarding advice and counsel to the non-citizen, in order to circumvent a potential claim of ineffective counsel, are the immigration consequences of urging a plea of guilt.

Immigration consequences to a non-citizen facing any criminal charge within a state court, be it a felony or misdemeanor, are quite literally numerous and exhausting. But, for the criminal practitioner who has a noncitizen for a client, it becomes important to ascertain the fact of alienage or not at the very outset of taking such a case, for “where defense counsel is

aware that his client is an alien, he has a duty to investigate relevant immigration law. (1) Accordingly, much litigation concerning ineffective assistance of counsel relative to noncitizen has as a focal point, misadvice, even if it is positive, regarding immigration consequences, failure to investigate any relevant immigration law that pertains to your client, or where counsel not only gives misadvice and fails to investigate immigration law, but fails to investigate facts that could either mitigate or possibly dismiss the criminal charge in lieu of a plea of guilt. Because of the girth of litigation concerning ineffective counsel, some states have sought to forestall this development through legislation that not only aids the courts, but the criminal lawyer, as well.

To be continued…..

When starting your business, here are a few tips that can help!!!

4

In a service-driven industry, location means everything! Be sure to find a spot that has a lot of traffic but is easy to get to.

5

Hiring a consultant who knows about the business you want to be in is a great idea and will save you a lot of money in the long run.

6 7

Having great customer service will help make you a lot of money and keep the customer coming back!

By Kevin Davis, Vice President of d-mars.com

1

When picking a business to start, find something you enjoy doing

Remember first impressions go a long way; always keep your business and yourself neat and clean when customers are around.

8

Always be open-minded to listen to suggestions about your prodbecause most likely you will stay with it. uct or business that could make it better If you are going to sell a product, if it makes sense. pick something that a lot people Contact Kevin Davis @ want but is hard to find.

713.272.9511 If you are going to have a service, make sure you offer additional QUOTE OF THE MONTH conveniences that services in same busi- Those who want to Succeed will find a Way! Those who don’t will find an Excuse. ness do not offer.

2 3

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

27.

more about their members,

mission

and focus. Armed with this information, you can go to the next breakfast, lunch, or after-hours function prepared with

Y

questions for the members and guests ou’ve probably heard the pand your network of contacts and you introduce yourself to at the meet- collecting the right ones. saying it’s not what you become known as the go-to person in ing.

Thank-you notes and quick folknow, it’s who you know. the industry?

In between those meetings, you low-up to requests for information are But in today’s business Joining a professional network- can use the Internet to stay visible and little courtesies that mean a lot. Your

world, it’s also about who knows you. ing group is an opportunity for you to connected. Send an email to someone professionalism will be noted, your Getting Connected is much more gain access and exposure to people you you from the networking group or if calls returned and your referral busithan picking up someone’s business might not otherwise meet: a company the group has a message board, post ness will blossom. It also signals to the card at an event. It’s about network- executive in an industry that you’ve a reply. But be mindful, there’s a fine parties involved that you are commiting and building relationships to help always wanted to learn more about, line between being seen as a resource ted to success -- yours and theirs. yourself and others succeed. Network- a keynote speaker who’s an expert in and being seen as a spam artist so If you take advantage of all that ing with like-minded individuals is your field, and yes, even someone who don’t send excessive or inappropriate networking has to offer, and if you also a great way to explore new career may be in a position to offer you a job, email. Make sure that your contacts have joined the right networking options, learn more about a specific or who can connect you to the hiring between meetings are relevant and group, you’ll find that suddenly, you industry, gather insights from peers manager at a company where you’ve pertinent to the business at hand. seem much more visible. People will on critical business issues and grow always wanted to work.

During a networking event, make seek you out and recognize you as a professionally.

You can find out when and where sure you relax and take the focus off valuable resource.

When you set out to get connect- networking groups meet by scanning yourself by first listening to the other If you’re networking correctly, ed, you should always think about the business-events section of your lo- person. This technique also helps you you’ll find you have more visibility, what you want to accomplish. Are you cal newspaper or business weekly. Vis- gain insight as to how that contact greater knowledge, and more contacts; looking for a job, trying to develop it the website of the networking group can help you. It’s not about collect- and that you can leverage those assets new business or do you want to ex- before going to the first event to learn ing the most business cards; it’s about to further your career.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

28.

By Kenny Banks, Houston KACO, Inc.

O

ne of the most effective ways to find a

Take a class.

conference calls; schedules; etc. Deadlines can be met,

From art design to advertising to

complete

job: Network. Spread auto repair, you should be able to find a the word that you’re class in your area that’s relevant to your

with

time/date

stamps for emails and voice-

looking for a new job. First, tell your career. And you’re guaranteed to meet a family, friends, neighbors, acquain- group of people who are also interested

mails, and without incurring

tances ... everyone. Even tell your mail in your industry. As an added bonus, carrier and your hair stylist. (But don’t a class can give you new skills to boost

unnecessary, travel and face

tell anyone at your current job.)

sential in business.

additional, and sometimes time, why networking is es-

your resume and make you even more

As

business

owners,

When it comes to networking attractive to employers. though, there’s more to consider than

without people who support

simply who you know. You have to

and invest in our visions, we

Revisit Your Past Wish you could find a ready-made

merely have pipedreams. Let

And then find a way to get to know network, just waiting for you to join? those people. Once you’ve exhausted You can: Your alumni association.

us not forget, at the end of

Most colleges and even many high

ple, consumers or workers

schools have alumni organizations

who drive technology, thus,

Here are some tips on where to made up of former graduates. These organizations usually contain people start building a network.

we must understand where

think about who you DON’T know.

your personal connections, it’s time to focus on meeting some new faces.

Get ‘Organized’

in every occupation and industry

all communication lies peo-

Kenneth (Kenny) Banks

we are positioned. To network and engage with like-

As a general contractor and the minded business people is essential to

imaginable.

The Bird Loving Society, Ameri-

If your former school has an Principal of Houston KACO, Incor- growth. Networking takes our room can Association of Zoo Keepers, the alumni group, get involved. porated (KACO), a construction, de- for improvement and gives us new National Association of Truck Stop Take advantage of the fact that velopment, and real estate investment perspective, outlook and gain, and is a Operators, the American Nuclear So- you have something in common with firm, I understand the importance and great form of marketing and advertisciety ...No matter what your occupa- the other alums. Remember: It’s al- significance of networking and tech- ing. Organizations like the National tion, there’s a professional organiza- ways easier to meet new people when nology in business, specifically the con- Association of Minority Contractors tion for you! struction business. Success in business (NAMC) can be vital. you share an experience.

National and international professional associations often have local chapters where you can meet other

in the 21st century is predicated upon

Give Something to Get Something

At Houston KACO, Inc. whether

your ability and willingness to com- it is payroll or proposals, contracts municate, connect and construct with or calls, technology and networking

Sure, volunteer work lets you help others and within your own company. has been woven into the fabric of our hold conferences and other events de- others. But it also lets you help yourTechnology, like construction, has company. My philosophy (adopted self -and your job search. signed specifically for networking. changed the landscape of the world. from my pastor, Dr. I.V. Hilliard), on Consider doing volunteer work The art of communication has been technology and networking is this, you Professional organizations can also professionals in your field. And most

help you keep up-to-date on the latest to expand your network. You’ll likely given broader brushes and a greater developments in your industry. They meet an entirely new group of people. paint palette that touches and affects Choose an organization that’s re- billions of people worldwide. How often provide members with the latest industry news, trends and research lated to your profession, if possible. If we network, communicate and inter-

can use it as a tool to help you; as a stool and sit on it and do nothing; or as a mule and let it work for you. At KACO, we have learned to network,

as well as training and education. This you can’t find a relevant company or communicate has shifted. A business’ but also work the net! information can come in very handy cause, offer to help out your favorite growth, development, and success is charity by doing something that’s job- dictated by its use of technology, comin interviews.

Let us Promote your Business, Not sure what organization would related. Organizations can always use munication, and networking. be right for you? This list , organized an extra set of hands to help with evTechnology enables us to quickly erything from computer work to cleri- search for, and respond to available by topic, can help you get started. cal tasks. business opportunities. The inventions

Your Event, or You!

Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

Hit the Books

By volunteering, you’ll get a of email/voicemail afford businesses Looking for regular contact with a chance to use your skills, expand your more efficient and convenient ways to

group of like-minded professionals in network and make a much-needed communicate and perform its adminisyour industry? contribution. trative tasks, i.e. banking; mailing; telejune 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

29.

ears – they are totally focused on the person in front them, regardless of whether they think that person could be a prospect, client, new friend or just someone to add to their network. spheres of influence is ‘someone who about them from one of these key They realize that every person they knows a little bit about a lot of things players carries a lot of weight and inconnect with forms part of their net- and a lot about one or two areas’. They fluence. Bill Gates has spoken of a trilworking jigsaw, and every stranger has often specialize in one area, while hav- ogy of trust – the trust that one person the potential to become an important ing a good general knowledge of many has in another, that is then passed on connection within that network. areas. They are very good at keeping to the third party.

Great networkers network ethi- in touch with their networks, they reRemember, the key to your succally, professionally and courteously – member what is ‘special’ and unique cess in business is to understand the aware that every best friend was once about individuals, and they are gener- power of networking. The sooner you a perfect stranger, and that you never ally extremely good communicators. develop effective networking skills the

By Ron Reynolds, Esq. Contributing Writer

know who that stranger in front of

Smart networkers work at creat- sooner that your business will see in-

you actually has in their network. The ing relationships with spheres of influ- creased profits. basic philosophy of great network- ence; they know that a positive word

Great networkers make great ers is to treat everyone the way they leaders because they have unlocked would like to be treated. the potential of networking in their busy lives. They have created simple systems that enable them to connect with others, stay connected and create

The Power of Networking The more people you know, the

valuable lifetime connections with key more people you can influence, either players, spheres of influence and other positively or negatively. People who master networkers.

work at developing strong clusters of

Great networkers are not born, networks across a broad cross-section they are created. And it need not be of interests, age groups, demographa complex process. The great news is ics and cultures can often wield enorthat anyone can improve their net- mous positive or negative influence. working and influencing skills. The These people are often referred to as networking world is open to everyone, master networkers and spheres of inwithout exception, as long as your fluence. networking values are strong, ethical and transparent.

One of the challenges in our timepoor society is that many of us can’t be

Many people think that network- bothered investing the time required ing is something that you do, rather to work at and create new networks. than a way that you live. Networking It is so much easier and a great time is a life skill, rather than something saver to stick to the networks that we you do only when you want some- know and feel comfortable with. Our thing.

comfort zone becomes very safe and

Great networkers also make heart- non-threatening. However, it is also to-heart connections with people very limiting and the potential for inwhen they talk to them. They lis- fluencing large numbers is almost. ten with their hearts as well as their june 20 - july 20 2009

One definition of people who are www.

®

30.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

31.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

32.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

33.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

34.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

35.

these options don’t provide much re- efit from the insights of an experienced turn. In fact, your assets may remain financial advisor who can help you sort rather stagnant in these investment through your options. As survivors of vehicles, but some argue that could be the recession, we can potentially work better than watching your savings drop even harder, adjust our expectations and

By Victor Walker, Contributing Writer

in value.

H

This suggestion may seem counterin- relies on something intangible — buyer

appreciate what we have. Much of the

Buy low if you can bear the risk. success or failure of the stock market

as Wall Street hit rock is that once you sell a stock, you for- tuitive, but if you are in a position to confidence. If we can find our way back bottom, and is the feit any opportunity to regain the value accept risk, right now is a great time to to confident investing, we could be on U.S. economy bound you lost. Some investors are paralyzed invest. The market is full of bargains our way to a stronger economy. for recovery? Some by fear and have not corrected or ad- and there will be people who can profit

claim the worst is over, which is of justed their financial position in the from the market’s downfall. As the old small comfort to American investors, marketplace. While this is a common adage goes, buy low and sell high. But many of whom have seen their retire- and natural response, it’s not necessar- as recent history shows, investing inment portfolios quickly drop in value ily in your best interest to stand still. volves risks — more than many of us during the last 18 months. Just as the Whether you ultimately move or adjust bargained for — and there are no guarstock market crash and Great Depres- your stocks, it’s important to take time antees. sion of 1929 had a lasting impact on to evaluate your investment positions Recoup some of your losses those who lived through it, our cur- and make changes as you see fit, all the through tax breaks. With the failure rent recession could change the way while proceeding with due caution. of mortgage companies, banks, develAmericans earn, save, invest and spend Rebalance your holdings and opment firms, car manufacturers and money. The question is how will we diversify. The widespread nature of other businesses, some investors have improve our individual and shared fi- the downturn means almost every sec- experienced losses that simply can’t be nancial future?

tor of the economy has been negatively replaced. If you find yourself at ground We all make choices. The tank- affected. Those portfolios that were zero (or below), keep in mind that you ing economy has triggered all kinds of weighted heavily in risky investments may be able to offset your losses in the responses. Some investors have simply generally suffered the largest losses. form of tax breaks. Talk to your tax adpulled the plug on their remaining Many investors re-evaluated their risk visor to determine if you can deduct a investments however; a mass exodus tolerance. Low-yielding CDs, money portion of your losses from your taxVictor Walker, CPA/JD * Financial from the stock market will do more market funds and Treasury Bills grew in able income.

Advisor * 713-260-5700 www.ameridamage to the economy as a whole. popularity since they were considered Consult with a financial advisor. priseadvisors.com/victor.d.walker The other problem with this approach less risky investments. Unfortunately, Now more than ever, investors can ben-

individuals, as well as changing your approach to match current market trends.

Oftentimes, we tend to be so busy with our heads buried in business plans & contemplating how to boost our business, that we forget one of the simplest forms of advertising, networking. I’m sure any one of us can attend meetings, join associations, or volunteer at various events, however, effective networking is a skill. One dictionary describes the word network as a system of people or things. Networking can be described as the practice of gathering of contacts:

By Tasha Bowen the process or practice of building up or maintaining informal relationships, Contributing Writer especially with people whose friendship One of the fastest ways to grow your could bring advantages such as job or business is through the power of net- business opportunities.

In the real world, it is about who working with other business-oriented june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

you know and the relationship you build with individuals that will ultimately assist with opportunities that may have otherwise been given to someone else. It is very important that you join associations in which you can meet and work cooperatively with others and create a large referral source for yourself and your business. Some may even attend networking events and feel as though it is a waste of time or nothing really comes from them. Is it possible that you are not utilizing resources presented to you? It is no point if you attend an event and never open your mouth, you’re not very sociable, no one else in the room really knows what is that you do and you zoom out of the door as soon as the gathering is over. Learn to speak up and be passionate about your product or the company you represent.

When you are excited about your services and what you have to offer, it will get others excited and also create ®

awareness about who you are. Begin to research your local Chamber of Commerce groups, business organizations and other associations that you feel may be valuable to your business. Most associations hold monthly networking meetings in which members are allowed to introduce themselves and their services. This can be a relaxed, easy-going environment because it feels as though the members are a family and everyone is there for the same purpose, which is to obtain business contacts, gain exposure, and create a new referral source.

Think about your church or your child’s clubs and activities - all are filled with adults or potential consumers for your business that may have no idea what you offer. The chances are if they don’t need you, they know someone who will or they may need you in the future.

So turn it up! Your voice is your walking billboard.

36.

quality and efficient service. Our installers are always uniformed and organized to project an excellent image for your installation project.

The following is a brief description of services we offer: New and Used Office Furniture Installation, delivery, assembly and reconfiguration of any modular furniture cubicle system or filing system Installation of all shelving, mobile filing, high density data storage, and racking systems.

Cedric Jones Owner Cedric D. Jones is the founder

Installation of fixed seating, auditorium seating, tables and visual display products. (This type of service is extended to schools, churches and shopping malls).

and owner of Cubes and has been in Fully insured fleet of cargo vehicles for transportation of furniture to customer the modular furniture business since job-site and debris removal.

1986. This independently owned, professional office furniture installa- Assembly of modular desk systems and computer furniture products tion company provides delivery, assembly, and reconfiguration for all CAD Space planning with furniture specific software furniture lines. Jones’ purpose for developing his installation company is Office moves and relocation services to provide the customer with a high- Commercial and Residential Moving quality of service at its very best.

We offer professionally-trained

Our skill, style and high-quality

installers that are personally trained customer satisfaction is accompanied by the owner himself. We pride our- by highly recommended client referselves with the right solutions for our rals.We are dedicated to quality prodcustomers. Our sea of installers work ucts, professional services and buildwith you to create the product that ing work spaces that work. meets your business needs along with

For more information, please call

customer satisfaction that will deliver or visit our office located at on budget and on time.

6201

Bonhomme, Suite 428-S, Houston,

Cubes professionals are equipped Texas 77036 Office (713)587-9099 / to handle installations of any size with Fax (713)587-9098

Advertise Your Business Online!!!

We received over 3 million hits on our website last year. d-mars.com 10 year anniversary Online Specials: Online Directory, Event Calendar, Classifieds & News Visit d-mars.com or call 713-272-9511 today for more information! june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

ÂŽ

37.

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

®

38.

Join the D-MARS.COM Community Partners Program to receive one Full COLOR ad in the Community Partners

section and receive

**The 2 E-Blasts sent to the d-mars.com database will consist of the entire Community Partners section for that month**

june 20 - july 20 2009

www.

ÂŽ

39.