d-mars.com Business Journal 41

Inspire, Inform & Educate

june 2010

Strictly Business

INSIDE

41 Edition

THE POWER OF FOCUS

Turning the Economy Around: The Hottest Careers in Texas

By Christina R. Grochett The top 10 fastest growing careers.

PAGE 7

Winners Believe

By William McElrath WINNERS BELIEVE commitment, performance, persistence, and perseverance are the tools needed to build the bridge to their dreams.

PAGE 15

MR. D-MARS & Dr. Heather Brown

“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.” – Jim Rohn

Everyday Family Savings Made Easy and Fun There are really simple and easy ways to save money that the whole family can support.

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Troy B. Smith Troy B. Smith Professional Services

Joyce D. Owens Owens Management Systems, LLC

William McElrath Author/Entrepreneur

Motivating Employees

By Carla Lane

Kim Roxie

Make a job more enjoyable; build self-esteem, resulting in an overall positive attitude.

See pg. 6 PAGE 32

Dr. Wendy Professional Development Expert

Ronnie R. Alexander CPA - Accounting Tax & Business

Karen Stephenson Allstate

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Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr. SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Mike Jones

People see me on the move and often ask, “How do you do it all?” I believe everyone is allotted the same twenty-four hours in a day. It’s just that some people make more of those twenty-four hours than others. This is, by no means, a dig at anyone who chooses to spend twenty of their twenty-four hours relaxing (more power to you), but as president and CEO of d-mars.com, an entrepreneur, a father and a community leader, focusing on the task at hand and doing whatever it takes to get it done, is not an option but a requirement.

How often do you find yourself unable to act on your most pressing problems or highest priorities due to lack of focus and giving into distractions? I’m sure more often then you care to admit. This is because you have to learn how to act with absolute clarity and concentrate only at the goals in front of you.

This issue is dedicated to help you break free of the clutter that may be clogging your progress and motivate you to stay focused on handling your business. In this issue, you will hear from business owners, educators, community leaders, etc. on how they remain “strictly business” day in and day out. You’ll find informative articles that will hopefully, inspire and motivate you to handle your business in the best, most productive way for you to blossom.

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

PHOTOGRAPHY Leon Galbreath

CONTENTS

JR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Jr. EDITING CONSULTANT ReShonda Tate-Billingsley Operations Coordinator Heather Haukaas ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

MARKETING CONSULTANTS Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. Aaron Laws MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Myron Davis DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christina Robinson Grochett Elvia Lynne Valde Diedria B. Joseph Dr. Kahlilah McAfee William McElrath Craig Anthony Nicholas, S.E. Heather Haukaas Wykesha C. Hayes T.Q. Dolye Alice Seba Carla Lane Noel Pinnock Tom Duke Ronnie R. Alexander, CPA Dr. D. L. Jones Nigel Mustang

June 2010

Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontist: Autographing Smiles with Excellence!.... 5 LAMIK Beauty: Make-up with a conscience…………………...................… 6 The Hottest Careers in Texas….…......................................................……. 7 The Business of People.................................................................………... 8 Clearwire Extends 4G Leadership in the United States............................... 10 Serving all your dental needs and staying Green.........................……..….. 13 Winners Believe........................................................................................... 15 A Trusted Name When Caring Counts......................................................... 17 Strictly a Successful Student……………………………………………..….... 18 Everyday Family Savings Made Easy and Fun............................................ 19 Time Out for Games: Your Passion is on the Line....................................... 19 Business Makeover... Hey, It’s Strictly Business……………........................ 20 The Fastest Way to Making Money Online.................................................. 20 Family Travel Unplugged............................................................................. 22 Ask Carla Lane………………………………………………………................. 27 The Secrets Out....................................................………………………....... 27 Don’t Neglect the Accounting Piece............................................................ 29 Choose the Right Partner............................................................................. 30 The Business of Success: NO EXCUSES!................................................... 31 Motivating Employees................................................................................. 32 Fiscal Responsibility Vs. Fun....................................................................... 34 Easy Ways to Better Your Community......................................................... 46

MR. D-MARS D-MARS.com Business Journal Tip of the Month “You must remain focused on your journey to greatness.”

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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.

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Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontist: Autographing Smiles with Excellence!

By Heather Haukaas Contributing Writer Last Thursday, I found myself accompanying Mr. D-MARS at 2636 South Loop West to interview Dr. Heather Brown. Having never visited an orthodontist I was unsure of what to expect. My brain automatically thinks of braces when I hear the word orthodontist but I had so many unanswered questions about visiting an orthodontist’s office. For instance, would Dr. Brown’s practice be the same as the many dentist offices I had visited in the past or would there be some uniqueness to her practice? To my surprise, I felt welcomed, as if I had been a patient for years, as soon as I stepped through the office door and was greeted with a smile so radiant it rubbed off on me.

Just when I thought that was as good as it gets, I entered Dr. Heather Brown’s Office to find an upbeat, personable, intelligent doctor ready to answer any questions I had about a field I knew little about. I was excited and intrigued to sit down with Mr. D-MARS and a doctor that understood the importance of keeping her customers first and adhering strictly to her business.

A native of Jackson, MS, Dr. Heather Brown lives by the standard of excellence. She believes that when you are in the business of creating flawless smiles and educating the public about the importance of good dental health, the standard of excellence cannot be compromised.

“Growing up, my mother would always say, ‘No matter what you do in life, no matter how small a task may be, always autograph your work with excellence.’ Excellence is my standard.

If it is not excellent is it unacceptable,” Dr. Brown said. “When patients are depending on my staff and I to perfect their smile, we (my staff and I) are goJune 2010

ing to exceed their expectations every time.”

Exceeding expectations and autographing her work with excellence is nothing new when it comes to Dr. Heather Brown handling her business. Everything she has done thus far in her life has been nothing less than exceptional. After receiving her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, MS, she volunteered at her dentist’s office and in no time, was promoted to dental assistant.

“After I was brought on board I decided that dentistry was something I wanted to pursue. In pursuit of my degree I understood that I would have to sacrifice a lot of time, energy, money, etc.; remembering the wise words of my mother and drawing upon inspiration from my dentist I was ready to handle my business and become the best orthodontist I could be.”

Dr. Brown received her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. While at Meharry, Dr. Brown was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society and she received the American Association of Orthodontists Student Award. Dr. Brown knew after her second year of dental school that she wanted to specialize in orthodontics. Thus, after graduating from dental school, Dr. Brown continued her training at Howard University in Washington, DC. At Howard, she received her specialist certificate in orthodontics as well as graduating with the honor of valedictorian of her class.

Today, she is a Board Certified Orthodontist and an Invisalign Premier Preferred Provider, a status that places her among the top 5 percent of Invisalign practitioners in the country who are highly skilled in treating patients with Invisalign. In addition, Dr. Brown was one of six orthodontists in the country www.

hand-selected to initiate the teen perception study, which made contributions to the Invisalign Teen treatment.

Dr. Brown credits her continued success to Dr. Elgin Wells, Orthodontist. When she moved to Houston in July of 2003, Dr. Brown got her start as an associate to Dr. Wells. At that time, he had been providing exceptional orthodontic care in Houston for over 30 years. Dr. Wells took her in under his wing as a mentor and father figure.

“Dr. Wells gave me my first job after completing my residency. He was a phenomenal teacher and he made a big impact in my life. I am forever grateful to him.”

After working as his associate for six years, they decided to make a transition where Dr. Brown became owner of Dr. Elgin Wells’ Houston practice in 2009.

The opportunity Dr. Brown had to surround herself with the best of the best has prepared her to go out on her own and use all that she has learned to impact the field of orthodontics. Orthodontics is the area of dentistry concerned with the guidance and correction of dental and facial structures. An orthodontist is a specially trained dentist who has attended an advanced education program for a continual training period of 2 to 3 years. An orthodontist uses braces, invisalign and other appliances to correct teeth, jaw and facial abnormalities. Regular dental check-ups and orthodontic treatment are proven to be effective tools in helping establish and maintain good oral health for people of all ages.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist no later than age 7. Dr. Brown states that “many parents assume that they must wait until their child has lost all of his or her baby teeth before they see an orthodontist, but they later find out that treatment would have been less complicated if they started earlier.

Adults should visit an orthodontist to improve the appearance of their smile and their overall dental health at any time. It’s never too late to have a beautiful smile!”

“Braces and invisalign may be worn by both teens and adults, not only to improve the attractiveness of their smile, but also because braces and invisalign correct improper alignment of teeth that can lead to gum disease and early tooth loss. Gum disease has also been linked to heart disease, strokes and diabetes. Crooked teeth with irregular spacing makes cleaning harder and allows cavities to develop more easily.

Properly aligned teeth make it easier to chew all types of food, and eliminate the headaches and pain caused by uneven chewing. Uneven teeth may result

in weak enamel, gum problems and jaw misalignment.”

In addition to providing quality orthodontic services, Dr. Brown understands the importance of being an advocate in the community. She participates in annual career days, school carnivals and health fairs. Dr. Brown encourages and supports many non-profit organizations such as The Shriners, The Santana Dotson Foundation, YMCA Healthy Kids Day, NFLPA of Houston and Shoes 4 School, to name a few.

Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics has an outstanding, committed and caring staff that offers over 150 years of combined experience!

“To be the best, we hire the best,” she says. “We are a dedicated team who take pride in our work and it is our goal to make your orthodontic experience successful, fun and rewarding.”

Perhaps the most unique member of her staff is “Bugsy Brown.” Bugsy is the MASCOT for Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics. Dr. Brown and Bugsy Brown are available to visit your school to speak about the importance of dental health and orthodontics.

Mascot Bugsy Brown & Dr. Heather Brown

There is a Secret behind obtaining a flawless smile that Dr. Heather Brown Orthodontics has discovered. Schedule your free consultation today so Dr. Heather Brown can autograph your smile with excellence! Dr. Brown is definitely strictly business!

MR. D-MARS & Dr. Heather Brown

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LAMIK Beauty:

Make-up with a conscience you didn’t look that way, you weren’t considered beautiful,” explains Roxie.

“LAMIK strives to embrace all types of beauty. Women need to realize that they are beautiful in their own way and to accept it and embrace it.”

Fans of her line read like a teleprompter at the Grammy’s with makeup artists that work with the likes of Diddy, Chrisette Michele, American Idol Lakisha Jones and hometown favorite Yolanda Adams all have christened LAMIK as their preferred brand.

LAMIK Beauty confirms that Beauty does not have to be pain and beauty certainly does not have to compromise your health. So whether you are a first time make-up wearer or an avid fan of make-up come by “the best spot to get eyelashes, eyebrow sculpting and make-up application,” as rated by The Houston Chronicle. Visit Lamik Beauty’s stylish Beautique in upscale River Oaks. You will be astonished by the beauty revealed when Kim Roxie whisks her magical wand and transforms you into a work of art at this spacious location, which offers private events, bridal wedding parties in the wedding make-up lounge, or lux makeup party for birthdays.

Visit LAMIK Beauty at River Oaks, 2610 Greenbriar @ Westheimer, Houston, TX 77098 or call 713.270.7088.

Kim Roxie

We have all heard the saying, “Beauty comes from within” but in this day and age, a woman can look beautiful inside and out. Sometimes, In this era, women undergo cosmetic surgery, waxing, botox, starvation, hours of make-up, etc. to look beautiful. Although some methods are more extreme than others many of us never consider that the simple items such as our favorite lipstick or foundation can support the notion that “beauty is pain.” The beauty industry is largely unregulated meaning there are no legal standards for personal care products. Thus, all makeup is not created equal! It may shock some people but despite knowing the potentially harmful ingredients in makeup products many makeup manufacturer’s still manufacture makeup that poses health and environmental risks. One makeup manufacturer that decided, “you do not have to sacrifice your health for beauty or your beauty for health” is Kim Roxie, a licensed aesthetician and make-up designer who created the entire cosmetic conglomerate LAMIK Beauty in 2004. LAMIK Beauty features a make-up line, facial care, eyelash enhancement, custom lashes, and an eyebrow-sculpting bar.

Many factors separate LAMIK Beauty from other make-up manufacturers. One being LAMIK Beauty’s June 2010

commitment to manufacturing makeup that does not pose health risks for consumers. This young mogul in the making and her chemist, who worked for the top beauty brand Estee Lauder for over 20 years, strive to offer consumers of LAMIK something new, innovative, and more importantly health conscious. LAMIK is “make-up with a conscience.”

LAMIK Beauty uses all natural ingredients such as green tea and bamboo extracts as well as Aloe Vera. “It is important that women are knowledgable that what they put on their skin affects their health. Women take in around 500 toxic ingredients found in a variety of beauty products everyday.

It is the goal of LAMIK to enhance the beauty of woman but not compromise their health. Thus, all of our make-up contains antioxidants not the harmful toxins that many other make-up does,” says Kim Roxie.

LAMIK Beauty goes even further in its quest of “make-up with a conscience” with packaging that is biodegradable and recyclable.

If the fact that LAMIK Beauty is “Eco-chic” and safe is not reason enough to throw out all your old make-up it will blow your mind to learn that LAMIK carries color for EVERYBODY! “At LAMIK we do not discriminate color. We have a wide range of colors to fit every shade of a woman.” “For the longest, beauty has been defined by certain looks and if www.

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Turning the Economy Around: The Hottest Careers in Texas 6. Computer software engineers, applications 7. Special education teachers for middle school students 8. Kindergart en teachers, except special education 9. Physician assistants 10. Pharmacy technicians

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

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n a time of persistently high unemployment rates across the nation, Houston has a reason to celebrate. The area added 14,800 jobs in March, according to data released on April 16 by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).

In fact, Houston is growing faster in new jobs than any other city in the state. It’s not a lot of jobs, but at least it is steady growth and an improvement over last year.

In fact, five of the top 10 fastestgrowing occupations in Texas are healthcare related, according to the CareerOneStop, which is a U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored Web site that offers career resources and workforce information to job seekers, students, businesses, and workforce professionals to foster talent development in a global economy.

Below is a complete list of the top 10 fastest growing careers: 1. Personal and home care aides 2. Network systems and data communications analysts 3. Medical assistants 4. Special education teachers for preschool, kindergarten and elementary students 5. Physical therapist assistants June 2010

As unemployed residents return to the workforce, many will consider choosing a job from this list merely because it is hot in the job market right now. Unfortunately, if this happens, an individual could spend a lot of time training or obtaining a degree in a field that they have no interest in. This could mean wasting time and money.

Instead, individuals should assess their interests and strengths and pair them with a job they can be passionate about and succeed in. Enrolling in a degree program to earn education in a new career will also help grow your tal- Under her leadership, the Houston campuses awarded with the 2009 and 2008 Alfred P. ent. Training usually takes more than a were selected as a 2009 Best Place to Work Sloan Awards from the City of Houston for year and will require a monetary invest- by The Houston Business Journal and were Workplace Flexibility and Innovation. ment. Still, thousands of local residents have gone back to school to earn a new degree that will help them land new jobs and significantly improve their chances of getting hired.

Though the economy is slowly steadying, many local businesses are still hiring. In fact, University of Phoenix – Houston campuses will team up with Careerbuilder to host a “Reinvent Your Future” event on June 29 that will feature more than 25 companies from the Houston metro area. Participants will be invited to meet with employers and attend free career workshops on topics such as interview preparation, resume writing and personal presentation. In addition, New York Times best-selling author, educator and businessman Stedman Graham will offer a keynote address about identity and leadership development. For more information about the free career fair, please go to www.facebook.com/uopxhouston or call (713) 465-9966.

Christina Robinson Grochett is the State Vice President/ Director of South Texas for University of Phoenix. An accomplished leader and champion of higher learning, she was selected as a 2010 Women of Influence

by Houston Woman Magazine and one of the Top 10 business women by the American Business Women’s Association in 2008. www.

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Play Hard or Go Home

The Business of PEOPLE

By Elvia Lynne Valde Contributing Writer There’s a saying that goes, ‘if you want something done right, do it yourself.’ The same should be said, ‘if you do not want to have to clock in and outwork for yourself.’

While that reads well and sounds nice, those who are at the top, at one point had to start at the bottom in order to achieve their success.

I wish I could say that I personally work for myself, but that dream is a work in progress. I take pride in learning from those I admire as I personally hope to achieve the same success, if not greater. I was once told by a boss, “I know you want my job.” I paused, and then replied, “No, I want a better one.”

En route to achieving my career goal of becoming a news reporter, I was told by a well-known news anchor that if you wanted to get in the game and learn the business, you needed to eat, sleep and breathe the industry. I listened and it worked. I must admit, many of my fellow peers thought I was crazy and a bit obsessed with my aspirations of becoming a media professional.

It takes a lot of focus and keeping your eye on the prize and never losing sight of what you want and the reasons for the desires of your heart. I struggled to get to where I am today but that goes without saying for some of the world’s most accomplished professionals.

I would often ask God if my plan was the same as His divine plan for my life, during the many detours my career path would take. He never allowed me the opportunity to dream of anything else. He blessed me with a voice that has allowed me to take my career to great heights and allows me the opportunity to speak for so many wonderful and aspiring people. I learned early on in my career to play hard or stay home. I’m sure glad I love the game.

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By Diedria B. Joseph Contributing Writer From being a one-person show to being a CEO of a Fortune 500 Company, it is impossible to be successful in business without interacting with people.

“People” is a very vague term for individuals that we compartmentalize into groups of “customer, client, employee, and other.” People can cause a great catalyst for business growth or be the single deterrent causing organization ruin. Business lives and dies by people. Many businesses have a “people problem.” This can be manifested through holding excessive meetings and having various conversations without any growth or productivity. The most important key to business is effectively managing relationships with people.

The PEOPLE Balance All companies have different organizational cultures. In some businesses, employees have policies and unstated rules limiting water cooler chats and the personal discussion. In other businesses, employees are highly social and open regarding sharing personal information, while most businesses are somewhere in between. A business office environment should be conducive to the work that is at hand. Chatty employees can waste company dollars, while instituting a strict “business-related discussions only” can hinder and stifle creative dialogue in some cases. Each business owner has to decide which system works best for them, but consider overall productivity in this equation. It is important to remember that we employ people and people have lives outside their 9 – 5 job.

Having a clear understanding of work www.

monthly basis that refer back to your organizational goals. Clearly state that you are measuring productivity by numbers, but also remember that there are people behind those numbers. It is also important to provide inside and outside training opportunities for employee to continue to grow in their position.

environment productivity is essential to Networking Most successful business owners managing employees. It is important to have perfected the art of networking. understand that employees and customers are still people under their outward We all have checklists that may include business cards, elevator pitches, speakveil of dollars and cents. ing points, a mental rolodex of names to Communicating Goals and drop, and even mints in our networking Objectives arsenal. But networking in itself will not When you started your business, produce business opportunities. When which for some of us has been decades considering “strictly business,” it seems and for others it has been days, you were natural to say that all networking should often requested to show your business revolve around business, but that would plan with goals and objectives. It is im- be limiting potential relationships. The perative to set clear goals and objectives key is sifting the business from the perto ensure that your business will contin- sonal. Business is highly relationship ue to work toward growth. But if your driven. Meeting for a cup of coffee afbusiness goals and objectives are on an terhours can lead to a deeper discussion untouched file in your computer or sit- about a potential contract. In many ting on a bookshelf, your business will networking events, it is clear that everybe vulnerable to losing focus and direc- one is looking to land a large contract tion which will cause the loss of revenue. or meet someone who can further assist It is very important to enact your goals their business. But people are more atand objectives into every aspect of your tracted to genuineness versus “what can business. This includes communicating I get from this conversation.” In netyour goals and objectives on a constant working, always remember that you are basis to all employees. When asked, speaking to another human being who each employee from the receptionist to has to same goal as you – being successthe vice-president, should know where ful on some level. the company is striving to go based on In over 15 years of business, I found knowing the organizational goals. By societal rules also play into good busimaking the goals real and showing em- ness practices. The Golden Rule states ployees how their achievement in their “Do unto others as you would have particular position will cause the com- done unto you.” Business relies on pany to reach its overall goal will cre- people, period. Treating others as you ate a sense of motivation and purpose would like to be treated can be enacted within the employee. on every level of your business. Though it is necessary to be business-minded at Productive People: Hiring all times, we must also build relationand Training ships with people (employees, stakeIn an ideal world, we hire an emholders, customers, and others), which ployee who has demonstrated a strong requires knowing how to reach out to past performance record and can catch them. By fostering mutually beneficial on to your vision based on one converrelationships with those around you (i.e. sation during an interview. While in the providing career development, business real world, after a few weeks of hiring an contacts, etc), you can provide ammuindividual, we may have to go back and nition for productive people to create look at the interview notes and resume business opportunities for you. Making and question if an individual truly has the most of your people will make the the skills that they reported. Depending most of your business. on the position and job responsibilities, Diedria B. Joseph is President/CEO a position search should not be limited of Topp Knotch Personnel, Inc. Topp only to a resume search and an interKnotch Personnel offers various servicview with the candidate. Each hiring es such as Executive Recruiting/Direct decision should be strategic and match Hire, Temporary Placement, Temp to your organizational goals. But rememHire, and Contract Staffing nationber that you are hiring a person, not a wide. We are the link between compasheet of paper or resume’. Ask realistic nies seeking diverse talent and skilled questions in an interview to assess an candidates looking for jobs. For more individual’s skill set and their reaction information, please visit our website at to real business situations. Upon hire, www.toppknotchpersonnel.com. create clear assessments on a weekly and 8.

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Clearwire Extends 4G Leadership in the United States

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t the International CTIA WIRELESS 2010 show, Clearwire Communications, LLC, an operating subsidiary of Clearwire Corporation (NASDAQ:CLWR) and the largest 4G service provider in the United States, today announced new details about the company’s planned expansion of its 4G mobile broadband network in 2010. In addition to the newly named markets, the company announced the launch of the 30th 4G-embedded computer, and 4G service for the forthcoming Apple iPad. The company also outlined a series of advancements in network architecture that will increase capacity, enhance data speeds, and help reduce the environmental impact of the company’s growing wireless data network.

“Across our 4G markets today, we’re experiencing data usage levels that could shake the rest of the wireless industry to its core,” said Bill Morrow, CEO of Clearwire. “On average, our mobile 4G customers are using more than 7 GB of data per month, and we’re very pleased about the implications.

Those who want to have a misguided debate about competing 4G radio technologies are missing the bigger picture.

To deliver true mobile broadband requires deep spectrum resources and an all-IP network, and Clearwire remains unrivaled on both fronts.”

“In fact, the efficiency of our IPnetwork and scale of our spectrum holdings have not only enabled us to launch our own successful CLEAR(TM) service, but they have enabled us to become the 4G ‘Network of Networks,’” Morrow said. “Whether customers sign up for 4G service through us, Sprint, Comcast, or Time Warner Cable, it is our network and our spectrum making it all possible. And, we continue to look ahead. Today, we announced advancements across markets, devices, and our network, that we believe will continue to keep Clearwire at the forefront of 4G leadership and innovation.”

ADDITIONAL 4G MARKETS Clearwire currently provides 4G service in 27 markets across the United States. The company expects to cover up to 120 million people by the end of 2010. The CLEAR customer experience is similar to that provided by Wi-Fi, but

Strategic Business Networking

By Dr. Wendy Professional Development Expert, Contributing Writer

need to get the most bang for the buck, and you need to evaluate whether you are networking effectively Some people think good networking is telling as many people as possible what you do and then giving business cards to all of them. But there is more to it than that, and you also need to assess your strategy. Do you even have a strategy, or do you simply give out cards and start talking about yourself? If that’s the way you do it, you need to reevaluate your approach. Below are five recommended steps that may make your networking more effective:

As a business person it’s important The People-Meeting Factor that you go to special events and meetings and keep your face and your business out there in the public eye. But all of this takes time, and you can’t go to every event. Because you’re busy, you June 2010

Going to a meeting cold can be intimidating, so when you enter a room, smile and look for a friendly, approachable face. Don’t panic if you don’t see a friendly face right away. www.

without the short-range limitations of a traditional Internet hotspot. CLEAR uses a wireless 4G technology that differs from Wi-Fi called WiMAX, which provides service areas measured in miles, not feet. Today, CLEAR delivers speeds comparable to DSL connections, with average mobile download speeds of 3 to 6 mbps and bursts over 10 mbps.* The company previously indicated that some of its new 4G markets scheduled to launch in 2010 include: New York City, Houston, Boston, Washington, D.C., Kansas City, Denver, Minneapolis, and the San Francisco Bay Area.

capacity to deliver next generation broadband access. Strategic investors include Intel Capital, Comcast, Sprint, Google, Time Warner Cable, and Bright House Networks. Clearwire currently provides 4G service, utilizing mobile WiMAX technology, in 27 markets throughout the U.S. The Company also provides pre-WiMAX communications services in 30 markets across the U.S. and a combination of other high-speed Internet and 4G services in five markets in Europe. Headquartered in Kirkland, Wash., additional information about Clearwire is available at http://www. clearwire.com.

About Clearwire Experience blazing speeds, no wires, Clearwire Communications LLC, no cables, no installation by contacting an operating subsidiary of Clearwire Jim Collier at 281.804.1953 or jimcolCorporation (NASDAQ:CLWR), of- lier@clear.net fers a robust suite of advanced highspeed Internet services to consumers and businesses. As part of a multi-year Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! network build-out plan, Clearwire’s 4G service, called CLEARTM, will be availAdvertise today in D-MARS able in major metropolitan areas across Business Journal the U.S., and bring together an unprecedented combination of speed and mobility. Clearwire’s open all-IP network, combined with significant spectrum holdings, provides unmatched network Find the food or drink line and start a for yourself. If an acquaintance walks by, conversation. Signing in for the meeting pull him or her into the conversation. is also a good place to meet someone.

There is also going to the rest room, getting something to eat, or noting that Gather Information When you meet people, listen to you need to speak with someone before them first. You’ll probably hear their you leave. If you’re polite, nearly any primary business concerns and problems graciously delivered excuse will suffice. they need to have resolved. That will let you learn if you have solutions. Then you can ask for the person’s business card and promise to get back in touch with suggestions. When you get their card, respond with your own.

Elevator Speech Once you find a person that can use your services, be ready to tell him or her what you do. Create a brief pitch with a hook they will associate with only you.

It should clearly communicate who you are, what you do, and who you do it for.

The Wrap-up Be attuned to when the talk about business is becoming tedious, and change the subject. All conversations must end. Ask the person if you can get him or her another drink, and if there is no interest, excuse yourself to get one

The Follow-up Closing the loop is important, but it is often overlooked. If you say you are going to call, follow up within a few weeks with an invitation to lunch. People have short memories.

Following up after your initial contact and staying in regular touch with your network is vital. If you do not, you may be forgotten, and you might not be the person’s first choice to solve their problem. Most business is generated on relationships, which is why following up and staying in touch are important to keeping the relationship alive.

The next time you’re planning to attend an event, prepare for it. People do business with those they know and trust.

Remember that effective networking is all about building relationships—not collecting cards.

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Serving all your dental needs and staying

Green

the decisions we make today have a direct effect on the air our patients, our patient’s children, and our children will breathe tomorrow. It is for this reason that the Lasting Impressions Dental Group team is committed to making sure our business is an eco-friendly one.

We have begun to reduce our carbon footprint by implementing the following practices: • Digital x-rays as oppose to traditional ones which completely eliminates foil waste and the toxic chemicals used in the developing process of traditional x-rays

By Dr. Kahlilah McAfee In today’s world everyone has an increased awareness of how our day to day routines effect the environment and global warming. All things are considered from how we choose to commute to work to how often we water the grass.

The dental field is not exempt from these practices and precautions. The products used and disposed of when practicing dentistry have a major impact on the amount of waste and toxins released into the environment. According to the EDA traditional x-rays taken in a dental office generate 4.8 million packs of lead foil that must be disposed of yearly and 28 million liters of fixer, a toxic chemical used in the x-ray developing process. Mentioning the by products and toxic chemicals produced with traditional x-rays is merely one facet of waste produced by the practice of dentistry. This is not to mention the myriad of other materials disposed of, i.e.: patient bibs, suction tips, plastic chair covers, etc.

We at Lasting Impressions Dental Group are aware of how our business can impact the environment. Because we are a family oriented business we are compassionate about the fact that

• Paperless charts which significantly reduces our paper waste • Most chemicals used in our sterilization and disinfecting process are labeled as environmentally friendly • Our staff lounge is no longer stocked with Styrofoam and plastic cups instead each team member was given a mug that he or she is to use daily which reduces the amount of trash we produce daily • All computers are turned off nightly reducing our daily energy use • All recyclable materials are recycled As you can see Lasting Impressions Dental Group is doing our part to “go green.” Go green with us by visiting our office and learning how a few minor adjustments in your daily oral hygiene practices can positively effect the environment.

Lasting Impressions Dental Group 4418 Almeda Houston, Texas 77004 Drs. Alison Scott Cuillier, Rhesa Bautista, Khalilah McAfee

713.528.0040

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Winners Believe

By William McElrath, Author/Entrepreneur

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inners are not always the strongest, smartest, most beautiful, or most talented. They do not always go to the best schools, live in the best neighborhoods, nor born to successful parents. All Winners have one thing in common: Winners believe in their heart they can win. They believe in their ability, passion, and potential. Winners believe in their dreams and visualize winning in their mind and soul. They believe life is not a written script and know their present situation is not their ultimate destination. Winners are unwilling to let circumstances or bad situations trap them from their goal. They do not listen to those who doubt, shy away from those who fear, and run from those who have no confidence. Winners listen to a voice deep inside that says, “You can win!”

Winners know there are tremendous challenges awaiting them on the road to success. They see a road less traveled and littered with roadblocks, detours, and delays. Winners realize success is not immediate because they are not ready. Being a diamond in the rough with the will to win, winners accept the challenge and prepare. They create a plan to achieve it and adopt a mindset to make it happen. Winners study, learn, practice, and

participate. They try, fail, and try again; fall, get up, and keep going, never losing sight of their objective. Winners are willing to climb the mountain of doubt, wade the waters of despair, and ride the rapids of hopelessness to stand on that peak called victory. They see each obstacle as a learning experience, making them better, smarter, stronger and enabling them to transform their dreams into reality.

Winners are not born, WINNERS BELIEVE! WINNERS BELIEVE in their HEART they have what it takes to achieve their goal. WINNERS BELIEVE they can put forth the effort to make it happen. WINNERS BELIEVE commitment, performance, persistence, and perseverance are the tools needed to build the bridge to their dreams. Even when the road seems long and hard with no end in sight, WINNERS BELIEVE they can weather the storm and enjoy the Sunshine of Success. WINNERS BELIEVE! If you would like to purchase a word portrait please contact William at 281.508.1097 or contact us at anwcommunications@yahoo.com. © All Rights Reserved

William McElrath & MR. D-MARS June 2010

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A Trusted Name When Caring Counts - Troy B. Smith, CFSP, MBIE

Anyone who has lost a loved one, knows the importance of quality service, compassion and attention from the funeral home you select to lay that loved one to rest. It’s a concept that Troy B. Smith has prided himself on for more than two decades.

Troy B. Smith, CFSP, MBIE is the new proprietor of Troy B. Smith Professional Services located in the southeast (Sunnyside) area of Houston, Texas. Troy is no stranger to the career of funeral service as he began his career in the 1980’s. For twenty-two years, he was a dedicated employee at a prestigious African-American family owned funeral home located in the South Park area of Houston, Texas.

Because of his compassionate, car-

in 1989. He continued to be a student in the field of funeral service and attained his Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP) from the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice, where he serves as an Ambassador for the Academy.

Troy understands the importance of providing the best quality of care for the families seeking his services; thus, he consistently expands his knowledge in his field at every chance he gets.

For instance, he applied and became an accepted Member of the British Institute of ing, thoughtful and sympathetic atti- Embalmers (MBIE). tude, his families are especially grateSmith is a Christian who loves ful to him for his caring enough to the Lord. From this love, he consistake rides to the residence, or wherever needed, in order to make the inevitable easier on the family and their relatives.

This attitude has allowed him to build lasting relationships with families in Houston and surrounding areas. For many families, he has become “their funeral director Troy.”- the man that allows families to focus on remembering their loved one not on the stress of the technical issues of their homecoming.

Smith, a product of the Sunnyside area, found his niche in funeral service when he attended and graduated from Commonwealth College of Funeral Service with an Associate of Science Degree

Unrelenting Focus on Ultimate Purpose Prevails rabolas at Discovery Green in downtown Houston. You can hear someone speak in no more than a whisper from over 60 feet away. Stepping outside the focal point will not get as good results, even if closer to the sound.

So, too, in life and business, we CAN do more than we may otherwise do when we place ourselves in an environment where we can focus on the right things. 2 Corinthians 4:18 is instructive to surrender less to tempoBy Craig Anthony Nicholas, S.E. ral or sensational benefits but more to Contributing Writer those enduring, intangible results.

It takes keen oversight, cognitive Something amazing happens when dissonance, and due diligence to excel you sit inside the large, limestone, pa- in business.

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Why increase your network without the ability to influence them? Why automate if you have yet to refine or master your current processes? Why pay more fees to have a more diverse portfolio when the renowned investor, Warren Buffett, concedes that a low-cost index can outperform major market indexes and a majority of diversified managed money? A tighter business focus can do more than all that is said of diversity if you mind what matters most.

Consolidate strength with effective partners for cooperative economics and give priority to a higher purpose to the exclusion of others. Let each step bring you closer to where you want to be. If

tently goes beyond serving those families who lost their loved one to serving families throughout the community.

Under Smith’s leadership as President of the Houston Funeral Directors and Morticians Association for two separate terms, membership has increased immensely; resulting in more and more individuals participating in giving back to the community by providing toys and food for the less fortunate and scholarships to those entering the funeral service industry.

Smith’s dedication to his trade is evident in his actions. In 2007, he was recognized as Professional of the Yearan honor he does not take for granted, “for every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord.”

Losing a family member is a very difficult time. Eliminate the need for your family to make difficult decisions during a time of emotional stress by trusting Troy B. Smith Professional Services.

For more information contact Troy Smith @ 713.734.8769 or tbsmithcfsp@hotmail.com.

an activity is not in alignment with your purpose, it is not qualified in the budget or as an activity for your business.

As much as we must remember, imagine, and be creative, we must also develop the ability to kill a thought dead.

Matters get out of control if you do not control them when you can. Delete extraneous items to give more priority to outcomes that are of most consequence.

If you are serious about letting your light shine in your business, you cannot escape engagement with conflict. You have to be willing to let your light shine even when wax from that candle falls down and burns your hand. Your preparation and commitment to integrity will magnify your capacity to prevail at your game and show what you are made of even in low tides or hurricane force winds. To paraphrase Ella Wheeler Wilcox, “There is no chance, no destiny, no fate, that can hinder or deter the firm resolve of a determined soul.”

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Strictly a Successful Student

By Heather Haukaas Contributing Writer

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s an undergraduate at The University of Alabama I remember reading a shirt that said, “You can always retake a class but you can never relive a great

June 2010

party.” For many of us college is our first time being on our own. We no longer have a “parent figure” forcing us to wake up for class, to do our homework or to be to be home by a certain hour. We are FREE! With this newly discovered freedom it is easy to forget to study, study, study because we are so busy having fun.

If our parents were to buy us a shirt to wear around campus it would probably say, “Work hard, study harder, stay focused; there will always be a party.” As young people we forget that our parents were once in our shoes. They were once on their own breathing “first time freedom.” If you are anything like me all the great advice about handling your business went in one ear and out the other as you set your books aside and said I’ll study later.

In an economy that is recovering from one of the worst economic crises it has ever experienced the undergraduate “golden” diploma that offered promises

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of better jobs and better pay is overshadowed by the many Americans that have obtained degrees beyond an undergraduate degree. This undergraduate diploma is even further overshadowed when it comes with a mediocre transcript because of a college experience filled with lots of fun and extracurricular activities.

Now that I am a member of the “real” world I wish I could go back to college and do so many things differently. One of those things would be comitting myself less to having fun and more to being “strictly business.” My father always gave me some wise advice that I would like to pass on: (1) Pick a major in college that distinguishes you from every other major. A major that you had to go to school for to perform that career. For instance, a person with an engineering degree does not have to compete with a general studies major, biology major, etc. for a job because you have to have an engineering degree to be an engineer.

(2) College is about showing employers that you are coachable and have the desire to learn. The better your grades are shows employers you take pride in your work. (3) Give 100 percent of yourself to every task. (4) STUDY! It is easier to retain information when you comitt yourself to learning it everyday. I was able to cram for many tests; however, I prevented myself from learning the material. I only learned enough to pass the class. (5) College is the survival mode of your life. It is better to sacrifice now and have everything you desire later. (6) We are all individuals with different interests. Learn yourself and choose a major that YOU are interested in. When you are passionate about something it will not feel like work. In return, you will be happy to make the sacrifice to achieve the results.

Everything worth having is worth working for. If you want something badly enough you will find a way to make it happen. Do not make the mistake of looking at someone at the peak of their career without considering the sacrifice they had to make along the way. Success comes with a price that must be paid throughout life. Most of the time that price is handling your business- whatever business that may be!

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Everyday Family Savings Time Out for Games: Your Passion is on the Line Made Easy and Fun

By Wykesha C. Hayes, M.Ed Contributing Writer

The U.S. economy is showing signs of a turnaround, however the recession taught many Americans responsible spending habits that will stick with them years to come. Many families are implementing small everyday changes that will curb those small everyday costs that can really add up over time. Some of the best, simplest and most fun ways that your family can start saving money today include:

Go Green Around the House: Save money and do something for the planet by getting the whole family involved in easy, everyday ways to go green around the house. For example: turn off lights not in use; limit showers to 5 minutes; avoid running appliances like the dishwasher or washing machine without a full load; and use washable dishtowels for drying and cleaning rather than paper towels.

Kick Paid Directory Assistance to the Curb: Americans make billions of calls to paid directory assistance services every year, and some providers charge as much as $2 per call. Next time you reach for the phone to call 411, try a free alternative service such as 1-800-Justdial (1800-587-8342). 1-800-Justdial provides live operator service 24 hours a day, delivering local listings via text or e-mail and can even connect your call free of charge. You can also get recommendations for local restaurants, plumbers, tow trucks, dentists, florists, movies, events and hundreds of other categories. Anyone in the family who can use a phone can take advantage of the cost savings.

Shop Smarter: Families can save big by buying store-brand groceries, buying items online in bulk (many companies offer free shipping on large orders), planning meals around proteins that are on special and always heading to the grocery store with a set shopping list and sticking to it.

Hit the Library: We all know you can check out books for free at the library rather than buying them, but did you know that most local libraries carry DVDs and video games as well? Most libraries even carry the latest seasons of popular television series on DVD. Plan a Saturday evening around a home-cooked meal, a free DVD from the library and board games for a low-cost and fun family night.

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Skip the Amusement Park: Family trips to the amusement park can end up costing hundreds of dollars.

Read your local newspaper and keep an eye out for fun, low-cost, family-oriented events in your neighborhood like street fairs and festivals, carnivals, free concerts, fun runs and volunteer drives.

“Once you are conscious of it, there are really simple and easy ways to save money that the whole family can support,” says V.S.S. Mani, founder and CEO of 1-800-Justdial. “There’s no need to cut out necessitates or even fun extras. Just be aware of lower cost and free alternatives to some of the everyday things you do and you’ll find that saving a little here and there can really go a long way.”

-Family Features www.

If you are a business owner or an aspiring business owner who’s still trying to figure it out…this article is for you.

As an educator, my responsibility, which also happens to be my passion, is to empower and teach others how to reach their greatest potential. My students and my clients rely upon me to provide them with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve their academic goals.

In some cases however; once taught, my students still fall short of achieving. After pondering and reevaluating, I soon realize that the problem lies not within their knowledge or skill set but their confidence. So what do I do then?

Well the answer is simple. Because I care deeply about their success I look them square in the eye and activate my tough love strategy. IT WORKS! You see, some students need to be reminded that their goals, and their lives are not deemed successful by what they do to prepare externally, but also, what they allow to happen on the inside of them.

In other words, they get caught up in what has not happened or what they haven’t accomplished. In doing this, they internalize these feelings and fall prey to behaviors that only perpetuates more negative results. This is the case for many business owners!

The thing that separates successful business owners from others is that they choose not to capitalize on their failures or lack of successes but rather the desired result. Some of us and we’ve all

been guilty of throwing in the towel at one time or another, choose to look at what hasn’t happened, what’s not fair, who didn’t listen, how the economy is hurting our business and all the millions of reasons why jumpstarting our passions won’t work. The reality of it is….IT’S TIME OUT FOR MIND GAMES and IT’S TIME TO GET IN THE GAME. So here’s my tough love strategy, one that I’ve personally implemented along my journey as a business owner as well.

ENOUGH WITH THE EXCUSES ALREADY! Yep, it’s that simple and I know you’ve heard it before…we all have. For many of us, we’ve sacrificed money, family time with loved ones, countless hours polishing our skills and training to become more educated only to reach a minimal level of success. If we are going to play the game, it’s time to play the game. It’s time to move forward with our plans, it’s time to prepare strategically, it’s time to get in the company of mentors, it’s time to execute, but most importantly, it’s time to believe that we deserve success!

Let’s evaluate our journey over the past ten years. Now, let’s evaluate where we honestly expect to be in ten years based on the things that we are internalizing about our business right now.

Remember, so as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he!(Proverbs 23:7) Regardless of what your current revenue sheet or client list says now, are you operating your business as if you are operating a Fortune 500 company? Are you working your business as if you are working for someone else? If the answer is NO, it’s time to change our mind set and get serious about our game plan. Bottom line…our GOD GIVEN PASSION and POTENTIAL IS IN DANGER! So, let’s get busy…the world is waiting on us.

For more information please contact Wykesha Hayes @ 281-235-3928, www. keey2kids.com or http://wykeeyshahayes. blogspot.com.

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Business The Fastest Way to MakeOver... Hey, Making Money Online It’s Strictly Business

By T. Q. Dolye Contributing Writer It was an awesome experience on January 17, 1997, at the Shrine of the Black Madonna with my newly autographed version of Think and Grow Rich: A Black’s Choice. The co-author, Dennis Kimbro, was an inspiration and notably launched my appreciation for entrepreneurship and Black economic development and led to my chairmanship of three Black MBA Black Leadership Conferences, which meant hosting local, national and international business leaders to our city.

With the list of notable Black leaders, inventors, role models and events dating back a few hundred years, Black economical statistics should be quite impressive. Well, in truth, statistics show that the Black purchasing power is $1 trillion of the U.S. $14 trillion economy, with 97 percent of those dollars spent outside the Black community.

Money changes hands: 25 times in the Jewish community 17 times in the Asian community 12 times in the Latino community 1 time in the Black community These are alarming statistics, though more statistics can paint the full picture of our plight. The bottom-line message is that Black business should endeavor and our spirit for entrepreneurship shall not falter. But a business makeover is

overdue and it begins by ceasing with the “give me the hook up.” Example: In the interest of growing her business, Batina provided the “hook up” on consulting services to another entrepreneur, Chandra, whom Batina bought full services herself multiple times. At conclusion of service delivery, Chandra had a great deal and Batina had zero profit. Shame on Chandra and shame on Batina. Now with a different perception of her client, Batina was no longer available to provide future services to Chandra, having fired her as a client.

Yes, you can fire a client but I suggest exercising other options over this drastic measure. You do this by managing expectations around costs, deliverables, and timelines up front. This establishes good behavior for both parties - professionalism, civility, and respect.

So, while Black businesses are securing greater support from Black consumers, we should also explore other opportunities. Lee Green, Chairman of the National Black Business Trade Association, says that the “apparent negative” of low Black-on-Black consumerism has its positives because it puts Blacks entrepreneurs in a better position to compete. With a broader consumer base as our audience we can adapt our strategies, marketing, and communications in new, creative ways. There are those of us who are mastering these abilities. Those who are not can start with the basics: • Regularly secure customer feedback • Perform quality checks • Maintain high work ethic and deliver exceptional customer service • Offer promotions • Attend trade shows to remain current I suspect that those reading this column are diverse, goal-oriented, practical consumers and/or entrepreneurs. Your choice to stimulate or be a stimulant in the Black economy should not be truly altruistic but driven by the power of the product or service at hand.

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal Call US TODAY! June 2010

By Elizabeth McGee Contributing Writer

We all want to make money fast, especially online. If making money fast on the Internet interests you, I’ve got two surefire methods for not only creating income online but these methods will help generate residual income as well. These are not difficult methods for making money online but they do require commitment and the will to take action.

Create Your Own Information Ebook Creating information products is a huge, wide-open opportunity that offers excellent potential for anyone that recognizes it.

A good information product is typically designed to provide a solution to a problem. People don’t always have the time or the patience to research so they love it when someone can come up with a solution that is simple, precise and to the point.

Everyone, I don’t care who you are, has some knowledge about something.

If you dig down deep into your brain, I know you can find the knowledge you possess. Once you realize what you know and how you can turn that knowledge into information for a thirsty market, you’ve got a winner.

I’m not talking about creating lengthy detailed, “stuffed with fluff ” boring reports, I’m talking about creating small reports that pack a punch and give people information they need. Once you create your report, your next job will be to create a sales letter that also packs a punch. Simply write down the powerful benefits that your report delivers and outline them in a sales letter that your viewers won’t be able to resist.

The best thing about creating information products is that it offers extremely high profit margins and you will get paid over and over for writing something once. That’s what residual income is all about. But one of the things I appreciate most about creating my own information product is that there are no delivery costs or inventory to maintain.

Start a blog

means for people to freely voice their opinions or solicit interaction online; however Blogs have become the prefect media for businesses as well. It’s a way for you to engage your readers in a topic that interests them. You can do this by writing informative and interesting blog posts, finding news items, encouraging feedback from readers, etc. Of course if you have a product or service, by all means you will want to use your blog to promote it.

The more information you can place on your blog and the more feedback you can generate, the more successful you’ll be. I recommend getting started with the free services of blogger. com. I like them because they are fast and easy.

Once you get your blog set up, sign up for a Google AdSense account.

After you read the Adsense terms, conditions and instructions, copy and paste the AdSense code they provide you right on to your blog. Each time a viewer clicks on your Google ads, this generates income for you.

Keep whatever you write about informative, interesting, unique and personal. The more interesting you are and the more people can learn from you, the more visitors you will get.

Here are a few blog ideas that may help you get started: Got a new pet? Make entries each day about training, feeding and caring for your pet.

Do you like to travel? Start a blog about your travels, where you went, what you learned, packing ideas, how to spend less and have more fun, etc.

What’s your pet peeve? Write a blog about it. How do you deal with your pet peeve, what ideas do you have for others with the same pet peeve?

Have you done any decorating or remodeling? What did you learn?

What shortcuts did you take? What handy tips did you use to make the job easier? Etc. Do you have children? Write a blog about homework problems, discipline problems or emotional problems and work affiliate programs into it.

There are certainly plenty of ways to make money online, but these are my favorites simply because they are easy to get started, easy to maintain and will generate income on a consistent basis.

Creating a blog is such an easy way to get your foot in the internet door. A blog is a lot like building a website only you don’t have to find a domain name, pay For more information, check out for hosting or even have a product to sell.

Blogs originally started out as a www.greatarticlesformoms.com

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Family Travel — Unplugged

Gadgets on the Go

Smart phones, PDAs, email, laptops, wireless Internet access — technology makes it easy to stay in touch with anyone, anywhere. But it can also make it difficult to get connected to the people you’re closest to — your family.

When you add personal entertainment devices into the mix, a family trying to get away from it all can end up just getting away from each other.

It’s important to make the time to step away from the hardware and engage with one another. Here are some tips for getting unplugged on vacation, and some trip ideas that will keep you and your family engaged with each other and the world around you.

• Make Family the Priority. Talk about it as a family and agree to take a tech-break so that you can focus on having a great experience together. Keep the electronics to a minimum to keep the temptations at bay.

• Leave Work at the Office. Set up out-of-office messages on your phone and in your email — and provide back-up contacts for urgent requests. Make a list of true emergencies and tell co-workers not to call unless one of those emergencies occurs.

• Schedule Plug-Ins. If it’s just not possible to be completely unplugged, choose a specific time and time frame every couple of days when you will be available for phone calls or email check-ins.

Setting aside a few minutes to plug in keeps everyone from complete tech-withdrawal, while keeping the focus on spending quality time with your family.

Are you planning a quick weekend getaway, a family vacation or a business trip? Here’s a round-up of some nifty gadgets that can make traveling easier, more efficient and just plain fun.

Family Trip Ideas When considering destinations for your family trip, look at places that have plenty of opportunities for you to get — and stay — unplugged. Here are some destinations that fit the bill.

Washington, D.C. is one of the

Must-have tech for your next trip

most family-friendly cities in the country. Most of the major sites and attractions are free, and the Metro subway system is clean and safe. Things to do: • Watch cash being made at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing.

• Explore The Smithsonian’s National Air & Space Museum or National Museum of Natural History.

• Rock Creek Park has 1,754 acres of trails and prime picnic spots.

Discover the Southwest with a trip to Santa Fe and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Nature, culture, history and fun can be found in and around these two cities.

• Nambe Falls and Recreation Area is located on the Nambe Pueblo Indian reservation just 15 minutes from downtown Santa Fe. It features beautiful scenery, waterfalls, fishing, boating and hiking.

• Take to the skies in Albuquerque with balloon rides and hot air balloon events, or on gliders and airplanes. Or get a pilot’s-eye view of the city and Sandia Mountain from the gondola of the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway.

For more great family itinerary ideas, visit www.countryinnsandsuites. com/roadtrip.

Family-Friendly Hotels

Luggage Smarts

ones. Cell phone signal boosters like zBoost allow customers to take full advantage of voice, data and Internet services on mobile phones and data devices, including 3G highspeed data and video, instant messaging and pictures. zBoost travel units (www.wi-ex.com), including the zPocket and zboost Dual Band Car Unit, help you take advantage of your smartphone’s voice and data capabilities on the road.

• Weigh, Don’t Pay: If you can never seem to pack light or you plan on shopping during your trip, get a small digital scale to help you stay under the carry-on weight limit. The Travelon Ergonomic Digital Scale, • Capture Comments: Take better for example, shows baggage weight meeting notes with a smart pen. The up to 75 pounds on a backlit readLivescribe 2GB Pulse Smartpen reout. It also includes a tape measure cords audio and links it to what you so you know when you’re within write. If you miss something, tap on carry-on size limits. your notes or drawings with the tip to hear what was said while you were • Find It Fast: Keep track of your lugwriting. You can transfer your notes gage with electronic luggage locato the computer, organize them, tors. With the Luggage Locator Pro search for words and share the finDeluxe, you put a receiver on each ished project with others. bag and keep the remote on your keychain. Touch a button on the remote and the receiver will beep and Family Travel light up when you are within 60 feet. • Keep Them Close: If you’ve got toddlers that like to roam, you need a Camera Ready way to find them easily. The Giggle Bug Toddler Tracker clips onto your • Steady Shots: Keeping your camera child’s clothing. To find your wansteady is important for taking better dering little one, press a button on pictures. The Gorillapod, by Joby, is the hand-held unit and the Giggle a mini tripod with flexible, multiBug emits a loud beep until the child jointed legs that let you balance it is located and you release the unit. just about anywhere — on hills, tree The range is 75 to 100 feet indoors branches and more. The original is and 100+ feet outdoors, depending suitable for compact cameras. A largon environment and obstructions. er version can handle the weight of an SLR and a magnetic version lets • Keep Them Entertained: If you have you attach the camera to metal surmovies or TV shows on your iPod or faces.

DVDs, everyone can watch them on

Country Inns & Suites By Carlson has a “1, 2, Freee!” offer where guests can book two consecutive nights, and get the third night free at participating locations. Additionally, goldpoints a bigger screen. The iLuv i1166 por• Simple Sharing: Transfer your travel plusSM loyalty program members will table multimedia player has a 9-inch shots and videos to your computer earn 3,000 bonus Gold Points® as part widescreen display. It can work as a and sharing sites with the Eye-Fi of the offer. Guests can book the “1, standalone player or you can use an wireless memory card. Using Hot2, Freee!” offer for stays now through adapter to plug it in to the car for spot Access, you can upload media May 15, 2010 in the U.S. and Canada. drive time viewing. It also functions from tens of thousands of AT&T Country Inns & Suites has more than as a digital photo frame, iPod charger Wi-Fi hotspots across the U.S. 490 locations. Visit http://www.counand music player. tryinns.com/springpromo for complete Business Tools details.

• Keep the Connections: Having a re- Family Features liable cell phone signal is a must to Family Features stay in touch with the office or loved Let us Promote

your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

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you do not possess it.

• Maybe there is a deadline that you are in danger of missing unless you get some help.

• You might be juggling several priorities simultaneously, and you need an extra hand.

• You received a new responsibility at work but lack the necessary training.

By Carla Lane, Contributing Writer

By failing to ask for help, you may miss a deadline, which will no doubt reflect poorly on you. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

I am overwhelmed at work and it seems that things I could get done quickly are now taking me hours to complete. I find myself often on the verge of crying all the time, and I don’t won’t to say anything to my supervisor because they recently have cut a lot of positions and I don’t want to end up one of the people standing in the unemployment line. What can I do?

The saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none” is true. Quite often, women don’t ask for help at work, but they are willing to have other people’s work dumped on them. We women offer our assistance to colleagues in need, but when it comes to ourselves, we worry that we will be perceived as incompetent or needy if we ask for the same

Focus on the Results

help. So, we just try to do it all on our own, which is a mistake.

Asking for help is about managing your time and your career. Asking for help need not diminish your strengths or abilities in any way. In fact, there’s a lot of grace in asking for assistance, and here’s why: • Perhaps there is a specific expertise that is required on a project, and

Instead of risking failure, figure out what you need in order to produce a successful outcome, and try to communicate that need early in the process. By asking for more help, you may be eliminating potential problems.

The key is how you ask for that help. Don’t approach your boss and say, “I’m so overwhelmed, I can’t handle this.” Instead say, “Because of the detailed required with billing of this client, I want to bring in a billing clerk to

The Secrets Out…

Planning, Organizing, Controlling, and Actuating are Strictly Business Functions for Achieving Success

BY AUTHOR NOEL PINNOCK, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC Contributing Writer At the epicenter of all businesses regardless of industry are four mission critical functions: planning, organizing, actuating, and controlling (POAC).

Planning is an essential function in mapping out the business “blue print” and proper course that is required to reach a desire goal or outcome. Since most businesses exist to be proficient, increase profits, develop efficiencies, grow and survive overtime in their respective industries, it is preponderant that they organize and control activities that are targeted to meet head counts, provide services, manufacture products, June 2010

or seal deals. At the end of the day, it is all about the business.

I have been blessed to work in the public industry for over two decades.

It is an intrinsically rewarding job that is ever-evolving. Currently, my department is charged with promoting and protecting the health and social well-being of all residents in the City of Houston. Yeah, that’s a magnanimous weight to shoulder but when the rubber meets the road it is strictly about the business of serving people and to serve people we have to be strategic in our delivery but more importantly consistent. My mother use to say, “A clock that is five minutes off is right all the time!” Why? Because it will be consistently wrong every hour on the hour. The difference between a viable and unviable business is equivalent to the difference between doing right things and doing things right. Although it is of high importance to do right things, it is just as critical to ensure you doing things right. We must get focused and stay strategic in our “POACing” because the future of the business is always at stake.

Hip Hop group, EPMD, produced a song called Strictly Business. Strictly Business was a lyrical mammoth that spoke to EPMD’s mentality about their commitment to provide the consumer www.

with the hottest album offered at that time. The song went on to be awarded five out of five stars in 2004 by Rolling Stones magazine and continues to receive critical acclaims by being heralded as the 4th-best hip hop album of 1988 and the 11th-best hip hop record of all time. So, what was their secret to success? In a past interview, the duo reported that they had planned, organized, and controlled the production at 80% perfection. Whereas, their competitors were striving for the perfect blueprint, the most pristine arrangements and controlled environment, their focus was getting the product pushed out to saturate the market, so that meant they had to actuate at 100%. Actuate is defined as the ability to get focus and put into motion or execute.

We can suffer from the analysis paralysis syndrome and let a dream or business plan die because we spend a significant amount of time planning for every contingency or alternative. Reflection moment, no one can consider every alternative in a given situation because of neurophysiological and language limitation factors. These factors limit the extent to which we (businesses) can make a fully rational decision, thus we possess only “bounded rationality” and must make decisions by “satisfic-

insure timely and accurate billing.”

Keep the focus off yourself and on the benefit to the employer. You are players on the same team, and you are looking for a win. You’ve studied the issue and know how to ensure a win.

Watch Your Words The next time you are working on a project that increases in scope so much that it becomes hard to handle, say, “We really need to pull two additional people into this project because it increased in scope since we received the assignment.

I want to ensure we meet the agreedupon deadline.” Don’t say, “I’m terrified that I’m going to miss a deadline so I really need more help.” It’s all in the way that you position the request. It’s all in the way you ask.

Try to ask for help as soon as you see a problem. But even if trouble brews up at the eleventh hour, remember to ask for the appropriate assistance. There is minimal risk in asking for help, the real risk is in not asking.

You are your best advocate.

ing,” or choosing that which might not be optimal but which will make us happy enough. This was popularized by Dr. Herbert Simon, an American political scientist, economist, psychologist, and professor.

It is time to get focus and direct our energies to stay in a “strictly business” state of mind.

Question, are you ready? If your response is “Yes,” then plan, organize, control activities in your business at 80% perfection but actuate at 100%! The secret to achieving organizational success is no longer elusive but it is within your grip if you execute. Be mindful that potential energy is good but potential energy leads to inertia when stagnation prevails, strictly business.

I close with the first lyrical bars from EPMD’s song, Strictly Business: Try to answer to the master on the MC rap artists No joke on the lyric - it’s hard to be modest I knew I was the man with the master plan To make you wiggle and jiggle like gelatin Just think while I sing and to the brain structure Don’t sleep on the e -- ‘ya see, something might rupture It don’t take time for me to blow your mind It takes a second to wreck it because you’re dumb and blind So just lounge . . . ‘cause you’re a mc clown Or join the circus . . . EPMD’s in town

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Expressions Décor: Creating Your Special Day Every little girl dreams of their wedding day. What that little girl may not realize is the months of planning and worry that can come with making that special day happen.

No one knows that better than Cassandra Brooks of the Houston based Expressions Décor. For over four years, she has been making those little girls’ dreams come true and helping them stop to smell the flowers along the way.

Cassandra originally started dabbling with event décor exclusively for friends and family. Interest grew and by 2006 Cassandra had started a grassroots floral and event design company for Houston and the surrounding areas.

Planning any event can be stressful. Cassandra has set Expressions Décor

Using Social Media Safely

By Tom Duke Contributing Writer

Social networking sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, MySpace, Twitter, and Foursquare are all incredibly popular, but they also pose potential security risks to their users. All users should consider how much information they post on these sites and should be especially selective when posting their whereabouts via GPS technology on Twitter, Foursquare and Gowalla.

Social networking sites are becoming increasingly important tools for both business and careers, so it is important that children learn how to use these sites before they enter the workplace.

A good way for parents to help ensure the safety of their children is to setup their children’s profile with them.

This will give the parent(s) the opportunity to go through all of the settings with their children to ensure maximum privacy and security. Parents should also monitor their children’s MySpace and Facebook pages for both appropriate content (public messages, pictures, etc.) and most importantly, their connections or ‘Friends’. It is important to keep in mind that danger exists in the online world, just as they do in the real world; social media however brings the two worlds together. Children need to be taught to think before they act onJune 2010

apart from their competitors by giving her clients the extra time and personal attention when they need it the most.

Whether consulting for a wedding, shower, gala or funeral, Expressions operates with the idea that everyone deserves a day to be special, remembered, and honored. You can have confidence that the original fresh and silk floral designs and breathtaking tablescapes created by Expressions design team will add to the dignity and splendor of your special day. Please feel free to call us for any floral or event design needs. Let Expressions Décor create your special day!

Cassandra Brooks ExpressionsDcor@yahoo.com 713-459-6555

line, because the consequences can leap from the online world to the real world.

While the majority of people don’t have to worry about stalkers, there are some who do. Constantly posting the events you’re planning to attend, posting your whereabouts in real-time via Twitter, Foursquare, Gowalla or Google Latitude, are all things that could pose a threat to an individual’s personal security. Some cell phone Twitter applications broadcast a person’s whereabouts whether the user realizes it or not.

These settings are configurable, so it’s important that users take the time to understand all of the location/GPS type features within Twitter. It is extremely important that parents are aware of this potential security threat. There are over 50 Twitter applications for cell phones and it’s possible that your children are constantly broadcasting their location without your knowledge, or theirs for that matter. The good news however, is that GPS location information is often only accurate to within a quarter of a mile or so (sometimes accurate to within less than 50 feet). If an individual is using GPS dependant Foursquare and ‘Checks In’ to a location (Gym, Café, Bar, etc.), then it is almost certain the individual can be found there at the time of their check in.

Social networking is here to stay and will continue to get more advanced, and security risks will continue to rise.

Learning how to participate safely in social media is imperative for today’s youth and it is the responsibility of the parents to insure their children’s safety in the virtual world, just as it is in the real world. www.

Don’t Neglect the Accounting Piece

By Ronnie R. Alexander, CPA Contributing Writer You were bitten by the entrepreneurial bug and decided to start your own business. You’ve been in business for a few years but it seems that profits are not growing, or your business still hasn’t shown a profit. You have the experience and talent to be successful in business but something seems to be missing.

Maybe it’s the accounting piece?

Let’s say, for example, that you make widgets. You worked for a widget-making factory for years and you can make widgets with the best of them. So, you cashed in your retirement fund, hung your “John Doe Master Widget Maker” shingle and started marketing your services. Without a doubt, you produce a quality product and the word has gotten out to widget buyers. The customer flow is good, but for some reason, you are not realizing a profit in your business, and you can’t seem to figure out why. What you don’t know can hurt you.

To be successful in business, three primary functions have to work together: marketing, production and accounting.

Just as a three-legged stool needs all three legs to stand properly, all three functions must be given the proper attention for your business to grow. You can make the best widgets and be the best marketer of your products, but if you neglect the accounting piece, your business will most likely fail in the long run.

Accounting is the language of business and can help you answer questions such as: Does my cash outflow match my cash inflow? How much does it cost

me to produce widgets? Do I need to raise my prices? Where can I cut cost without cutting quality? When do I need to hire someone to make widgets so that I can concentrate on working my business instead of working in my business? With the proper understanding, all these questions and more can be answered by your accounting records.

Initially, owners try to do their own bookkeeping using programs such as QuickBooks® or Peachtree, but there comes a point in time when it is more cost-effective to outsource this function, or if the company is large enough, to hire a part or fulltime accountant1/ bookkeeper. Guess what? Your accounting records can answer those questions as well.

In the end, all businesses must ensure that they have the proper mix of marketing, production and accounting to be successful. Neglecting the accounting piece is one sure way of sabotaging your success in business. If you are in the initial stages and money is tight, you can contract the services of a certified public accountant (CPA) such as me on a retainer basis. Regardless your decision, a general understanding of accounting—the language of business—is must.

1 Due to passage of recent regulation, no one can be called an accountant or offer accounting services unless he or she is a certified public accountant (CPA).

Let us Promote your Business, Your Event, or You! Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

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Choose the Rebuilding Right Partner your brand

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You’ve heard the saying opposites attract, but in business, that’s not always a good thing.

When it comes to choosing a business partner, you’ll want someone you’re on the same page with, someone who can help you weather the ups and downs of an entrepreneurial venture and someone who is dedicated to helping you master your business plan.

Every business is as unique as its owner. And yes, partnerships have to reflect dual personalities, but both parties’ goals need to be aligned. You’ll also want to create a process of communication, as well as figure out if the partners’ skill sets are complementary.

There will be bumps in the road, that’s why it’s important to have someone you can talk to. Just like in a personal relationship, when looking for a match, you should not only be on the same wavelength about big-picture values like money, work/life balance and overall goals, but also have complementary skills so that on a day-to-day basis, you both do what you enjoy and what you’re best at.

You’ll always want to look at your strengths and the strengths of your business partner.

“I’m great with the creative/marketing side,” says business owner Rene Lewis. “My partner is wonderful with the money, so we just mesh well together.”

Finding a business partner should be treated as a serious courting process.

Tap your network and use professional head-hunters to help source candidates. But, don’t just stop at the first good catch--there are a lot of fish in the sea. Too many entrepreneurs make partnership decisions without thorJune 2010

oughly investigating the many great options that exist.

It’s important to inventory your own skills and experiences in an honest way that allows you to clearly identify the profile of the person who will maximize your success.

When you do secure that partner, you’ll want to work on a regular basis to clearly articulate goals--of the company, for the client, of the meeting or even for the week. Communicate openly about the roles each will play in the pursuit of those goals.

Creating this process of communication is crucial when setting up a partnership. Another is aligning those aforementioned goals: What are your expectations for what you’re trying to build? Are you aligned and sharing that? For example, is one partner looking at building a lifestyle business and the other one’s looking to cash out in three years?

Then, you must decide if your skills really are complementary. Does one plus one equal three or more? Do you guys really support each other in ways that extend your capacity as an individual? If you’re duplicative, then that’s hard to support.

And something many potential partners don’t want to do – envision the breakup. You should plan not only for success in the relationship, but also for the more probable time that you will want to end the relationship, either through the sale of the business, or separation on either mutual and pleasant circumstances or difficult times. A ‘prenuptial agreement’ of sorts is vital to ensure that you do not risk the business you have built to date and are hoping to grow with the partner. www.

o you have had a brand for several years but you think it’s time to rebuild your brand. No need to worry, there are many ways to rebrand your business. Some of those reasons are positive (two organizations have merged or a company has significantly expanded its offering), while others are less rosy (the current brand has been tainted in some way or has become outdated).

Regardless of the reason for rebranding, there are right and wrong ways to go about it. The first step is determining the extent of the rebrand, which will typically be determined by the reason for wanting to change market perception.

In situations when a brand has been firmly established yet is simply outdated or needs to be refreshed due to the addition of new products or services, tweaking is required, rather than a full-blown rebrand. In these cases, you don’t want to eliminate the brand value that’s been developed over the years, but merely make subtle changes to update it or make it representative of an expanded offering.

Aunt Jemima is a great example of tweaking a well-established brand to update it. The image used for years on its products--an African-American “blue collar” woman--was simply out of step with today’s mores. Rather than completely change the brand, Aunt Jemima updated the woman to reflect a more professional image.

Corporate mergers will often result in complete rebrands. When organizations have failed to establish a brand, or have been through any kind of scandal, total rebranding may also be in order. In these cases, the intent is to

erase any previous brand identity and replace it with completely new imagery and messaging.

Sprint is an excellent example of a total rebrand, necessitated when the company merged with Nextel. The company eliminated the angular logo (and red corporate color) that seemed indicative of inflexibility and replaced it with a more fluid logo--placed on a cheerful gold background--that reflects the company’s friendliness and flexibility.

Not all rebrands are successful.

Do you remember New Coke, for instance? While it’s impossible to know for certain what the outcome of a rebrand will be, you certainly can put yourself in a position to be successful by making solid decisions, beginning with building a brand-planning team.

Trusted employees should be included, and perhaps even some valued customers, so you can receive external input.

Next up is reviewing the way the company operates, to ensure that internal processes and procedures are appropriate given the new brand messaging, or determine that they need to be altered in some way. Following that exercise, an exciting rollout needs to be orchestrated; employees must be passionate about the new brand, so they can generate passion in the marketplace. Every department should be involved, since rebranding isn’t merely a marketing function, but a companywide endeavor.

Once the initial excitement dies down, it’s important to sustain the new brand by instituting an ongoing program for measuring employees’ consistent and complete use of it. Maintaining brand integrity within a company puts you on a path to market buy-in, which is the very reason for rebranding.

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!

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The Business of Success: NO EXCUSES!

BY DR. D. L. JONES, Contributing Writer If we hope to achieve any worthwhile goal it will be necessary to be about the business of success. The excuses we give for not obtaining our goals usually do not deceive others but they may well deceive ourselves.

In America today, we find many goods and services that are of poor standard. One reason for the poor standard is that the people responsible for providing the goods and services always have an excuse for (1) Not having your food ready in a timely manner, (2) Delivering a good or service that doesn’t meet the standard of quality, (3) Making claims on goods and services that can’t be kept, and last but not least (4) Wanting to get paid for a job without satisfactory completion of the job. To be successful, one has to be about the business of success in all areas of business. If success is to be obtained, one has to be about the business of business.

As an educator for over fifteen years working in urban schools across the country, it appalls me when I hear “these kids don’t want to learn.” What’s even worse is when I hear it said ‘these kids don’t expect too much from life.’

When urban teachers buy into this negative psychological brainwashing they begin to cognitively internalize the myth that their efforts to teach urban children are useless.

One day a teacher came into my office with a frown of her face and said to me “I’m a math teacher and I didn’t take this job to baby-sit a bunch of losers.

From here on out I’m going to come to work and whoever doesn’t want to learn June 2010

I’m going to send them to you. I’ve got to step back and realize that this is an alternative school and these kids are not like other kids at the regular schools.

Maybe this is why I continue to work here, you know, I guess we should expect disappointment from these kids, shouldn’t we?”

The stories get better. While serving as the only Afro American counselor at one to the premier elite urban magnet schools in Nashville, Tennessee I was angered to no end at an English teacher who rushed into the front office and handed me a letter about the next PTO meeting to be mailed out ASAP. This letter was riddled was typos, grammatical errors, and run-on sentences.

After glancing over the letter I quickly replied “I’m not the postal service but more importantly this letter should be delivered to the garbage man.” She looked at me with bewilderment and responded “what do you mean?” Before I knew it I was reading her my statutes on excellence and success. After she dropped a few tears I embraced her with a hug and told her that this letter doesn’t represent a person serving in the capacity of a school teacher.

She tried to give me all the excuses from not having enough time to being overworked and underpaid.

I didn’t accept any of those excuses then and I’m not accepting any now.

It’s so easy to grab excuses to justify sub-par work, commitment, and/or producing products and services of excellence. If one is going to be successful he must dispose anything that comes between him and success. It’s not personal, its just business.

If we come up with too many excuses for not operating in success and excellence, we will end up like the Math teacher who underestimated the academic ability of urban kids or the English teacher who hurriedly typed a letter to parents with grammatical errors and typos. Again, my disposition of excellence and success is not personal – It’s just business!

I meet so many people who are disappointed with their own lives and make lots of excuses for their sub-par performance, attitude, and commitment to excellence. We all have experienced disappointments in life. Ban those excuses and work around them to achieve success. The business of excellence starts and ends with you. www.

On several occasions the late President Truman referred to a sign on his desk that read “The Buck Stops Here.” In 1952 President Truman said in one of his speeches that it was easy for a Monday morning quarterback to say what the coach should have done, after the game is over. But when the decision is up before you, a decision has to be made.”

The President, like you and me has to decide. You can’t pass the buck to

anybody. No one else can do the deciding for you. So, what is it going to be?

Are you tired of producing less than average? Decide today that you going to be about the business of success and operate in excellence. It’s not personal, it’s just business!

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Motivating Employees brown bag lunches, e-mail, professional memberships, and good old-fashioned socializing are great ways to involve the group.

Let your staff solve the problems

By Carla Lane, Contributing Writer Talk To your Employees & Improve Employee Morale How do you maintain employee morale in a time of decreasing budgets and increasing demands? Communicate! Awareness of the larger picture can reduce those unpleasant surprises that erode morale. Additionally, time spent building strong relationships with your employees pays dividends in the long run. The unstable nature of our current economy can translate into high stress levels but also affords high opportunity levels. Help your staff see the cup as half full, and do it with a sense of humor.

Communication is the key to helping your staff members feel good about themselves and their jobs. I have found that an improvement in morale and a reduction in the stress level among my staff naturally follow when communication is used effectively. No matter what our job descriptions say, those of us who manage people really have one important task: to help our staff do their jobs and to make our companies shine.

I have found that if you do the former, the latter will follow. These tips will assist you in doing just that!

Why did you hire the people who work for you? Most likely, it was because they had the expertise to do the job or could learn it. If you try to solve all problems and resolve all issues, at the very least you will become a bottleneck. Even worse, you will undermine the self-esteem of your staff.

Your role is to help when asked and to give general direction when necessary.

Your staff members are closest to the issue and they will come up with the best answer. Once the work is completed, always give credit to those who deserve it.

If you are praised for work performed by a staff member, make sure the individual understands who actually did the work, and equally as important, pass on the compliment to your staff member.

Invest in your staff Invest both time and effort in your staff members. Human nature and office politics will always create problems; be there to listen and try to defuse the situation. Always strive to have all parties leave the conversation feeling they’ve gained something, even if it was just an ear to hear them out. Ask questions and learn your staff members’ personal goals. It’s a little like asking, “What do you want to do when you grow up?”

Help define their goals, if necessary, and work to align them with company goals. Then invest the time and effort to help your staff attain those goals. People work better when they are doing something they like.

bad situation can only get worse if your staff hides their mistakes from you out of fear. Recognize that your employees have personal lives outside of the office.

Be flexible without inviting employees to abuse the system. Allow staff members to occasionally leave a little early or take a long lunch for personal reasons. Be careful about being a clock watcher, or you will get a clock watcher in return. Most of my employees have put in much more overtime than they ever take in compensatory time.

Don’t sweat the small stuff If you want to set a good example for your employees, you must first reduce your own stress level. When you are uptight and ready for combat, the general stress level of your staff will skyrocket and morale will plummet. Avoid conditioned responses; instead, think about what is really important.

Everyone will do something that annoys you at some point. Don’t sweat it. Concentrate on the good and the annoyances will pale by comparison. When you find yourself under stress and ready to explode, go for a walk. Visit someone unrelated to the stress. Exercise naturally lightens your mood and visiting gets your mind off of the problem. If a walk won’t do it for you, close your door and take some time to compose yourself. It is better to be out of touch for a little while than to lash out at someone or say something you will regret.

Keep everyone talking

Employees are people, too

Share news as you hear it. This gives staff members a view of the big picture and, more importantly, lets them see how important their contributions are to that picture. Showing people how their jobs tie into company goals and how their performance has a ripple effect throughout the organization, fosters a sense of belonging to the whole, and helps reduce the sense of isolation. Building relationships with your employees is important.

Keep everyone talking; staff meetings,

Your employees are your colleagues and must be treated with respect. My version of Robert Fulghum’s book, All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, is, “Do what your mother told you.” She taught us to say “please” and “thank you.” This holds true when speaking to employees as well as others.

For managers, this means making requests rather than barking commands.

Own up to mistakes and apologize. At the same time, be tolerant of others’ Just smile As managers and business ownmistakes. Errors are not signs of weakness, but proof that we are all human. A ers, we will always face stressful situa-

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tions. That is why it is so important to maintain a sense of humor. Remember, you set the tone for your staff. Learn to laugh at yourself. You don’t always know what impression you are giving others.

Make it a rule to smile at everyone who enters your office. When a staff member comes in with bad news, a smile puts the person at ease. And smiling automatically lightens your mood. If someone has come in with good news or just to talk, you’ve set a light tone. So make it a habit to smile at everyone. Always look for the humor in things, and encourage your staff to do the same. Even when you are fuming and ranting, you can always find something to laugh about.

Make it a goal to laugh at least once in every meeting, even if it’s at your own expense.

Conclusion Of course, my staff doesn’t work in a constant state of bliss just because we have implemented these six points. And I don’t profess to have all of the answers.

But I have seen effective communication turn people around. It won’t stop the overtime, it won’t increase the paycheck, and it won’t completely stop the griping. It can, however, make a job more enjoyable; build self-esteem, resulting in an overall positive attitude. And maybe next time, the griping will be done with a smile. To empower and engage your employees, maintain open communication which includes an ongoing dialogue and continuing feedback. These things need to occur on a daily basis not just in times of crisis.

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Fiscal Responsibility VS. FUN

By Nigel Mustang Contributing Writer Across the chasm of millenniums the big problem has been, working while at work. This seems to fall under the definition of oxymoronic.

From cavemen painting on walls instead of nestling their boroughs , to accountants doodling instead of balancing spreadsheets. We have all partaken in the problem. You can remember it now. Seven minutes left in the workday and everybody is chatting away as if they are in the middle of Denny’s. The boss comes in and its, “Hey! Its not 5 o’clock yet, we still have seven minutes left!” The problem may be innate with the word work itself. The very definition has nothing to do with fun; in fact, they are antonyms. The problem posed is how do we, as CEO’s, directors, managers, and mail room clerks divvy up more work than play with the equation?

Some of the most successful minds to solve the problematic equation, and

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yield the desired outcome employ Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” in their workplace. Many Eastern executives esteem this work as their bible and require their upper level employees to learn the art of war and with that knowledge govern their employees. On the surface, Sun Tzu’s book is about fighting a war without actually having to fight, and if executed perfectly the belief is that you can force your employees to work, without actually forcing them to work.

He preaches that on the battlefield the warrior with the bigger stick is not always the one victorious; that directly relates to those who hold firm beliefs in micromanaging.

As their bible, it reads in chapter 5 verse 16, “Amid the turmoil and tumult of battle. There may be seeming disorder and yet no real disorder at all; amid confusion and chaos, your array may be without head or tail, yet it will be proof against defeat.” Of course, no workplace should look like the neighborhood pool at the end of May, but the chaos at the end of the day, when people are talk-

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ing instead of working may actually be positive for your working environment.

Given limitations, coworker interaction is building bonds and relationships. We have all heard the sayings before, “I see you guys more than my own family.”, “I swear you act like my kids!” oh and my favorite one, “Uncle Johnny sent this over from bookkeeping.” Once your office is functional enough to resemble a family, your work output will always succeed and limit the amount of playing (not to be confused with fun). The equation will never yield out only work, and if so, congratulations, you are now a slave owner. My point is that families grow together, and when times get hard they are there for each other to help, nurture, and to pick up the slack.

Once you achieve a resemblance of togetherness or family, every individual in your workplace will assume his or her appropriate role, which in turn optimizes cooperativeness and efficiency.

At this point without relaying through several people, you now know who your closers and facilitators are, whose best

with difficult children in daycare, clinics, and so forth.

The intangible asset to fiscal responsibility essentially relies on making work fun for your employees. Company picnics, group tickets to sporting events, plays, ect. The less they come into your workplace with negative anticipations the less they love their time spent there directly impacting the quality and amount of work they produce.

This often urges less focused employees to play more to positively reinforce their emotional unhappiness. The polarity is that no matter whom you are the neighborhood trash collector or Shaun White, you will never quit your job and you will continually strive to produce your best efforts if you have supporting factors that allow you to enjoy your career even if you dislike what you do.

As management we have to realize that sometimes those reasons are around them everyday, and they are the characters and personalities they interact with daily. If an employee is given the opportunity to grow and share, he or she will become more involved and in doing so will consider the workplace a place they can spend 8-10 hours a day and not having to worry about health problems. Remember, its hard to quit a family, whereas one of the easiest things to do is quit a job.

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Tips for Building a Website to Promote Your Service Business 3.

By Alice Seba Contributing Writer One of the fastest ways for a budding entrepreneur to leverage the power of the Internet and start generating an income is to start a service business… online.

Whether your service involves faceto-face meetings with clients or involves no in-person interaction at all, you can build a successful online service business by creating a website and connecting it in powerful and innovative ways to your target market.

Here are three tips to building a website that will boost your service business:

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Get Your Website Noticed with SEO – Search Engine Optimization

still confidence in someone who is considering purchasing your services.

destinations on the web. For example, if a consumer is in need of an accountant he need only type in accountant to receive thousands of choices. Of course, he’ll want to narrow down his search according to an accountant that can meet his particular needs. For example he might search for a small business accountant who understands tax laws for the state of Florida.

Your goal then becomes finding the best ways to make your website turn up in the top returns for searches with keywords most often used by your target market to find businesses of your type.

Incorporate these keywords into every page of your website but ensure that your content is still compelling, relevant and engaging for readers.

2.

Make Your Website Easy to Navigate and Understand

Once you create a website for your Ensure that your website features service business you’ll then need to ena layout that will be familiar to your sure that it contains the descriptive or target market. Consider including the “keywords” that your target market will following: be using to find businesses like yours in the search engines.

• Home page: An attractive, conConsumers have wholeheartedly cisely written home page should embraced search engines like Google immediately convey to visitors the and Yahoo! as effective tools for finding type of business service offered.

Build Credibility in Your Market

Finally, build a sustainable and loy• Services page: Make it easy for al client base by raising your public provisitors to understand how to file online. You can do this through: purchase your services by ex• Developing back-links to your plaining your services in greater website from popular, high trafdetail on a dedicated services fic websites in your niche. page. This is also the page to outo Secure these valuable backline the cost of services offered. links by offering to guest If possible, consider bundling blog/write for these websites. your services into discount packages. Customers will appreciate • Participating as a speaker in wethat you’ve thought through their binars or teleseminars. needs and will end up spending o Not only will this drive traffic more if your packages propose to to your website but prospecmake their life easier while saving tive clients will get to learn them money at the same time. more about your services • E-commerce – Shopping Cart: within an environment that Ensure that your website makes builds further trust and conit easy for customers to purchase fidence in your abilities. your services. Whenever possible (and depending on your business) allow customers to connect Let us Promote to a shopping cart where they can your Business, Your purchase your services without Event, or You! delay.

• About Us: Since you can’t greet your visitors in person make sure your “About Us” page explains a little about your experience, your vision for helping customers in your target market and anything else that you think might help in-

Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal

713.272.9511

Easy Ways to Better Your Community Small town, big city, the suburbs or the country – no matter where you live, you’re part of a local community.

Without realizing it, you can have a big impact on your community by the everyday choices that you make. And a thriving local community is good for everyone who lives there.

Most new jobs are provided by local businesses as well, and local business owners donate more to local charities than non-local owners. This means that your support of local businesses has a farther-reaching effect than you might realize. You’re helping people find and keep jobs, and you’re helping make it possible for charitable organizations to Why You Should Go Local Local First, a Grand Rapids, Michi- continue doing much-needed work. gan based organization that encourages How You Can Go Local sustainable, locally-based economies, Start Subscribing. Get a subscripstates that when you purchase at locally tion to your community newspapers owned businesses rather than nationally and local magazines. Not only will they owned, more money is kept in the com- keep you informed about what’s hapmunity because locally-owned busi- pening in your community, but you’ll nesses often purchase from other local help support local business. businesses, service providers and farms.

Shop Locally. There are plenty Local First estimates that for every of locally owned businesses and ser$100 you spend with local businesses, vice providers in your neighborhood. $73 remains in the community. Only One easy way to find them is through $57 remains in the local economy when MerchantCircle.com, a social network you buy from a national chain store. of about 1 million local businesses. By June 2010

www.

signing up for a free account, you can easily search out and follow nearby businesses and service providers such as jewelers, plumbers, grocers, and accountants, to get coupons and find out about special events and offers. MerchantCircle’s “Answers” lets you get expert advice from local businesses in your area and across the country on virtually any topic for free. Car mechanics, veterinarians and professionals in every industry will quickly respond, saving you time and often money.

Get Involved. Many communities have volunteer advisory councils for local governments – everything from city planning committees to arts councils.

Check out your town’s web site to find out how you can impact the develop-

ment and character of your community.

Visit Local Attractions. Parks, arboretums, museums, parades, festivals, theatres – there plenty of ways to have a good time without leaving town. A staycation or weekend getaway at home is less expensive for you than heading out of town, and you get to enjoy local treasures.

Volunteer. Local schools, community centers, libraries, museums and charities often need people like you.

Check the local paper, community bulletin boards and web sites such as VolunteerMatch.org to find out what you can do to make your community stronger.

Source: MerchantCircle.com

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THE EXPERT NETWORK

June 2010

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