Small Biz Forward June/July 2014

Small Biz

June-July 2014

Forward

The place where businesses come to connect, collaborate, and succeed

Jason Barr: How to make website visitors

customers

5

action verbs that can change your life and marketing Being Connective: Defining a Healthy Business

PLUS:

How to make your business GROW!

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Business Success Unlimited

Where Businesses come to connect, collaborate, and succeed

Are you looking for someone to help you grow your business easily, cost effectively and without taking years? Then Business Success Unlimited is the choice for you!

BSU helps small business connect, collaborate and succeed through mentoring projects, networking groups, and entrepreneurial forums.

Find us today at:

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Busi ness Succ ess Un l im ite d 701 N . Pr ar i e St re et Sturg is, MI 49091 (269 ) 651-3555

http : / / succe ss 4 bi z . bi z http : / / f a ceb o ok . com / b suconne c tor http : / / l i n ke d i n . com / i n / nanc y b e che r http : / / t w itte r. com / s ma l lbi z jun k ie

Contents:

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Office to Office

Welcome to Small Biz Forward magazine

Our Dangerous World With use of social media comes its use in kidnappings and sex crimes.

In 2013 there was an increase in crimes using technology...

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Being Connective

Determine how healthy your business is today.

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What Inspires Me...

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Each day brings new challenges.

Find out where business owner Gail M. Turlaock finds her inspiration

How to Grow my Business Ask yourself the right questions to help increase your business’s growth

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Canadian Women in Business

A monthly feature brought to you by wibusiness.

5 verbs that can change your marketing

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Be proactive when it comes to running you business

Security and the Entrepreneur

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Learn the security risks of today and how to prevent them.

Email Burnout

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With the continual increase of technology do you run the risk of becoming burnt out?

Calendar of Events

Be sure to mark your calendar for these exciting upcoming events

08 Culture is the Bottom Line

Learn how your surrounding situations affect your business

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How to turn website visitors into customers How to keep those passer-bys in three easy steps.

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Heartwood Renaissance Academy Celebrating 14 years of successful schooling

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YOUR AD HERE For advertising rates and other information, call (269) 651-3555.

You can also check online at http://smallbizforward.com 4

Office to Office

Letter from the Editor

Well, it’s June and we ’re

halfway through th e year. What have yo u accomplished so off those goals as fin ished, or are they sti ll sitting there laugh ing at you? Six mont hs in, it’s time to rel ook at the ideas and pla ns you created back in January. Do they still make sense? W hat do you need to do to get them comp I recommend you sto leted? p and take a few mi nutes to think abou t where you are and where you want your energies to go for th e rest of the year.

In this issue there ar e a lot of different top ics, inspiration, educ ance to support you ation, and guidalong the way. You wi ll find forms to help you with setting SM goals, creating a mi ART ssion statement, an d putting together yo ur SIMPLIFIED business plan. Take the time to work on them an d I guarantee you’ll see your business ser ahead!!!! ge far? Are you marking

In the meantime, eve

n though the weath er is finally getting to be a bit nicer t really time to put everything aside an d take a 3 month va Work that business cation. and you will see mo vement. When you tak e time away, guess what, the business does too. So, plan on doing things to supp ort that growth proc Check out the Drea ess. m the Work: Celebra te Business Retreat coming on the 27th June. Be part of our of networking referral group EVERY Frida y, take part in other networking function s, join a Chamber of Commerce, have op en house days where you invite your custo mers to have a cup of coffee or an ice tea with you to share wh they like about your at business, what could use some updates, an d how you could be serve them – after all tter , it’s all about THEM , not you. And that concept is often a ha one to grasp, but an rd essential one.

So, take care, have a great summer and work that work!!!!

(Thank God!) it’s no

Nancy Becher Meet Nancy Becher:

Nancy Bacher, passionate about supporting “mom and pop” businesses, is the Cheif Everything Officer of Business Success Unlimited, an educational training program for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Whe is the author of many short articles and published pieces in various magazines and online. An entrepreneur since age 12, she is known for her knowledge of running small businesses an dcaring about the people she works with. http:// success4biz.biz is where she is found!

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Just Do T

his was one of my favorite stories as a child. I think I can, I think I can. I did it. I did it! Wow: what words to live by.

“A little steam engine had a long train of cars to pull.

She went along very well till she came to a steep hill. But then, no matter how hard she tried, she could not move the long train of cars.

She pulled and she pulled. She puffed and she puffed. She backed and started off again. Choo! Choo! But no! The cars would not go up the hill.

Nancy Bacher, passionate about supporting “mom and pop” businesses, is the Cheif Everything Officer of Business Success Unlimited, an educational training program for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Whe is the author of many short articles and published pieces in various magazines and online. An entrepreneur since age 12, she is known for her knowledge of running small businesses an dcaring about the people she works with. http:// success4biz. biz is where she is found!

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Now that little steam engine could have just given up: I can’t do it. There’s nothing I can do to make it happen, and so why put myself through this.

The little guy asked several of the “big kids” to help, but they were all too busy, or gave bad advice. Again, he could have just quit. But he didn’t. He found another little engine, just like him, and together they worked and they tugged and they Choo, chooed their way up the hill and down the other side ‘til it was smooth sailing.

What I, as a child, learned from this

story is that it’s not always going to be easy doing what we do, and there may be times when we just want to curl up in our corners and lock out the world around us. But with some help from our friends, we can eventually make it through. Perseverance and “stick-toit-ive-ness” are the backbone of our personality. Many times, high school and college being two of the biggest times for me when I needed these reminders, I have relied on that little story book from the 1930s.

But I also think that this is an EXCELLENT business book for those of us entrepreneurs who are doing our best to make our business a success.

When it seems the darkest and we just CAN’T do it, we need to have faith, find other like-minded business owners to work with and to have that perserverance ready because the other side of the mountain is just ahead, and then it will be smooth sailing at least for a time!!!!

There are a lot of phrases out there: “when the going gets rough, the tough get going”, is just one of them. But they all remind us that we need to stick it out, do our best and “with a little help from our friends”, we will make it over that next hurdle.

It! Slowly the cars began to move.

Slowly they climbed the steep hill. As they climbed, each little steam engine began to sing: “I-think-I-can! I-think-I-can!

I-think-I-can! I-think-I-can!

I-think-I-can! I-think-I-can! I think I can - I think I can - I think I can I think I can--” And they did! Very soon they

were over the hill and going down the other side.

Now they were on the plain again; and the little steam engine could pull her train herself. So she thanked the little engine who had come to help her, and said good-by.

And she went merrily on her way, singing:

“I-thought-I-could! I-thoughtI-could!

I-thought-I-could!

I-thought-I-could! I thought I could - I thought I could - I thought I could - I thought I could - I thought I could - I thought I could I thought I could --” The END!!!!

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“My strategy would have been to get out there and knock out that job in two hours of solid work, which would have been, in a word, stupid.�

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Culture is the m o Line t t Bo

P

eter Drucker said “culture eats strategy for breakfast.” Watching the bottom line is difficult to do when you don’t even know what your company culture is. Direct impacts to the bottom line can include wasted time, wasted resources, employee theft, lack of co-worker cooperation or other poor communication, loss of time due to disorganization of work spaces, lack of unity, and so on. Perhaps more importantly, your prospects see your culture more clearly than you do, and if they see a cultural issue you’re unaware of, you’re going to have problems landing those clients.

If you’ve never travelled outside the United States, or even much within the borders of our fine country, you’re missing out on opportunities to observe the cultures of other people groups in action. Observing other cultures around the world has given me the ability to spend a little time in a business culture and easily identify some of its strongest and weakest traits.

During a semester abroad in Ivory Coast almost 20 years ago, I spent some time helping at a woodworking shop on a mission station where young men were apprenticed to learn the woodworking trade, creating jobs and boosting the economy. One day, a couple of us were given the ecologically-dubious job of making some beams of wood weather- and termite-proof for use in outdoor construction by coating them with used motor oil.

To preserve our shoes, we did the work barefoot, walking across the planks as we dipped paintbrushes in buckets of oil and slopped it around. It was 105 degrees Fahrenheit … at least.

The oil was on the verge of bubbling. The boards were nearly hot enough to blister your feet.

At first I thought the young African man assigned to the job with me was lazy. He would

work for five minutes or so, then take a ten minute break in the shade. But in this business’ culture, there was no rush too great to expose yourself unnecessarily to the dangers of heat stroke. At the end of a long afternoon, with more break time than work time, I realized how wise his work ethic was. There’s nothing worth killing yourself over when it comes to treated lumber.

Rushing the job was asking for trouble.

My strategy would have been to get out there and knock out that job in two hours of solid work, which would have been, in a word, stupid.

My cultural attitude towards “hard work” could have resulted in disaster if I hadn’t followed the lead of someone I thought was a slacker!

Be observant of the culture of your workplace.

Take some time to examine the values your company holds that you don’t normally think about. For example: does your company invest in gourmet coffee for your break room and visitors? Or do you serve something cheap because it’s expected that your office has coffee?

Why did you buy coffee in the first place? Think about the little things. Serving cheap coffee, or no coffee at all, could save the bottom line, but on the other hand some people find coffee terribly important. I know a professional, white-collar business owner who has very little personal value for outward appearances but he drives an expensive German car. He told me that the automobile was a critical step in landing one particular client; obviously a big enough client to make buying that particular car worth his time. Know your values, see your culture clearly.

Get outside perspective; you might even invite a foreign exchange student to spend the day shadowing you, then ask them what they see.

In every way, your culture impacts your bottom line.

President of Epic Life Studios since 2008, Adam Fleming is a Certified Leadership Coach and Coach Trainer. Adam has coached business owners in many aspects of growth, with a focus on personal calling and balance; and business focus on marketing, specifically intentional growth by referral. Adam has been a BNI member since 2011 and currently serves his chapter of that organization as Educational Coordinator, teaching members to network effectively. He designs a new elevator speech weekly.

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Our Our Our Our Dangerous Dangerous Dangerous Dangerous World World World World W

e all use computers and the Internet on a daily basis in our business, whether it be to send or read emails, update our social media or sales.

But how careful are we with technology today. Think back 20 or 30 years ago, or even 10 -- where was social media then?

It was not on a computer screen, it was on our front porch, the park around the corner, or the ice cream shop in town.

Yes, how things have changed.

One thing that has been observed with the increase in social media is its use in kidnappings and sex crimes. In 2013 there was an increase in crimes using technology which allowed the criminal element to observe, contact and even hold onto victims without even needing to be present. Victims can be lured to meetings or the perpetrator can use social media to locate potential victims, research and identify family contacts and determine an appropriate ransom amount early in the planning stages.

In Latin America, an increase in virtual kidnapping has grown. In these cases the victim is convinced to move to another hotel where they must remain out of contact with family or business acquaintances. During this 24 to 48 hours, contact is made with their family or business and ransom demands are made. On average they yield smaller ransoms but are low risk for the kidnap-

pers. Being unable to contact the victim and not seeing anything new on Facebook or Twitter, the family or business cooperates. Through internet banking, or phone to phone money transfer’s these smaller ransoms are paid.

Another form of kidnapping using social media, Cyber kidnapping, is another threat on the rise. With cyber kidnapping, information rather than an individual is held for ransom. The potential for loss of company information and access to our files can cause great damage to any business and a major concern.

In 2013 there It is estimated that was an increase over 30,000 kidnappings for ransom and in crimes using thousands of other types of abductions technology which took place in 2013. An allowed the increase in express kidnappings was also not- criminal element ed globally. Express to observe, kidnappings are used contact and to describe abduction where the sole intent is even hold onto to hold the victim just victims without long enough to visit multiple ATM’s where even needing to the victim is required be present. to withdraw the maximum amount of cash allowed at any given time. Most victims are held only long

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enough for this to occur then released with 24 hours. These types of kidnappings have been seen in the US but are more prevalent in Mexico and Venezuela.

Ed Becher PPS is the Owner and Director of Training for the Center for Protection, Security and Personal Safety, located in Sturgis, MI. He can be contacted at ed@ thebodyguardacademy.com or by calling his office at 269-651-3355 to discuss your security concerns.

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activities. Whether this material is to be sent or received by family or employee, or if one of our employees is receiving it as threats of intimidation or possibly the victim Another problem involving of a planned abduction we need to social media is sex crimes by or be aware of it. against our family members or Think about all the informaemployees. These can be as simple tion we put out over social media, as the posting of explicit pictures family photos, phone numbers, of themselves to meetings with personal information and then predators to kidnappings. As we consider how this can be used cannot always be present when our against us. There are times when children or employees use social we are our own worst enemy. media, whether this be on home Many of us travel for business, eicomputers or smart phones we ther domestically or internationdo need to monitor their activity. ally and now take a look at your Many of them will object and fight social media and look at that same us parents tooth and nail on this. information we want either clients For businesses there needs to be or family to see from the eyes of a policies in place concerning com- criminal. How much have you proputer usage and pornography. As vided them? Could this amount of business owners we need to know data be used to make us victims of if our computers in our work plac- kidnappings or cybercrimes? es are being used to conduct these

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Being Co I

Gail M. Turluck is the President of Connective Marketing of Richland, Michigan. Connective Marketing offers communications services including writing, e-newsletters, newsletters, web site content, editing, proofreading; Send Out Cards; the Body by Vi 90 Day Fitness Challenge; and more. She may be contacted at gail@connectivemarketingllc.com or by visiting www.connectivemarketingllc.com.

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Defining Hea

t’s a good idea once a year for the business owner to step back, take a look at the big picture, and determine the overall health status of the business. What kinds of parameters should be considered?

Absolutely, the balance sheet, P&L statement and bottom line need to be examined. Is enough cash coming in to pay all the bills?

Is meeting payroll a non-issue? Is there a contingency fund? Are there adequate retained earnings to provide for the next planned capital investment and the following period to recoup the investment?

Examine your written business

goal or goals. Do they apply to what your business is doing today?

Is it time to update them? Are your methods appropriate? Is it the right time to change a method to make it more efficient or effective? Has the methods of other businesses or has technology changed in a way that will make your business or business goal outdated? Do you have a personal Board of Directors? Have you run these questions by them lately to get their opinions?

Do you take stock of you personally? When growth spurts come, demands on you will be much higher. Can you handle the demands? Do you have trusted

nnective lthy Business staff to aid as needed? Is staff well trained that business can go on without your presence? Are there personal issues that could distract or sidetrack you right at a moment that would be disastrous? Can you resolve or eliminate these situations to keep your lifestyle on track during a period of intense business need?

Is your business mature to the point that customers are seeking you? When that happens, you then need to be ready to deliver to meet demand. Have a plan in place that is adaptable; your business’ connectivity to its customers or clients will be the determining

factor of your success.

Do you make a yearly review of each of your team members? Are they right for the positions they hold? Do you set specific goals and have a measurement system in place to track achievement?

When these goals are reached, are there appropriate rewards in place to continue to inspire further achievement? Is it time to consider adding a staff member to absorb program needs due to business growth? Is the business fiscally healthy enough to allow this addition?

Having solid plans in place to address all these concerns and

have confident, realistic, positive answers in place will likely indicate your business is healthy.

As you serve your customers and clients, be sure to keep in mind the importance of being connective as well. Consistent communications with them will lead to your business being the one they turn to for their future needs as well.

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Inspires

What

Me...

F

or me, each day presents a new challenge: some good, some not-so-great. With so many things and not enough time on my plate, I often wonder how I’ll manage to be as effective as I need to be without losing the joy of life. On this lovely spring day, with a visiting daughter sleeping in for a bit, I’ll share with you a few tricks I’ve learned along the way.

Do

What

Matters.

Barbara Nicastro is a problem solver, strategist, and business executive highly experineced in analysis of complex or factual situations. She uses a pragmatic business approach to prevent or resolve issues. She has extensive leadership, public speaking, negotiation, media and motivational training experience. You can reach Barb at www.linkedin. com/in/bnicastro

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Really

My dear, departed Daddy operated on “if you should drop dead tomorrow” theory of prioritizing: what on your list, if undone, would cause serious harm or grief to other or could not be done without your major input? Whatever those were, do those first. Delegate or defer other, lesser tasks until you have

time.

Look Around You. I often find inspiration in nature or my surroundings. A ten minute walk looking at my physical sur roundings can brush away cares, help you process your feelings and marshal your energy. Plus, it’s fewer calories than a sticky bun or a double mocha-chocolata whatever from the coffee shop!

Look Behind You. No, not physically. Experientially. Take a trip down memory lane and think about all of the goals you’ve met, experience you’ve gained, and people you’ve helped. Doing this mental exercise reminds me that I can meet any challenge I meet along the way.

Take Longer Showers.

All kidding aside, I DO some highly innovative thinking while lathering up or just standing under the hot water for a few extra minutes. Plus, it feels good.

Keep a Notebook by Your Bed.

Much like the showers, those 3 a.m. awakenings sometimes cause a good idea or perspective to pop into my head. But unless I jot it down right then, it often goes into my circular memory file.

Let Your Mind Wander.

Often, a novel concept lurks right below the surface of my mind, as if it were a ball being held under water by an unseen hand. When I put my brain into neutral, I let it pop out.

Talk with Others.

Friends, colleagues, family can all help point your thinking in a new direction. Just like a new outfit makes you feel much happier, a new perspective can freshen up your priorities or decisions.

Go

Around,

Through.

Not

Over

or

Don’t epitomize that old definition of insanity: doing the same thing over and over but expecting a different result. Some problems/ issues/concepts just CANNOT be resolved or implemented without changing course or even abandoning them altogether. If what is blocking your inspiration is a mental boulder in your path, go around it or over it, rather than trying to tunnel through it. It may take more time, but ultimately achieve a better result.

Oops, I hear the patter of not-so-little feet coming down the stairs, so my inspiration for the day has arrived! Good luck with yours: today and every day.

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How to Make My Business Grow From So-So to GREAT An Accountability Worksheet

How to Make My Business Grow From So-­‐So to GREAT Let’s get started right away!

AN ACCOUNTABILITY SHEET

You probably don’t need a FULL business plan that will go into the files as something to be dusted off when you need lines ofNancy credit, etc. Instead, probably are asking yourself questions like “How am I going to find Becher

you ©2014 customers,” or “What is it exactly that I do anyway, and can I tell someone else so that they understand?” This is designed to help you answer those and other questions so that you can immediately get to work making your business the best that it can be.

What is the Mission and Vision for Your Business?

What are Your Major Goals and Objectives?

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Who’s the Right Customer? (Don’t think that EVERYONE wants what you offer. Narrow it down to the ones that really want it and that you want to sell it to).

How Will These Customers Find You? What are your marketing strategies?

What Is It That You Sell? Be Specific. How are You Unique?

What Problem Does Your Product/Service Solve? Is This a Problem that People Really Want to Solve?

What are Your Ongoing Monthly Expenses?

What is Your Estimated Monthly Income?

What Action Items Do You Need to Put on Your List to Do in Meeting Your Objectives?

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Inspiring Action

Verbs That Can Change

Your Life and Your

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Marketing!

I

f you’re having trouble getting inspired, it may be simply your choice of verbs. Here are 5 action verbs that can help get you inspired and get you out of your rut.

We’ve all been stuck in that place where things just don’t seem to go forward. We have trouble getting motivated and our goals seem either out of reach, or too weak. In short, we are uninspired! Master motivator Tony Robbins tells us that it’s not that people are lazy, it’s that most people have weak, or as he puts it, impotent goals.

Some self improvement experts will tell you that you have to have a good attitude in order to improve your life. I would agree with that, but it’s not always that easy. It’s hard to set aggressive goals and get inspired to achieve them when your mindset is not right.

If your mind is not ready to embrace more exciting goals, then change will be at best, difficult. In fact, if you’re not ready

1. Give

Give to a charity, an individual in need, or simply a friend or relative. You don’t have to give something expensive or big. Just a show of appreciation will do, such as a card or a flower. Why it works... giving is a very uplifting experience since it frees your mind from thinking that there is not enough in the world. Giving teaches you that there is plenty to go around, and it will cause you to attract more good things in your life.

2. Learn

Learn a new language or a new dance.

Learn about something you know nothing about, or learn to play a song on the piano or guitar. Why it works... learning something new develops your nervous system and makes you think in ways you’ve never thought before.

Each time you perform one of these inspiring actions, take several minutes to feel good about it. You want your attitude to catch up to your actions. Also make sure that you enjoy the process, knowing that what you are doing is good for you and those around you as well.

for it, then it will be hard to conquer even small challenges. If you can’t take on small challenges, then it’s going to be impossible to change your life to the degree you’d ultimately like.

To that end, I recommend using action to inspire yourself and create change. In effect, we’re placing the cart before the horse here, and forcing our attitude to match our actions.

If you shake things up by taking action first, you’ll get your mind ready to create and pursue more exciting goals.

Below are 5 inspiring action verbs that you can use to shake things up and get yourself mentally ready to take on new challenges.

If you use these techniques, even in small ways, you will naturally find yourself on the road to change. Change leads to bigger and better goals. Bigger and better goals lead to accepting greater challenges... and so on, and so on.

3. Change

Change your routine, take a different route to work, change your usual clothing style, your hair style, or change what you normally eat. Why it works... change begets change. If you want a big change, start by making a small change.

4. Participate

Participate in community activities, a sports team, or join a club. Why it works... participation requires social interaction and creativity, both of which will stimulate and inspire.

5. Create

Create a piece of art, write a short story, make a bookshelf, or start a web site.

Why it works... creating stimulates all those dormant forces that allow change to enter your life.

Sometimes, just the exercise of reviewing these action verbs will be inspiration enough to get you thinking of what you could do to change your life. I hope you enjoy using these inspiring action verbs to change your mental state and improve your life and maybe even your marketing!

Sherry Lynn Simoes works with small and home-based entrepreneurs to build a thriving business through the right marketing methods as well as website design, blog training and design, and social media training and management. She runs two networking groups (Women of Today and Business Builders International) and provides free training to members each month on a different aspect of marketing their business. Sherry Lynn can be found at: http://facebook. com/sherry.simoes

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NOT

e h t d n a

CRO EP R S T S N E R E

U

I

Ed Becher PPS is the Owner and Director of Training for the Center for Protection, Security and Personal Safety, located in Sturgis, MI. He can be contacted at ed@thebodyguardacademy. com or by calling his office at 269-651-3355 to discuss your security concerns.

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y t i r u c e S

nspiration. What inspires each of us is different and for various reasons. Each of us have reasons why we do in the business world what we have found makes us feel good; what has inspired us to continue on this long and rocky road.

The same is true for those involved in criminal activity: they get inspired by not just how much financial gain they can achieve but also in some cases how much fame they can gain. We know through history many of our more famous criminals; Bonnie and Clyde, John Dillinger, Al Capone, Eric Rudolph, Timothy McVeigh and man more. They all were inspired by something and the criminal element of today is no different.

Today we have the Bloods and the Crips, MS 13, cyber criminals, local criminals all who for whatever the case was inspired to commit their acts.

As business owners we must find ways to un-inspire the criminals to look elsewhere for an easy mark. Criminals

look for inspiration and we need to be sure we do not give them that inspiration and that we do not become a victim of their criminal activity. According to recent reports, cyber-crimes have increased. We have seen this in cases like Target, and other big name companies.

But it is not just these big names that can become victims if we do not keep our data connections secure. Many of us accept credit cards, how sure that the data connection you are using is secure and has not been breached.

How about when you travel, either domestically or on an international level.

How much business information to you travel with. Is it encrypted? Do you know the laws of the countries you will be visiting when it comes to the laptop and data you bring into the country? Yes there are countries that can demand that you permit them to view what data is on your laptop and flash drives. What is there inspiration to know what your company is into and what deals you may have

P

R E U

N E R DO

pending it that or other countries?

It’s called industrial espionage and it is still strong all over the world.

The other type of criminal element who have their own inspiration are some of the more violent types who enjoy hurting others either physically or financially. Groups like the Bloods and Crips, MS 13, the Taliban, ELF and ALF all have motives as to why they commit the criminal actions they do. Some for financial gain and some just to promote the cause of their group.

If we look at the history of ELF (Environmental Liberation Front), and ALF (Animal Liberation Front) both have been known to destroy businesses they feel are not in line with their fundamental values. The auto, timber, medical research and cosmetic industries have fell victim to both groups. Criminal gangs have been known to use intimidation to gain financial support from

NOT

businesses, sell narcotics and have been involved in other criminal activity. These groups inspiration is only upon themselves they have no care about the businesses they disrupt or damage.

Now we have to become inspired to not become victims to cybercriminals, gangs and other criminals. We need to step up to the plate and ensure that our businesses are not hurt by these criminals and that if we have employees they remain safe. As business owners and managers we need to do our due diligence sometimes on our customers, our partners and other businesses we may conduct business with. Many times we lose our inspiration to keep our businesses safe by trying to keep them productive but we cannot do that is we forget the security of our businesses. Data security, ensuring we use secure Wi-Fi for all

N E

transactions, maintain track of who has access to our business locations; key control. Also one thing we need to remember as Ahmed the Dead Terrorist says; “Location, location, location.” Is the location of your business safe and secure, not only from criminal activity but fire and weather related disasters? Keep in mind that it is our responsibility to keep our clients, employees and vendors safe.

Alarm systems, close circuit television, secure Wi-Fi and data storage are just some of the ways we can ensure that our business inspiration continues to prosper.

Look at them as tools in your toolbox to keep you in business not as a roadblock to business success.

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2014 SMART Goal Worksheet

Business Success Unlimited 1/1/2014

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SMART!Goal!Worksheet!! !!

S.M.A.R.T.!!

Questions…!!

Specific!!

Does!your!goal!clearly!and!specifically!state!what!you!are!trying!to!achieve?!!!

If#your#goal#is#particularly#large#or#lofty,#try#breaking#it#down#into#smaller,#specific#SMART#goals.#!

Measurable!!

How!will!you!(and!others)!know!if!progress!is!being!made!on!achieving!your!goal?!Can! you!quantify!or!put!numbers!to!your!outcome?!!

Is!achieving!your!goal!dependent!on!anyone!else?!!!

Attainable!! Is!it!possible!to!reframe!your!goal!so!it!only!depends!on!you!and!not!others?!!

What!factors!may!prevent!you!from!accomplishing!your!goal?!!

Relevant!!

Why!is!achieving!this!goal!important!to!you?!!

What!values!in!your!life!does!this!goal!reflect?!!!

What!effect!will!achieving!your!goal!have!on!your!life!or!on!others?!!

When!will!you!reach!your!goal?!!!

TimeNbound!!Again,#if#your#goal#is#particularly#large,#try#breaking#it#down#into#smaller#goals#with#appropriate# incremental#deadlines.!! !

!

Today’s!Date:!_______________!!!!

Date!by!which!you!plan!to!achieve!your!goal:!!!

!!

!!

!!

What!is!your!goal!in!one!sentence?!(What’s#the#bottom#line?)#! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________!! !!

The!benefits!of!achieving!this!goal!will!be…#! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! _______________________! !!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

Verify!that!your!goal!is!S.M.A.R.T.!! !

!

Specific:!What#exactly#will#you#accomplish?#! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________!

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_______________________! !!

!!

!! !! !! !! !! !!

Relevant:!!Why#is#this#goal#important#to#you?#Hone#in#on#why#it#matters.!! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! _______________________!

!!

!!

!! !! !! !! !! !!

TimeGbound:!When#will#you#achieve#this#goal?#! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________!! #!

!!

!!

!! !! !! !! !! !!

Measurable:!How#will#you#(and#others)#know#when#you#have#reached#your#goal?#! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! _______________________! !! !! !! ! !! !! !! !! !! !! !! !Attainable:! Is#attaining#this#goal#realistic#with#effort#and# commitment?#Do#you#have#the#resources#to#achieve#this#goal?#If#not,#how#will#you#get#them?#! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! __________________________________________________________________________________________! _______________________!

ACTION!PLAN!!

What!specific!steps!must!you!take!to!achieve!your!goal?!!!

This#action#plan#may#just#get#you#started.##Feel#free#to#create#a#more#detailed#stepJbyJstep#plan.#!

Task!/!toGdo!item!!

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Expected! completion!date!!

Date!actually! completed!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

OBSTACLES!/!CHALLENGES!!

What#obstacles#stand#in#the#way#of#you#achieving#your#goal?!!

Obstacle!!

How!will!you!address!the!challenges!if/when!they!arise?!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!!

Network!of!Support!&!Accountability!!

!

!

When!working!towards!achieving!a!goal,!it!is!helpful!to!have!a!one!or!two!people!whom!you!agree!to!check!in! with!on!a!regular!basis.!Keeping!others!informed!on!your!progress!can!be!a!useful!external!motivator!!!!

Who!can!you!can!share!your!goal!with?!!!

1) Talk!with!one!or!two!individuals!who!will!genuinely!want!to!see!you!succeed!in!achieving!your!goal.!!

2) Explain!to!them!why!achieving!this!goal!is!important!to!you.!!

3) Ask!if!they!will!support!you!and!hold!you!accountable!in!reaching!your!goal.!!

4) Select!and!agree!upon!future!dates/times!you!will!report!updates!on!your!progress.#!

Frequency!of!updates!on!progress!! (i.e.!weekly,!biGweekly,!monthly?)!!

List#future#dates/times#you#will# report#your#progress#!

Contact’s!signature!! !!

!!

!!

!!

Agreed!upon!method!of! communication!(i.e.!face!to! face,!phone,!email!updates‌)!! !!

!! !!

!!

!!

!!

!!

!! !! !! !!

Date!your!goal!is!ACHIEVED!! !!

!!

!!

!!

!!!

!!

Congratulations!on!creating!a!SMART!goal!and!sticking!with!it!!!!

Be!sure!to!share!your!achievement!with!your!network!of!supporters!and!find!a!way!to!celebrate!your!success.!!

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How to turn website

visitors into

Y

Jason Barr is a Digital Media Consultant and founder of Valentine Web Services. To learn more about how to grow your business, take back control of your time and energy, and even get new clients while you sleep, visit http://valentinewebservices. com/audience-targeting-system.

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ou’ve done the hard work of targeting an audience, identifying their pressing needs and wants, and demonstrating how your business is the best way for them to get the results they desire.

But still, for some reason, you’re not getting a flood of new clients through your website! Everything looks great to you, and your result statement tests well when you present it in offline settings. What’s going wrong with your website?

The problem is that your website isn’t designed for conversion Most business owners seem to think that if you have a website that looks nice and clearly presents the right information about your business, that will be enough to make it work for you. Unfortunately, that isn’t always true.

If your site isn’t designed with conversion in mind, you could be sending customers away before they even consider you.

Designing for conversion is an advanced topic that can get highly specific depending on your niche, goals, and the specific design features of your site.

I’ve worked with some clients for months to turn an already-existing website into a conversion machine.

Fortunately, there are three principles that are easy to understand and implement that could double your conversion rate or more without having to spend a bunch of money on a new website or on generating website traffic.

1.

2.

3.

Keep it simple!

A lot of business owners seem to think their website has to have a ton of information on every page. They have a bunch of pictures, multiple columns of text, social media links, phone numbers, and all kinds of other things. Every page drowns the reader with information, and there are so many thing a reader can possibly do on the page that s/he inevitably ends up doing none of them.

Instead, focus on simplicity and readability. Move the social media links to the footer, or even get rid of them entirely. Keep a clear, consistent left margin for your text, so it’s reader-friendly, and don’t clutter it with unnecessary images. Finally, have a simple goal for each page of your site, whether it’s getting someone to contact you or to make a purchase. Focus everything on that page toward accomplishing that goal.

Present a clear visual path for the reader through the page’s content to the call to action. You do have a clear call to action on every page of your site, yes?

Make the purpose of each page obvious

Do you want your visitors to contact you via email to set up a consultation? Put a big, orange button (or blue, or whatever color contrasts nicely with your site theme) that says “Click here!”

You need to move your visitors from “information gathering mode” to “take action mode.” The easiest way to do that is to just tell them what you want them to do, and give them an incentive to do so. What’s the best way to get them to take action? Promise the result they want, or the solution to their problem that motivates them to seek help in the first place!

Promise that result and slap a big, orange button on it that says “Click here!” and you’ll see conversion rates increase.

Have only one goal per page

A lot of small business websites get this one wrong. They tell the viewer “call us, or send us an email, or just go ahead and buy this, or ‘Like’ us on Facebook, or…”

This causes anxiety for your readers. There are too many choices! You don’t want to make your readers anxious; instead, you want them to be comforted by the simplicity and obvious utility of your offerings.

In most cases, offering multiple choices causes a decrease in conversion rate that is more than proportional to the number of choices offered. That means if you have two choices instead of three on a web page, the number of people who will choose either is less than the number of people who would have chosen just one. 3 options yields fewer total conversions than 2 options, and so on.

If you have multiple goals for your visitors, set them up on different pages. Don’t have your email list sign up forms on pages where you want to schedule consultations or sell products.

Don’t put Facebook buttons on your contact form page, and so on.

This helps website visitors take the next step to becoming customers If you simplify your design and focus on readability, creating a clear visual path to the desired user action, while offering only one desired action on each page and making it obvious, you’ll see your website-generated leads and sales increase dramatically in a relatively short period of time.

Sometimes it takes a couple of months to really test and tweak things, but most business will see improvement almost immediately. Try it yourself and see what happens!

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em il burnout T

Jerry Sarno is a strategic partner with Schooley Mitchell Telecom consultants, North America’s largest independent telecom consulting company.

34

Jerry.Sano@schooleymithcell. com (269) 408-8679

here was a time when the workday happen if they stopped checking emails was well defined for most in the evening and on weekends, most employees. We were expected to said they would likely lose their jobs. arrive at our desk at a certain time and A virtual presence seems to be the next when it was time to leave for the day, best thing to a physical one, and we’re we simply packed up and headed home. paying dearly. According to research Work was something that was done at firm Basex, the distraction and lack the office. of focus caused by excess information However, advances in technology have consumption costs the U.S. economy drastically altered our $900 billion per year. approach to our jobs. Today, workers Never mind the health While the ability to risks – research has drawn are reporting solid links between the work from anywhere at any time was originally frequency of work contact record-high stress touted as the perfect way and psychological distress. to boost productivity and burnout However, the fallout from and improve work-life communication caused by the non-stop flexibility, it seems to have can take a toll that reaches done anything but. Today, further than an employee’s inability to workers are reporting well-being. More and unplug. record-high stress and more employers are burnout caused by the finding themselves on the inability to unplug. receiving end of hefty lawsuits filed by In a 2013 study, the Center for Creative workers demanding overtime pay for Leadership made a startling discovery: their after-hours emailing.

Smartphone-carrying executives and professionals spend an average of 13.5 What Companies Can Do: hours per day corresponding with Some companies have taken drastic colleagues and clients, in office or steps to limit employee access to email to electronically. The packed schedules– prevent burnout and protect themselves over 77 hours each week, if you include from liability. For example, Volkswagen the 10 hours spent on weekend work – shuts down its servers 30 minutes after only leave about three hours for family select employees finish their shifts, activities or chores. When the researchers preventing them from receiving any asked the respondents what would email during off-hours. Email service is

reactivated 30 minutes before they are scheduled to clock-in the next morning.

Setting solid guidelines around afterhours work and drafting a thorough policy is often the best approach. Be clear as to when employees can and cannot be contacted and make sure all members of the team participate.

However, if a “hands-off � approach isn’t enough, there are solutions to prevent access to emails outside of office hours or during vacation time, including utilizing mobile device management software to control when messages are delivered to handsets.

Initially we may be reluctant to

unplug from the office, but having a bit of downtime can energize us and boost creativity. Though it can be a difficult mindset to adopt at first, ignoring late-night emails in the short term can lead to greater satisfaction and higher productivity in the long run.

35

Celebrating years

OF A SUCCESSFUL PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 6-12

H

Heartwood R Acade

eartwood in Three Rivers, Michigan is in the business of education. It was first developed in a planning meeting of teachers, parents, business owners, and other supporters looking for a way to create a learning environment that helps students become: • Stronger in their Christian faith • Life Long Learners • Literate individuals • Productive members of our economy • Responsible citizens of our democracy • Enlightened members of the world community The academy provides a daring departure from traditional public education. Our approach is to fully integrate the arts and other hands- on learning experiences with the required Michigan Core Curriculum for grades 6-12 students on campus and online campus.

Math and Science classes participate in MDOT’s PreCivil Engineering workshops In the English classes, students submit samples of their writing to contests thus

36

the place where Dreams

exhibiting their skills.

Technology and Communication sciences are used in the computer and online courses which each high school student must take.

Every student is required to participate in art, music, and theatre classes to increase their skills and develop an appreciation for the arts.

Each child is given a standardized evaluation before entering classes to enable the staff to develop an individual academic plan for each student. A standardized test is administered at the end of the year to determine the progress the student has made and plan for that child’s program for the next year. On average a student may advance from 1 to 6 years in academic skills in one year at Heartwood.

Our graduates have gone on to be in seminary, college graduates, an assistant manager, head chef, security guard, make-up salesman, bridal consultant, published author, and in the military service to mention a few.

He a r t w o o d’s students are given many challenges to think creatively and work towards a goal of success. Often

Renaissance emy

become Paths to Realities

students will suggest a project they would like to do and staff, parents an alumni will assist.

KIDS AGAINST HUNGER has increased awareness of the need for food around the world. Staff and students together packaged and boxed food with other Christian schools in the area and helped raise money for the event. They helped deliver one-third of the packages to local food pantries and received notes of thank you for the work they did.

In their Senior year, Family Living Class included taking care of a mechanical baby for one week that simulated a real baby and some sleepless nights. A class no Senior forgets . This class prepared them for the road to adulthood and Christian responsibilities as a parent.

Building self confidence takes patience and opportunity. Heartwood offers it by involving both students and staff in theatre productions, band and choral concerts and participation in art projects. Nothing is more exciting than trying to create a scarecrow, attempting to play a violin or memorizing parts in a play.

Heartwood’s outstanding academic program, caring environment and quality staff has been a shining example of our Savior’s love and service to children of all Christian denominations. We are also proud of our online campus. It is a direct link to the Heartwood staff to assist a student in understanding the assignments in a homeschool setting while parents are working.

All of this could not be possible without our ANGEL PROGRAM contributors which can be found on our website. www.heartwoodmichigan. org , and our fundraisers. The biggest one is the Benefit Dinner Auction July 26 which welcomes sponsors and donors to raise funds for the Students’ Tutition Assistance Fund.

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Calendar

123 J 8 9 10 u 15 16 17 n 22 23 24 e 29 30 Sunday

Monday

Month of

In-Person Peer Advisory Board *

In-Person Peer Advisory Board * Open House,

information is at: https:// www.facebook.com/ events/527209817384112/

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Tuesday

of

Events

4567 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28

Wednesday Thursday

Online Peer Advisory Board

Friday

Saturday

Coffee and Collaboration

info at: https:// www.facebook.com/ events/655758674518847/ ?ref_dashboard_ filter=upcoming

Coffee and Collaboration

info at: https:// www.facebook.com/ events/655758674518847/ ?ref_dashboard_ filter=upcoming

Online Peer Advisory Board

Coffee and Collaboration

info at: https:// www.facebook.com/ events/655758674518847/ ?ref_dashboard_ filter=upcoming

*In-Person Peer Advisory Board

Is it time to move your personal and professional life ahead to the next level of success? With this program you will receive A strong support network, solid feedback and perspectives from like-minded leaders, clarity, accountability & focus to move, forward to your vision, empowerment to stretch and grow, identify solutions and opportunities, and best -- greater success.

This is done through a series of classes (2 hours in length, twice a month) for three months.

The cost of this program is $95, payable in advance. It’s a great program and if you want some further knowledge about it’s value, check out the testimonials on the Entrepreneurial Forums page. When you decide this is for you, send me an IM and I’ll get you the connection information!!!!

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Membership CHARLENE BOOKS REFLEXOLOGY/REIKI Relax, release & Transform Your World charlenebooks@gmail.com http://charlenebooks.myitworks.com

AL HOWARD PHOTOGRAPHY All types of photography, from wedding to birthday, to pet and school pictures – we do it all!

Daytime Phone : (574)264-5413 Evening Phone : (574)329-3040 Email : alhowardphotography@yahoo.com

C2 YOUR HEALTH Wellness Programs for Mini-Checkups, Home Laboratory Testing, Health Coaching, Self-Care, Community Connections and more.

Cindy Cohen RN, BS BA | http://CindyCohenRN.com

CHARLIE BATIZY, MULTI-COMPANY LICENSED INSURANCE AGENT

Specializing in insurance for individuals, small businesses, and the uniqu opportunities of American Veterans Phone: 800-578-1609

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CONNECTIVE MARKETING provides communications services to small businesses: • Print and e-newsletters • Handbooks, Yearbooks and Directories • Web site content • Organization membership management • Editing and Proofreading • Event management Connective Marketing offers non-profit management and consulting services. Connective Marketing has a particular focus on sailing and sailboat racing organizations and events. Be confident you can drop your dock lines and sail away knowing your needs will be met.

Connective Marketing 1245 West Gull Lake Drive Richland, Michigan 49083 269.203.7130 T | 786.358.3605 F gail@connectivemarketingllc.com www.connectivemarketingllc.com

Directory EPIC LIFE STUDIOS Adam Fleming is a leadership coach as well as an Account Executive for the credit card processing company, WorldPay. Email: Adam.Fleming@WorldPay.us adam.fleming.lifecoach@gmail.com 574-238-7872

HEARTWOOD RENAISSANCE ACADEMY A private school dedicated to helping students succeed.

We teach students to SOAR TO NEW HEIGHTS. The staff and teachers help DESIGN, BUILD, and TEST each child’s skills, confidence, and self-esteem to fly with courage into their adult futures with the ability to overcome obstacles and accept challenges.

FIND GREAT COMPANIES.COM, LLC We specialize in creating an online presence for your great company, complete with interactive online marketing, networking and even a customer comment and review section. Your profile with us lets online users connect to your website, social media platforms and even locate you via our map feature with just one “click”!!! We are not just another business listing. We are semi-exclusive and only accept the most reputable businesses. Your profile with us provides member to member benefit discounts and the opportunity to offer/advertise your special offers to our online user group each week at no additional cost to you. We are a power packed website with all of the tools necessary to help your great company GROW!!!!

260-499-1415 Email: tbarse@findgreatcompanies.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Heartwood-Renaissance-Academy | (269) 273-0160

ID LIFE Susan Ruch, Founding Partner: #IDLIFE provides “Individually Designed” Vitamins & Nutritional Supplementation based on Medical facts and “Chrono-Biology.” All Products are Organic/Natural, Gluten Free, Non-GMO & Casein Free. Visit to Learn More at www.

IDLife.com/Health4Life susaneckleyruch@gmail.com Facebook: Susan Eckley Ruch Twitter: @susaneckleyruch LinkedIn: Susan (Eckley) Ruch 41

Continued...

KERRI’S AVENUE SALON

SCHOOLEY MITCHELL

High End Hair at Affordable Prices. We use top quality products, attend education classes on a regular basis, and work with all textures of hair. Free consultations are always available, just call. Check us out at our new location! Kerri’s Avenue Salon Too 420 West Cleveland Rd. Granger IN 46350

Jerry Sarno and Schooley Mitchell will save your business or organization; 1) Time; we do the work so you concentrate on your core business.

2) Money; we save $$$ on your telecom spend, if we don’t, there is no fee.

3) Peace of mind.

http://www.kerris-avenue-salon.com | (574) 243-3901

NILES FOUR FLAGS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the needs of Businesses and the Community. For further information on joining the Chamber please call (269)683-3720, or chamber@nilesmi.com.

PREMIER WOMEN’S NETWORK To Uplift, Encourage, and Inspire all Women in Business and Career Seekers to Achieve their Highest Capabilities through Networking and Education https://www.facebook.com/PremierWomensNetwork/ info | ( 260) 747-5202

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269-408-8679 http://www.schooleymitchell.com/jsarno

THE CENTER FOR PROTECTION, SECURITY AND PERSONAL SAFETY Providing quality training for those working in the private security industry. http://centerforprotection.com | (269) 651-3355

2ND STORY MARKETING Three passionate and energetic women providing marketing services for small businesses including marketing plans, campaigns, managing social media, newsletters, press releases, event management and more. www.2ndStoryMarketing.net Facebook: 2nd Story Marketing

43

Small Biz

Forward

The place where businesses come to connect, collaborate, and succeed

Editor: Nancy Becher Layout and Design: Hannah Leitner Advertising and feature inquiries send to: nancy@success4biz.biz Subscriptions can be directed to: or http://smallbizforward.com

701 N. Prairie Street Sturgis, MI 49091 269-651-3555

http://smallbizforward.com

info@success4biz.biz Š 2014

Twitter: Facebook: LinkedIn:

@smallbizjunkie http://www.facebook.com/bsuconnector http://www.linkedin.com/in/nancybecher

Vol. 21, No. 5 Small Biz Forward is published every other month by Celebrate Business Publishing, a division of Business Success Unlimited. ISSN 2332-5887 No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts and photographs will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All letters sent to Small Biz Forward will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication, copyright purposes and use are subject to SBF unrestricted right to edit and comment.

44

45

YBNF Tip:

Value Your Favorites Did you know that when another business page “likes” your page, your page appears as a favorite on their page? Do you know who has made your page a favorite and how to nurture that relationship?

You can connect with the businesses that have made your page a favorite by logging into your business page, going to your “LIKEs” and clicking on the “see all” drop down. You will be able to choose individual people who like your page (your fans) or businesses that like your page (your favorites).

Be sure to “LIKE their business page when logged into your own business page so you can make them a favorite on your page too! Please feel free to visit our page. Click on NOTES to find more tips at:

www.facebook.com/YourBusinessNeedsFans

46

Check out these Magazine Resources: http://biztree.com – forms, templates, and info on various aspects of running and managing a business http://www.insightly.com/Home/Index005 -- we all need to have a way to keep track of our clients and possible clients. With a CRM (Customer Retention Management) program, you can have your client’s names, addresses, important dates, notes and much more all in one place … This program works well even in its FREE edition. http://quora.com – Another in the myriad of social networking websites, Quora always you to connect, ask questions, answer questions (which helps you to become the expert you want to be), and just get to know other business owners.

Business Success Unlimited Don’t wait ‘til pigs fly to grow your business--Join NOW! Check out our Membership Values and Benefits: Basic

Empowerment Circle

$195/yr

$35/month

Listing on Web and in Small Biz Forward Most events ½ price Member-to Member Discounts One FREE business card listing in Small Biz Forward yearly

Listing on BSU page on Facebook Private chat group on Facebook Entrance into MOST events FREE Small Biz Forward FREE Quarterly ¼ page ad in Small Biz Forward FREE ½ hour one-on-one business consulting monthly

COST

CALL NOW:

(269) 651-3555

http://success4biz.biz nancy@success4biz.biz

47

Heartwood Renaissance Academy 2nd Annual Benefit Auction PRESENTS ITS

Come enjoy dinner and a live auction Saturday, October 11, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. All Benefits will go toward the Students’ Tutition Assistance Fund.

Check out pages 36-37 for more information about the school and event.

EVENT DETAILS 5PM Silent Auction 6PM Country Style Dinner with 2 free beverages 7-9PM Live Auction with A CELEBRITY AUCTIONEER. Good food, fun, laughter and many items to bid on.

DON’T MISS THIS SPECIAL EVENT! TICKETS ARE $30.00 FOR DINNER AND AUCTION (5 TO 9 PM)

OR

$15.00 FOR LIVE AUCTION ONLY (7-9 PM)

FIND TICKETS ON SALE AT:

48

Heartwood R. Academy 117 Spring, Three Rivers, MI 269-273-0160

OR

Riviera Theatre 50 North Main Street Three Rivers, MI 49093 (269) 278-8068