Small Biz Forward Exploring the Entrepreneurial World of Today Vol. 20. N0. 12
Small Biz Forward
December
BUSINESSES THE PLACE WHERE BUSI NESSES COME TO CONNECT, COLLABORATE AND SUCCEED
Contributing Writers Cindy Cohen is a registered nurse with 35
Jason Barr, founder of Valen#ne Web Services. We don't just build web sites; we deliver fullyop#mized cam paigns centered around your important business objec#ves to put the Web to work for you! Located in South Bend, IN. He’s there for all your website needs. Contact him at: h-p:// facebook.com/jason.barr.sb
Ed Becher, (Ret.) US Marine and Former Chief Instructor, US Dept. of State, Uniformed Branch, Diploma#c Security Service. Owner, The Bodyguard Academy, Sturgis, Michigan. He can be reached at: h-p:// centerforprotec#on.com
Nancy Becher, Passionate
years of experience from the bedside to CEO of a hospital. Cohen is recognized as an ac complished author, wellness expert, and cor porate wellness leader. You can find Cindy www.D.com/CindyCohenRN, www.Linkedin.com/in/CindyCohen,
Adam Fleming, President of Epic Life Studios since 2008, Adam Fleming is a Cer#fied 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 marke#ng, spe cifically inten#onal growth by referral. Adam has been a BNI member since 2011 and currently serves his chapter of that organiza#on as Educa#onal Coordinator, teaching members to network effec#vely.
about suppor#ng “mom and pop” businesses, Nancy is the Chief Everything Officer of Business Success Unlimited, an educa#onal training program and success mentor for entrepreneurs and small business owners. She is the author of many short ar#cles and published pieces in various magazines and online. An entrepreneur since age 12, she is known for her knowledge of running small businesses and caring about the people she works with. h-p://success4biz.biz is where she’s found!
Barbara Nicastro is a problem solver, strategist and business execu #ve highly experienced in analysis of complex document or factual situa #ons. Uses a pragma#c business ap proach to prevent or resolve issues. Extensive leadership, public speaking, nego#a#on, media and mo#va#onal training experi ence. You can reach Barb at www.linkedin.com/in/
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bnicastro
Kelly Rock is the Director
Sherry Lynn Simoes works with
of Opera ons for Four Flags Chamber of Commerce in Niles, MI. If there’s anything you want to know about Niles, or about the business community in the city or surrounding areas, Kelly is the one to call. 269-683-33720, or kelly@nilesmi.com
Small and Home-Based Entrepreneurs to build a thriving business through the right marke ng methods as well as website design, blog training & design and social media training and management. She runs two networking groups (Women of Today and Business Builders Interna onal) and provides free training to members each month on a different aspect of marke ng their business. Sherry Lynn can be found at: h,p://facebook.com/ sherry.simoes
Jerry Sarno is a Strategic Partner with Schooley Mitchell Telecom consultants, North America’s largest independent telecom consul ng company.
Gail Turluck is the President of Connec ve Marke ng of Richland, Michigan. Connec ve Marke ng offers communica ons services including wri ng, e-newsle,ers, newsle,ers, web site content, edi ng, proofreading, and more. She can be reached at gail@connec vemarke ngllc.com.
Jerry. Sano@schooleymitchell.com 269-408-8679
Charlie Ba zy Multi-Company Licensed Insurance Agent
Specializing in insurance for individuals, small businesses and the unique opportuni es of American Veterans
8175 Creekside Dr Suite 200 Portage, Michigan 49024
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Toll Free: (800) 578-1609
December 2013
Office to Office — Editor’s Note The holidays are here‌YIKES. There’s too much to do and just not enough hours in the day. We have work, ge%ng ready for family and friends (not to men(on Santa Claus), and all the rounds of par(es that go on this (me of year. How can we do it all? The answer is, we can’t. That is, and s(ll enjoy ourselves while ge%ng business done in (me and with good quality. So, my sugges(on is to get a nice cup of coee, tea or hot chocolate, sit down with pen and paper, and write down everything (and I do mean EVERYTHING) that you want to do this month. Time management is a BIG part of what needs to be done here. Look at your list and then start crossing o things that can wait or aren’t as important; checking things that are MUSTS; and ques(on marks by things that can be ďŹ t in if (me allows. When you have your (meline down on paper, you can start to breathe a bit more easily, saying “I think I can do this!â€? and the panic starts to subside. I know it does for me, at least. It is okay to “just say noâ€? to some things, and yes to others. People understand, and really don’t expect everyone they invite to their par(es to show up. It’s just that they feel that they have to invite everyone, but we all understand that it’s not always possible to do everything. The lesson here is that it’s important to take (me to enjoy yourself along the way so that when the new year rolls around, you’re ready to start o with a BANG! Happy holidays to everyone, and please enjoy yourselves and stay safe!
Nancy and everyone at Business Success Unlimited/Celebrate Business Publishing.
Celebrating the success of entrepreneurs everywhere. Editor: Nancy Becher Advertising and feature inquiries send to: publish@celebratebusinesspublishing.com Subscriptions can be directed to: info@celebratebusinesspublishing.com 701 N. Prairie Street Sturgis, MI 49091 269-651-3555 http://celebratebusinesspublishing.com info@celebratebusinesspublishing.com Š 2013
Small Biz Forward is published by
Celebrate Business Publishing Small Biz Forward receives unsolicited materials (including le ers to the editor, press releases, promo onal items and images) from me to me. Small Biz Forward magazine, its aďŹƒliates and assignees may use, reproduce, publish, republish, distribute, store and archive such submissions in whole or in part in any form or medium whatsoever, without compensa on of any sort. This statement does not apply to materials/pitches submi ed by freelancers in accordance with known industry prac ces. Statements and opinions expressed in feature ar cles are those of the corresponding business owner. While every care has been taken in the compila on of this informa on and every a empt made to present up-to-date and accurate informa on, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. Celebrate Business Publishing will not be held responsible for any claim, loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any informa on within these pages or any informa on accessed through their web site.
Printing by The Graphics Group, Inc. Elkhart, IN 574-264-3232 @smallbizjunkie
hBp://www.facebook.com/bsuconnector http://www.linkedin.com/in/nancybecher 4 Small Biz Forward
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Enjoy Your Holiday Take Time to Relax, by Nancy Becher Plan and prioritize, say no to things that aren’t that important, get going on ideas for business growth in 2014 and take time to relax and enjoy this season. It only comes once a year! The holidays are officially here, and that means lots of things for us small business owners. It means LOTS of sales (hopefully), time spent at Christmas parties and if you celebrate Christmas, spending time shopping and getting prepared for the big day. It means getting frazzled and spending money. It also means that perhaps our business will slow down after Black Friday. Others are also busy and may not be thinking about what you have to sell, because they’re trying to find the one perfect gift for their 6 year old. It’s sending out cards, and buying a Christmas tree. It’s getting gift wrap paper and bows, along with wreaths for the front door and winter greens and lights for the front of the house. I can go on with lots more. How about you? All those extra commitments and expectations. For most small businesses, the holiday season is a big deal that can add a tremendous amount of pressure. Personal obligations added on top, and it is enough to make any of us go crazy. I’m feeling the pressure at the back of my neck and my head is starting to hurt. Panic is setting in. I’m NOT going to be able to do it. HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Probably one of the biggest fears right now is that business will slow down and you won’t be bringing in the cashflow that is normal during this time – especially since you’ll probably be spending more than normal right now, as well. Here are a couple of thoughts that might help alleviate some of that worry at least. Take this time to work on your tasks for next year so that money will flow throughout the year. Now is a great time to work on the business of working ON your business. It’s good to think about your goals for next
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year, and see where you want to be throughout the year, both in terms of income and time. You should create several SMART goals so that you have (in writing) a roadmap for where you’re headed, and the tasks to do along the way to get you there. It’s a good time to also work on your finances, i.e., taxes, price structures and more. By getting your ducks in a row now, you don’t have to take time when you’re busy again to get all these items together. Do you have your mileage records up-to-date? What about all those business expenses that have accrued throughout the year? Give yourself permission to have some down time…get a good book (or two) to read. One for fun and one for business development. It never hurts to have an open mind about the newest techniques and strategies for business growth. Catch up on the back issues of Small Biz Forward: its pages are full of great information to quick start your success. As I mentioned in the Editor’s Notes on page 4, take stock of everything that’s going on now, and make a list of what should go on your YES side and what should be put into the NO column. When you release yourself from all the pressure of having to be in 10 places at once, you will immediately begin to feel better and more relaxed. So, to recap – plan and prioritize, say no to things that aren’t that important, get going on ideas for business growth in 2014 and take time to relax and enjoy this season. It only comes once a year!
Schedule of Events K Enterprises – Your Business Needs Fans P.O. Box 6056 South Bend, IN 46660 Karen – 574-344-8895
Business Mentoring, B2B Events Facebook Training, Consulta-ons & Design www.Facebook.com/YourBusinessNeedsFans
B2B Get Together Holiday Bash – It’ It’s A Networking Party Thursday, December 5, 6:156:15-8:00pm (Open Networking starts at 5:30) (Loca-on: Sprenger Health Care Center, Elm Road Campus, 60257 Bodnar Blvd., Mishawaka, IN) This B2B Get Together is a Holiday Networking Party with an awesome twist and we think the very best way to network successfully. It’s a sponsored event with complimentary wine, non-alcoholic beverages, yummy appetizers and will be held at the beautiful Sprenger Healthcare Center, Mishawaka. Open Networking at the bar, 5:30-6:15 and then Business Introductions and “Live Networking De-constructed” starts at 6:15pm. All businesses are introduced. Bring your business cards, brochures, samples. Just $10 to participate (complimentary wine and appetizers). RSVP please on Facebook, www.facebook.com/YourBusinessNeedsFans Event tab). Sponsorship Opportunities, call 574.344.8895. B2B Get Together/” Together/”Live Networking DeDe-constructed” constructed” Friday, January 10, 2014 – 9:309:30-11:30am (Trine University, 4101 Edison Lakes Parkway, Mishawaka, IN) Time to give your business a boost, refresh your own focus for success and join in the fun of a unique networking experience. Lots of fun and a great way to connect with other businesses. Open Networking time 9:00-9:30 and then Business Introductions and “live Networking De-constructed” starts at 9:30. All businesses are introduced. Bring your business cards, brochures, samples. Just $5 to participate. Michiana “Shop & Greet” Greet” Thursday, March 20, 2014 – 4:004:00-9:00pm (Saint Mary’ Mary’s Campus – Gillespie Center, South Bend, IN) Best Expo of the year! One of a kind event with our unique “Everyone Shops Experience”! Networking at its best and auction fun with local charities too. Sponsors, 40 Vendors, “A Minute Wins It’ Challenges, Great Prizes & Surprises. Live Auction Fun! Great Networking! Fun for you and your friends and good for your business too! Come shop with us! $15 at the Door (and you get $10 back in Michiana Bucks to spend at the event). More info, call Karen 574.344.8895.
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Note from Rebecca Maalouf, professional makeup artist and small business owner:
Why Updates Matter: Every fall, we pull the same looks out of our closet. We apply our (one time) favorite lipstick, and we face our days... firmly stuck in a rut. When was the last time you stepped outside of your comfort zone to consider something new? Take that baby step forward today. Call me. I'll show you how to find the best look while respecting your personal style. Call 574-243-1730 Ask for a "Best Look" lesson with Rebecca. $40. 45 minutes. Bring in or mention this note, and it's fully redeemable in product - so you have nothing to lose.
Camellia Cosmetics * 7220 Heritage Square Drive * Granger IN www.camelliacosmetics.com
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by Jerry Sarno, Schooley Mitchell Telecom Consultants
Ready or not, 2014 is almost here. A new year offers up a fresh start, and we usually take advantage by devising plans for the months ahead, making resolutions to eat better, get more exercise, learn a new language or spend more time with the kids. Hopefully you have already spent time contemplating your resolutions for 2014. Setting goals for the new year is not something to be taken lightly but too often we don’t spend enough time thinking about it. To increase the chances of reaching your goals, we’ve broken down a few simple steps to pave the path to success, whether it is at home or the office. One is enough. Taking on too much can have the opposite effect by overwhelming your brain with too many objectives, resulting in a feeling of hopelessness. Spend some time brainstorming and then narrow your focus to the most important goal. Quality definitely outweighs quantity in this situation. Be realistic. Goal setting is a process and ensuring your objectives are realistic is important. An ambiguous goal is more difficult to reach than one that is concrete, so take the time to get specific and iron out a practical implementation plan. Examine if you have time to work toward your target – if it doesn’t seem attainable, reexamine your objective. Make it a habit. Many people focus on kicking bad habits every January. Instead think about your resolutions as a way to introduce good habits into your
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life. If you`ve pledged to increase your productivity this year, consider habits you can adopt to make it happen. Don`t do it alone. Bringing others into the fold will help hold you accountable and keep you committed to your long-term vision. Your friends, family and coworkers all have an important role to play and may even be able to assist you in reaching your goal more quickly and calling you out if you drop the ball. Revisit your resolutions. There are very few things in our lives that are truly static and your New Year’s resolution isn’t one of them. If you are finding yourself slipping back into your old ways, or not making much progress in your intended direction, don’t be afraid to go back to the drawing board.
What happens in the end if you miss your mark? For some people, failing to reach a goal can be emotionally devastating. Others can turn that failure into something much more positive. Research shows those who maintain a sense of humour and don’t take themselves too seriously rebound best and accepting things outside your control can help you move on to bigger and brighter things. So sit down, sharpen your pencil and think about the one big move you would like to make this year while you’ve still got 12 months to make it happen.
How to Use Story to Energize Your Marketing. By Jason Barr, Valentine Web Design
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This isn’t why you started your own business. Sure, sales are ok and you’re getting by. Your customers are happy for the most part. You’ve even got a few great testimonials that remind you of why you started doing this, but it’s a long way from what you envisioned back when you first began. Back then, you lost sleep over the idea that grew into your company. You were so excited about helping your customers, you couldn’t wait to get started! You dreamed of making people happy, but the reality is much more mundane. What happened? And more importantly, what can be done to capture that old enthusiasm and communicate it to your customers? You Aren’ Aren’t Telling Your Story Effectively Your original idea is still good, and you’ve done your homework as far as homing in on your target market, forming a strong value proposition, and incorporating customer feedback into your operations. You’re a wiz on the operations end. What’s missing is telling the story about your business, the very thing that had you up all night with anticipation. You remember, right? Those dreams of grateful customers thanking you? Each one of those visions is a powerful resource. Storytelling isn’t just something for kids to do at campouts; it’s a powerful method of engagement. Narrative is deeply ingrained in the human psyche, and we enthusiastically respond to good ones. Why We Often Do Business Backwards Business owners love data. We love it because it tells us what we’re doing right and wrong, and often helps us do better. Data is very, very important. But it can also become a fixation that leads us to crowd out the more emotionally satisfying aspects of marketing. Data doesn’t drive customers to identify with your brand, and numbers don’t make them buy. When you concentrate on these kinds of information and don’t first engage with a strong brand narrative, you miss a vital way to build your bottom line.
How to Tell a Story That Will Power Up Your Brand Fortunately, you’ve already come a long way toward storytelling your brand if you’ve done due diligence to things like your ideal customer profile and elevator pitch. In a sense, your elevator pitch is actually a story in miniature, and your customer profile describes the hero of your narrative. That’s right, your customer is the hero of your brand’s story, not you. Surprised? Don’t be. After all, your customers are the ones who make it possible for you to do what you do. The customer is the hero, because in a good story the hero always emerges transformed. You are the agent of transformation. transformation A strong narrative answers three questions: who, why, and how. “Who” is your ideal customer profile. You should know your target market intimately. You should know their fears, hopes, dreams, motivations, and problems. “Why” is the problem they have that your product or service will solve. But it’s not just about fixing what’s wrong for them; it’s about creating meaningful resolution to the drama of their situation that brings about a need for what you do. “How” presents the action they need to take so you can create a satisfying climax to the drama. Who leads to why, and resolution is found in how. Arthur draws the sword from the stone and becomes king. Luke Skywalker embraces the Force and saves the galaxy. A customer encounters your company and finds a way to move past her dilemma, stronger and wiser. By casting your target customer as the hero and establishing your brand as the solution to his pressing need, you begin crafting a potent marketing story that will draw in new prospects, increase their satisfaction, and give new life to your business. Jason Barr is a Digital Media Consultant, creating powerful inbound marketing solutions to help nonprofits and social enterprises increase reach, revenue, and effectiveness in carrying out their mission. Contact him at jason@valentinewebs.com to find out how you can get $3000 in web consulting and design absolutely free and boost your organization’s ability to carry out your mission.
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Calendar of Events If you’re interested in placing your events here, just send an email to: publish@celebratebusinesspu blishing.com
DECEMBER
What’s happening This Month?
Peer Advisory Board — Do you have a dream for your small business? Want to see it grow and become bigger? December 9 we meet at the Niles Four Flags Chamber of Commerce at 8:30 am to discuss ways to quickly and effectively grow our businesses to the next level.
Online Peer Advisory Board — if you can’t make it to Niles, but want to be part of a group to work on business growth issues, you can join us starting on December 4 and 18 at 9:00am for our online version. (Check with Nancy @ 269-651-3555) for more info and to register.
GRAPE — Grand Rapids Area Professionals for Excellence will also be facilitating a Peer Advisory Board Mastermind meeting. December 17 , 10-12; ITT Tech, Wyoming, MI
Entrepreneurial Forum —
It’s so very important to have
a roadmap to where we want to grow our business, but it can be one of the most difficult things we try to do. Let us help you get those goals and plans set so that 2014 will be the BEST year for your business ever. December 18, 12-2, ITT Tech, Wyoming, MI
Explore Exciting Career Opportunities — with the Center for Protection, Security and Personal Safety as they hold their introductory bodyguard class on Dec. 13-15 at their Center in Sturgis, MI. Call Ed at 269-651-3355 for more details.
Christmas — Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays! 14 Small Biz Forward
Calendar of Events If you’re interested in placing your events here, just send an email to: publish@celebratebusinesspu blishing.com
JANUARY
What’s happening This Month?
Peer Advisory Board — Do you have a dream for your small business? Want to see it grow and become bigger? January 13 and 27 we meet at the Niles Four Flags Chamber of Commerce at 8:30 am to discuss ways to quickly and effectively grow our businesses to the next level.
Online Peer Advisory Board — if you can’t make it to Niles, but want to be part of a group to work on business growth issues, you can join us starting on January 8 and 22 at 9:00am for our online version. (Check with Nancy @ 269-6513555) for more info and to register.
B2B Get Together/”Live Networking Deconstructed” Friday, January 10, 2014 – 9:30-11:30am (Trine University, 4101 Edison Lakes Parkway, Mishawaka, IN) Time to give your business a boost, refresh your own focus for success and join in the fun of a unique networking experience. Lots of fun and a great way to connect with other businesses. Open Networking time 9:00-9:30 and then Business Introductions and “live Networking De-constructed” starts at 9:30. All businesses are introduced. Bring your business cards, brochures, samples. Just $5 to participate.
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Creating an Ad Campaign By Sherry Lynn Simoes, Women of Today
Creating an Ad Campaign is an art. The 2 most important points you should remember are: 1 – Always include a CALL TO ACTION 2 – Tie EVERYTHING you do together!
THE PURPOSE The first step when creating an Ad Campaign is to think of the purpose. What do you want people to do when they see your ad? Do you want them to visit your website? Do you want them to call you, email you or to purchase something?
YOUR TARGET MARKET Who are you trying to reach with this campaign? Sometimes you will have more than one target market.
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Try to focus on one of them for a campaign. You do not want to try and reach everyone as you will not be able to come up with the ad copy that will speak to them. Is your target market your existing customers or new ones?
THE CALL TO ACTION Once you know the purpose you want to come up with a creative way to get them to do this. This is called your Call to Action. You really need to think deep and outside the box about this. Simply saying Call today is not a strong call to action. Call today to receive a Complimentary, No Obligation Information Package is better.
YOU MUST HAVE A STRONG CALL TO ACTION OR YOU ARE WASTING TIME AND MONEY! YOUR SALES COPY I see many campaigns that are missing a crucial component such as a phone number, email or website. In almost all campaigns you want people to be able to reach you in a method that is convenient for them.
Components depending on your target market and purpose could include:
•A contact method •Phone number •Email •Website
something more than once most times before they act. Never run one ad in a publication. It is better to run a smaller ad more times than one time!
•Physical Address •Important details •Disclaimer if it is a contest or promotion Bullet Points
Remember not to pack your ad with so much information that people will not read it. Keep it short and sweet and to the point. Do not include a novel or no one is going to read it!
CHOOSE YOUR PROMOTION DATES Do not leave something open ended. When do you want you campaign to run from and to? Keep in mind when your marketing methods “Hit the Street”. When do the publications actually get delivered? You need to make sure you give people more than a day to act – but not too long or they will not have the urgency to act.
TIE EVERYTHING TOGETHER YOUR MARKETING METHODS The step is to figure out what marketing methods are going to reach your target market. Think of it this way: Where does your target market hang out? Do they shop online? Do they read the newspaper or certain magazines? Do they use the old fashion phone book or look listings up online? Do they like physical mail? Whatever you do remember that people need to see
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Everything you do during your campaign time must be tied together! Get your promotion out there in as many ways as you can! Running an ad in a newspaper alone is not enough! •Blog about it and point them to the campaign •Include it in your newsletter – remember to include
a link if it is online •Talk about it on Facebook
•Make sure any ads you run include it •Put an ad on your own website or put on your main page during the campaign time
•Tweet It •Google+ •LinkedIn •Talk about it at networking meetings – include it in your 30 Second Intro
HAVE A SOLID MARKETING PLAN Each marketing method you use should be included in this plan. Remember not to do these things just once. Create a plan for each method. An ad campaign can get you a flood of business IF YOU DO IT RIGHT!! Remember… ask for help from an expert or get a second opinion from someone you know and trust. Always have someone proofread and give you their feedback. Would they act if they saw it?
•Post articles online •Do Cross Promotions •Ask People to Share It – you may want to have an
Have fun and Be Creative! Sherry Lynn
incentive for them to do so Email it personally to your most important contacts one at a time is a strong method as it is an email “just for them”
It’ It’s working for me, It’ It’ll work for you too! too Kim Green @ hKp:// www.kimgreen.nerium.net
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Brenda Johns, brenda.johns.90@facebook.com
YBNF Tip: Value Your Favorites Value Your Facebook Favorites. Did you know that when another business page “likes” 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!
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Chatting with the Experts By Nancy Becher
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Even now, after 35 years in business, I love to read about what others are doing, how they are making successes for themselves and how I can both help them, and they can show me new ways to grow my business, too. When we know we’re not in this by ourselves, but have others around us that have perhaps seen similar stories, and circumstances, it gives me hope for the future and I don’t feel so all alone. So, this month, let me introduce you to a lady that I have the utmost respect for. She seems to seamlessly manage a family, a marriage, being a teacher, and a business woman. We can all learn something from her! So, without further ado, let me introduce you to Kathleen Williamson, and her business Simply Said!
Hi! I am Kathy Williamson and I, like most of you, wear many hats: wife, homeschooling mother of 7 children, Sunday school teacher, private tutor, caterer, and recently, a DIRECT SALES BUSINESS WOMAN as well! I love to teach others something NEW and EXCITING, with a PRACTICAL side to it, too! As certified writing instructor and tutor, I developed a passion for words, always learning just how to use just the right words to get the best influence. SUCCESSFUL people are always LEARNING and when they find something that works, they never keep it to themselves; they SHARE it! They care about those closest to them, including those beyond the circles of their friends and family members, wanting others to enjoy the benefits of their discoveries. Interested in what I found? Read on . . . .... While catering at a vendor event for a friend, business was slow and while browsing the other vendor booths, I immediately noticed Simply Said, a CUSTOM VINYL DESIGN and CREATION business! That day, SIMPLY SAID with KATHY was born! SIMPLY SAID with KATHY fuels my PASSION because it combines ALL OF THE ABOVE into one business opportunity. It allows me to impact my family, 21 Small Biz Forward
my community, my world and our children’s future! Bringing BUSINESS OPPORTUNITES to others, sharing the power of the written word through beautiful custom designs, in homes, offices, restaurants, campgrounds, churches, schools, libraries, beauty salons, and more, YOU, TOO, can impact anyone, anywhere, in a profound, professional way! NOW, I TEACH others how to ENJOY THEIR OWN BUSINESS and REACH out to everyone they meet! While our children watch me take on my own business venture, they learn right along with me about the real BUSINESS world. They learn how they, too, could one day start their own BUSINESS. Learn how to assist clients as they CREATE their very own CUSTOM designs to say exactly what they want or need, whether it be just for decorating or on a serious note, for advertising, motivating, inspiring, reminding, encouraging, celebrating, or remembering a loved one. You soon LEARN how to LISTEN to the world to be ready to IMPACT others with these designs. Want to join with me and impact your world with beautiful, professional custom creations? Are you passionate about others? Are you willing to work hard? There’s more! Contact me at (574) 850-4424 or www.facebook.com/ SimplySaidwithKathy-IndependentConsultant604 My educational background includes a BA in General Business Administration from Michigan State University and before our first child was born, I began to attend Western Michigan University, trying to complete a second bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. I LOVED the challenges of the engineering program and I was quite successful with the calculus and physics coursework! I developed a confidence that no matter what I had in mind to do, I could find a way to be successful with it. Therefore, it’s full steam ahead for my business with SIMPLY SAID with KATHY, and if you would like to join with me in this FUN, EXCITING business opportunity, I would love to TEACH YOU HOW you too, could have YOUR OWN BUSINESS! It’s that SIMPLE!
BEING CONNECTIVE— Enjoy the Shininess By Gail M. Turluck, Connec-ve Marke-ng
'Tis the season! We've got the glitter of twinkling lights outdoors and in, our offices and workplaces are specially decorated with tinsel, garland, ornaments and more, and we're gathering for special events at a rate like no other time of the year.
of bright, shiny coins, think of and remember those service people that are special beacons to your success. It will brighten their day, their load, impress upon them your years' shininess, and keep them attentive to your needs.
Take the time this year to enjoy the shininess! Attend celebratory events with a big smile on your face. Get a little more gussied up than usual—be a part of and reflect the shine. Seek out the host and help them celebrate their improvements from the past year. Be sure to reflect the pieces of good news you learn with others and make each event even more bright.
As you bask in the shine through the end of the year, use the experiences to become completely refreshed and ready to tackle 2014 to make it your best year yet!
When you host your event, be prepared with your own examples of shininess so your guests may reflect your year's successes. Make shininess part of your theme; silvery decorations, candles, mirrors, napkins, and more will add to the ambiance. The shinier the setting, the more you will find reflections from your event shining back on you through all of the coming new year. Make sure to provide for plenty of time for your family to shine. As family members gather, discover what is shining in their lives and reflect that to others. Be sure to share your shining moments with family members so they may build your brightness and cause it to abound. The busy holiday season will bring your family together to celebrate tradition; make it unforgettable this year by making it just extra shiny. Remember to spread a little shine around as well. Whether a small, shiny gift or a number
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Gail M. Turluck is the President of Connec-ve Marke-ng of Richland, Michigan. Connec-ve Marke-ng offers communica-ons services including wri-ng, e-newsleKers, newsleKers, web site content, edi-ng, proofreading; Send Out Cards; the Body by Vi 90 Day Fitness Challenge; and more. She may be contacted at gail@connec-vemarke-ngllc.com or by visi-ng www.connec-vemarke-ngllc.com.
Buy Local By Kelly Rock, Director of Operations Getting wrapped up in the rush of holiday shopping season is easy. We make our lists, look for the best deals, consciously try not to buy for ourselves and think of others and how they influence our ultimate decisions and purchases. The state of the economy continually in flux; where we spend our bucks. The market visible, as it sinks its heels in the shoes of those brave shoppers. Coupons, % off discounts, gift incentives, parking and such. Some think it’s too much. Others login to shop and surf, avoiding the heavy turf. One could call a lighter load. But are we burdening the community we call home? After the Black Friday’s and Small Business Saturdays, the hunter lives on. The deals, ads, and promos will continue. People will take their holidays, and pay their tributes. Fact stands. When we choose to support our neighbors in business, we thrive. We make owners and leaders of one another. We can make a collective effort to make more owners and leaders of our neighbors by shopping local. Chambers of commerce exists to raise awareness of our moms and pops, gift shops, open houses, and round tables. Chambers highlight achievements and elevate the concerns of our citizens.
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Chambers focus on building networks, collaborating, and creating events that draw people to learn from each other. Each person we meet; a mentor, mirror and teacher; regardless of social status or title. Chambers promote growth opportunities for business, and community attraction. More people mean more entrepreneurs, more skilled workers, more jobs, and ultimately, a better place to live and thrive. For more information on chambers or to join our chamber association in the support of Niles Michigan commerce, please visit www.nilesmi.com. Building a Better Community for Business in the Greater Four Flags Area of Niles Michigan Kelly Rock Kelly@nilesmi.com Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce (269) 683-3720
facebook.com/ffacoc twi er.com/ffacoc linkedin.com/company/four-flags-area-chamber-ofcommerce
Security and the Entrepreneur By Ed Becher, PPS, Center for Protection, Security and Personal Safety With the holidays fast approaching we need to still keep our security awareness high as the bad guys never take a holiday, actually they enjoy when we take them. Many of us will be out shopping for gifts to give to family, friends and both co-workers and employees. While you are out, think about some stocking stuffers with security in mind: things like high lumen flashlights, door wedges with an alarm built in for the traveler, training programs for awareness and safety. To start with I want to wish each of you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This time of year brings back many memories, both good and bad. It also brings with it renewed faith and a desire to look ahead and set some goals for the upcoming year. There are some from this year which did not come to pass, but I will leave them in place. A number of years ago I was tasked with providing security to a high wealth female as she went ‘Black Friday’ shopping. Those that know me know I am not a big fan of shopping at all, and most of my Christmas shopping is done on Christmas Eve or shortly before hand. During this protective detail, I was extremely observant of other shoppers and their interactions with each other and store employees. I do know that was a very interesting assignment, and many interesting observations were made.
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Here are some tips to follow as well: When parking, use street level parking; it’s safer than that of a parking garage. If you must park in a garage, choose the center levels avoiding the top and bottom levels as these are least traveled. Pay attention to where you are parking, especially after dark. Choose a well lit, highly visible area and park as close to an exit as possible. Remember you may be parking in the daylight, but getting back to your car after dark. If possible, back in to your parking space—this makes it easier and faster to get out if you need to. When you are approaching your vehicle, have your keys out and ready to unlock the door. By having them out you gain entry into your car more quickly. Make extra trips to your car to put away bags; do not carry them out all at once. You want to have a free hand available at all time in case of emergency. Put your bags in the trunk where they will be out of sight.
the doors, or if you feel threatened, see if mall security can escort you out to your car. In parking lots, avoid the stairwells, as they can be safe havens for criminals to linger. If you are grabbed, draw attention to yourself! Yell “FIRE” instead of “Help” as more people are apt to pay attention. The holidays are stressful enough with family visiting, and the question of “Did I forget someone on my shopping list”. Let’s not make it any more stressful but taking our personal security and safety lightly.
Ed Becher is the owner of Center for Protec(on, Security and Personal Safety (The Bodyguard Academy) which is a provider of training and resources to keep you, your staff and clients safe. He can be contacted at ed@centerforprotec(on.com or by phone at (269)651-3355.
Walk with confidence, keep your head up and continually be looking around. Have your cell phone close at hand in case you should need to contact 911. We all have malls and shopping centers we frequent. Get to know the layout of them and have an emergency plan in place. If you have parked a distance away from
Cindy Cohen, RN Wellness Consultant C2 Your Health LLC h p://CindyChohenRN.com
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Good Health is Good for You and Smart for Your Business By Cindy Cohen, C2 Your Health, LLC
“Of all the rules for taking care of your health, the most valuable may be the one you seldom hear: Remember who’s in charge. The important day-to-day decisions about your own health and vitality are made by one person – you.” Dr. C. Evere% Koop MD
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The success of your business relies on your performance at work and at home. Whether you work for yourself, own a small business or work in a fortune 500 company you have to deal with the unpredictable challenges you’re faced with every day; your life has become stressed, messy and out of control. Just take a minute to think about what your work days might look like. Your work days begin with jumping out of bed to an alarm clock; gulp down a jolt of caffeine; then fight your way through the traffic to get to work on time. During your rushed day there are complicated decisions to make, pressure to get a lot of things done in a short period of time without enough help. At the end of every work day you hurry off to your car facing the rat race back to home filled with evenings of quick dinners, working from your virtual office, late night “bad” news, tossing and turning; sleepless nights just to start right back over again the next day! No wonder you feel sick and tired! You are not the only one, your co-workers, peers and family members are sick too. It seems nearly every other day there’s a new national epidemic. The latest? Childhood obesity, diabetes, obesity, insufficient sleep...what next? Nearly 1/3 of Americans now have Metabolic Syndrome. What’s that you ask? If you would’ve asked me 30 years ago about Metabolic Syndrome I couldn’t have answered, because there was no such condition. You may not know you have it. Those of you with a big belly (abdominal obesity), exploding body weight (body mass index), high blood pressure, your cholesterol is too high (low HDL cholesterol) and have high blood sugar (pre-diabetic) it’s you. What happened? A lot of poor food choices, no exercise, not enough sleep and too much stress that’s what! This means 1/3 of you are already sick and the rest of us are looking forward to the possibility of developing diabetes, heart disease, and/ or stroke. Just because you don’t have any of these symptoms you’re in the clear. Not a chance. For example heart disease doesn’t start with chest pain; it starts with that first French fry!
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Bad health is bad for business The price of everything is going up and we as a population are getting sicker; a costly combination. With all these challenges it’s critical to include the wellness of your employees as a top priority for your business. Encouraging your employees to make healthy choices and take responsibility to improve their health is not enough anymore. The time has come for companies and organizations to be the leader, show their employees / members the way and give them the tools to become healthy it’s the only way to survive this tough economy. You lead by setting the pace, being the example and providing a supportive work environment to get healthy in. Bad health affects every size business and it’ll cost you big time. If you’re an entrepreneur you are your business. Even one day of missed work can cost you big. How many days of work can you miss due to illness before you close up shop? The “baby boomers” are the largest segment of the working population. You and the people you work with are all getting older and sicker. With the rising costs of medical care, prescription medications, and insurance this is seriously cutting into the profit margins of your company to such an extent many companies are reducing their staff to reduce these costs. Companies are literally going out of business because of their medical expenses. Bad health is bad for you Poor health is frustrating, tiring and emotionally draining on you and on your family relationships. Sickness will cost you with a lower paycheck, not able to get things done on time, and missing too much work. You’ll be spending money on doctor visits, medications, diagnostic testing, procedures and emergency room visits. If your health is not a priority your sickness will be. When you’re sick, trying to get better can become a fulltime expensive and exhausting job. Think about whom you know who has heart disease, cancer or diabetes. It’s all consuming. Isn’t it?
Good health is good for you and good for your business Sometimes we forget every company is made up of individuals. By providing support, information, and education, the health and wellness of each individual is improved over the long run resulting in a permanent lifestyle change. Each person is unique in their desire to become healthy, the way they embrace change and when the time is right for them. Healthy and well is what we become, not what happens to us. Being healthy feels good, fuels you with energy, helps you focus, and makes you happy. You wake up refreshed, ready to go and prepared for what the day has in store for you. As a result of good health you get to grow your business, keep your job, possibly make more money, feel great about what you do and where you work! When you’re financially fit, enjoy a healthy, active body and have a healthy attitude what can’t you do? You’re on top of the world! Every employer, organization and association of every size are impacted Every size employer, organization and association; big and small is impacted by the number of sick and healthy people connected to their workplace. In an economy where resources are tight, it’s important to know that creating a healthy life is a top priority and not as hard, complicated or expensive as you may be thinking. All you need is a caring expert to guide you, point you in the right direction, and is willing to listen to the uniqueness of your work environment. Becoming healthy and well doesn’t have to be a big fancy program with all the bells and whistles. Becoming healthy for you and your company does require commitment and a plan to guarantee the health of your organization. The road to better health is paved with information, education, a consistent message, and a supportive works place all working towards creating a culture of wellness. Anyone who owns a business or works in one Your day is filled to the brim trying to balance your home and work life. There’s hardly any time to think about your health or wellness, much less do anything about improving it. Every day you are bombarded by mixed messages of what’s healthy, the latest cure or magic 28 Small Biz Forward
pill. Today it’s more confusing than ever to know what’s really healthy and even more important, what strategies actually work. I’m often asked, “Is this good or bad for me?” Instead of thinking what is good or bad for me, think about how the choices you make are a continuum wellness; healthy, healthier and healthiest. The healthier choices you make, the healthier your life. That’s what you want right? A healthy life. Finding your way can be confusing. It’s important find a health and wellness consultant or health coach to help you get informed, educated and guide you down that rocky road to better health without costing you a ton of money. A wellness consultant helps you find the right pieces of the wellness puzzle to put together that is just right for your group. You, those you live and work with deserve good health. After all good health is good for your business, you, your family and our communities. Your partner in health,
Cindy Cohen is a registered nurse with 35 years of experience from the bedside to CEO of a hospital. Cohen is recognized as an accomplished author, wellness expert, and corporate wellness leader. As a health coach and wellness consultant, Cohen is the guiding force behind the C2 Your Health team in helping others find their way to improved personal and business wellness. C2 Your Health LLC, through the corporate wellness division Health-E 4 Life Worksite Wellness, assisted industry leaders with certification and was awarded the 2009 - 11 Indiana Small Business Wellness Tax Credit. C2 Your Health LLC also promotes the annual Expo for Women bring wellness to the community. Cohen has written a number of books, the latest 2012 Prevention Benefits Healthy Employee Costs Less (Amazon.com), and 2013 What’s on Your Plate a Simple Guide to Healthy Cooking (Amazon.com) Cohen speaks on a local and national level about personal health, corporate wellness, and business leadership. Her expertise helped build an award winning franchise as a Qualified National Marketing Director for the Juice Plus+ Corporation winning the Top 10 in the category for developing new business. Other awards include the 2000 Temple Beth El Woman of the Year, the 2009 nomination for WSBT & Enrichment Strategies "Success Story of the Year", the 2010 -11 Annual Social Media Summit nomination for the Up and Coming Business Award, and the 2012 Wellness Council of America Faculty Status. You can find Cindy @ www.fb.com/ CindyCohenRN, www.Linkedin.com/in/CindyCohen, www.CindyCohenRN.com
Beginning of year resolutions are often recipes for disaster for many reasons. That first glow of holiday celebrations prompts a person to reach for the stars and to assume that all is possible. The result is often disappointment and a sense of falling behind rather than progressing towards ones goals. When you’re deciding how to define 2014, take a deep breath in a quiet room and mull over the following. What DO you really want? Will that short term goal take you away from other, more important ones? Is no goal at all always a bad thing? Sometimes, it’s best to maintain the status quo for a bit rather than feel forced to act. Is what you want really achievable? What are your business needs and can they be achieved in a reasonable manner? What will that change you want to implement REALLY cost you . . .or your company? Are you, your family, your employees and their families willing or able to achieve that goal you want to set and still have a balanced, rewarding life? Too often, executives and
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owners forget the impact their decisions have on others in their life circle. How dependent are your new goals upon outside forces? Many companies are just now beginning to recover from disaster that was 2008. The lesson learned from that experience should be that nothing is certain and unexpected domestic or international forces may impact your industry or future in ways you cannot predict. While not a call to do nothing, it does behoove us all to not commit so deeply that a serious change in circumstances will cripple the company. How do you want to live your life? That old saw of no tombstone ever saying “I should have spent more time at work” is true. With age comes wisdom, but also a sense of how quickly time passes and how choices that seemed crucial ten years ago are now, in hindsight, hardly worth thinking about. Once again, it’s the desire to provide balance and joy in your life and the lives that you and your business touch that should be your ultimate resolution for the new year.
I start this holiday season with a great sense of thanks to all who have touched my life this past year. My business and personal goals for 2014 are simple: to do more good than harm, to treat my clients as I wish to be treated, to keep a balance between work, community giving and fun, to live healthy, and one other long-shot goal: to (hopefully) find out that I’m going to be a grandmom!!! Happy Holidays to all and to all a good year!
Reflexology/Reiki Charlene Books
Call for Appointment
East West Center for Natural Medicine 51099 Bittersweet Rd. Granger, IN 46530
Relax, Release and
Tel: 574-323-7517
Transform Your World charlenebooks@gmail.com www.eastwestnaturalmedicine.net http://charlenebooks.myitworks.com
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Make the Sale: Credit Cards, Debit Cards... Gift Cards! by Adam Fleming, Certified Leadership Coach and Trainer
Contrary to popular belief, the Holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas is the number two season of the year for sales of Gift Cards. What's number one? Birthdays. What this means for your retail business is that a gift card program is a great idea all year long. A gift card that's loadable to your specifications and works in conjunction with your credit card terminal makes your small business look very professional. It doesn't get lost, because everyone's wallet is specifically designed to accommodate it, and whenever they open their wallet, whether shopping or showing their license to a police officer, you have an opportunity for some more brand name recognition and top of mind awareness. If you aren't taking credit cards at all, though, you may really be missing out on sales. It's hard to say how much. One client of mine began accepting cards at his VERY small retail shop, expecting to run about $500 in monthly volume. His first full month, he processed over $1700. It's established that people spend more when they 32 Small Biz Forward
use plastic. During the holidays you're much more likely to complete a sale when you offer credit, because people push their cash flow to the limits (i.e., January.) "I'm B2B, my clients pay by check after I bill them." Really? How long does it take them to get around to it? It costs $8-$15 to send a paper bill. If you do that three months straight, when your net 30 turns into 90, and you've already spent at least $24 begging someone to pay you. You're not in the business of being a bank. Unless you're a bank. The amount people throw away in billing, loss of cash flow, loss of interest on their own account is staggering, and they do it just because they're worried about giving up 2%. Commodity? Sure, getting processing could just be a numbers game, but play that numbers game often enough, and you'll run into someone who will promise you the moon. Have you ever seen someone try to deliver the moon? That's a lot of cheese. You're better off getting to-
gether with a trustworthy, local rep, and make sure they are going to go over your package with you annually to make sure they're taking care of business properly for you. You should do the same thing with your insurance agent. Treat an insurance agent like a commodity seller, and
you'll run into the same problem -- someone who gives you the lowest rates, and the service to match. Hmmm. I might need to call a new insurance guy. (Don't all call me at once.)
Does your business need an UPLIFT for the coming year? Are you staring at blank, empty walls? Your MISSION STATEMENT needs to be right where everyone will see it daily! Excite your workforce with encouragement, gratitude, and beautiful daily reminders! I can assist you with professional CUSTOM designs that enhance your office spaces. Call Kathy Williamson today at (574) 850-4424 or order online at www.mysimplysaiddesigns.com/604
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All fairy tales and love stories begin with the words “Once upon a me….”, and sorry this one does not. As a security professional we have our own fairy tales and love stories but most begin with “You ain’ gonna believe this…” (I know bad English.) As we look bad at 2013 form a security standpoint we see many incidents of significance that affected business. April, 2013 saw the Boston Marathon bombings shutdown parts of Boston for up to 2 days, causing the businesses financial hard ships along with numerous injuries and deaths. Mothers Day, May 12, 2013, saw a shoo ng during a parade honoring Mothers in New Orleans. Then in September we had the trag ic shoo ng at the Washington Navy Yard. From January 1 through November 11, 2013 there were 316 reported inci dents na onwide of shoo ngs in which 4 or more people were shot. Each of these events affects small business in different ways. If a shoo ng were to occur close to your busi ness loca on, do you have a con ngency plan in place? If you are required to shelter in place for an extended period of me, do you have the ability to provide for staff and any cli ents? Con ngency planning for the worst things that can happen at and to our businesses should not be taken lightly. Sit down with a sheet of paper and write down incidents that could affect your businesses, things such as: Fire The? (Shopli?ing, burglary, robbery) Stalker and harassers Extended power outages
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Cyber crimes Then develop plans on how you and your staff will respond to the problems you have addressed. Develop these plans in the order of which incident you feel will have the most impact on your business. List how you want each incident handled and do not be afraid to ask others about their plans along with doing internet searches. Remember to not only address how you want the incident handles; (i.e. for a fire call 911); but how you want it handled a?er the incident has been stabi lized. Address things like clean up, product disposal, client no fica on if product has been destroyed or will be delayed, and anything else you can think of. The federal government has business con nuity plan templates available on line at hDp://www.ready.gov/businesscon nuityplanningsuite.
Ed Becher is the owner of Center for Protec on, Security and Personal Safety (The Bodyguard Academy) which is a provider of training and resources to keep you, your staff and clients safe. He can be contacted at ed@thebodyguardacademy.com or by phone at (269)6513355.
Once Upon a Time” vs.
“
“You Ain’t Gonna Believe This” By Ed Becher, PPS, Center for Protection, Security and Personal Safety All fairy tales and love stories begin with the words “Once upon a time….”; sorry this one doesn’t. As a security professional we have our own fairy tales and love stories but most begin with “You ain’t gonna believe this…” (I know bad English.) As we look back at 2013 from a security standpoint we see many incidents of significance that affected business. April, 2013 saw the Boston Marathon bombings shutdown parts of Boston for up to 2 days, causing the businesses financial hardships along with numerous injuries and deaths. Mothers Day, May 12, 2013, saw a shooting during a parade honoring Mothers in New Orleans. Then in September we had the tragic shooting at the Washington Navy Yard. From January 1 through November 11, 2013 there were 316 reported incidents nationwide of shootings in which 4 or more people were shot. Each of these events affects small business in different ways. If a shooting were to occur close to your business location, do you have a contingency plan in place? If you are required to shelter in place for an extended period of time, do you have the ability to provide for staff and any clients? Contingency planning for the worst things that can happen at and to our businesses should not be taken lightly. Sit down with a sheet of paper and write down incidents that could affect your businesses, things such
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as: Fire Theft (Shoplifting, burglary, robbery) Stalker and harassers Extended power outages Cyber crimes
Then develop plans on how you and your staff will respond to the problems you have addressed. Develop these plans in the order of which incident you feel will have the most impact on your business. List how you want each incident handled and do not be afraid to ask others about their plans along with doing internet searches. Remember to not only address how you want the incident handled (i.e. for a fire call 911); but how you want it handled after the incident has been stabilized. Address things like clean up, product disposal, client notification if product has been destroyed or will be delayed, and anything else you can think of. The federal government has business continuity plan templates available on line at http://www.ready.gov/businesscontinuity-planning-suite.
Ed Becher is the owner of Center for Protection, Security and Personal Safety (The Bodyguard Academy) which is a provider of training and resources to keep you, your staff and clients safe. He can be contacted at Ed@centerforprotection.com or by phone at (269) 651-3355.
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY 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. Facebook: 2nd Story Marketing www.2ndStoryMarketing.net
AVAS, LLC AVAS provides photo scanning, photo montages, social media consulting, and project assistance. h p://www.AVASLLC.NET | Cell: (574) 514-5193
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
Charlene Books Reflexology/Reiki Relax, release & Transform Your World charlenebooks@gmail.com http://charlenebooks.myitworks.com
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@connec+vemarke+ngllc.com | www.connec+vemarke +ngllc.com
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Epic Life Studios Adam Fleming is a leadership coach as well as an Account Exutive 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. https://www.facebook.com/pages/HeartwoodRenaissance-Academy | (269) 273-0160
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
River Country Journal Celebrating and nurturing life in Southwest Michigan river country. http://www.rivercountryjournal.com | (269) 279-8000
Schooley Mitchell
Kerri’s Avenue Salon 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 http://www.kerris-avenue-salon.com | (574) 243-3901
MI Security Training/Bodyguard Academy Providing quality training for those working in the private security industry. http://thebodyguardacademy.com | (269) 651-3355
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. 269-408-8679 http://www.schooleymitchell.com/jsarno
Your Business Needs Fans Encouraging businesses create and maintain their online presence by teaching best-practice Facebook marketing and so much more. https://www.facebook.com/YourBusinessNeedsFans (574) 344-8895
Niles Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce
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Don’t wait ‘ l pigs fly to grow your business – come to BSU where businesses
connect | Collaborate | SUCCEED 269-651-3555 h,p://success4biz.biz h,p://facebook.com/bsuconnector h,p://linkedin.com/in/nancybecher h,p://twi,er.com/smallbizjunkie
Are you looking for someone to help you grow your business easily, costeffec vely and without taking years? Then BSU is the choice for you. 40 Small Biz Forward