VMH Magazine - February 2018 by VMH Magazine

Enhance Your Lifestyle

Count Your Way Towards Better Financial Life ‘Mindset, The Economy and IoT Internet of Things’

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3 Key Responsibilities of Entrepreneurs, That Are Not About Business

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#TIMESUP Sells: “The Most Important Thing You Will Ever Sell is Yourself” - Robert Herjavec

"May you live every day of your life.” —Jonathan Swift

"I believe every human has a finite number of heartbeats. I don't intend to waste any of mine.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Neil Armstrong

Robert Herjavec - Book Review

Improve Your Financial Life

Entrepreneur Responsibilities

3 Ways to Throwback Style

Feature: Perspective on #TIMESUP

26th Annual Trumpet Awards

G-Tube Mom & Organic Meal Choices

Fitness & Your Healthy Lifestyle

Luxury Realtor Shares Success Tips

Digitally Transform Your Business

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REVIEW by Vikki Jones

Being yourself is more challenging than one can imagine, particularly in a world where taking on a new identity is “the thing to do.” Apps, plastic surgeons, editing software, and a host of other resources allow folks to be the person they “imagine.” With these types of jewels, it’s understandable why being yourself and not just following the latest fad is a challenge, but there is another reason for the challenge—the innate notion to please others and to be accepted or “liked” by those around us. Robert Herjavec—the “Nice Shark” on ABC’s Shark Tank— emphasizes the importance of being yourself in all areas of life. In his book You Don’t Have to Be a Shark, he gives a host of practical, easy-to-use tips for business success and sells. Interestingly enough, being yourself, i.e., authenticity, is at the forefront of my mind as I think of his wise words for entrepreneurs, small enterprises, and salespeople. As I write this piece on Herjavec’s book, at times you will find that my comments or opinions ease in and out of this review/ editorial about him. In writing this book, Robert Herjavec chose to share his joys, pain, disappointments, and success with his readers. For doing this, I am grateful for several reasons: 1. It inspires me completely through what to do and what not to do. 2. It’s refreshing to see someone who is successful dig down into their life and share the truth. 3. The words in this book help me remain grounded as I continue to grow as a business owner. 4. I feel as though I have someone I can relate to in areas of business, communication, determination, and humanity. “In business you either grow fast or die slowly.” A major point of Herjavec’s book: “. . . Independent businesspeople . . . there is not constant, no point at which you say, ‘I guess I can back oﬀ the throttle and coast for a while.’ Well, you can’t. In business you either grow fast or die slowly.” This portion of his book hit me like a sack of potatoes! As an entrepreneur with a small publishing enterprise, my growth has been steady, recognized, and even hit strong spikes in my target market. At such times, I am reminded of Herjavec’s words on “backing off and coasting.” Quite frankly, I can’t do that. I’ve learned firsthand that I have to keep up with and get in front of my growth or my business will crash and burn. There is no backing off, no sitting in a lounge chair and sipping chai tea and lattes. Nope! Hitting that target market is the goal, but as you near it, you become aware of areas that need more attention and fast! Coasting goes out the window! Of course, having a strong plan and hiring the right folks give you more time for vacationing and actually being able to enjoy your success, but

the mind-set of “backing off and coasting” should never be adopted. “Most of the serious risks we face in life exist not because we want to take them, but because we need to take them.” Says Herjavec, “Taking good risks helps me build my company. Good risks are based on careful research, proper planning and expecting a potential reward that exceeds any losses if things don’t work out.” Venturing into unfamiliar areas has been scary for me at times, but I research and pay attention to such matters as data, surveys, and the main concern of consumers that have used services other than mine. When I do these things, I gain a sense of direction about what I would otherwise consider foolish risks. When I consider all the information, data, what’s important to people, and their stories/writings, it’s at this point that I feel I am no longer taking a risk but instead am treading new ground, which can sometimes be scary and could involve taking chances/risks. I’ve learned that complacency can be a dangerous word in business and everyday life. Opening your mind to new practices and ideals is extremely difficult, but I find that doing so is mandatory for truly understanding your true self. Through this journey of business, meeting new people, and listening to them, I am discovering so much more about myself. Simply stated, the feeling is incredible. I only wish that more people would step out of their comfort zone and discover new challenges and set new goals. “The Most Important Thing You Will Ever Sell Is Yourself” Herjavec’s positions: “Investments are one thing, charity is something else.” “Good businesspeople know how to adapt to whatever situation they find themselves in . . .” I read and actually apply what I’ve learned from people like Robert Herjavec—people who have been there and done that and are still “doing that” but on a different level. People often feel that we have to meet and talk with someone “in person” to actually learn from them, but this is not so. It goes without saying that time does not allow us to run around the world meeting all sorts of people. Instead, I pick up a book or listen to online interviews to learn from someone such as Herjvec. His personal story that is intertwined in You Don't Have to Be a Shark is amazing—watching his parents suffer as a result of poverty and reading about his marriage that ended in divorce, which brought him front and center stage on Dancing with the Stars, a show his mother loved. This book is a read that anyone can learn from. When someone opens up about themselves with words of vulnerability, strength, and ultimate success, we have a valuable formula to guide us. Thanks, Herjavec!

Publisher VMH Media & Publishing Editor-in-Chief Vikki Jones Journalist/Contributors Vikki Jones Garry Jones Contributors (Visiting) William M. Dann Jermaine Wright Family Features Photography Vikki Jones Garry Jones Layout Vikki Jones

Rhyon Brown - Rising Star Award

26th Annual Trumpet Awards

Highlights

P. 22 Photo Credit; Garry & Vikki Jones

Cover Model & Photographer: Vikki Jones

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Show Off Your Sweet Side This Valentine’s Day Treat family, friends and co-workers to something they will all love this Valentine’s Day by making easy and impressive cookies. Start with your favorite roll-out cookie recipe or simply dress up store-bought ones by adding some simple details with icing. From the cupids at Wilton, here are three ways to leave them smitten with sweets this Valentine’s Day: • • •

Desserts with dimension. Triple your treats by stacking three decorated cookies in different sizes together and attach them with icing. Complement with color. A simple piping technique looks stunning when piped in different colors on your cookies. Get to gifting. Wrap your finished treats in a Valentine’s Day treat bag or box.

For more fun and delicious Valentine’s Day recipes, baking tips and inspiration, visit www.wilton.com. Stackable Ombre Heart Cookies Each stacked cookie serves 1. Favorite roll-out cookie recipe Royal icing (recipe on wilton.com) Rose Icing Color Heart Micro Mini Icing Decorations Prepare and roll out cookie dough following recipe directions. Use 3 smallest cutters from 4-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shapes. Bake and cool cookies. Divide royal icing into three equal portions, and tint 3 shades of rose. Thin a portion of each shade following recipe directions. Use tip 3 and full-strength tinted icing to outline cookies. Use thinned tinted icing in cut decorating bag to fill in cookies; gently tap to smooth icing. Let dry overnight. Use icing to attach cookies, stacking largest to smallest; place icing decoration on top. Scalloped Heart Cookies Each cookie serves 1. Favorite roll-out cookie recipe Ready-To-Use White Creamy Decorator Icing Icing Colors: Burgundy, Red-Red and Christmas Red Prepare and roll out dough following recipe directions. Use largest cutter from the 4-piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shape. Bake and cool cookies. Divide icing into four equal portions. Tint one of each portion light burgundy, dark burgundy and combination of redred/Christmas red. Reserve last portion white. Starting from top edge of heart, use tip 102 and icing in dark burgundy, light burgundy, red and white to pipe V-shaped groups of two petals, one piped from left and one from right, to create row of petals in alternating colors. Repeat with second row between petals in first row. Continue to repeat pattern until cookies are covered.

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Resolve to Improve Your Financial Life FAMILY FEATURES

Tips to take control of your money in 2018

ounting calories isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only way you can resolve to bring about positive change in your life during the new year. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re like many Americans, it may be a good time to start counting your way toward better financial health. The past year brought financial setbacks to nearly two-thirds of United States households, according to a survey by the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE). In fact, more than a quarter of U.S. adults say the current quality of their financial lives are worse than they hoped. Topping the list of setbacks in 2017 were transportation issues (23 percent), housing repairs or maintenance (20 percent), and the inability to keep up with debt and falling behind on bill payments (16 percent).

In an effort to reverse that trend, more than two-thirds of U.S. adults will make financial New Year’s resolutions for 2018, according to the survey. Among those that plan to step up their financial game, top goals include setting and following a budget (40 percent), making a plan to get out of debt (39 percent), establishing savings (32 percent) and boosting retirement savings (31 percent). “We continue to see a lot of anxiety about money,” said Ted Beck, president and CEO of NEFE. “Three-quarters of Americans said something causes them financial stress, and it’s most often not saving enough and debt that are to blame.” Reduce money stress and take control of your finances with these tips for financial success from the experts at NEFE: 1. Get debt under control. Take a hard look at what you owe. If there’s a clear warning sign of too much debt, take action. Set a goal to reduce your debt load next year by 5-10 percent. That might mean reducing impulse shopping. When you face temptation, delay the purchase and give yourself time to consider whether it’s a wise move that fits within your budget. 2. Save now and do so often. Preparing for unexpected events like medical emergencies can help reduce the financial impact of a life-changing event. Emergency savings can offset unexpected costs and help you get back on solid footing. A good rule of thumb is to have 6-9 months of income set aside. If that feels out of reach, start with a smaller goal, even as little as $500. When it

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comes to saving, it’s also a smart idea to think long term. Review your long-term savings and ensure they are on target for your retirement plans.

where you can trim some spending. Be sure to understand your current offering thoroughly so that you are comparing apples to apples.

3. Shop for better services. You may be surprised by how much you can save when you periodically shop for the most competitive rates on your recurring bills. Make a game out of shopping providers to find the best value on your insurance policies, cell phone plan, internet and utilities. Ask your providers about current rates and any promotions available to long-time, loyal customers. Then look at alternative providers to determine

4. Understand what’s behind your financial decisions. If you ever wonder why you feel good about spending money on vacations but avoid saving for retirement, the answer may lie in your unique values and how they influence your financial decision-making. Consider taking the LifeValues Quiz at smartaboutmoney.org, where you can also find help with setting goals and getting your finances in order.

BUDGET BETTER

o take control of your money and your financial life, it’s important to get organized. The most effective tool is a budget. Creating a budget can help you meet personal goals such as buying a house or car, or taking a vacation. It also can help you prepare for emergencies and manage debt.

Income: Start by listing all income sources, including wages, bonuses and tips, as well as non-employer income such as child support, alimony or Social Security. Generally, you’ll want to look at your recurring income, but also include long-range, infrequent income that you anticipate, such as tax refunds. Expenses: Next, take into account all of your recurring monthly bills. If you have major periodic expenses, such as a six-month auto insurance premium, account for it in monthly increments so you can save up and have the money ready when the payment comes due. Remember to account for the bills you pay (mortgage or rent, utilities, etc.), as well

as unspecified items like lawn maintenance and personal hygiene purchases.

Categorize Spending: Some people find it helpful to break expenses into categories, such as housing, transportation, health, personal, entertainment and so on. The key is to capture every point where money is going out so you can get a thorough picture of your ongoing expenditures. It can take a couple months to get a true understanding of what your typical spending looks like. Savings: An effective budget doesn’t just capture what’s going out; it also reflects what you’re able to keep. If you haven’t already, outline a savings plan that allows for an emergency fund, regular savings, retirement and investments. Debt: Consistently paying down the accounts you owe with the maximum amount you can afford is the surest way to reduce your debt load. Account for each debt you owe in your budget, and establish a payment plan that shows how much you can allocate to each account each month.

Annie McKee Says, 'Be Happy At Work and Succeed' Written and Photographed by Vikki Hankins-Jones

So you’ve lost your joy of doing the very thing you love to do – your job. When you wake in the morning you dread getting out of bed only to face the begrudging task of going to work. Resentment brews, unhappiness spreads through your bones and completing what was once easy, now feels like the weight of the world. Is it possible to turn this around? To bring the joy and passion back to your work? How? Angie McKee – advisor to leaders of Fortune 500 companies – teaches people how to restore joy at work in her book entitled, How To Be Happy At Work. During WOBI’s Humanification themed conference McKee addressed: • Key ways to overcome the pressures and stress that negatively affect performance. • How to ensure a healthy, positive climate for your teams and throughout the organization. “Create an environment where ‘purpose’ is front. Most people want to lead well, want to manage well …. most people want to make a difference (on their jobs),” McKee said during her presentation. McKee’s message emphasized the thought that ‘purpose, hope, friendship

and conviction are essential elements to creating and sustaining happiness’.

Annie McKee, WOBI NYC

I had the opportunity to speak with McKee where she shed more light on a happier life in the workplace. Here are two pieces of advice for those that love their work but unhappy with the environment: “Tip 1: If you love your work, one of the things that can be most problematic is that you just work too much. And you can’t live your job no matter how much you care about what you’re doing if you’re working all the time. You’ve got to draw some boundaries.” “Tip 2: Don’t follow the crowd. Don’t do things because you think you should do them. Do things because you care and because you believe in it.” McKee founded and for many years led a small business and understands the pitfalls of getting trapped in the mindset of ‘paying bills’. In coping with the desperation associated with financial obligations, it’s important to maintain a balanced mindset and not allow desperation to get the best of you. “Cultivate habits of mind that allow (you) to calm down…Break the myth that in fact results come first and people come second,” says McKee. Those habits could include exercise, medication, etc but the one thing it does not include is leaving the bringing the “cell phone to the dinner table.” I once read a quote where Arianna Huffington, founder of Huff Post and Thrive Global spoke of her extreme exhaustion and the need to re-evaluate her lifestyle when it came to work. Said Huffington, “Burnout and fatigue are only a few reasons why people become so unhappy doing something they once loved. Workplace environment, demanding clients and competitive colleagues are yet additional reasons why it becomes so difficult to enjoy work.

photo credit: Vikki Hankins-Jones

‘When you decide to look within yourself to connect with what’s most important to you, what makes you feel hopeful about the future, and what you long for in your relationships, you are taking that first step toward a work life that is deeply satisfying, challenging and fun. With conviction and practice, you can be happy and successful – and love your work.’ – How To Be Happy At Work by Annie McKee.

‘Life is too short to be unhappy at work; if you sacrifice happiness, you sacrifice success’. These subjects are only a few areas How To Be Happy At Work addresses.

by Jermaine Wright

Most people are fascinated with the business of entrepreneurship. It would be hard-pressed to go to a business seminar or be tuned in to the business media and not be inundated with talk of profit margins, annual earnings and the big market cap. However, entrepreneurship is not all about business. In fact, it is, in large part, about positively influencing and inspiring the community and the future generation to greater heights. Entrepreneurs are resources in their own right. The weight of their importance cannot be measured in purely monetary terms. So are their responsibilities. Entrepreneurs are responsible for everything pretty much, unlike the typical worker, who, in the typical 9-5 is just responsible for doing their jobs and collecting their paychecks. Sure the business operation is paramount but a good entrepreneur’s responsibilities stretch beyond the business of the business. Vikki Jones, who owns and operates a multimedia company, highlights three key responsibilities that entrepreneurs should take ownership of. Inspire Success in today’s world is mostly measured solely in monetary terms which has contributed to the moral decay of the society. It would help if people who are looked up to in the public domain such as entrepreneurs have a strong character that can be a beacon of hope and a positive influence on the younger generation. One particular entrepreneur sees positive influence as her biggest reward from entrepreneurship.

When she made the fateful leap into entrepreneurship almost a decade ago with a vision looking to bridge the gap she ran into some challenges as all entrepreneurs do. But she had some fulfilling rewards. One of which is the reward of inspiring others. “The greatest thing for me is the reward. Obviously, I’m in business for profit but greater than that is putting smiles on my customers’ faces, the fulfillment, making dreams come through and inspiring people. There is no better feeling as an entrepreneur than seeing the positive influence I have on my clients and customers. Like the caretaker who first has to take care of their self before they can properly take care of others, in order for entrepreneurs to inspire, they themselves have to be inspired.

“I inspire others but I too need to be inspired so in order for me to be happy and keep going I have to find ways to inspire myself. I make sure I exercise, listen to some good music or listen to other successful entrepreneurs for inspiration and to keep myself motivated. Motivating your team Speaking of motivation, the workers need more motivation than business owners especially if they are not shareholders in the particular company. In this society, no incentive can lead to little to no motivation which in most cases lead to little to no work and a lot of headaches for entrepreneurs. Keeping your team motivated is quite but it has to be a major priority for your business to succeed. People work harder and are more motivated when they are passionate about something. Thus it is the responsibility of the entrepreneur, yes not some manager or supervisor, to make sure the team is being led towards a common goal. Operating in an honest and transparent way will go a far way in making them feel valued. Perhaps even more than honesty and transparency, providing incentives to your team members motivates them even more. There are several other motivational techniques that typically work but these are the two main ones that do the trick for Jones. “It is very important that an entrepreneur finds ways of keeping their team motivated through incentives and sharing with them some of the inside things that are happening.” Evolving If you are an astute entrepreneur it’s likely you have seen or heard the cautionary tales of companies and entrepreneurs who ultimately failed because they failed to evolve. Innovation has claimed its fair share of victims, who were either too slow to appreciate the magnitude of the oncoming change or too blinded by past successes to look to the future. Blockbuster, Kodak and MySpace are a few that stand out. According to Charles Darwin: "In the struggle for survival, the fittest win out at the expense of their rivals because they succeed in adapting themselves best to their environment." Darwin made that statement almost two hundred years ago when he observed how species evolve and it still applies to this day. Technology will continue to change and set the pace for industries so companies face evolving with technology or going extinct.

Jones, an experienced entrepreneur is fully cognizant of that. “Over the years what I’ve found is that as an entrepreneur you’ll constantly find yourself, especially if you are growing, developing more areas of your business and improving your systems. So keeping up with the trends, particularly with technology moving as fast as it is is crucial,” Hankins informed. So what is the key to keeping up with the trends? Research research research, according to Jones. 'Self-directed learning' is crucial for entrepreneurs especially those who run SMEs (Small or Medium Enterprise) and can’t afford R & D (Research and Developments) departments like the big Fortune 500 companies. “Research should become your middle name. Keep doing test trials to see what works and what doesn’t work, what people want and don’t want. Finding gout which software, which cloud or payment service is best….whichever phase you are in your business it critical to keep abreast by doing extensive research.” ___________

Retro-Modern

3 Ways to Throwback Style FAMILY FEATURES

hen itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for a bathroom or kitchen upgrade, some of the greatest inspiration may come from another time entirely. Some of the most on-trend styles of today are actually throwbacks to bygone eras. Learn how to make your updated spaces pay tribute to re-emerging trends and add your own modern touches with these three new-again looks.

Retro-Modern A retro-modern design is unique in every way, with elements transitioning from the historically unfitted 1920s to 1950s charm and eccentricity. The result is a space that represents many eras and design styles, and the kitchen is the perfect space to bring this look to life. Start by establishing a focal point for your retro-modern design, such as a functional nod to the past. Long before modern refrigeration, iceboxes were used in many of the homes in the early 20th century to keep foods fresh. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to mimic this look with the Wellborn Cabinet Premier Series, to achieve an icebox look that actually functions as storage space.

Use contrasting finishes, colors and textures to uniquely define a small space. For example, a modern cabinet scheme in a dark stain or paint contrasts beautifully with stainless steel hardware and a pop of color to break up the cold nature of stainless steel. Then bring some uniformity with an option like Shaker decorative legs, which adds to the multi-era design feel. Deriving from the Shaker lifestyle and tradition, the tapering effect offers a beautiful yet simple design feature. Integrate the look across multiple elements, such as a wooden-style tapered leg icebox, along with stainless steel tapered legs on wall and peninsula cabinets, which can pair nicely with stainless-steel hardware and a 1950s Malt Shop grooved countertop. Accessories are an important part of kitchen design, which is why they should be kept top of mind when building or designing that dream space. Features such as removable under-sink baskets and a double wastebasket kit lend ultimate practicality. No matter the era, lighting is a must for a functional kitchen space. A carefully crafted, multi-layered lighting design is an essential component of a dream kitchen. An option like Hafele lighting, now offered through a partnership with Wellborn Cabinet, makes it possible to illuminate cabinetry, delivering ambient, accent, task and decorative lighting to create the right mood for any space.

Elegant A beautiful, ornate bathroom with plenty of traditional features can truly be an interpretation of elegance in design. Plan for an abundance of luxurious, spa-like elements to achieve this look. Incorporate features such as warm hickory covering every inch of the walls and built-in lighting to set the tone for a relaxing atmosphere. Then incorporate antique-styled mirrors and glass hardware to create contrasts amongst the rich tones and texture. You can create a distinctive alcove effect by situating the sink vanities directly between matching cabinet ends and recessing two mirrors into the wall. A decorative arch valance can add beauty and function, as this is an ideal place to tuck away lighting that provides depth and visibility. Let a large soaking tub take center stage between the sink vanity and a custom makeup area. While you can rely on cabinetry for functional features, it’s also a way to continue adding elegant touches, such as a beautifully crafted tub skirt and arch that complements the vanity area. No luxury bathroom is complete without a stand-alone makeup alcove outfitted with unique features like drawer dividers (perfect for hair accessories) and countertop hideaway cabinets. Consider creating a focal point using rounded spindles to create depth and allow the custom makeup section to stand out in the design. Lastly, embellish the distinguished look with molding options that highlight the feature areas and create a defined line around the room. An elegant, spacious master bathroom is luxurious and functional, proving that practicality can be used in a glorious way.

Elegant

Retro

Going to the extreme with your aesthetic with a retro design is all about fun, with features such as pops of color in the tile behind the vanities or fun and whimsical wallpaper. A 1950s-style bathroom lets you play on your childlike senses. From bright colors to mixed metals and textures, this unique design style pays respect to the era of Car Hops, Airstream Travel Trailers and Lucille Ball. The key to making a throwback-styled design work for your contemporary needs is all in the modern elements. Think along the lines of illuminated drawers and cabinets and base pull-out wire baskets. These fun twists of technology paired with retro-styled elements make for a winning solution. When it comes to the vanities and cabinetry, remember that both style and color can bring your retro design together. Don’t be afraid to step outside more traditional wood tones, and use unexpected colors such as the pink hue available in Wellborn Cabinet’s ColorInspire program. For the woodwork, look for details such as conical-styled, slender legs that add to the 1950s feel. Reminiscent of days past, a fabulous ’50s bathroom is the ultimate definition of an eccentric design. There’s no time like now to begin planning your on-trend home upgrades. Explore the latest styles and home design options at wellborn.com.

The Shifting Sands of Employee Motivation By William M. Dann

I recently attended a speech by best-selling author Daniel Pink[1] in which he summarized research on shifts in employee motivators. The old “if-then motivators” of giving bonuses for the achievement of goals no longer work. Work has become too complex and is changing too rapidly for such simple formulas to be relevant and to motivate performance. The New Motivators Pink described the motivators in today’s knowledge economy as being Autonomy, Mastery and Purpose. Autonomy is the ability to define one’s own work; the tasks, the required time, the best technique and the best team required. Mastery means being afforded the time to make progress on improving one’s own work. Purpose entails knowing that the work being done has meaning or adds value in today’s world. The Challenge When these new motivators are in play, employees become “engaged”. Active engagement entails commitment to the organization’s goals and values, motivation to contribute to the organization’s success and a sense that doing so enhances their own wellbeing. In short, there is alignment between the goals of the employee and those of the organization. Old incentives and management were focused on gaining compliance. New incentives and management must shift to increasing engagement if an organization is to remain competitive and retain talent in today’s world. The important and obvious question is: How? The New Management According to 10 years of Gallup Poll data, a full 80% of the workforce is at least somewhat engaged. Leaders and supervisors now must focus on practices that 1) get employees to competence and Autonomy quickly, 2) aid employee efforts to achieve Mastery and 3) continuously instill a sense of Purpose in the work being done. I propose that supervisors consider themselves “partners” that facilitate their employees achieving high performance, i.e. Mastery. The acid test for any

manager? If your employees do not improve their performance during a given period, then you have failed to add value to the organization during that period and are a cost without benefit. The road to adding value to your employees is paved with regular, frequent and meaningful conversations about performance, problems, ideas for improvement, and how as a supervisor you can support achieving employee goals. Feedback is critical both to development of Mastery and to instilling/maintaining a sense of Purpose in work. These frequent interactions need to replace the annual evaluation that is based on a judgment rather than partnership paradigm. In an age in which feedback is instant in almost all aspects of our life (e.g. ask a question of Google, instant answer; send a Tweet and the world responds), more frequent dialogue between supervisor and employee is essential. I recommend that in each of these meetings, supervisors define steps they can take to help engaged employees achieve their goals. Those steps might include: • Giving clearer direction re. needed outcomes, priorities, purpose of position • More clearly defining what good performance would look like in for a given responsibility • Providing more feedback on performance • Granting more authority or autonomy for decision-making, problem solving, altering methods employed • Making decisions needed by employees more rapidly • Assuring that employees have the resources needed to succeed • Giving more credit/appreciation for the results delivered, i.e. strengthening a sense of Purpose Added to these seven steps to increase engagement should be a discussion of employee ideas of how to improve performance in their work area and how management can support those ideas. Managers tell me that regularly addressing these topics can totally shift the organizational culture and the supervisor-employee relationship. It shifts the emphasis from manager to facilitator, from judge to partner. Such a shift is rewarding both for supervisor and employee and has huge potential for performance improvement. How to Handle the Disengaged What do you do about those (<20%) who are not engaged? The “actively disengaged” have what is called a “Won’t Do” problem (i.e., they understand

the assignment and have the skills, knowledge and authority to do it, they just won’t). For such individuals, best practices would involve diagnosing the problem early and then employing aggressive progressive discipline and/or career counseling to try and turn it around or remove the problem. There are some instances in which “Won’t Do” employees can be turned around. Factors outside of work have de-motivated them about life, and a good supervisor can encourage success at work as a means to build toward success in life. However, many “Won’t Do” problems are difficult to reverse. More problematic is that “Won’t Do” problems are difficult to spot. “Won’t Do” employees cite numerous factors, none of which can be substantiated, that are causing their sub-par performance, i.e. they seek to define the problem as “Can’t Do” (i.e., the employee is eager but does not have appropriate training, skills or authority to do the work). They often appear busy, even joyful. But, they have a toxic impact on fellow workers. “Won’t Do” employees seek to give the supervisor responsibility for the problem. But, at the end of the day, data on their performance reveals the truth and that truth is that despite looking engaged, they are not producing real products.

PATIENT -VSDOCTOR MISDIAGNOSIS

A major motivator for writing my book, Creating High Performers, was to aid supervisors that find themselves wrapped around the axle by disengaged workers. Such workers sow seeds of self-doubt in the supervisor and continuous thinking re. “What have I done wrong?” or “what could I have done or what can I do now to right the situation?” Summary Actively partner with your engaged employees through frequent conversations that search for ways to support employee goals of excelling in the organization. For those that don’t respond, examine carefully their production, not effort, statistics, confront them regarding the failing partnership and hold them responsible to confront the source of “won’t do” problems. In short, decrease the time you are spending spinning the wheels with “won’t do” problems and commit time to maximizing performance of those who are truly engaged. [1] Pink, Daniel, To Sell is Human, Riverhead Books, 2012, Drive, Riverhead, 2011, A Whole New Mind, Riverhead, 2006 William Dann spent 13 years as a CEO before launching his consulting business, Professional Growth Systems, LLC, in 1981 – an organization that has served over 200 organizations in the US and abroad, using proprietary solutions to accelerate performance with as little time and resources as possible. Additionally, Dann has taught for several years at the graduate level at Boston University and is also the founder of BoardGrowth.com, a website devoted to advancing the effectiveness of governing boards. Dann currently resides in Anchorage, Alaska with his family.

amazon.com 17

#TIMESUP

VIKKIÂ JONES 18

TIME’S UP ™ is a unified call for change from women in entertainment for women everywhere. From movie sets to farm fields to boardrooms alike, we envision nationwide leadership that reflects the world in which we live.

The idea that men feel superior to women boils down to two key elements: control and power. Why most men feel they are superior to women, I am not completely certain. However, I do believe that it dates back to teachings, practices, and traditions that centered on oppression more than liberation. Recently, Halle Berry, Michelle Rodriguez, and a host of other female celebrities have spoken out on this issue of diversity and inclusion, yet it seems silent powers insist on resisting equality. Not long ago, the prominent thought process amongst men was that women lived to wash clothes, cook meals, and have babies. It was practically unheard of for women to have a career at all, let alone become leaders in the world. I think of Hillary Clinton and some of the ugly comments that poured in from men around the world during the latest presidential elections. They refused to consider having a woman in office. I am not for or against Clinton’s politics; however, I have an interest because I am fully aware of the force to “keep women out” of places of power. So, why do men feel far superior? Why do they believe that, somehow, they are the only ones capable of prosperity and leadership? It is my belief that men feel the need to dominate, control, and overpower women because of ideals stemming from the scripture. Clearly the Bible and its stories aim to guide mankind and give

us practical tips for living a life of fulfillment. In the event that we encounter hardships, it teaches us how to handle them in a non-destructive way. Men have taken the principles in the scripture— especially when it comes to households—and applied them in a very extreme, if not oppressive, way. Along with these extreme applications came the “Do as I say” and “I am your leader” mentality. In my opinion, men, over time, have adopted the attitude that women are the weaker, brainless gender. Many of them feel that women are unable to stand their ground and

incapable of making their own decisions. The scripture was not put in place to control, dominate, enslave, or brainwash others, but it appears to have had the opposite effect. It goes without saying that, physically, most men are stronger, but, for the sake of argument, my focus is on behavior, intellect, and how human beings have control over their own lives. Another key belief is that women were made for sexual pleasures and having babies, an idea which dates back thousands of years. Unfortunately, some men still have the same mindset. In a male-dominated world, it appears that the lack of inclusion or equality continues to be at the forefront of how men think about women. As a result, we see inequality in the workplace, politics, entertainment, relationships, and more. This idea rings true even in the cream of the crop: Hollywood. Halle Berry and Michelle Rodriguez had no choice but to stand up when they were treated differently from their male counterparts. On a personal note, I must deal with the mindset of many men in my field means, which requires me, as a woman, to work harder and smarter just to be seen as equal.

learn to *Scale Your Business *Amplify Your Brand *Maximize Your Power

w/o investors

Make Working from Home Productive and Liberating Working from home is a reality for a fast-growing portion of American workers. It can add flexibility, drive higher productivity and reduce company costs related to maintaining physical facilities. However, it also comes with challenges. If you have worked from home, you have most likely encountered issues collaborating and communicating with colleagues in multiple locations. While there are multiple technologies aimed at helping remote workers and increasing their productivity, they can at times thwart it. All too familiar with productivity, remote working woes and how to address it, CyberLink created U, a collaboration tool that integrates online presentations, video meetings and instant messaging whether working remote or down the hall from one another. “It’s a place to hold online meetings, have presentations and chat with your colleagues that doesn’t come with the messy installation fuss and technical errors associated with other options out there,” said Richard Carriere, CyberLink’s general manager and senior vice president of global marketing. “It brings the best of social media, such as emojis, ease of use and the flexibility to have impromptu interactions, to a business environment, in a unique way that heightens communication and collaboration across users.” According to commissioned research by polling firm YouGov, nearly half (43 percent) of U.S. office workers think it’s harder for remote workers to be seen in the workplace than non-remote workers. Office workers think it’s twice as difficult, when working remotely, to make strong relationships with bosses and coworkers while collaborating effectively. In fact, 1 in 6 think remote workers are less valued by the company, more than 1 in 3 think remote workers miss out on office culture and 1 in 5 think they get promoted less often. There are also technical difficulties workers can encounter when using the technology solutions of the past. Of office workers who said disruptions and working with a solution that’s incompatible with the demands of a remote workforce today had impacted their work, the most prominent included: • • • • • •

Nearly half (42 percent) have misinterpreted the tone of written communication (email, instant messaging, etc.) Nearly half (40 percent) said an important call had been dropped 1 in 3 (31 percent) have been late to or missed a meeting because of a tech failure and a nearly onequarter (22 percent) because it was too complicated to join More than one-quarter (28 percent) have used the wrong version of a document About 1 in 4 (23 percent) said an important video meeting had dropped 1 in 5 (21 percent) mistakenly “replied all” to an email

To help address these issues and others, all of U’s offerings create virtual counterparts to in-person scenarios, in turn allowing workplace culture, creativity and dialogue to resonate beyond the physical workplace and to all workers, despite location. Learn more at u.cyberlink.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

26TH

FOUNDED IN 1992 BY AMERICAN CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER XERNONA CLAYTON, THE TRUMPET AWARDS WERE CONCEIVED TO RECOGNIZE THE OUTSTANDING ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF AFRICAN AMERICANS AND THOSE WHO HAVE SUCCEEDED AGAINST GREAT ODDS AND INSPIRED SUCCESS IN OTHERS.

V. Boseman

Photography by: Vikki Jones

ANNUAL TRUMPET AWARDS

Xscape

Richelieu Dennis - Entrepreneur Awards

Omar Gooding

Jermaine Dupree - Music Innovation Awards

Cameo - Lifetime Achievement Award

Anthony Hamilton, Lorenz Tate Oscar Bond, Global Stylist

Photo Courtesy Andrea Young

by Jermaine Wright

Caring for a child with ongoing medical needs is never easy and for those who need enteral nutrition, it can be a daunting.

treatment of pain or nausea associated with eating, oral-motor issues, and behavioral issues in the child. Sounds like a lot, and it is.

Enteral nutrition is the practice of delivering nutrition to the gut either orally or through a tube or other device. Many children are reliant on enteral feedings to either supplement their nutrition or as a complete source of their nutrition. One of the common ways doctors can make sure kids with trouble eating get the fluid and calories they need to grow is a Gastrostomy Tube.

The difficulties of caring for G-Tube fed kids

A Gastrostomy Tube (G-Tube) is a tube inserted through the abdomen that delivers nutrition directly to the stomach. Managing children on G-Tube feedings can require a team of providers to work through complex issues such as feeding schedules, weaning from tube feeding, sensory implications of tube feeding,

The everyday social and emotional issues that derive from having to care for a G-Tube fed child can be very taxing on parents much less single moms. But one mom is on a mission to help families with G-Tube babies have a much easier life. Andrea Young, a young mom of a GTube baby herself, created (name of book) – a nutritional cookbook for kids that provides instructions to parents on how to get the best nutrition possible for their kids. As they say ‘experience is the mother of wisdom’ and it was a challenging experience as a young mom that inspired Andrea to create this nutritional guide. “At the age of 21 taking care of a 24

baby like that (G-Tube reliant) was very hard – it was the grace of GOD that kept me strong,” said Andrea. Unfortunately, Andrea had some difficulties during labor which forced an emergency delivery. As a result of the complications, her son developed HIE (Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy) – an injury caused by oxygen deprivation to the brain. It is a delicate condition that requires immediate medical intervention and careful sustained care. HIE can cause developmental delays, cognitive issues, and neurodevelopment delays among other health defects. Andrea’s son was not able to eat on his own and at six months doctors wanted to keep him on formula which Andrea objected to. She was determined to feed her baby the organic way, and after seeking guidance to little avail, she went about finding the answers on her own using heavy research. The complexities of G-Tube nutrition planning Though a healthier method, due to the complexities of her son’s condition, going the natural route presented a host of difficulties that Andrea had to contend with. Despite the benefits and widespread use of G-tube feeding, there are several underlying complications that may arise such as underfeeding or overfeeding. According to the World Journal of Gastroenterology, the incidence of clogged feeding tubes in percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy is reported to be as high as 23 – 35%. Clogging is especially common when thick enteral feeds, bulking agents and medications are delivered through relatively small PEG tubes. “My biggest challenge in the G-Tube feeding process was actually ensuring the food wasn’t too thick or too thin,” Andrea informed. Studies have also shown that there is a high prevalence of malnutrition in children receiving long-term ENS (Enteral nutritional support) which keeps them at risk of developing secondary diseases which further compromises their quality of life and may lead to detrimental outcomes. Therefore, a proper tube feeding plan and careful tube management are critical to providing the required amount of nutritional support needed for normal growth and development of G-Tube reliant kids. But it is not an easy thing to achieve. “Coming up with a plan and guide was very difficult. I had to do a lot of research just to figure out the right ingredients and volume so he wasn’t over or underfed. I

eventually found calorie counts in different vegetables and fruits that were equivalent to what he needed on a daily basis,” Andrea added. Inspiration to help parents of G-Tube babies Initially, she had the idea to write the book just for her son’s benefit but after realizing how difficult it was she decided to publish it to help other mothers who will go through the same stressful experience. “Coming up with the guide eliminated a lot of stress for me so I am looking for this book to make life a lot easier for other parents and to guide them in helping their kids to achieve the required amount of nutritional balance needed for their proper development.” She was beaming with pride to note that her now twoyear-old son is doing very well and “has overcome many things doctors said he wouldn’t,” which is a testimonial to how effective her methods were. But for Andrea the book is just the beginning as she wants to do more to help families caring for G-Tube babies have a much easier life. Reference: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4093701

promises parents a healthy choiceÂ

entrepreneurship… Starting,

growing and maintaining a

business is not easy. The workforce holds a multitude of employees that are miserable on the job and dream of owning their own business. But does this mean you are cut out for the task? Or should you explore entrepreneurship while employed? Below are a few things I’ve found that make for successful entrepreneurship: 1

Passion: Successful entrepreneurs are born out of passion. Whether there’s a problem to be solved, meeting a need or unexplained freedom associated with a certain work; entrepreneurs are fueled by passion. Tenacity: There are highs and lows with business ownership. One must have the ability to ‘hang in there’ through the lows just as they celebrate the highs. Until you reach ‘that place’ of success, you must have the ability to run your race. Throwing in the towel is not an option; that is if you find your choice of entrepreneurship actually works. Strategic/Critical Thinking: No matter your resources, business owners have to develop the art of strategic/critical thinking and implement plans with precision. Living in the moment is wonderful for family, friends, and fun, but successful entrepreneurship calls for thinking beyond today. It is imperative that you have a strategy to carry out your plan. At times entrepreneurship feels like chess; you have to know where to move and when to make your move. This requires strategic/critical thinking. Competitive Marketing: Understanding your target market is critical to the success of a business. Before you can implement a marketing plan the business owner has to know how to direct their products or services to a specific group of consumers. Figure out the answer to such questions as: Where is my target market? How do I reach my target market? Knowing the answer to these sample questions will save you a few headaches and dollars. Fearless: Entrepreneurs are risk takers. Fear has no place in entrepreneurship. There are times that taking risks come at a loss, but you learn from this, swiftly recover and head in another direction. There are also times when you hit the ‘nail on the head’ (succeed) with a risk; when this happens, apply more pressure in that area. Flexible: Be open to embracing change, new ideas, and unfamiliar techniques. If you cannot change with the times, you will get left behind.

Entrepreneurship is very rewarding, in particular when your business makes a difference in the economy, improves communities and addresses social-related issues. The key is growing a successful business that is capable of influence and makes a difference in the lives of others. A message from Vikki Jones.

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iving a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be a daunting task. There are many products available to help make the process easier. There is no time like the present to make your body a priority and it’s no secret that good health can have an undeniably positive impact on quality of life. Whether you are looking for the perfect workout outfit, accessories or equipment, or revamping your kitchen appliances to accommodate a new diet, JCPenney has everything you need to refresh your diet and exercise regimen no matter your budget. Find more products like these to aid you in your quest to live a healthier lifestyle at JCPenney and jcpenney.com.

Find Comfort in Every Situation

Snuggle up in softness whether you’re on the move or just relaxing with this Xersion Long Sleeve Cowlneck Hooded Fleece Pullover. Perfect for those trips to the gym or a jog around the block or neighborhood, the anti-pilling finish helps keep fleece smooth and comfortable, and thumbholes help keep the sleeves in place while you’re on the go. Available for $30 in three colors, the pullover also features a kangaroo pocket to warm your hands and protect your belongings.

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Don’t Forget About Your Feet

Say Goodbye to Calorie Counting

Unlock Hidden Nutrition in Food

Keep Your Mind and Body Focused

Pick Portable Training Tools

Add Personality to Your Workouts

Whether running errands or working out at the gym, the right shoe can make all the difference. The Nike Flex Experience Run 4 Women’s Running Shoe offers lightweight flexibility, mid-foot support and plush comfort that can help make even the most mundane of tasks less stressful on your feet. Flex grooves provide a smooth, efficient ride and a mesh collar and tongue enhance breathability. Available for $75, these running shoes are the ideal trainer for everyday use.

A favorite of yoga studio owners because of its length and thickness, this Deluxe Yoga Mat features a gripping design to keep it in place while allowing you to keep your mind focused on the physical task at hand. Available in 18 colors and retailing for $24, the durable, one-quarter-inch foam provides added joint comfort and support and absorbs moisture, making it easy for you to take advantage of the physical benefits associated with yoga.

Say goodbye to exercise journals and calorie counting with the iFit Vue Fitness Tracker. The rechargeable active band is an all-day fitness tracker that takes the stress out of keeping up with your goals while motivating your climb toward fitness. Retailing for $140, the SmartSense technology automatically detects every movement, step and calorie burned. An easy-to-read touchscreen display with onscreen notifications allows you to track your progress and easily scroll through goals and activities.

Built for durability and comfort, this Stamina Doorway Trainer Plus is the ultimate training tool to strengthen and develop your shoulders, back and arms with five grip positions to help you build and tone upper body muscles with pull-ups, triceps dips, push-ups and sit-ups. The trainer, which retails for $85 and holds up to 250 pounds, fits most sturdy, standard doorways with trim and attaches and removes easily from the doorframe so you can take your workout with you.

Now you can have the power to unlock food’s hidden nutrition in the comfort of your own home. The NutriBullet Blender, which retails for $135, is ideal for milling grains, grinding fresh herbs and chopping nuts with a flat stainless steel blade that never needs sharpening. Complete with a power base, both tall and short cups, an extractor blade and pocket nutritionist, the blender makes it easy to keep your healthy eating goals on track.

An allover print adds a pop of personality to workout wear, such as these performance-ready Xersion Print Capris. The tight compression fit provides added comfort during workouts while QuickDri moisture-wicking fabric helps keep you dry and won’t irritate your skin. Retailing for $44, the capris come in five vibrant color patterns and feature a credit card pocket in the waistband so you can easily take everything you need with you.

SUCCESSFUL LUXURY REALTOR & ENTREPRENEUR

MELISSA MILLER Melissa Miller has spent the last two decades developing and educating herself in all aspects of Real Estate from Residential to Commercial. With over 10 years in Real estate Financing as a Mortgage Broker, it was suggested to her that, with her skill set, background and personality that she would do well on the frontlines as a Real Estate Agent. There was no safety net or security of income in being a real estate agent; it was truly a startup business where she would have to take the necessary steps to grow the business if she would expect to see any success.

years and by RE/MAX International with the Chairman’s Club Award.

After investing years in Real Estate education, she was able to attain over 10 Real Estate designations achieved only by the top 1% of Real Estate agents nationwide including Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Accredited Commercial Practitioner (ACP), Accredited Buyer Specialist (ABS) to name a few. She has been recognized by REAL Trends/Wall Street Journal as “America’s Best Agent” for the past two

With extensive experience in mortgage financing, she has been able to assist clients that may not have thought it possible to attain the dream of a new home. Real Estate is constantly changing and you must be willing to stay connected to all of the changes. The clients are expecting when they work with us that we are experts in negotiations and the process. They want a smooth transaction from contract to close and only an

Traveling to many countries such as the Caribbean, Europe, Italy, Japan, and all across the U.S, she has been able to build her business as a Real Estate Consulting Firm with a network of agents and clientele both nationally and internationally. Living in the South Florida area for over 30 years, she is an expert in the local areas of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and the surrounding areas.

experienced agent can provide that with confidence. What are the biggest real estate trends we will see in 2018? The biggest trend that we see right now is the emergence and take over of Millennials in the Real Estate market. Millennials are now the largest demographic purchasing homes with over $500 million over the last year according to Zillow reports. Millennials are now settling into their jobs, getting married and having families, they are ready to settle down. They prefer newer construction/ smart homes. The market is much more stable than years past and interest rates are still at historical lows making this the perfect time to purchase a home. However, interest rates are expected to rise later in the year 2018 making affordability an issue. Millennials also appreciate the

Builders find high-end construction to be more profitable so the lack of inventory remains for entry-level buyers driving up the prices. All indications are that the interest rates will rise slightly in 2018. Buyers will also see the opportunity to jump into the market before they get priced out of the market and mortgage payments become unaffordable. Sellers will feel the need to sell their home so that they can upsize or downsize and take advantage of the still historically low interest rates. Your agency offers concierge services. What does that entail exactly? The Melissa Miller Group offers the client a “one-stop shop” when it comes to buying Real Estate. As the Real Estate Consultants of choice for many Corporate Executives, Professional athletes, entertainers, these individuals are able to leave the complete process of relocating to the South Florida area to our team. We do not disclose our high profile clients names, as they count on us for discretion and privacy.

“Becoming a successful entrepreneur for me expertise and convenience that being represented by a Realtor gives them. They are much more likely to spend time researching homes online first and then reach out to a Realtor once they have done their due diligence by narrowing down their options first. They want convenience in every way. Millennials prefer brand new homes so that they are not concerned with deferred maintenance, remodeling, and repair issues that may arise from having an older home. They also have more student loan and credit card debt so funds are limited for down payment so they are not interested in taking on a fixer-upper. All indications are that we will see slower home value growth than previous years. Home prices have been ascending at a rate of over 6% a year since 2011 but the predictions are that it will slow to 4% in 2018. We can attribute this in part to sellers making the decision to stay in their homes and simply renovate for a newer home feel. More sellers will then reach into the home equity that they have accumulated and get an equity line of credit to make those home improvements. Many of the predictions for 2017 did not materialize. Low Inventory is still a concern and interest rates still remain relatively low. Fortunately, there is a lot of optimism surrounding Real Estate for the year ahead. We are expecting many to finally get off the ledge and make the decision to sell their homes. This will certainly help to loosen the tight inventory. The hope of new construction helping to relieve some of the constriction in the market today fell far short. The need for housing for entry-level buyers are just not there.

has been an exercise in conquering fear.” Locating the perfect home is just the beginning, out of town buyers then need to line up moving and shipping services, they need to know their options for schools for their children, local childcare/nanny service, and housekeeping services. Selling their home back home is taken care of by our highly professional and experienced agent partners in all 50 states and in 110 countries around the world. We have also connected sports/entertainment and Corporate executive clients to financial advisors that can help guide them with long-term planning before they finalize their plans for purchasing a home. Concierge service is about convenience for those who live busy and demanding lives. They want to leave the finer details to professionals that have relationships with the best vendors and service providers in the area. They will come to the area for a few days to find their dream home. We have arranged for transportation, whether it’s a private jet or limousine pick up at the airport and we will provide them with a complete area orientation to familiarize them with the different areas that match their needs and lifestyle. Once they select their home, you no longer need to be in town to close on the home. In fact, we have had clients overseas purchase a home online based only on the photos and videos. So if you are too busy to come in town and don’t want to miss viewing a home that might be perfect for you, we will arrange for a personal video tour. You can purchase a beautiful luxury home and our 30

interior designers can furnish the home, and our contractors can design a state of the art Home theater, lighting and security systems. What has been the biggest challenge youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve encountered as an entrepreneur? As an entrepreneur, the biggest challenge is to know the needs of your customers and be ready to provide that service, keeping the growth of your business in mind. Being an expert in your field requires that you research consumer reports and know what your clients want. For example, studies have shown that communication is the number one complaint of customers so your business should be centered around regular communication with your customers. Getting their feedback and suggestions will keep them coming back and referring you to their sphere of influence. Our clients know that we are able to dedicate our time to providing them with above and beyond service, instead of on the streets looking for new business, when they refer us to others. By the time we are ready to close the deal, they have already referred us to one or two of their friends. Business can then grow exponentially.

-Fear of Failure Be prepared for disappointments and rejection. Rejection gets you one step closer to a successful sale. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to ask why they have chosen another option and take note for the future. -Fear of letting go You have built a successful business your clients love you and now you have so many clients that you need help. You need to learn to hire the right people that have similar values and character. They should fit into the culture of your business and you will delegate the lower level tasks so that you can focus on the most important part of growing your business which is building relationships with your clients Conquer your fears and there is nothing that can stop you from developing and growing a successful business. Connect with Melissa on: Facebook.com/MelissaMillerGroup Instagram.com MelissaMillerGroup.com

The challenge then becomes keeping the quality service as your business begins to grow. This is when adding additional members to your team that has the same commitment to service and fits within the culture of your business and dedicated to your mission statement and vision. Staying two steps ahead and knowing when you are at capacity for providing quality service is important so that service does not suffer. Exceeding expectations is the key to business growth no matter what line of business you may be in. What is the best piece of advice you have an aspiring entrepreneur? Becoming a successful entrepreneur for me has been an exercise in conquering fear. Being an entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart, you must know that on this road you will have challenges that will discourage you early on. I have had many fears to conquer on the path to successâ&#x20AC;Ś -Fear of Competition What competition? No one can operate your business the way you can, no one can relate to your clients the way that you can. No matter what service you offer or what industry you may be in, you are unique and there will always be clientele that would prefer to work with you over another business. 31

MINDSET, THE ECONOMY & THE INTERNET OF THINGSÂ by Vikki Jones

A large number of businesses that have been around for decades, ranging from Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and JCPenney to RadioShack and Office Depot, are closing at a record pace. People are quickly losing jobs, with families panicking and retail workers understandably concerned about how they are going to pay their bills. So, why are longstanding retail stores falling like dominoes? Some aggressively blame technology

and its inhibitors, such as the internet, people like Mark Zuckerberg, entities like Amazon, and financial systems like PayPal. But the question has become, are they to blame, or does the fault lie with traditional thinking and methods of conducting business? The internet has opened a wave of opportunity for oppressed thinkers that longed to have a hand in sales and creativity, often in the form of new

inventions. Born out of zealous ambition, Facebook, along with social media platforms such as Twitter, Snapchat, and LinkedIn, connects the globe in ways that were once unheard of, and a record speed. Place these platforms at the fingertips of entrepreneurial spirits and it should come as no surprise that competitors for brick and mortar stores have emerged, often on an entry-level basis. With ideas no longer oppressed, gatekeepers are being pushed aside and the status quo centering on the chief financial officer level of big businesses has changed. What we have here is the rise and fall of two very powerful forces —a modern day David and Goliath. When you have an untouchable mindset, you begin to fail. It may not be quite as evident at first, but as time progresses, onlookers are able to see the failure. In the sales department, general managers often can’t determine why the quota is not met and why their local store location is threatened with closure. Traditional thinking never wins in a rapidly evolving climate. When an executive is stubbornly set on making an old system work in our modern-day, tech-savvy world, it sets everyone beneath them up for failure. This can come in the form of low sales, job loss, and more.

BOOK PUBLISHING

with a Personalized Approach

Time has brought about new ways of watching movies, communicating, and paying bills. Each of these daily rituals can be done online, and the same is true in the business sector. Personally, I love some of the traditional practices in retail, but I also recognize the limitations that it places on the average person. With that said, I’ve embraced simple, easy, and less time-consuming ways of shopping and doing business, despite those that felt it couldn’t be done. The economy is much more productive as a result of new ways of doing business that further involve community improvement, social change, and small businesses. While it has had an impact on some of the larger chain and brick and mortar stores, I wholeheartedly admire everyone who has an idea, works hard, puts it into motion, and succeeds as a result of internet tools like Facebook, Etsy, and personal websites. The old way of thinking that can often yield resentment towards social media, technology, and e-commerce practices has to become more open and inviting to everyday innovators. It can be difficult to accept that old habits or methods of thinking are being put on the back burner, but I’d rather let go of a thinking pattern than see those around me suffer the consequences. It’s never too late to learn new things; it’s an integral part of life. No matter one’s age, upbringing, or familiarity, when you open your mind, you are opening yourself to a world outside of yourself. Learning to accept the new norms and let go of the old ways of doing things is important, as it ultimately affects those around you, as well as the economy. ______________________________________________________

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VIKKIHANKINS.NET 33

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FAMILY FEATURES

ne of the challenges facing small businesses today is trying to deliver the same customer experience as larger competitors. As technology advances and takes on an ever-growing role, small businesses can tap new innovations to better communicate with customers, save money and simplify operations. As small business owners look to transform digitally, they face a number of options, from upgrading their technology to optimize shipping operations and decrease costs to adopting digital marketing tactics to better understand and target their customers. While it can be difficult for a small business that is well-established using analog processes to switch to digital, the key is to start with the final objective in mind; in other words, begin by defining your end goal. Once you’ve determined the desired outcome of digitizing your business, these tips can help you establish a strategy that can benefit both your business performance and customer experience.

Reach customers through digital marketing An important step in digital transformation is revisiting how you attract and interact with current and prospective customers, who are

increasingly turning to a combination of physical and digital channels to engage with brands and businesses. If you think of digital marketing and email or online ads, you’re on the right track, but effective marketing requires more than simply hitting send on an email or counting clicks on an ad. Email marketing should be focused on providing helpful, relevant content to your target audience based on its preferences. Recipients can come to appreciate your insights on industry news and helpful information, so your sales pitches are likely to be more warmly received. Beyond the content, an effective strategy establishes connective links between all your marketing touchpoints, from email to blog and even to your traditional tactics, such as direct mail and more, all with the goal of boosting credibility and visibility via search engine optimization and foot traffic.

Optimize operations through the cloud As technology evolves, more tasks can be handled online and more traditional analog devices are connected to the internet and the cloud. Adopting the use of these digitally connected devices can not only make fulfilling tasks easier and more efficient, but also track patterns and collect data that brings new value to small business owners. For example, with a surge in parcel volumes year over year

(thanks, in part, to a sustained e-commerce growth), according to the Pitney Bowes Parcel Shipping Index, consider a cloud-enabled shipping solution, such as the SendPro C-Series, to simplify sending operations. This digital multi-carrier platform leverages the latest cloud technology to enable offices of all sizes to easily select the ideal sending option for every parcel or letter, while also providing full tracking information and delivering savings. “The SendPro C-Series is designed to take the guesswork out of shipping and mailing,” said Jason Dies, executive vice president and president, Pitney Bowes SMB Solutions. “These digitally connected sending devices allow users to better manage their sending operations on one platform, providing the confidence that they selected the right carrier and class of service for each expedited envelope and package, track all shipments from one dashboard and provide consolidated visibility and control of postal and carrier expenses. Plus, the open platform allows developers to create new applications specific for the needs of small business owners.”

Make decisions based on analytics Beyond providing efficiency and simplicity, connected and cloudenabled devices can generate and

track valuable data, which can, in turn, be analyzed and used to make important business decisions. In a business environment dominated by ever-changing consumer preferences, data-driven insights are key to serving the needs and securing the business of today’s hyper-connected consumers. By utilizing data and analytics, your business can be better equipped to deliver superior customer experiences, support product and service innovation, and optimize business processes.

Use mobile to communicate with customers Even the smallest of businesses can take steps toward better mobile communication, such as ensuring their websites are mobile-friendly and responsive to different device types. This is especially important as mobile usage continues to climb in the United States, and consumers increasingly rely on mobile devices for information to guide purchase decisions. Your business can also capitalize on location intelligence capabilities to deliver timely coupons and promotions to customers in the immediate vicinity. Find more tips for transforming your business for the digital age at pitneybowes.com/us/digital.

Elements of a Digital Transformation Before diving head-first into a digital transformation, consider what aspects are most important to your business.

Automation When developing or implementing new technology or digital assets, automation is a key component most businesses are striving toward. It can save your business money while also reducing monotonous tasks and allowing your employees to focus on the more skill-reliant aspects of their jobs.

Efficiency Technology as a whole can make your business more efficient, from increasing employee productivity to allowing greater flexibility in an often-changing market.

Interaction Embracing technology and digital communication can allow for greater reach and ease of communication. From the use of social media platforms to email blasts and online advertisements, technology can expand how and when your business communicates with potential consumers.

Boost Business Digitally A growing collection of digital applications and offerings, such as these members of the Pitney Bowes Small Business Partner Program community, can enhance and streamline business operations. Google G Suite is a cloud-based productivity suite that helps teams communicate, collaborate and get things done from anywhere, and on any device. Yext puts businesses on the map by letting companies manage their digital knowledge in the cloud and sync it to over 100 maps, apps, search engines, GPS systems and social networks, as well as facilitating face-to-face and digital interactions that boost brand awareness, drive foot traffic and increase sales. Ruth Frank, senior director of global user experience, demonstrates the SendPro C-Series

Promote by Acquisio is an advertising solution that helps businesses get new customers with zero expertise needed by creating tailored ads, providing optimization, on-the-go text notifications for incoming leads and tracking of all recorded incoming calls from ads. Nimble is a simple social sales and marketing CRM that helps companies nurture relationships across email and social networks such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. DocuSign lets people sign, send and manage documents anytime, anywhere, on any device, replacing traditional methods that require printing, faxing, scanning and overnighting documents.

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