From A Woman's Perspective

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Supporting WEOP

Ways to Give WEOP’s programs continue to touch the lives of hundreds of women in the community.

Financial Contributions to WEOP provide critical resources to continue and expand the scope of programs and services. We invite you to support the mission by making a donation to support one of the following categories: General program Support • $25-$500 Sponsorships — ICP Training/Educational Workshops • $500-$2,500 Sponsor the annual “From A Women’s Perspective” March Conference • $500–$10,000 Donations can be received by credit or debit card online at www.weop.org or mail to: WEOP, 250 Georgia Avenue, SE., Suite 213, Atlanta, GA 30312

Volunteers WEOP is seeking committed volunteers with expertise in technology, entrepreneurship, fundraising, business and work force development. Contact WEOP to further discuss board service or volunteer opportunities. We welcome your creative ideas to develop programs and services to educate and empower women.

Stay connected to WEOP online – visit the website and subscribe to receive the monthly newsletter at: www.weop.org Connect with WEOP on one of the following social networking sites:

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From a Circle of Women ... Helping Other Women

Words From the Publisher

T

his is the second issue of “From A Woman’s Perspective” (FAWP), a publication that provides resources and highlights information from our professional circle of women. We hope that you are inspired and motivated to pursue your dreams and passions in 2012. As a community based organization, WEOP has celebrated over ten years of service to the community and we look forward to another ten years.

In line with the WEOP mission, we understand the complex issues of women and understand that the following issues need to be addressed: Marionette Ball and Antionette Ball, WEOP founders.

• The racial and gender wealth gap

• Entities that will advocate and influence policy makers in legislators about policies that impact on the quality of life for women

• The need for a livable minimum wage

• Increasing access and opportunities for women in nontraditional fields and access to post secondary educational training and professional certifications

• Improved education options for women at all stages of life, especially non-traditional students

• Ending domestic violence against women

• Ensuring effective and accessible healthcare options for women

• Increasing technological awareness will make women competitive in today’s market WEOP’s successful expansion is due to launching innovative initiatives that leverage technology resources. The organization launched an on-line magazine, a blog talk radio show, technology based business workshops and integrated E-learning as an option to drive broader class participation. WEOP continues to utilize the World Wide Web to reach women globally and leverage the website as a vehicle to educate and provide resources for employment and business opportunities.

Stay in contact — we welcome your input, ideas and suggestions and extend a special thank you for the volunteers and community support!

Ant ionette Ball Sincerely,

Editor

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2012 ANNUAL EDITION

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A quarterly publication for the Women’s Employment Opportunity Project, Inc. (WEOP)

Founding Editor Antionette Ball

Cover Designer

Kaarin MacKinnon

Magazine Designer Saria Canady

Marketing Director Marionette Ball

Contributing Writers Dr. Valerie Vann Marionette Ball Antionette Ball Dhana Blissett Linda Chatmon Paulette Norvell Lewis Dr. Deborah Porter Kaarin MacKinnon Andrieka J. Austin Tonya Hicks Darla James

Photograph Credits: Latasha Ball

Publisher

Women’s Employment Opportunity Project, Inc. (WEOP) 250 Georgia Avenue, S.E. Suite 213 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-681-2497 www.weop.org

Contact Us

FAWP@weop.org Copyright © 2011 by WEOP. All rights reserved.

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contents

2012 Annual Edition

FAWP

Volume 2

CAREER STRATEGIES

5 6 7

Unemployment: Crisis or Opportunity?

Move Over Men WEOP Launches ICP

MOVING FORWARD

8 Business Success Strategies 10 Critical Thinking for Business Success 11 The Empowered Entrepreneur

RETROSPECT

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

Finding Balance Through Self-Care Transforming Adversity Into Opportunity All You Need is 15 Minutes to Change Social Media and Business: What’s Your Strategy?

What’s Going on With Women Networking Success Strategies Powerful Mind Boosters

GALLERY

19 & 20

WEOP Gallery of Pictures

RESOURCES

21

Website Corner and Acknowledgements

All content in this magazine is for informational purposes only.

The editors of this magazine make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein. Opinions are those of individual authors and the editors will not be held liable for any errors or omissions.

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Innovative Thinking

Unemployment: Crisis or Opportunity?

By Paulette Norvel Lewis

W

hat a difference a day makes! Last year this time the unemployment rate was about 4.5 percent here in Georgia. Several weeks ago, the Atlanta Journal and Constitution reported that the unemployment rate in Georgia is now 9.3 percent — the 4th highest in the nation and higher than the national unemployment rate of 8.1 percent.

Unemployment rates are even higher in rural counties and among minority groups.

But the news is not all bad — it seldom is. We just have to look at things with different eyes and think outside the box. Someone once said Ladies, like it or not that “women are like tea many of us are now “in bags, you never know how hot water”— trying to strong they are until you put them in hot water.” make ends meet while Ladies, like it or not many dealing with layoffs, of us are now “in hot furloughs, and foreclo- water”— trying to make sures. Now is the time ends meet while dealing with layoffs, furloughs, to use our strength, and foreclosures. Now is resilience, innovative the time to demonstrate minds, survival and use our strength, our instincts, and most of resilience, our innovaall, our compassion and tive minds and survival support for one another instincts, and, most of all, our compassion and supas we look for jobs and port for one another as we wait for the economy look for jobs and wait for to rebound. the economy to rebound.

I hope that the following Transition Strategies will inspire you to “bloom where you are,” to create opportunities for yourself, and to effectively prospect for a new job.

VOLUNTEER. Through volunteering you will be able to meet and work with people who have connections or information that will be helpful to you. Most importantly, you have an opportunity to demonstrate your skills, the addedvalue that you bring to a situation, your “can do” attitude, and your willingness to get involved as a team player.

Helpful Resources Georgia Department of Labor www.dol.state.ga.us/ U.S. Department of Labor www.dol.gov Women’s Bureau — Department of Labor www.dol.gov/wb MOVE FROM NETWORKING TO CONNECTING. Take every opportunity to meet people. Let your friends who are employed know that you would like to accompany them, if possible, to social or networking events.

ENGAGE IN SOCIAL NETWORKING. Social-networking sites provide opportunities to hear about new ideas and learn what employment or business opportunities exist in various industries. Employers are now using these sites to recruit and also to screen potential applicants.

PLAN YOUR DAYS AND WEEKS. Each night when you go to bed, you should have a schedule for the next day or two. Will you make calls to companies, send out resumes, volunteer, or attend social events.

FIND A MENTOR FOR YOURSELF. Find someone who is or has been where you want to be. Ask them to be your mentor. Seek and heed their guidance, direction and feedback on a regular basis.

The Japanese symbol for crisis is two-sided: It is a combination of challenge and opportunity. I think this is a very appropriate symbol of the times we are experiencing now. It is truly a very challenging time for everyone but it is also a time full of opportunity for those who are innovative. In times like these, millionaires are made. Will you be one of them? W

Paulette Norvell Lewis is the regional administrator for the Women’s Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor, Region IV. 2012 ANNUAL EDITION

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Move Over Men Women in Nontraditional Careers

By Tonya Hicks

W

ith today’s job market and the new stimulus plan in place, there has never been a better time to consider a career in non-traditional occupations for women.

A multitude of career options for every interest and aptitude are available.

These are jobs that offer respect, tors, welders, and dry wall installers; opportunity, good pay and geographito name a few. Today, the line between cal mobility. The new jobs that will be “white-collar” and “blue-collar” is very available under the new stimulus plan faint. Technology has given the skilled have been criticized as being male jobs trades a new reputation of respect. They only. Why is that so? In World War I are no longer the “dirty” jobs. Salaries and World War II, women took jobs range from $45,000 to $120,000 anthat were not traditional in order to nually. Skilled trade jobs require some help with the war efforts. We can do the college and/or apprenticeship program same things today. We’re no less intelcertification. State licensing boards also ligent or physically require certifications capable. I believe Skilled trade jobs include: for some of these that women are in a electricians, plumbers, trades. better position today Professional careers carpenters, painters, sheet to make these career in construction and metal workers, heavy changes. manufacturing are Trade occupations available. These jobs equipment operators, fall within four areas: include: engineers, welders, and dry wall transportation, conarchitects, interior struction, service, and installers, to name a few. designers, project Today, the line between managers, superinmanufacturing. The physical demands of tendents, and estima“white-collar” and skilled trades vary tors. A college degree “blue-collar” is very faint. and various certificagreatly between professions. Some jobs tions are required require modest physical strength and for these careers. The opportunities are endurance, but most do not. However, limitless. I am an electrician by trade. all of the trades require intelligence But as an owner of an electrical conand/or creativity as well as good readtracting company, since 2000, I have ing, mathematical, and analytical skills. been an estimator, project manager, as Skilled trade jobs include: electricians, well as superintendent. I am proof that plumbers, carpenters, painters, sheet a woman can do anything and everymetal workers, heavy equipment opera- thing she wants to. W

Find out more For more information on nontraditional careers, check out these websites: National Association of Women in Construction www.nawic.org International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Apprentice Program www.aejatc.org Painters, Drywall Finishers, Floor Coverers, Sign and Display Workers www.iupat.org The United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters www.ua.org Sheet Metal Workers International Association www.smwia.org International Association of Fire Fighters www.iaff.org Society of Women Engineers www.swe.org International Association of Women Police www.iawp.org Women in Technology www.womenintechnology. org Blog Dedicated to Women in Male Dominated Fields www.womendoeverything. com

Tonya is a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers since 1994. She is the first woman journeyman electrician of Local 917 in Meridian, Miss. The founder of an electrical contracting and engineering firm in 2000 that focuses on commercial business.

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Program Kickoff

WEOP Launches ICP Project Building new skills for ‘The New Worker’

By Antionette Ball Ask yourself “What can you do to expand your business opportunities or how can you lend your skills to companies? If you are a small business, how can you expand and grow your business with contract opportunities? If you are a consultant or freelancer, how can you market your special skills and work as a Contractor or subcontractor? Did you know about the Economically Disadvantaged Owned Small Business Program (EDWOSB)? The Independent Contractor Professional (ICP) program answers all of the above questions and postures entrepreneurs to successfully compete for contracts in the public and private sectors.

ICP provides entrepreneurs with a solid framework for business operations. The eight-week program provides participants with an understanding of: prospecting for contracts, the impact of technology on small businesses, how to build an operational infrastructure, contract

negotiation and a range of topics for successful business ventures and enterprises. The course utilizes industry professionals and entrepreneurs as guest speakers, case studies and learning in a supportive environment.

Upon completion of the course, entrepreneurs are equipped with the skills to tackle business in a technologically and changing economy.

The ideal ICP student should have basic experience with completing a business plan and a clear idea of a business concept. For example, ICP would be suitable for a freelance graphic designer, business consultant or a small business owner. The program curriculum educates participants on contract opportunities in the following areas: federal, county and local governments, corporations and nonprofit organizations.

Upon successful completion of the training, ICP students acquire 2.0 continuing education credit hours from Atlanta Technical College and will receive an “Independent Contractors Professional” certificate.

By offering this program, Atlanta Technical College and WEOP hope to strengthen Georgia’s economy by infusing the marketplace with small business professionals prepared to pursue new business ventures and contract opportunities.

ICP classes are offered on a quarterly schedule on Thursday evenings at Atlanta Technical College. Interested in enrolling in this exciting course, contact WEOP to discuss! This is your time to connect and engage with other entrepreneurs.

ICP student Lavon states that “ICP provided me with a great learning experience and introduced me to a different approach to conducting business.” W Antionette Ball is the Founder of the Women’s Employment Opportunity Project, Inc., she is a graduate of The University of Southern California with a B.S. and M.S. degrees in Public Administration. She has extensive experience in academia, non-profit management and program administration.

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7

Business Forward

10

Business Success Strategies From an Expert

By Linda Chatmon

1

BE CERTAIN YOUR BUSINESS NAME CORRELATES TO YOUR SERVICES The name of your company should reflect what you do. With so many “directories” out there, what you do should be clearly communicated by your name. For instance: “WalkYourDog.com” or “HealthyEatingCoach.org” both make it very clear what services these organizations provide.

2

3

MAINTAIN INTEGRITY In every situation, no matter what choices you confront, always act with integrity. When acting with integrity, over the long haul, you will always win.

OFFER SUPPORT SERVICES Its great to have a Primary service offering; however, providing support services to your main product/service ensures that you have a constant work flow with existing customers.

4

KNOW YOUR VALUE Your value is determined by taking the total amount of income on any given project and dividing it by the number of hours you worked. Once you know this amount, anytime you can outsource that same service for 50 percent of your value, it is in your best interest that you do so. As an entrepreneur, you should be spending time growing the company, not simply working on billable projects.

5

SELF-EMPLOYED VS. ENTREPRENEUR If you bill for a project, based upon paying yourself enough to meet your obligations; if you are dedicated to one client at a time; or you have no idea what your unit of measure is (how much you are worth per hour), you are self employed. If on the other hand, you are billed across multiple projects, you operate in the position of executive oversight only, and your projects can end and begin without your input, you are an entrepreneur. Decide which you would like to be, then plan accordingly.

6

NEGOTIATION Whenever possible, meet your clients at the point of their needs. You will have to learn to give and take and sometimes negotiate at a lower price point than you had originally planned. In the long run, you will get many more repeat opportunities for business and referrals from someone that is confident that you value them. There is a human element of obligation whereby we can constantly demonstrate our value even when we are unable to negotiate in the area of price.

continued on page 8

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Business Success Strategies From an Expert, cont.

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OFFER IN-KIND SERVICES Build “in kind� services into your business development strategy. This is the best way to showcase your services to YOUR targeted market by deciding which projects to accept (those that cater to your potential customers).

8

ELECTED OFFICIALS Get to know your elected officials. They are an excellent source for referrals and introductions. Get involved with community affairs and meet public servants which in many cases can be your biggest advocates.

9

SPONSORSHIPS Sponsorships come at all levels. In most cases, for $250.00 you can be included as a sponsor at a breakfast function hosted for elected officials or nonprofit associations. Target organizations that have memberships of those who could utilize your services. Having your name in print and being introduced as a sponsor has a far greater value than you could imagine.

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UTILIZE SOCIAL-NETWORKING Take advantage of online relationships (Facebook, Myspace, BlackPlanet, etc). People generally do business with people that they like, so the more people that like you, the more referrals you will have. Just be SURE that your online screen name represents who you are professionally. It is essentially personal branding so be careful to maintain a social, yet professional online presence. W

Linda Chatmon has been successfully helping companies secure and maintain contracts and grants. She is the founder and Chief Operating Office of Contracts and Grants, LLC located in Atlanta, Georgia. With more than a decade of industry experience, Contracts & Grants has been responsible for securing more than $150 million in contracts and grant awards and managing billions in contracts. The company leverages an extensive background and knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) with key relationships to provide effective government contract support services. Contact her at www.contractsandgrantsservices.com.

2012 ANNUAL EDITION

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Thinking to Achieve

Critical Thinking for Business Question and Evaluate Your Ideas

By Deborah S. Porter, Ph.D. If you want to operate a successful business or create a thriving career — becoming a critical thinker is your roadmap to success. To stay competitive, you must develop a critical thinking mindset to succeed in the business world! Critical thinking is a basic skill that many businesses, entrepreneurs, and managers utilize to get the results they need.

It is a form of thinking strategically and creatively by tapping into your analytic mind set. As a critical thinker, you must begin questioning and evaluating your ideas, assumptions, and methods of finding the facts. Furthermore, it takes creative thinking skills, resilience, determination, and a fundamental philosophy in establishing pivotal concepts to thinking critically. Let me be clear, critical thinking and creative thinking compliments each other. There is a clear difference of the two, for instance; critical thinking evaluates your thoughts allowing for rational decisions; whereas creative thinking means producing ideas and processes that challenge your thoughts.

If you want to build your critical thinking skills, then you need to step back and examine your thought processes which will make them more effectively clearer. This will prompt you to ask the right questions, challenge assumptions and see the viewpoints of others more clearly.

How do you know if you meet the criteria of a critical thinker? Well, critical thinkers are: 10

• Open-minded and curious • Creative questioners and seekers • Rely on credible sources and information • Does not assume anything • Accepts change and/or evidence based information • Withhold judgment and self perception • Eager to seek accuracy and reasoning • Long-term thinkers • Recognize personal biases • Acknowledge feelings of emotions How many times have you questioned yourself about where you are, or what you should be doing? In today’s hard economic times, you need to question your ideas, motives, and reasoning. Once you capture a clear understanding of who you are, and what you should be doing, it is then when you must seize the opportunity to anticipate, initiate and create change to heighten your creative thoughts.

As you develop critical thinking qualities, it will keep you in perspective as a guide when it seems that you have lost your way. In business, critical thinking is used to solve problems and make decisions every day. They are habits of thought that you must constantly utilize to make better decisions. In today’s business market, you must have an edge to remain competitive and be successful. Many business leaders agree it’s the only way to think at work—because it helps you get the best possible results boosting your competitive edge. W Dr. Deborah S. Porter is the President/CEO of Porter’s Transportation, Inc. a general freight company in Lithia Springs, Ga. She is committed to serving women and small businesses across America through consulting and mentoring services.

You may contact her at www.porterstrans.com or email her at ddsporter@porterstrans.com

2012 ANNUAL EDITION

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Steps to Success

The Empowered Entrepreneur 12 Tips for Business Success

By Dr. Valerie Vann Imagine the preparation it takes to prepare for a movie role or to do a performance. It requires hours of rehearsal, memorization and preparation. The process of preparing is one that will result in rewards. As an entrepreneur, the same preparation is required to start or expand a business. Get ready for your performance and the business world is your stage. You can be the “Empowered Entrepreneur” with the following action plan: 1) Take the time to research information; 2) Seek out mentorships, training and educational programs; 3) Network with professional groups to learn of business opportunities.

The first step is to take time to thoroughly research information related to your business idea or concept. Remember, you want to make sure that your idea is a money maker and you are not just spinning your wheels. Utilize the Internet, magazines, books, information about competitors and any resource that can provide some insight.

Secondly, you should find creative ways to secure experience through mentorships, training and educational programs. Building networks can lead to creative partnerships that can increase capital for your business.

Last but not least, building networks can connect you to other professional groups and open the door to a range of business opportunities.

I have listed twelve tips that are beneficial for becoming a more “empowered entrepreneur”. Emerging entrepreneurs need to understand and apply these steps in learning how to gain access to capital, partnerships, joint ventures, private and government contracts, and attract angel and venture investors.

• Research the SBA.gov website to learn about everything from starting to growing a business and information related to the Economically Disadvantaged Women-owned Small Businesses (EDWOSB) program • Develop a business plan as a roadmap for your business • Attend professional development training and workshops • Develop a professional website as a marketing tool • Use technology tools and Social Media (YouTube);

blogs, Internet • Become a part of professional networks and organizations • Join social networks such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to share success stories, network with others and create a positive presence in the community • Visit women resource centers for mentorship opportunities, training and education • Learn about special programs that target women entrepreneurs to gain access to federal contract opportunities • Search the General Services Administration (GSA) Electronic Library at www.GSAelibrary.gov to learn about potential federal government contracting opportunities • Research as many NAICS codes at http://www.census. gov/eos/www/naics/ to identify areas for potential business opportunities • Continue to educate yourself with knowledge and information W

Dr. Valerie Vann is CEO/Owner of Direct Response Business Services specializing in education, training and women empowerment education. She conducts workshops, seminars, coaching sessions, and special events. Contact Dr. Vann via email at Direct Response@gmail.com to become empowered today!

2012 ANNUAL EDITION

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Uplifted Spirit

Health & Wellness

Finding Balance Through Self-Care

By Dhana Blissett Today we live in a society where we are constantly required to multi-task. We are always trying to find a balance somewhere between managing our households, jobs, finances, and personal lives with all the other life stressors and pressures that are placed upon us. Unfortunately, for many of us, in the midst of all this taking care of everything and everyone else, we somehow forget to take care of ourselves. This lack of self-care typically begins with inadequate rest, little or no physical activity and nutritionally imbalanced meals. This results in fatigue, lack of concentration, headaches, stress and ultimately compromised immune systems leading to illness.

Just as we invest in property, stocks and bonds and expect a return on our investments, we must invest in self-care expecting a strong return. Indeed, self-care is one of the best investments that we can or will ever make in our lifetime. We all have heard the saying, “your health is your wealth.” Think about it, if we are broken down,

is also lacking in plant based foods such as fruit and vegetables which are generally high in fiber. One simple strategy that we can use to improve the nutrition of our body is to maximize our food choices.

2. Fit in physical activity.

Many individuals are in the mindset that we only need to engage in physical fitness for weight reduction. Physical activity has many benefits including stress relief, strengthening the body and heart, and improving blood sugar levels in diabetics. Did you know that aerobic activity increases the levels of good cholesterol in the body and carries away the bad cholesterol that contributes to heart disease?

3. Make sure to get an adequate amount of sleep.

Have you noticed a difference in your mood when you receive an adequate amount of sleep the night before? Rest is so essential for our health and well being. It is the time when the body repairs itself. How much sleep is enough?

Well, everyone is unique. We should listen to our body as it will let us know if we are getting enough rest.

Remember, you are the key to your health and well-

Just as we invest in property, stocks and bonds and expect a return on our investments, we must invest in self-care expecting a strong return. Indeed, self-care is one of the best investments that we can or will ever make in our lifetime. lacking energy, and sickly, we cannot enjoy the fruit of our labors now or in our golden years. But, with a little planning and organization, we all can do better to enhance our physical, mental, and emotional well being.

Check out my top three picks for creating a better return on this most precious investment: you!

being. It all starts with you. When you start rattling off the excuses as to why you don’t eat properly, engage in regular physical fitness or get enough rest each night, remember we either pay now or later. Make the investment in your health starting today and the returns will be well worth the effort. W

1. Maximize your nutrition.

By now we all know that the Standard American Diet (SAD) is comprised primarily of highly refined carbohydrates, processed foods, and empty liquid calories. This diet

Dhana Blissett is founder/CEO of Blissful Living. Reach her at blissful4life@gmail.com.

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Positive Thinking

Transforming Adversity Into

Opportunity

By Darla James

Y

ou are drifting along blissfully through life. Your career is on track and your family is thriving.

Suddenly, you are blind-sided by a bad hit. These “hits” can come from any direction. It might be an injury that makes it difficult to work and care for your family. It could be the end of a romantic or marriage relationship, or worst of all, a personal tragedy.

The fact is, adversity comes knocking at everyone’s door. You are not exempt. When adversity strikes, it can appear to bring your progress to a screeching halt. It can destroy your momentum, cripple your selfconfidence and send you into an emotional tailspin – a situation where one thing after another, after another just doesn’t go your way. But remember, appearances are just that: appearances. What appears to be trouble is often an opportunity to make a much needed change. But we must be resourceful and clear-minded enough to steer our way through in order to transform our adversity into an opportunity.

Although no one is immune from adversity, that does not mean there is nothing you can do about it. You can not always prevent misfortune, but what you can do is to expect adversity as an inevitable part of life. In fact, you must expect trouble in order to properly deal with it. Remember, it’s

not a matter of if adversity will come your way; but rather, when and how severely it will strike.

We must all accept that ill fortune is an unavoidable part of life, and it because of, not in spite of, misfortune that we grow. You see, your character will never be fully tested until things are not going your way. Those who have the courage to succeed in spite of adversity become an inspiration.

They contribute value to the lives of others. They make a difference.

So, whenever something comes up that you believe might prevent you for accomplishes your goals and dreams, both professionally and socially, ask yourself: “What can I do to turn this negative into a positive?

How can I make this work for me rather than against me?”

When you approach obstacles this way, you will experience an immediate boost in confidence and a willingness to face the challenge head on. By

learning how to transform obstacles into advantages you will not only continue to move forward, you will gain the inner strength to deal with anything life may bring your way.

When you look at adversity this way, you will realize misfortune is a bridge, not a barricade, to greater achievement. It can represent the opening of doors, leaving the closed ones behind where they belong. When adversity strikes, don’t let it stop you.

Promise yourself in advance that you will transform that negative into a positive. This will be the beginning of transforming your adversity into opportunity. So lift your head up and go for it! W Darla James has worked in educational leadership for over 11 years.

She was the founder and administrator of a private school in inner-city Philadelphia, Pa. James received a Bachelor of Arts in Labor Relations from Rutgers University. Additionally, she has a broad background that includes real estate sales and investment and business development. Having recently relocated to Atlanta, Ga., James is currently the director of business administration at Cornerstone Leadership Academy in Lithonia, Ga., and the executive administrative assistant at Foundation Christian Academy in Fairburn, Ga. James also volunteers as a Technical Writer for the Women’s Employment Opportunity Project.

2012 ANNUAL EDITION

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No Procrastination

All You Need is 15 Minutes

By Kaarin MacKinnon

H

ow many excuses have you made in the last week? The last month? Excuses for NOT doing something you know is good for you? Or for something you really want to do? How many times have you blamed any and all of the problems in your life on having no time? How often have you thought “my life would be so much better if only I had time to do this or that”? How many times have you watched an extra hour of TV one night instead of doing one small task that would make your life easier tomorrow? How many times have you blamed daily life for getting in the way of your progress? And, most importantly, how many DREAMS have fallen by the wayside simply because you didn’t give them any attention?

So many things can be accomplished in such a short span of time.

And, be honest, the hard part is not DOING these things but GETTING STARTED! You won’t lose 50 lbs. in one week but, really, isn’t the initial commitment to START the diet just as hard, if not harder, than following through with it? You probably won’t write the great American novel in half an hour. But getting the first couple of paragraphs down on paper will get you moving in the right direction.

One hour of financial planning may not make you a millionaire but it’s the first step towards financial security. In the long run, the greatest failure is not doing something and then watching it fall apart. The greatest failure is never getting started!

How many times have you blamed daily life for getting in the way of your progress? And, most importantly, how many DREAMS have fallen by the wayside simply because you didn’t give them any attention?

So here’s a challenge for you — or, rather, a challenge for your happiness: 15 MINUTES FOR THE NEXT SEVEN DAYS. List four to five things that you really, really want or need to do but haven’t. Put the list by your bed. Every morning pick ONE item from your list and do it! But only for 15 minutes! No more, no less. It can be the same thing every day or a different item each day. But you have to do one thing from your list for 15 minutes, for seven days straight!

After seven days, take a look back at your week. Do you feel better yourself or your situation? Have you seen any results from your 15 minutes? Do you feel as if you’ve “started” something? If you have,

then continue with your 15 minutes a day— or maybe even up it to 30 minutes! And pass the challenge on to someone else. If you are no better off, then for the next week you can spend 15 minutes a day cursing my very existence.

Remember, you don’t have to spend this time curing cancer or solving global warming (unless you want to!). Your 15 minutes can be as simple and as important as repeating to yourself how wonderful, talented and deserving you are — every day! W Kaarin is the founder of Create Expectations a creative consulting company that focuses on production services, a/v equipment, and event planning to clients worldwide.

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Online Presence

Social Media and Business What’s Your Strategy?

By Andrieka J. Austin In today’s fast-paced, digital world, conversations are taking place on every part of the globe at the speed of light.

With the click of a mouse, and at the blink of an eye, messages are being transmitted. Could some of those messages possibly be about you or your company? Online platforms like blogs, and the ever-expanding online social networks like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, viral video media venues like YouTube and countless others make public and private online communities seemingly overwhelming. However, having a social media management (and marketing) strategy can make your digital networking and social site overload go from nightmare to an easy and effective dream come true.

Here are my five most effective social media management strategies to help you achieve your online marketing goals: 1. Brand U. Use the available FREE social media tools (like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Youtube) as an online platform to effectively brand your company, product or service.

2. Make sure it fits.

Decide which of the long list of online social media networks available are the right fit for you, and work it! I recommend choosing the top three most popular sites that cater to your target market, and link them all together as one. Now that’s effective!

3. Work SMARTer. Use the convenient option of the social network applications (aka ‘apps’) on your smart phone to help manage your online networks and conversations on-the-go.

4. Outsource.

Hire/Recruit a Social Media Specialist to keep up with the fact-paced world of online communication networks for you, while helping to maintain the

“Whether you’re a solo-preneur or a major corporation, social media is the wave of both the present and the future for effective marketing and communications for business growth.”

— Andrieka J. Austin healthy image and branding of your company.

5. Make an Investment.

Teach, train or get training for a teen through things like self-help guides, books, classes and workshops that focus on social networking etiquette and the do’s and don’ts of it all. (Featured pic. of the NEW book) - This in turn will allow you to ‘sow a seed’ into the younger generation of technology and social media leaders, and can often lead to internships (free help) for your company or organization, making your company’s social media management problems seem to disappear. W

Andrieka J. Austin is founder of Journey Girl, a mobile enrichment service for girls and women. She offers life skills and self-emPOWERment training and development services.Visit her online at www.MissJourneyGirl.com and see her company’s work at www.journeygirl.org. Find her through social media: facebook.com/journeygirlatl, twitter.com/journeygirlatl, and on Linked-in as the Moderator for the group: ‘Female Self-emPOWERment.’

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In the Statistics

What’s Going on With Women ...

Based on the study “Lifting As We Climb: Women of Color, Wealth, and America’s Future,” 2010. Single black and Hispanic women have a median wealth of $100 and $120 respectively; the median for single white women is $41,500. While white women in the prime working years of ages 3649 have a media wealth of $42,600, the media wealth for women of color is only $5.

In support of the Council on Women and Girls, the Office of Management and Budget and the Economics and Statistics Administration within the Department of Commerce worked together to create the Women In America Report. The following information highlights important statistics related to the status of women: “Younger women are now more likely than younger men to have a college or a master’s degree. Women are also working more and the number of women and men in the labor force has nearly equalized in recent years.

As women’s work has increased, their earnings constitute a growing share of family income.”

“Gains in education and labor force involvement have not yet translated into wage and income equity. At all levels of education, women earned about 75 percent of what their male counterparts earned in 2009.”

“Women continue to experience higher poverty rates. While women comprise nearly half of the employed labor force, they continue to earn less than men. Changes in household and family structure, including a rise in female householders (with and with-

out children), also have contributed to higher poverty rates for women.”

“Historically, women have been more likely to be poor than men. Poverty rates for unmarried female households with children are particularly high, and have consistently been two or three times as high as overall male.”

“While women are more likely than men to work in professional and related occupations, they are more highly represented in the lowerpaying jobs within this category. In 2009, nearly one-fifth of all women were employed in just five occupations: secretaries, registered nurses, elementary school teachers, cashiers, and nursing aides. In 2009, nearly one-fifth of all women were employed in just five occupations: secretaries, registered nurses, elementary school

teachers, cashiers, and nursing aides.”

In support of existing programs for women and girls The White House Council on Women and Girls was created by President Obama in early 2009. The Council’s mission is to provide a coordinated Federal response to the challenges confronted by women and girls and to ensure that all Cabinet and Cabinet-level agencies consider how their policies and programs impact women and families. W Information extracted from the following report: “Women In America — Indicators of Social Economic Well Being,” a report prepared by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economics and Statistics Administration and the Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and Budget for the White House Council on Women and Girls.

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Building Relationships

Networking Success Strategies

By Marionette Ball Networking is loosely defined as going to an event and meeting people; handing out business cards and connecting to new business contacts. In order to make networking an effective life strategy, you have to examine and define the true scope of what networking means and how to integrate networking strategies to obtain your professional and personal goals. It is important to understand the unlimited capacity of building strong formal and informal networks. Networks will provide the catalyst to gain influence and broaden your level of expertise and increase your opportunities.

While at an event a friend looked at me and said “I know you handed out a lot of business cards,” I responded “it is not the quantity of business cards, but the quality of the people that receive my cards that are truly interested in what I have to offer.”

This leads me into capturing the true value of effective networking strategies. Here are the simple strategies for networking success: • Build effective personal and professional relationships that will help you grow and gain experience in your level of expertise. Align with organizations and affiliations that will add to your knowledge and increase your professional and social connections in that field.

• Surround yourself with positive and forward thinking people who can inspire and are innovative and critical thinkers. Seek out mentors or personal relationships with people who are intelligent and can offer you new information and share best practices

It is not the quantity of business cards, but the quality of the people that receive my cards that are truly interested in what I have to offer. in your area of interest. Avoid negative people that will waste your mental energy on insignificant things.

• Be a positive role model for others. Bring energy to encourage and motivate people in your inner circle.

Provide an opportunity for people to contribute and provide meaningful exchanges for people to enjoy your company. Work on being a good listener and communicator.

• Network to upgrade your skills and seek out new learning opportunities.

When meeting new people, you will gain a higher level of respect if you are knowledgeable and have adequate training and credentials in your perspective industry. The internet and social media websites are open opportunities for networking and meeting new business contacts. Actively participate in conferences, workshops, online learning resources as well as social situations. The endless information on Blogs. Facebook and tweeter are free.

There are always opportunities for

free training, workshops and online resources to expand your knowledge at the click of the mouse.

• Surround yourself with people who can provide feedback that will contribute to your personal and professional development. Be open to constructive criticism and feedback that will help challenge your thinking to seek new opportunities and help you think outside of the box.

• Network to build a strong personal support system with friends and family. Make sure you have a work life balance with time to cultivate personal relationships of family and friends.

Avoid becoming the person that is overly consumed with work. Family and friends will provide a nurturing support system and motivate your desire to succeed as well as share in your accomplishments. A work life balance is important to maintaining a happy life and positive outlook. An overly stressed job situation will have an adverse effect on your health. It is extremely important to work at having a balance and setting perimeters with your boss and co-workers.

• Be strategic in handing out business cards: Take the time to converse and make sure that the contact will benefit from the exchange and have an interest in what you have to offer. Connect on a personable level to ensure that the contact will remember you.

• Last, but most importantly is to barter and exchange. Inform prospective business contacts of the benefits of exchange and collaborative partnerships. Share resources, information and contacts that can be of value to them as well. If you are seeking continued on page 21

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Uplifting Energy

Powerful Mind Boosters For a Happy You!

By Antionette Ball “If you change the way you think - then anything can be possible in your life.” I can’t remember where I heard this quote – but I think about how my thoughts shape my perspective on life. I would like to share with you some mind boosters to get your thoughts flowing in a positive direction. Here are five powerful mind boosters for you to think about: 1. Get rid of the free mentality – engage in the power of exchange!

Keep in the mindset of business and a market value for your time and the time from others. You cannot take items from a store without paying for the item. If you are not willing to pay for a service, how do you expect people to pay you for your time, products or service? The power of exchange is a powerful concept to keep the money flowing into your life. It does not always require the exchange of money. You can barter your service for another service as long as it is an equal exchange.

Pay people what they are worth and in exchange you will get compensated for your worth. Get out of the mindset of FREE – it may not always be worth it!

2. Evaluate your life strategy.

Evaluate your life the same way you would plan for a business.

Think about where you are now and where you would like to be in five years. Develop an action

Channel that energy to make positive things happen in your life. plan based upon where you want to be and how you will get there.

You have to engage in the positive action of doing, because it takes more than a thought to make something happen in your life.

If you are in a constant state of evaluation, it will push you into the positive action of doing. Make a written list of what you want to accomplish and your action plan for making it happen. Take action everyday to get closer to achieving results in your life!

3. Your current situation is not your destiny…stop complaining.

Vow to stop complaining about the job you don’t like, the people you don’t like or the relationship that you hate. It takes a lot of personal energy and thoughts to complain constantly about something. Channel that energy to make positive things happen in your life. Instead of sitting on the phone complaining about your job in the evening, jot down some networking events you can attend. You could network yourself into an opportunity. You are in control of your destiny and in the driver’s seat that leads to “I want to make Happen” street.

Always spend your time wisely with activities that can help you achieve goals and create new opportunities.

4. Great Minds think the same… connect with people that think like you.

Have you heard the phrase “birds of a feather flock together”? It implies that people are around others with similar personal characteristics.

Basically, you want to surround yourself with people that reinforce your life morals and values. If you are striving to start a business, then connect with people that are trying to start a business. Make sure that people in your inner circle are of sound character and trustworthy.

Look for “dream supporters” and not “dream Killers” to create a nurturing supportive inner circle.

5. Communication – the most important tool of life.

It is so easy to have conversations and express your personal thoughts and experiences. The basics of effective communication and strong leadership skills is learning to listen attentively to others and remain open to their ideas and perspectives. Remember…. you can always learn from other people no matter what age. The open exchange of communication is always important in the learning process and can enhance professional and personal relationships.

Mind Boosters to help you get to a HAPPIER YOU!! W Antionette Ball, Founder of The Women’s Employment Opportunity Project Inc. and the author of “Powerful Mind Boosters” a collection of thoughts to guide you to a happier you!

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WEOP Gallery

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WEOP Gallery

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Website Corner Career Assistance Monster www.monster.com Indeed www.indeed.com Simply Hired www.simplyhired.com JobDig www.jobdig.com Government jobs www.usajobs.gov Careerbuilder www.careerbuilder.com Linked In www.linkedin.com Craigslist www.craiglist.com Dice www.dice.com Linkup www.linkup.com Workforce www.workforcedevelopment.gov Department of Labor www.dol.gov

Business SBA www.sba.gov or www.sba.org WOSB www.sba.gov/content/contractingopportunities-women-owned-smallbusinesses Business Resources www.businessresource.com A special thank you to volunteers and community partners Latasha Ball Ajamu Baraka http://www.textually.org/picturephoning/archives/2010/08/24/youtube-logo.jpeg Pamela Bivens Darryl Blount Vic Bolton Harold Craig Jennifer DaCruz Jocelyn Dorsey Rosalind Edochie Lavon Grant Marlaina Guillaume Kimberly Hairston

NETWORKING STRATEGIES Continued from page 17

General Service Admin. www.gsa.gov Business Statistics www.bizstate.com Black Enterprise www.blackenterprise.com Free Library www.thefreelibrary.com Minority Business www.mbda.gov Grants www.grants.gov Financial Planning Money Articles www.money.cnn.com Credit card rates www. nerdwallet.com Credit Cards www.mint.com Credit Scores www.myfico.com Education Financial Aid www.fafsa.ed.gov Free teaching Res. www.free.ed.gov E-Learners www.elearners.com/ Computers www.microsoft.com Mind & Body Oprah www.oprah.com

Tonya Hicks Clifton Lee Dr. Amos Johnson Charlotte Johnson Dr. Deborah Johnson-Blake Kaarin Mackinnon Myrna Moore Jill Niddifer Dr. Deborah Porter Kavita Rao Tara Reid Shiela Scott Kim Solomon Glenda Stinson Tiffany Turner Dr. Valerie Vann

mentoring support, you can also volunteer to provide some kind of help to your mentor. Don’t forget to thank people for their time, offer a lunch or an enjoyable activity. Always attempt to make a gesture such as sending a thank you card to show your gratitude.

• Take a moment to write down your strategies as a guidepost to help you manage your life and receive meaningful professional and personal relationships that will add to your life. Remember, having the right people in your life and building strong networks can add to your level of success and personal happiness. Just meeting one right person can open up a multitude of opportunities to make your networking a success! W Marionette Ball is the Project Director at Women’s Employment Opportunity Project, Inc. holds a B.S in public Administration with 10 years of non-profit experience developing workforce development programs targeted to increase the economic empowerment of women.

Julie Waheed Yolanda White Kanika White Elizabeth Wilson Kristina Wilson WEOP Board of Directors Eric Billingslea, Valic Tina Douglas, CBS Radio Atlanta Tonya L. Hicks, Power Solutions Eboni Moss, Bennett Thrasher Kristy Offitt, Ashe Rafuse & Hill, LLP Chantee Obazee, The Coca Cola Company Tamika Wiggins, AT&T Lashana Williams, Time Warner Co. Yoshino Woodard, Accenture 2012 ANNUAL EDITION

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About WEOP

T

he Women’s Employment Opportunity Project, Inc. (WEOP) is a nonprofit organization located in the heart of the community. WEOP serves as a resource to promote the economic sustainability and the advancement of women with technology training, educational workshops, entrepreneurial development and special events.

WEOP History WEOP fulfils the mission with the following activities and strategies: • Launch programs and services to increase workforce training and career development • Created the Independent Contractors Professional (ICP) program, a business development training •

program to increase contract and supplier diversity opportunities • Garner the support of hundreds of community volunteers from the public and private sectors to serve as advisors and mentors • Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to create economic opportunities for women • Develop partnerships with technical colleges to implement the ICP program and allow participants to acquire continuing education units (CEU) upon completion of the ICP program • Provide entrepreneurship training and technical business support • Partner with local graduate students to conduct research studies focusing on women’s issues

WEOP Future

Future WEOP strategies focus on activities that promote business and career opportunities; partnering with local leaders to create the Economic Advancement and Justice Project; disseminating information and connecting with women globally through social media platforms; launching a community based production studio to provide women with an outlet to further express their perspectives and views.

Join Our Mailing List Keep updated with the WEOP monthly newsletter – visit WEOP online at: www.weop.org and click on the subscribe button.

Women’s Employment Opportunity Project, Inc. 250 Georgia Ave., Suite 213 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-681-2497 info@weop.org

Printing courtesy of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

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