I’ve taken my show on the road today.
Sharing how to be “unique” and stand out from the crowd.
Find me on the Yellow Brick Road!
Photo credit: posterart
The Yellow Brick Road Interview
By 12 Comments
Two Ears and One Mouth – Do the Math
By 41 Comments
Have you noticed how much talking everyone is doing on the internet?
Some people refer to it as noise.
- People are Tweeting up a storm on Twitter.
- Blog posts and articles are being published by the thousands.
- Facebook status updates are rolling in like there’s no tomorrow.
- Teleseminars and webinars abound.
- Group discussions on LinkedIn are too numerous to count.
- Internet tv and radio channels are sprouting up faster than weeds.
- New freebie offers keep appearing as if magic.
- Podcasts and videos are being produced at lightning speed.
To coin a phrase from my friend, Martha Giffen, “It’s all good!”
It’s not only good, but all the talking people are doing is essential to success as an online marketer.
BUT …
With all the “talking” going on …
Who’s doing the “listening”?
Do the math — Maybe there’s a reason we have TWO ears and ONE mouth.
Listening is a critical communication skill. If you want people to listen to what you have to say and your intention is to build a lasting relationship with your target audience, you’ve got to stop some of the talking and learn to be a better listener.
Have you ever had a conversation with someone who won’t let you get a word in edgewise? You can’t shoehorn in a word if you tried?
That person was doing zero listening.
So don’t just jump from one online activity to the next, to the next, to the next in an effort to gain the attention of your target market.
Instead, become a better listener by tuning in to the needs of your prospects, customers, and clients.
- Listen to the questions they’re asking.
- Listen to the problems they’re facing.
- Listen for emotional triggers and clues to their frustrations.
- Listen to the comments they post on your blog.
- Listen to discussions they’re having on forums and in groups.
How well you listen has a major impact on your effectiveness as a small business owner, your ability to influence and persuade, and on the quality of your relationships with others.
So listen up!
- Have you mastered the skill of listening?
- How do you listen to your target audience?
There Is No Box To Think Outside Of
By 20 Comments
There’s NO Santa Claus, NO Easter Bunny, and NO box to think outside of.
Your balloon might feel a little deflated right now, and I’m sorry. But it’s true.
You’re only limited – you’re only “boxed in” – by your imagination. As an entrepreneur and online marketer, the sky’s the limit!
But if you’re someone who can’t let go of the box theory …
Then my suggestion is to start placing your ideas into a box and pull one out any time you wish.
As you grow your business, be as creative as you like. Use your noodle, put on your thinking cap, and WOW your target audience with your signature genius.
- Differentiate yourself.
- Move away from stereotype.
- Stand out from the crowd.
- Take a risk.
- Let your hair down and show your audience the real YOU!
There is no box to think outside of.
Teachable Moments From Silly Odds & Ends On My Desk
By 44 Comments
I was reading the Viva Visibility Blog from Nancy Marmolejo this past week and she suggested a really intriguing 20-minute exercise for online marketers to create “teachable moments” for your target audience.
It’s very simple. Actually, it’s fun!
Just look around your immediate environment and see what objects, knickknacks, or items you discover that you could transform into good marketing tips or lessons for prospects, subscribers, or colleagues in your niche.
This is what I took notice of on my desk that I can transform into teachable moments:
1) Large ceramic mug overflowing with pencils, pens, markers, etc. I don’t use or need half of these writing implements.
Teachable moment: Clean up your act, get organized, and declutter your office space for better concentration and less distraction.
2) Intricately designed wrought iron napkin holder. I use this to hold my mail.
Teachable moment: “Recycle” your posts, articles, podcasts, teleseminars, videos, etc. into info products or programs you can sell.
3) Hat box that’s imprinted with pictures of beach-y and exotic vacation locales. I keep business cards, postage stamps, my calculator, etc. in this box.
Teachable moment: Rest and relaxation, a much needed break, or even a vacation from work is essential for your well being and your success as an independent business owner.
Getting the idea? Now look around your home, office, or even your back porch and see what you can use as teachable moments.
I bet you’ll be surprised at what you find!
Jayna Locke (3)
Keith Davis (2)
Daphne Bousquet, CMP (1)
Hajra (1)
Helenee (1)
Jackie (1)
