A day of rest - we all need it. For some, it is for religious reasons. For some, it is just a day to spend with family - you know the only day when the whole family is home together. For some, it is sleeping late and catching up on some much needed rest.
For me, today is a blessing. I am going to be spiritually energized at church with our amazing Pastor - JD. Then get to serve by being part of the count team. I will wind up the day with an amazing group of Thirty One Sisters at Celebrate and Connect. The NEW Summer catalog will be premiered today for the consultants and revealed to the public on Monday. An exciting afternoon that will re-energize my business. Over the last few years I have learned to treasure these days to rejuvenate my body, mind and soul.
Each of us need a day to rest, relax and restore ourselves after a week at work. Pamper yourself today - whether it is a walk around the neighborhood, a trip to the beach, quiet moments reading, sleeping in or a bubble bath. Find a way to pamper yourself for one hour and see what a difference it can make in your life or even your week. Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Working for Yourself
Today, I am off sharing Thirty One at the Family Wellness & Beauty Day at Shido Martial Arts in Freehold, NJ. All monies raised from the $10 tickets will be donated to We're Kickin It AntiBullying Program. I can do things like this because I am my own boss!
When I first went to work, I never wanted to be my own boss but as I got older, had my daughter and saw what I was missing as a single mom - that changed. I took the skills I learned in grants management for a non-profit and opened my first business "H.O.P.E. Consultants". I worked for 4 years while my daughter was in High School as my own boss. Then I found a grassroots non-profit that I wanted to help so I joined the Monday-Friday workforce again. After 6 years, I left that job that I LOVED (and hated - LOL) to go back into business for myself as a Direct Sales Consultant. Why? The freedom to make my own hours and no commute to work far outweighed the cons to owning your own business.
Here is an portion on an article that was in Forbes about What to Expect When You Work For Yourself...
When I first went to work, I never wanted to be my own boss but as I got older, had my daughter and saw what I was missing as a single mom - that changed. I took the skills I learned in grants management for a non-profit and opened my first business "H.O.P.E. Consultants". I worked for 4 years while my daughter was in High School as my own boss. Then I found a grassroots non-profit that I wanted to help so I joined the Monday-Friday workforce again. After 6 years, I left that job that I LOVED (and hated - LOL) to go back into business for myself as a Direct Sales Consultant. Why? The freedom to make my own hours and no commute to work far outweighed the cons to owning your own business.
Here is an portion on an article that was in Forbes about What to Expect When You Work For Yourself...
So do you have what it takes to be your own boss? Here are some hurdles you will certainly face if you decide to go off on your own:
Obstacle: It’s Just You: If you become a sole proprietor or member of a small business, all responsibilities fall on you. Or maybe it’s not just you; perhaps you’ll have new employees or interns to manage, and this might be new territory. You’ll also be managing your own schedule, which can be difficult if you’re used to structure. You might be able to adapt to these changes, but personality can play a large role in what you’re comfortable with. Personally, I’m a bit of a control freak so I love having a hand in every aspect of our business. Time management took a bit longer to master, but I now know how to maximize my productivity. Advantage: It’s just you! No more office politics, micromanagement, or working for someone who doesn’t appreciate you– the list goes on and on.
Obstacle: Blending Your Work Life with Your Home Life: Most people enjoy that an office job gives them the ability to, both physically and mentally, leave their work at the office. This can be tricky to maneuver if you’re now working in your home, and could also be an obstacle for those you live with. You may benefit from renting a separate office space, but this isn’t always practical. After years of working from home, setting up a separate area for our books and “office” has helped us to stay more organized. It also prevents our business from intruding into every aspect of our personal lives– for the most part. Advantage: No commuting! And blending might not be bad at all if you build your business around something you’re personally passionate about.
Obstacle: You Will Work Longer and Harder Than Ever Before: You’'ve probably heard entrepreneurs say “I work from the minute I wake up until the minute I go to sleep.” It may not be like this all the time, but for the most part, it is absolutely true. It will be especially true in the beginning, as you’ll need to do whatever it takes to get your startup going. Advantage: You will work longer and harder, but it’s ultimately for your own gain. Nothing is more satisfying than that! While you will make time sacrifices, you’ll also have more flexibility. I'’ve gotten over the fact that I will work during every Super Bowl for the foreseeable future (and I am a huge football fan!) because I have a trade show that weekend every year. But even though I work most weekends and many holidays, I ultimately have the ability to change my schedule when I really need to.
There are certainly sacrifices toward owning your own business, but for successful entrepreneurs, the advantages far outweigh the difficulties.
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Friday, April 12, 2013
Spring has arrived
I LOVE the spring weather! Temps are a little warmer and I can finally shed the multiple layers of clothes that I wear in the winter to keep warm. I am ALWAYS cold, whether at home or out. See, my hubby loves the cool weather with temps in the mid-60's during the winter in the house. I, on the other hand, am always cold unless the temps go up to about 75 or 80 degrees. It definitely makes for an interesting winter. In fact, yesterday was the FIRST time that I felt "normal" as far as body temps go. LOL.
This is a time for "rebirth". I get to pull out my spring/ summer clothes - which surprisingly are a bit big from last year. I guess the Weight Watcher's program is working! YEAH! Put on my flip flops (not good for the heel spurs but so cute) and pamper my feet with a pedicure every two weeks. Do some spring cleaning around the house and open the windows to let the fresh air in.
On the business side of my life, I clean off my desk using Julie Anne Jones method of organization. Set my quarterly goals. Get ready to ROCK my customers and hostesses with the NEW Thirty One Summer catalog. Finalize plans for attending National Conference in July.
So, as the days get longer and warmer - I will be enjoying walks at the beach or around the Brick Reservoir with my WW Walking Group, traveling to North Carolina to visit my daughter, heading to Atlanta for Thirty One's 10th Anniversary National Conference and soaking up the sun.
Enjoy the arrival of the warmer weather - Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
This is a time for "rebirth". I get to pull out my spring/ summer clothes - which surprisingly are a bit big from last year. I guess the Weight Watcher's program is working! YEAH! Put on my flip flops (not good for the heel spurs but so cute) and pamper my feet with a pedicure every two weeks. Do some spring cleaning around the house and open the windows to let the fresh air in.
On the business side of my life, I clean off my desk using Julie Anne Jones method of organization. Set my quarterly goals. Get ready to ROCK my customers and hostesses with the NEW Thirty One Summer catalog. Finalize plans for attending National Conference in July.
So, as the days get longer and warmer - I will be enjoying walks at the beach or around the Brick Reservoir with my WW Walking Group, traveling to North Carolina to visit my daughter, heading to Atlanta for Thirty One's 10th Anniversary National Conference and soaking up the sun.
Enjoy the arrival of the warmer weather - Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
21 days to Make It a Habit
It takes 21 days to form a habit. I heard that when I was in recovery and struggling my first few days to get clean some 22 years ago. I hear it at Weight Watchers each week as we talk about the NEW 360 program. I hear it when attending training for my business... you would think by now, it would sink in.
The reprint below is from Julie Anne Jones and can be used in all aspects of your life:
I have a degree in theatre (I know, shocking, right?) and I remember hearing in a directing class one time that for every minute of a play you see as part of the final production, there were 2 hours of rehearsal (minimum). When I was directing high school plays, the cast of “The Crucible” actually bought me a t-shirt that said “Let’s go back” on the front of it because I said it so much (as in “Stop. Let’s go back and do it again.”).
Repetition is the key to success in your direct sales business as well. At my live trainings I teach lots of specific language for getting results, and I always invite them to script out what they’re going to say and then practice out loud until they feel comfortable with the new language. I can’t tell you how many times people have come up to me after a live event and said, “You know, I used to use your booking commercial and I got great results from it, but for some reason I just don’t use it any more.” I can tell you exactly why they don’t use it any more. Because they didn’t repeat using it enough to make it “the way” they did things, so eventually they stopped doing it. It didn’t become a habit because it wasn’t repeated often or long enough.
It takes 21 days to form a habit. 21 days of repetition (or in the case of your business, 21 parties). What is it you want to implement in your life or business that you haven’t been able to? Choose at least two things, create some specific actions around them, and then make a firm commitment to yourself to do them, without fail, for the next 21 days (or at your next 21 parties, or with your next 21 hosts…you get the idea).
Here are some examples of what you might choose:
- Doing an opportunity commercial at every party you do
- Coaching each host either in person or over the phone
- Making 10 phone calls a week to book parties and follow up on sponsoring leads
- Getting onto Facebook to post/comment at least once each day
Those are a few of my ideas. What are yours (and are you brave enough to declare them below and then actually implement them?)
As for me, my 21 days of repetition is blogging. What about you? Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
Julie Anne Jones is direct sales corporate consultant, coach, and trainer, and the CEO of Julie Anne Jones, Inc. She is known for her authentic and easy-to-use scripting and specializes in specific language and tools for success in direct sales.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Ryan White Remembered
This past Monday was the anniversary of Ryan White's death. Ryan White was diagnosed with AIDS at age 13. He and his mother fought for his right to attend school, gaining international attention as a voice of reason about HIV/AIDS. At the age of 18, Ryan White died on April 8, 1990, just months before Congress passed the AIDS bill that bears his name – the Ryan White CARE (Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency) Act.
WOW! It hardly seems possible that 23 years has passed since his death. It would be about a year later that I would come to learn about him, his life and how my life would be changed forever with my involvement with the South Jersey AIDS Alliance (SJAA).
I began with SJAA as a community service volunteer - mandated to do 180 hours of community service. I finished my hours in the weeks before December 1st, World AIDS Day but the people I met there kept me involved for 9 years. Memories of Matt McCrossen, Web and many others helped me to put a face to the AIDS panademic. I joined the staff of SJAA in 1990 working in Cumberland County where AIDS was a taboo subject. My clients and their families became a part of mine and my daughter, Belinda's, life. It was there that Belinda learned about diversity, compassion, giving and helping others. She gladly shared her toys with others who had nothing. Holidays took on a special meaning as we, along with my SJAA staff and volunteers, made them special for the children affected and infected with HIV/AIDS in Cumberland County.
Also during this time, my roommate's sister was diagnosed with AIDS along with two of her children. Que and Brittany fought daily for their life against this deadly disease. Brittany was born the same day as my daughter Belinda and her battle ended quickly while Que lived to the age of 9 years old. Belinda loved playing with Que, he didn't talk but they could sit for hours playing and talking in their own way.
My years working for SJAA, then as Staff for the Cumberland County HIV Planning Council and a Board member of New Jersey Women and AIDS Network - were an emotional journey of growing professionally and personally. Memories that I am grateful for. People who taught me so much without even knowing it. As I look back on the last few years, there is little talk about HIV/AIDS. An occasional story in paper but not much else. Some would say that is because there isn't as big of a problem or it's not a "deadly" disease now - only a "chronic" disease.
The bottom line is that there are still people becoming infected. We need to be proactive in sharing the stories that will prevent others from becoming infected from this deadly disease. As for me, I will be looking for more opportunities to get involved locally now that I have moved from South Jersey. I would love to help some families who are infected and/ or affected by HIV/AIDS locally - let me know via email or message if you know someone.
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
WOW! It hardly seems possible that 23 years has passed since his death. It would be about a year later that I would come to learn about him, his life and how my life would be changed forever with my involvement with the South Jersey AIDS Alliance (SJAA).
I began with SJAA as a community service volunteer - mandated to do 180 hours of community service. I finished my hours in the weeks before December 1st, World AIDS Day but the people I met there kept me involved for 9 years. Memories of Matt McCrossen, Web and many others helped me to put a face to the AIDS panademic. I joined the staff of SJAA in 1990 working in Cumberland County where AIDS was a taboo subject. My clients and their families became a part of mine and my daughter, Belinda's, life. It was there that Belinda learned about diversity, compassion, giving and helping others. She gladly shared her toys with others who had nothing. Holidays took on a special meaning as we, along with my SJAA staff and volunteers, made them special for the children affected and infected with HIV/AIDS in Cumberland County.
Also during this time, my roommate's sister was diagnosed with AIDS along with two of her children. Que and Brittany fought daily for their life against this deadly disease. Brittany was born the same day as my daughter Belinda and her battle ended quickly while Que lived to the age of 9 years old. Belinda loved playing with Que, he didn't talk but they could sit for hours playing and talking in their own way.
My years working for SJAA, then as Staff for the Cumberland County HIV Planning Council and a Board member of New Jersey Women and AIDS Network - were an emotional journey of growing professionally and personally. Memories that I am grateful for. People who taught me so much without even knowing it. As I look back on the last few years, there is little talk about HIV/AIDS. An occasional story in paper but not much else. Some would say that is because there isn't as big of a problem or it's not a "deadly" disease now - only a "chronic" disease.
The bottom line is that there are still people becoming infected. We need to be proactive in sharing the stories that will prevent others from becoming infected from this deadly disease. As for me, I will be looking for more opportunities to get involved locally now that I have moved from South Jersey. I would love to help some families who are infected and/ or affected by HIV/AIDS locally - let me know via email or message if you know someone.
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Customer Service
Today's blog is about the importance of customer service. As a direct sales consultant, I have found that there are many that sell the same product that I do so why should people buy from me and then continue to remain loyal to me as their consultant? Yes, I am the "perky bag lady" who always has a smile but there has to be more to it. Yes, people have fun at my parties. But what is the real reason that I have loyal customers who when they encounter another DS consultant from the same company say "I already have a Consultant, thank you!"
When I started doing vendor events and parties, I was always looking to just make sales - focusing on what I needed instead of focusing on the customers needs. I wasn't really thinking about the long term positive effect that today's interaction would have on my long term goal of growing my business, making it my full-time business. I needed to learn how to not only have that one time sale but how to keep them as customers, building a relationship with them that lasts a lifetime.
Here are a few tips that I have learned from some amazing woman:
I am learning that word of mouth about my customer's awesome shopping experience is the BEST marketing tool I have to help me in growing my business. I am booking more parties and fundraisers but most importantly, I am growing my customer base by building relationships with people. No, they may not buy at the moment and it may be a year before they do but it is okay because they have remembered me so that when they are ready to shop - they shop with me.
Don’t let your customer base remain an untapped resource. Authentic stories from satisfied and eager customers are more valuable than any paid advertisement. Strive for excellence so your customers will want to share these stories.
When I started doing vendor events and parties, I was always looking to just make sales - focusing on what I needed instead of focusing on the customers needs. I wasn't really thinking about the long term positive effect that today's interaction would have on my long term goal of growing my business, making it my full-time business. I needed to learn how to not only have that one time sale but how to keep them as customers, building a relationship with them that lasts a lifetime.
Here are a few tips that I have learned from some amazing woman:
- Be yourself and have fun. Don't try to copy what others are doing in the hopes that you will reap the same success that they have had in their business. Each of us is different and as a result, we need to capitalize on our skills and talents. I am not saying don't try new ways of doing things but if you aren't comfortable with that particular style - make it your own.
- Talk to the customer to see what it is they need. Obviously, we are all looking to make sales but an unhappy customer will never come back to you for a product nor will they recommend you. Case in point - I met a women who had been "sold" lots of the same product that I sell. Basically, she isn't happy with the products that she bought because they really don't meet her needs. After talking with her, we decided that she would look at the catalog, pick out a few things and I would come by so she could see if they would work for her. I am giving her a personal customer shopping experience. No pressure to buy just a chance to see if the products really will meet her needs. I suggested that she may want to have a friend or two stop by so they could "play" with the product too. Happy potential customer = happy consultant + repeat business + referrals
- Be honest. This should go without saying...if you make a mistake, admit it, fix it and get over it. The customer will be thrilled that you have corrected the mistake. Don't know the answer to a question, admit it and tell the customer that you will get back to them as soon as possible. If you don't believe that a customer will be happy with the product that they are looking at for a particular situation, tell them your concerns and why. A wise saying "honesty is the best policy".
- Build relationships with your customers. Is their favorite print retiring? Favorite product being discontinued? Let them know. Send them a note for their birthday, post on Facebook wishing them well when they reach a milestone in their life. Let them know that you thought of them - make them feel special
I am learning that word of mouth about my customer's awesome shopping experience is the BEST marketing tool I have to help me in growing my business. I am booking more parties and fundraisers but most importantly, I am growing my customer base by building relationships with people. No, they may not buy at the moment and it may be a year before they do but it is okay because they have remembered me so that when they are ready to shop - they shop with me.
Don’t let your customer base remain an untapped resource. Authentic stories from satisfied and eager customers are more valuable than any paid advertisement. Strive for excellence so your customers will want to share these stories.
Check out this article on Customer Marketing at Direct Sales Education Foundation. Some AMAZING advice/ training can also be gotten from: Julie Anne Jones, Sue Rusch and Hope Shortt . Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
Monday, April 8, 2013
Goal Setting
Struggling this morning on what to blog about but "goal setting" seemed to come up everywhere I turned so I figured - why not?
The Daily Thought from Direct Selling Association - Education Foundation was "Don’t let anything stop you from reaching for your goal." We set "goal weights" at Weight Watchers based on our height. When I used to write grants for a non-profit, goals were an integral part of every program. Most of us set goals on a daily or weekly basis as well in our personal life by making lists of things we want to accomplish. I know that we don't think of it that way but our "goal" is to complete the tasks, right?
I will fill you in on what my goal is through April 15th. Your goals should contain these SMART components:
1. Specific - So for me, I want to earn the Ready, Set, Sell Incentive from my direct sales company.
2. Measurable - How do you plan to reach your goal? Break it down into smaller mini-goals. I am going to contact customers who have shown an interest in our customer special; I am going to update repeat customers on what products are retiring in case they want to place a last minute order
3. Attainable - Is it even possible? ABSOLUTELY! My goal is attainable. It will cause me to stretch out of my comfort zone but it is definitely achievable.
4. Realistic - Even if you goal is attainable is it realistic based on the skills and techniques necessary to achieve the goal. Yes, it is a realistic goal, and I do have the skills if I am willing to step out of my comfort zone.
5. Timely - set a deadline. Actually, my deadline is set by our Home Office in order to earn this amazing set of NEW Summer prints and products for FREE.
These basic steps can be applied to any goal you want to achieve. Remember my goal of not having "jiggle thighs" but July 14th - that is still a SMART goal too.
You can learn more about goal setting by checking out:
Julie Anne Jones, Wishbomb - The Goal Setting Site, and Weight Watchers .
How many of your New Year's Resolutions have you tossed aside because they weren't SMART goals? As we get ready for Spring and Summer, set your SMART goals whether they be about weight loss, your professional life or your dream for the future. Does it include going on a BIG vacation, earning a bonus, a better job or reaching your goal weight? Whatever it is, don't let anything or anyone get in your way.
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
The Daily Thought from Direct Selling Association - Education Foundation was "Don’t let anything stop you from reaching for your goal." We set "goal weights" at Weight Watchers based on our height. When I used to write grants for a non-profit, goals were an integral part of every program. Most of us set goals on a daily or weekly basis as well in our personal life by making lists of things we want to accomplish. I know that we don't think of it that way but our "goal" is to complete the tasks, right?
I will fill you in on what my goal is through April 15th. Your goals should contain these SMART components:
1. Specific - So for me, I want to earn the Ready, Set, Sell Incentive from my direct sales company.
2. Measurable - How do you plan to reach your goal? Break it down into smaller mini-goals. I am going to contact customers who have shown an interest in our customer special; I am going to update repeat customers on what products are retiring in case they want to place a last minute order
3. Attainable - Is it even possible? ABSOLUTELY! My goal is attainable. It will cause me to stretch out of my comfort zone but it is definitely achievable.
4. Realistic - Even if you goal is attainable is it realistic based on the skills and techniques necessary to achieve the goal. Yes, it is a realistic goal, and I do have the skills if I am willing to step out of my comfort zone.
5. Timely - set a deadline. Actually, my deadline is set by our Home Office in order to earn this amazing set of NEW Summer prints and products for FREE.
These basic steps can be applied to any goal you want to achieve. Remember my goal of not having "jiggle thighs" but July 14th - that is still a SMART goal too.
You can learn more about goal setting by checking out:
Julie Anne Jones, Wishbomb - The Goal Setting Site, and Weight Watchers .
How many of your New Year's Resolutions have you tossed aside because they weren't SMART goals? As we get ready for Spring and Summer, set your SMART goals whether they be about weight loss, your professional life or your dream for the future. Does it include going on a BIG vacation, earning a bonus, a better job or reaching your goal weight? Whatever it is, don't let anything or anyone get in your way.
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day.
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