Enterprising Moms Network Inc

Guest blog post courtesy of Jennifer Fong 

As those in direct selling and network marketing enter the holiday season, we begin to think about those things that make the holidays so special for people: giving to others, giving thanks. Interestingly, these are the same things that bring you success in social media when you are in direct sales. So as you enter your busiest season of the year, keep in mind how the very things we celebrate at the holidays can lead to more success as you market online. 

* Giving to Others: Social media success all comes from thinking about the other guy (or girl.) When you spend time highlighting the content and successes of others, sharing the good things they’ve done, and providing value to the people you’re connected with online, you are a giver. And people appreciate that! In an age where most people in business think only of themselves and their gain, people focused on others are a refreshing change. We ENJOY doing business with people focused on others. So as you interact on social networking sites, share useful links to content (your own, but also the content of others.) Always keep in mind what your network of folks (your tribe, so to speak) is interested in, and what will solve problems for them. And then deliver! That’s how you provide value that will translate into more sales and recruits for your business. 

* Giving Thanks: When was the last time someone sent you a thank you note or message? How did it make you feel? This is a trend that has gone by the wayside in recent years, but may be making a resurgence thanks to social media, because it is one of the key elements to success. It’s so important to let people know that you appreciate the effort they’ve gone to for you. So if someone retweets your content, always say thanks. If someone has hosted a live or virtual event for you, use a service to let that person know how you appreciate it. There are some great services out there that let you do so. And by taking that extra minute to say thanks, you position yourself as someone who values others. Everyone wants to be valued. Give that gift to others. It will pay off in a big way for your business. 

People are the engine that makes social media run. And people like to feel valued and appreciated. The tools themselves make it so easy to highlight others, say thank you, and provide the content that people need. By focusing on the needs of your connections online, you can make a significant difference in their lives, while you remind people about your business. And that is what leads to success. 

 What do you think? Have you used these principles to build your business? What will you do this week? I love it when my readers join the conversation and make a comment. I hope you will today!

Jennifer Fong helps direct sales companies, direct sales professionals, and other home-based business owners leverage the power of social media to grow their businesses. A former direct sales company CEO and serial entrepreneur, Jennifer is passionate about teaching direct sellers how to use social media tools to enhance their businesses. She helps business owners put the principles of social media to work in a profitable way, offering coaching and training to business owners.  She offers products and training courses that teach you step-by-step how to apply social media to your home-based business.  Visit Jennifer’s website at http://jenfongspeaks.com and subscribe to her newsletter by clicking here.

Many first time business owners have a hard time deciding whether or not to go it alone as a sole proprietor, to take on a partner or if they should incorporate.

Below you will find some useful tips to think about when making this important decision.

A Sole Proprietorship is the easiest out of the three to start up. The start up costs are low as a Sole Proprietor, and there are great tax advantages (write offs) to the owner. The only drawback is that there is no name protection as a Sole Proprietor and there is no protection/separation between you and your business (ie if your business is sued or the business loses money, then you are personally liable as well.

A Partnership is when two or more people decide to combine their skills and resources and go in to business together. Both parties involved are responsible for the overall management of a business, and each are personally liable for all debts with the business.

When entering in to a Partnership business, is important to outline the terms and conditions of your partnership in a legal agreement. In the agreement you will need to outline how you want to share the profits.

A Corporation is a legal entity that is separate and distinct from its owner(s). With a corporation, you have limited liability. The owner and the company are separate and distinct. The name of the Company is also protected.

When you are seeking to incorporate a company, it is best to consult with a lawyer to review all the circumstance regarding shareholders, reporting and maintaining proper records. Incorporating a company is the most expensive venture to start out of the three options.

Many fads come and go, but there is one certainty and it is that social media is here and is here to stay. It's also a no-brainer that if you are in business, you need to be connected to social media in one way or another. Traditional media such as TV and newspapers now are connected via social media, along with a few million other businesses - it is the way to go. "Word" of mouth used to be one of the best ways to promote a business. That term has now been re-coined to "World" of mouth. Food for thought! 

If you are not currently utilizing social media with your business, it is time to start. It's not hard, not difficult, you don't need a university degree to master your way around Twitter and Facebook and when you think about it, you are really taking the time to educate yourself. This in turn will help you with your business... big time. 

 And if you're not sure where to start, ask around some of your friends, family, co-workers, employees, do a Google search... the answers are all out there. Take a look at some of these interesting facts about social media, they're pretty interesting.

Guest blog post courtesy of Joy Chudacoff 

Last week, the Women’s Club in my community celebrated men and women over the age of 90 by hosting a dinner and entertainment event in their honor. I read about this event in the local paper and was struck by one interview with a woman who was born in 1912 (she’s 96!). Her photo depicted a woman who was attractive, energetic, and happy. When asked what the secret is to living a life of good health, longevity, and happiness, she replied with one simple word: Attitude.

Attitude. It’s a simple word that can take on many meanings. We have all heard the phrase, “she’s got a good attitude about life.” We have also heard the phrases, “she’s got a bad attitude”, or “she needs an attitude adjustment.” The word is thrown out loosely. It’s true that a positive attitude can make a big difference in the outcome of our lives. I happen to think that it takes something more than this to live a life full of energy, passion, and purpose.

You need to have a positive attitude that is open to possibility thinking. This is essential. Years ago, when I owned my marketing company and had a whirlwind life of travel and work, (8 to faint as I used to say), I had a plaque on my desk with 4 words on it: “It Can Be Done.” My “attitude” during that time of my life was, that if you can be open to new ideas and create your biggest vision of what you are trying to accomplish, there will be a way to make it happen. It’s still my “attitude” today. In order to realize your Big Idea, dreams, and goals, it’s essential that you open yourself up to this way of thinking.

How about you? What kind of an “attitude” do you have? Stop and consider this for a moment. Do you find yourself looking at the possibilities in every situation or do you accept defeat and move through your day (and life) blaming others for your situation? My grandfather used to say, “no matter where you go, there you are.” Well said Pops. In every moment, you get to choose how you will respond to your life situation. You are in the driver’s seat. Are you letting others determine or set your “attitude?” I am here to tell you that as women, we truly are in control of our own thoughts and ideas. One great example comes to mind: Rosa Parks. Now she had an “attitude.” She had a mindset that she was second to no one, and acted accordingly. As a result of her “attitude”, she was able to achieve historic change in this country. One never knows where their journey will ultimately take them; however a positive “attitude” that is open to possibility will definitely improve the outcome.

Anything is possible. Everything is waiting for you.

Today's blog post is a little different - it's a video post. This video comes courtesy of "The Economist". (No, it's not your grandpa's paper anymore....)  This video is about the pace of change, about how rapidly the media landscape is changing. And it's about how the way people communicate is changing the way marketers have to think about how to reach consumers.

Take a look: