Cottle's Professional Consulting

Developing a Social Media Plan

2011-09-30T19:41:00.000-07:00

Written by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

A social media plan is becoming a part of large corporations and organizations’ strategic planning to economic positioning in the marketplace, to gain competitive advantage. Their strategy goes beyond meeting a local market; it extends to a wider international market. It is very global in its reach.

Larger corporations who are thinking about integrating social media into their design plan to achieve their goals have several questions that they must address in order to find the right solution to the adoption of social media.

Some questions that must be asked are as follows:

Should social media be a part of our computer technology plan or a part of our marketing and branding plan?
Should our social media plan be organization-focused or employee-focused?
Should each department be responsible for its social media needs?
Should a decentralized-approach be used or should a centralized-approach governed by a social media unit be utilized to introduce a social media plan within the organization?
Should a social media plan be a part of the IT Unit - - an approach used by some companies and organizations as they became technologically prepared in the 90s?
How should decisions be made regarding introducing a social media plan?
Should a collaborative approach to decision-making be used where employee representatives from across the organization is a part or should be it only involve upper management?
Which social media technology should we adopt that would best meet our needs?
Who should be prepared to used the new technology?
Should training be a part of the design plan to introduce social media?
Would all the employees’ be users of social media or only a selected few?
Would there be resistance to this new change? How should these issues be addressed?
Should new recruits be considered? Should a new recruitment strategy be instituted to find suitable candidates?
How much will it cost to introduce social media into our existing technology plans?

These are some questions that large corporation should be thinking about as they think about introducing social media into their marketing and branding strategy. I hope that these were helpful in assisting you to make the right decision around social media integration into the workplace?

Related topic: Social Media: Impact on How we Learn, Relate and Interact

Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the author of this article. If you need any support Cottle’s Professional Consulting can assist you. Dr. Cottle draws from her implementation model to adopt new technology in the workplace and can provide you with workable solutions in the adoption, diffusion and infusion of social media. For more information you can contact her at:ccottle@drcottle.com

Copyright © 2011 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting.

Social Scope of Social Media

2011-09-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

Written by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

When I first heard about social media, I thought that it was a forum that was dedicated to meeting people on a social and personal level where people made connection for the purpose of dating and eventually marriage. It was only after being invited by the third person that I decided to take a look at Facebook. On looking closer to what Facebook was about, I found that it had greater implications than making friend connections - - connecting with long lost friends and making familial connection and bridging the generational family gap.

Some of the wider implications that I discovered was that it has great business potential with great opportunities for meeting with and networking with like-minded business people across the globe and transcending various business industries and sectors: Connections that could also lend themselves to valuable opportunities for partnering and collaborating in joint projects.

I also found it to be a great space where you can learn about others and their culture. Social media enables you to connect with people in places that were once seen as far away. I have had the privilege to connect with and chat with people in India, Africa, Italy, Lebanon, the Caribbean, Latin America, to list a few places. Social media has brought the world closer together.

Social media also affords us with the opportunity to share experiences as they occur. For example when the Haiti’s earthquakes occurred, the catastrophic effect was quickly broadcasted keeping us informed of every aspect of it devastating effect. Similarly, when the miners trapped in Chile were rescued; news of that was broadcast to the world, and we were able to celebrate when they were freed and united with their families. More recently with the earthquake experienced in Japan, followed by the devastation of the tsunami and an imminent radio active explosion that threatened their way of living and possible opportunity for rebuilding; people globally were able to live the experience as it unfolded in Japan.

Social media, while it exposes us to what is happening across the globe; it also heightens our awareness and sensitivity towards each other. These experienced, though they might be far away, with social media there is a shared experience that also occurs. People are able to identify with each others pain, suffering, happiness, disappointments and accomplishments. Our sensitivity towards the pain and suffering of others makes us more human: we become more empathetic.

Besides, providing a platform for businesses both small and large corporation, social media also helps people to connect with friends and family members to maintain a social connection. I also found that it serves as a great political platform for many governments across the globe. Both developed nations and developing countries a like use social media to keep their people informed, to garnish supporters and to maintain socio-political positioning. It is a conduit for getting information across the globe regardless of the issues and institutions within society.

In addition to the many effects that social media has on our social interaction and social connectedness, the implications for businesses are great. Large organization are using social media as a marketing and branding platform for their products and services. Similarly, many smaller businesses are also introducing it into their business strategic plan to ensure that they get their products or services before their niche market. Women-owned businesses are also a part of that change, in the way business is done; and they too are introducing social media into their marketing plan.

As a small business owner, do you have a social media plan? It’s important that you develop a plan proactively before delving into social media.

• Determine if this is something that will work for you right now?

• Identify which social media sites you will use in the short-term and in the long-term

• Identify a strategy that you would be using and come up with a schedule of activities for at
least a weekly, monthly or quarterly.

• Identify how much time you can dedicate to social media that will not affect your production
and operation time

• Identify whether you have the personnel on board your team to facilitate your social media
plan or whether you have to recruit or access outsourcing

As a small business owner do you have a social media plan? Which social media site or sites are you using? What are some of the benefits it has brought to your business since you have integrated it into your strategic plan?

Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting company with a portfolio in education, organizational development, professional and business development. Dr. Cottle is also the creative entrepreneur behind CPC Women in Business.

© Copyright 2011 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle of Cottle’s Professional Consulting. All Rights Reserved!

Cottle's Professional Consulting - - See what others are saying about us!

2011-08-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

Cottle's Professional Consulting blog is names the "Top 50 Blogs About Consulting".

The post noted that:

Consultants need to be well versed in a range of topics, from marketing and Web design to leadership techniques. Blogs are a great source of free, expert information to help consultants develop their talents in these areas. We've compiled a list of the 50 best blogs out there that focus on business consulting and topics relevant to that profession. We hope you'll find some helpful consultancy information that's relevant to your particular line of work!

The post also stated that:

Cottle’s Professional Consulting is one of the top 50 Bogs about consulting. The post also noted that: Consultants will find a wide range of information on this blog, hosted by Consultant Dr. Cheryl Cottle. Topics include education, computer training, web design/development, web hosting, and organizational development. Furthermore, the blog contains expert advice on business development and professional development.

If you are interested in visiting a great blog you can check us out! We cover topics on education, organizational development, professional development and business development. It's very informative and beautifully designed with opportunities to share your thoughts, ideas and experiences.

To see source:

CaseManagementCertification.org

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting.
Administrator of CPC Women in Business

© Copyright 2011 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting. All rights reserved!

Article Review: 100 Ways to Use Social Media in the Classroom

2011-06-25T16:04:00.000-07:00

Social media is no longer seen as a forum for making connection with friends, planning events, birthday parties, weddings, and anniversaries. Nor is it perceived as a place for organizations and businesses to brand and promote their products or services. It is also seen for its role as a social agent in how teaching and learning is conducted. Social media classroom has also emerged since its introduction and revolutionized how we teach and learn. Social media not only facilitates collaborative learning, but also global and intercultural understanding. Social media has a great impact upon how we communicate and therefore how we learn.

According to the article:

Social media may have started out as a fun way to connect with friends, but it has evolved to become a powerful tool for education and business. Sites such as Facebook and Twitter and tools such as Skype are connecting students to learning opportunities in new and exciting ways. Whether you teach an elementary class, a traditional college class, or at an online university, you will find inspirational ways to incorporate social media in your classroom with this list.

The article provides examples of projects and activities as well as strategies and techniques to effectively integrate social media into the curriculum.

To read more!

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting
Manager of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: Stay Focused and Work Tirelessly

2011-06-23T17:19:00.000-07:00

Business Tips Corner!

For our Business Tips Corner, I will also like to share another quote with you this week.

Between you and every goal that you wish to achieve, there is a series of obstacles and the bigger the goal, the bigger the obstacles. Your decision to be, have and do something out of the ordinary entails facing difficulties and challenges that are out of the ordinary as well. Sometimes your greatest asset is simply your ability to stay with it longer than anyone else. ~Brian Tracy

Remember that in everything you pursue; whether it is an entrepreneurial, academic or personal development goal, you will face obstacles. According to Brian Tracy, every thing that you pursue will "entail facing difficulties and challenges". If you believe in your entrepreneurial vision, you must stay focused and work tirelessly, until you achieve your goals and dreams.

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: Always do your research

2011-06-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

For my Business Tips Corner I will like to share with you some words of wisdom from my grand-son Matthew regarding his decision-making process before making a purchase for toys. By the way, he was named the most "Optimistic Boy in his Class." He is a Grade 3 student and an avid fan of Pokemon, Bakugan, BeyBlade, Chaotic, Chess, Scrabbles, and the list goes on . This is his decision-making process.

This is what he had to say:

I just don't buy a game, I do research to see if it is worth the money it cost; and to make sure that I really like it.

As entrepreneurs when you are making a purchase make sure that you conduct your research to make sure that the product or services is worth its cost and that it is really what you want.

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Creative Entrepreneur and Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: Self Publishing!

2011-05-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

Business Tips Corner

This week Business Tips Corner shares information on self publishing. I found this article, written by Manisha Solomon, 10 Secrets to Self-Publishing and it addresses some of the questions that I have clients asked. They are very simple and a direct guide to anyone thinking about writing and self publishing. Have a great read.

Go to source:

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: Real success in one you cannot spend!

2011-04-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

This Weeks’ Business Tips Corner brings you another quote for you to think about and reflect upon.

You can use almost any measure when you're speaking of success. You can measure it in a fancy home, expensive car or dress. But the measure of your real success is one you cannot spend – It's the way your child describes you when talking to a friend." – Martín Baxbaum

Success is important to a businessperson. However, you must remember that success in life is not imbalanced; it is not just how successful you are as a businessperson that counts. Success is a balance between business success and personal success. Personal success includes, how you manage your health, mind, body and spirit, together with the relationships that you form and nurture with your family and friends; and more importantly your spouse and child or children.

How would your child describe you if asked, How would you describe your mother, father?

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: To achieve Business Success, find a Balance!

2011-04-21T22:00:00.000-07:00

I just thought that for this week’s Business Tips Corner, I will share another quote with you. This time it is a quote by B.C Forbes. He says:

I have known not a few men who, after reaching the summits of business success, found themselves miserable on attaining retirement age. They were so exclusively engrossed in their day-to-day affairs that they had no time for friend making.

Through this quote the author is suggesting that as a businessperson, one should not just work and find success in business development and growth only, but advices that you must also have a personal life; a life that is spiritually and emotionally balanced. Family, friends, and simply appreciating nature and life around you, gives you balance and put you in a contented and happy place even after you retire.

I hope that you too take a pause from your business from time to time to enjoy the things that money, fame or fortune cannot buy. You don't want to be successful when young and lonely when old. Loneliness when old, is one disease that is not reversible.

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: Customers are the most important visitors on our premises

2011-04-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

It has been two weeks since I posted a tip on my Business Tips Corner; and I apologize for that. However, today I bring you a quote by Mahatma Gandhi, on how you treat people whom you rely upon for your business growth. Business owners must be mindful that:

A customer is the most important visitor on our premises. He (she) is not dependent on us. We are dependent on him (her). He (she) is not an interruption in our work. He (she) is the purpose of it. He (she) is not an outsider in our business. He (she) is part of it. We are not doing him (her) a favor by serving him (her). He (she) is doing us a favor by giving us an opportunity to do so.  

Treat your customers with dignity. Do not discriminate or use stereotype to determine who your customers are. Don’t let the way you perceive “others” determine your behavior towards them. It can terribly affect your business, if not in the short-term but in the long-term.

Shared by Cheryl Cottle

Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner: Crystalize your goals . . .

2011-03-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

My Business Tips Corner for this week provides a simple quote for you to think about and reflect. We are already in the second quarter of the year and some of us are asking ourselves this question: Where has three months in the year gone already? How has it gone so fast and I haven’t yet accomplished any of my New Year resolutions? Well! Don’t panic and become disillusioned take advice from this quote.

Crystallize your goals. Make a plan for achieving them and set yourself a deadline. Then, with supreme confidence, determination and disregard for obstacles and other people's criticisms carry out your plan. ~ Paul J. Meyer

What are your thoughts after reading this quote? It would be great to share. Don't panic, simply identify the goals that you want to achieve and work steadfastly to achieve them.

Continued success in your entrepreneurial endeavour.

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner: Write a hand-written note to say thank you!

2011-03-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

For this week’s Business Tips Corner I will like to drop you a tip that can change how you do business and makes all the difference in the world.

There's a place in the world for any business that takes care of its customers after the sale. ~ Harvey MacKay

Remember that as a business owner, for continued business you must show gratitude to your clients and or customers. Many of you made new year business resolutions, but if thanking your customers were not one of them, then I suggest that you thank them right now. To get repeated customers, it is a great marketing to thank them for their business and support. You can use old-fashioned marketing to say "thank you, I appreciate your business and I am looking forward to doing business with you again." Write a hand-written note, personalize it with your signature and use old-fashioned mail to send it to them. They will know that you care; and you can live in the assurance that they will be repeated customers or at the very least refer you to someone else.

Great customer service ensures great business!

Created by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Creative Entrepreneur and Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: You can learn from Emulation, Coaching and Mentoring

2011-03-10T13:08:00.000-08:00

For my business tip for the week, I will like to share a quote by Brian Tracy:

No one lives long enough to learn everything they need to learn starting from scratch. To be successful, we absolutely, positively have to find people who have already paid the price to learn the things that we need to learn to achieve our goals.

One way to build your skills and knowledge in entrepreneurship that will help you to grow your business is to learn from others. Emulation is a great way of learning. However, you should acknowledge that person’s role in your learning. Another way is having a coach or a mentor to guide your understanding in any facet of entrepreneurship.

By Cheryl Cottle

Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner: E-mail and Social Media

2011-03-05T11:08:00.000-08:00

I recently wrote about using e-mail as a marketing strategy and I noted that it is a great and cost effective way to target your customers. We are seeing a move by businesses to integrate both the traditional and cost effective marketing tools with the use of social media. While social media is not difficult to use, companies are still in the process of learning the new technology and the implementation strategies to integrate it into their marketing plan.

Here are a few suggestions on how to utilize both approaches: E-mailing and social media.

Integrate your email marketing with your social media campaigns - - Your social media campaign should include the use of FaceBook, Twitter, You Tube and Blogging
Design your e-mail messages so that it can be captured on mobile devices that so many customers are now using to access their emails
Make sure that the text are brief and avoid using large images as well as to many - - Be economical in your marketing language
Engage your readers - - you can either ask them to participate in an activity. You can engage them in a contest or offer them something FREE
Plan you marketing campaign around holidays or special days
Your Design Marketing Plan should be a yearly plan. Your DMP should identify the messages to be sent out and the activities you want to promote
Every design plan must be evaluated. Identify what worked and what didn’t. Determine whether you received a return in your investment in terms of Time and Cost?

Created by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: Sharing a Quote about Attitude!

2011-02-24T18:53:00.000-08:00

For this month my Business Tips Corner primarily focused on "attitude" and how our "attitude" impact our feelings and actions. I also provided you with tips on how you can change your attitude by sharing recommendations made by John C. Maxwell. Today, I will share a quote with you about "attitude".

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company, a church, a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past. We cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you, we are in charge of our Attitudes.” ~ Charles R. Swindoll

I hope that you will ponder on these fine words and perhaps integrate its meaning into your life. According to John Maxwell, if you have a bad attitude, you can change it. The quote also suggests how you react to situations in your life, particularly negative circumstances it can have a positive or negative impact on you. The quote suggests that the onus is upon you: you can "choose" to make it affect you negatively or you can "choose" to have it affect you in a positive way. You can learn from it and see it as a learning experience. In business and life in general, attitude is very important for navigating our world and maintaining a positive well-being.

By Cheryl Cottle

Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner: E-mailing!

2011-02-17T14:01:00.000-08:00

E-mail marketing is one of the oldest marketing online strategies used by companies for reaching and educating their clients about their products and or services. Both large corporations and small business owners have been using it since the emergence of online communication, with great success. In spite of its popularity, e-mail marketing is often met with opposition from the online population. Some people perceive it as unwanted solicitation or spamming and definitely do not want to be a part of what you are selling. One concern for recipients is, how did I get on their list? Another is, how do I get off their list? It is prudent and ethical to ensure that the people on your list want to receive your information and are indeed a part of your target audience.

I receive countless e-mail marketing materials in my inbox on a daily basis on products that I don't have any interest in. I certainly did not give permission to be a part of their lists. Yet, everyday I am bombarded with unwanted e-mails and it seems as if there isn't any way out, since many of them do not give you the option to opt-out from receiving them. There isn't an exit clause. It feels as if I am a part of an e-mail hijack. In order to manage the unwelcome e-mails, I make good use of the delete option in my e-mail system.

Here are some things to think about when using e-mail to reach your clients:

Make sure that everyone on your e-mail list agrees to be on it - - and are a part of your target audience
Give recipients on your e-mail list the opportunity to opt-out of your list
Make sure that you accurately identify your target population or niche
Make sure that the information that you provide is in keeping with their needs
Avoid spamming. While you may have the time and resources to e-mail on a regular basis, don't annoy your target population
Don't give them the option to press delete. The objective is for them to open and read your offer and to respond favourably. Remember your goals are to keep you clients and to get new ones

Created by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Chief Executive Officer of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Copyright © 2011 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting. All rights reserve.

Business Tips Corner: Benefits of Embracing Adversity!

2011-02-10T17:44:00.000-08:00

I will like to share another piece of John Maxwell's lessons on attitude.

Can obstacles actually enhance an attitude? Quoting Dr. Joyce Brother, Maxwell says "The person interested in success has to learn to view failure as a healthy inevitable part of the process of getting to the top." He goes on to add that: "adversity and the failure that often results from it should not only be expected in the process of succeeding; they need to be viewed as an absolutely critical part of it."

The benefits of adversity are many, he adds. He suggests that we should embrace adversity and persevere through it. Here are some key reasons why we should:

Adversity creates resilience
Adversity develops maturity
It pushes the envelope of accepted performance
It provides greater opportunities
Adversity prompts innovation
Adversity brings unexpected benefits
Adversity motivates

To read more on how to resolve the benefits that embracing your adversity can help, I recommend that you get a copy of John C. Maxwell, Attitude 101: What every leader needs to know.

By Cheryl Cottle

Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting

Copyright © 2011 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting.

Business Tips Corner: A bad attitude can be changed!

2011-02-03T18:05:00.000-08:00

You can always change your attitude if you have a bad one. According to John Maxwell "it is a matter of personal choice." He also points out that "who we are today is the result of choices we made yesterday." He further goes on to say "tomorrow we will become what we choose today. To change means to choose to change."

He therefore proposes eight ways that one can choose if he or she "genuinely desires to." They are as follows:

Evaluate your present attitude
Realize that faith is stronger than fear
Write a statement of purpose
Have the desire to change
Live one day at a time
Change your thought patterns
Develop good habits
Continually choose to have a right attitude

Changing one's attitude is a difficult and an ungoing process. You must be committed to change.

For more read John C. Maxwell. Attitude 101: What every leaders needs to know

By Cheryl Cottle
Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting

(c) Copyright 2011 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle and Cottle's Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner: Your attitude and you!

2011-01-30T14:18:00.000-08:00

By Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Today, I will share with you some truths about your attititude. John C. Maxwell defines attitude as an inward feeling expressed by behaviour. Here are some ways that your attitude can affect you.

Your attitude determines your approach to life
It is often the difference between success and failure
Your attitude at the beginning of a task will affect it outcome more than anything else
Your attitude can turn your problems into blessings
It can give you an uncommonly positive perspective
Your attitude is not automatically good because you are a christian

Your attitude have a direct effect upon how you do business. A great attitude; one of respect for others, appreciation, and valuing of others will surely help you to build strong and long lasting relationships. On the other hand, poor attitude is easily discoved and it pushes people away.

To read more read John C. Maxwell. Attitude 101: What every leaders needs to know

Shared by Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting
Administrator of CPC Women in Business

Business Tips Corner: Creating a workspace!

2011-01-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

My business tip for this week is about creating a workspace for your home-based business.

While most entrepreneurs will agree that creating a space dedicated to your home-based business is critical, some still continue to function in an informal way rather than create a formal environment with office equipment, furniture, and the overall feel and layout of a professional space. Separating your home life from your work life provides you with the mental separateness required to run and manage a home-based business.

Regardless of the type of business you are in, if you work from home you will need a space for your business operation. You can use a small nook or a room that you dedicate to your work. Some common spaces used by my clients include working from their kitchen table, converting a closet into an office, working from their attic, garage, basement, or converting a bedroom. One of my clients created a sewing studio that doubles as her DIY video production set. Another client is a yoga instructor and uses her living room area as a studio, while yet another client has converted his basement into a top-of-the-line recording studio.

Here are a few reminders why creating a dedicated space for your business is beneficial:

A home office puts you in the right mindset for working and creating, by making you feel grounded and provides the right climate for you to focus
It is easier to block out distractions, therefore increasing your productivity
It is a place where you can organize and easily access your work material and resources
It enables you to threat your entrepreneurial venture as a business instead of a hobby
Enables your children and family members to see what you are doing as a serious undertaking, therefore creating greater respect and acknowledgement for your job

These reminders have worked for me and my clients, perhaps they can work for you. They just might make working from home a more rewarding and profitable experience.

Created by Dr. Cheryl Cottle of Cottle's Professional Consulting.

Business Tips Corner - - Blogging a strategy for small businesses!

2011-01-17T06:49:00.000-08:00

One way to brand your company is through blogging. While many companies both large and small are using blogging as a way of marketing their products or services; a great many are still yet to do so. Many companies are still considering whether they need to make a change to recruit an employee specifically responsible for blogging or whether they should put out the cost necessary. In today’s economy where viral marketing is leading traditional marketing strategies, blogging has become a must. Businesses should decide to integrate blogging into their business strategy. The benefit to your business can be invaluable and have a great impact on your brand, client-base and profitability.

While there are many benefits, here are just some reasons that I hope will motivate you to introduce blogging to your business:

Brand your company and reach your target audience: A business blog helps you to brand your company and your expertise. You can get an opportunity to reach your target audience. It enables you to widen your client reach and allows you to reach your target audience at an affordable price.
Increase traffic to your website: The best way to introduce a blog into your business marketing strategy, is by integrating it into your website. The underlying objective of having a blog is to drive traffic to your website and encourage potential clients to see what you do and to learn about your services.
Establish yourself as an expert: Use your blog to establish yourself as an expert. Make sure that the information you provide is current. By posting relevant and useful information, people will come to know you as the person who they can rely upon for useful information.
Develop a great following: A blog is designed so you can have a very large following. Some blogs have thousands of followers — thus the potential of a blog is great. It can put your business and you in front of a large audience of similar interest. You can also learn a great deal from the feedback you receive via “COMMENTS.” This feedback helps you to form valuable relationships.

I hope that this advice will help you to make your decision regarding starting a blog. Cottle’s Professional Consulting can help you to design a blog that will reflect your business and put your services and products before a larger audience. Contact us at: ccottle@drcottle.com

Author: Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an educator, instructional technologist, system analyst and business consultant. She is the founder and Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting; a firm that specializes in the areas of education, organizational development, professional development and small business development. Dr. Cottle also manages CPC Women in Business; an online forum for women entrepreneurs globally.

Copyright © 2011 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting.

Business Tips Corner - - Effective Social Media Strategies

2010-12-23T18:47:00.000-08:00

By Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Although I have years of experience using online forums for teaching and learning, I have been using social media a little over two years, and during that time I have learnt a lot. One thing that I particularly learnt is that social media is not only for the “college kid” as so many of my friends would say when I asked if they were using social media for their business. A client of mine, who was seeking business development when asked if she was using any social media to market her product, says “No, I just can’t see how I can ask my friends to buy my product. I am on Facebook and LinkenIn, but I am just not able to connect with my friends, so I was thinking of disconnecting from them.” It was obvious that she does not understand the social and business effect of social media ― that while it is a space to meet and connect with your friends and family, it is also an environment to network, connect with like-minded people and build your business and personal portfolio to further the advancement of your career or business sales and profitability.

These are some strategies that I have used and tested for their effectiveness over the past two years, and which I give as advice to my clients.

Know your Network: Be cognizant of what is happening in your network. Read what others are saying. Identify the people who are a part of your network and get to know their needs. Like my client above, she might call it unethical to listen to what others are saying, but it is only by reading the “statuses” of others or the “comments” that they make, will you be able to know your “friends” better and therefore be better prepared to meet their needs and your goals.

Identify Your Niche Market: Like any business plan one important aspect to take your business from the drawing board to reality is to conduct a market research ― you must identify your niche market. Are your “friends” your niche market? If they are not, begin to thin out your list. Don’t collect friends just for the numbers.

Active Participation: Active participation and relevant content are two key components in establishing your self on social media. The information that you provide must be in keeping with what your audience appreciates. Ask any one who has been using social media for a while, they will say content and participation is the key to getting others to know you and your brand. It is also important to stay consistent with the information that you provide to build an authentic online reputation.

Establish Authenticity: This is a real issue ― although the human-social interaction taking place is viral and you can easily hide behind your computer screen and keyboard, people are able to pick up on who you are and what you represent. It is important that the information that you present is in keeping with your audience’s needs. And it is also important to think about the way in which you deliver it ― don’t make it all business. Be sensitive to their needs also. Establish a friendly tone. Make it easy for your audience to feel comfortable to communicate with you. By establishing authenticity what results is trustworthiness ― the people with whom you have built a network with, would begin to respect and value what you are saying.

Be Socially Responsive: It is important to be socially responsive. It is very important to acknowledge others. When an individual makes a comment to something that you posted, make sure that you respond to them in a timely manner. Remember at all times be courteous. It is important to reciprocate by responding also to the information that they share. It is also great to connect with people on their birthdays and anniversaries. People love to receive a greeting on their special day. Some people also share when they have a loved one in the hospital or when he or she dies. Some also share information about their children, while some share about their pets. Be alert to the people’s needs around you.

I hope that these tips will enable you to make better use of social media to promote your business or your career.

Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an Educator, Instructional Technologist and System Analyst. She is the founder and Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting that specializes in the areas of education, organizational development, professional development and small business development. Dr. Cottle also manages CPC Women in Business; an online forum for women entrepreneurs globally.

Copyright © 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting.

Season's Greetings!

2010-12-20T19:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

Thanks for dropping by and reading my blog posts from time-to-time. I hope that they were interesting and informative. I will like to extend a heartfelt greetings to you, as we come to the end of the year to celebrate Christmas. Happy Holidays and as you welcome the New Years, may your life be filled with Love, Health and Prosperity.

Hoping to see you in the New Year. Yes, I will be taking a break to spend some quality time with my family.

Enjoy the holidays and stay save.

God's Blessings to you!

Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Take a pause and listen to the beautiful voice of Whitney Houston as she sings The First Noel!

An Overview of the Article: 5 Advanced Social Media Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses

2010-12-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

As a small business owner, you are often faced with the question of should I integrate a social media marketing strategy into my business plan? Well the answer is yes. Wait no longer. This article provides some useful tips on how you can introduce a cost effective marketing strategy that will not only enable you to build your community of customers, but also increase your sales.

The author recommends that as a beginner to social media marketing, companies’ particularly smaller ones should adopt these practices.

Introduce multimedia, both videos and photographs to represent your products, social events, and instructional videos. A picture tells a great deal and your customers stand a greater chance to know you better.
Integrate your offline and your on-line advertising. It helps your conversion process and builds your community of potential customers.
Adapt your message for each site you have. Don’t repeat the same message across the board. Customization of messages is critical to catching customers’ attention and retaining interest.
Make sure that you are searchable and visible to your customers. Include your sites in local business directory and also add you online presence to “Google map”.
Introduce contest and provide discount to meet your customers’ needs and interest.

To read more visit the source of the article.

Author:

Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an Educator, Instructional Technologist and System Analyst. She is the founder and Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting that specializes in the areas of education, organizational development, professioanl developmen and small business development. She also manages CPC Women in Business; and online forum for women entrepreneurs globally.

Copyright © 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting.

An Overview of the Article: How to Use Social Media to Retain Customers

2010-12-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

This article provides some useful tips on how to turn your new and existing customers into active customers.

The author states that: there are many times or reasons that a small business will receive an influx of new customers — such as around the holidays for retail stores, during a new product or service launch or after a local advertising campaign. While new customers are great, returning customers are even better. Social media offers a number of opportunities to turn your new and existing customers into repeat customers and fans.

The author also suggests that you can turn new customers into return customers who will in turn attract more new customers for you. To achieve this, the article suggests that you should:

Direct new customers to your social media sites by inviting them to become your friend, become a fan of your fan page or join your group or follow you on your blog or on Twitter.
Offer opportunities and incentives to keep them interested — engage them with new content, great information and resources and exclusive offerings.
Promote your business — your services or products. Offer exclusive deals.
Build a community around what you do.

To read more:

Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an Educator, Instructional Technologist and System Analyst. She is the Founder of Cottle’s Professional Consulting. Dr. Cottle is also the creator of two online forums — Women in Business on Facebook and CPC Women in Business.

Copyright © 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner - - 4 Simple Tools To Brand Your Company

2010-12-09T19:30:00.000-08:00

By Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Be sure to drop in every week on a Thursday to share my useful tips that would help you in your journey to successful entrepreneurship!

My business tip for this week is about branding. While large companies use branding to market and promote what they do, small business owners can do the same. How you establish yourself in the marketplace is very important to your success? A professional branding image is sure to help you attract your potential customers and eventually translating them into customers. Here are some simple tools that you can integrate into your company to ensure that you get the respect that your deserve.

Design a business card that provides information about your business. It is also recommended that you include a contact telephone number, an e-mail address and your website
Design and create stationery for your business. Your writing paper and your envelope should include your company’s logo, name, and address
You should also have a dedicated telephone number for all your business contact
Make sure that if you are not available to receive your calls that you have a message that is warm and friendly inviting them to leave a message. Your objective is to retain all prospective customers. Develop a great message: thanking them for their interest and promise to respond in a timely manner
Get an e-mail address that is professional. Get one that reflects your business

These are some very cost effective ways that you can begin integrating into your branding strategy to ensure that you develop the level of professionalism and confidence so needed in today’s marketplace for any business.

Author:

Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting. Cottle's Professional Consulting provides service in education, organizational development, professional development, and business development. Dr. Cottle is also a coach and mentor in areas of professional and business development. Interested in a service, please contact her at: ccottle@drcottle.com

Business Tips Corner - - For People now Starting out into Entrepreneurship

2010-12-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

Business Tips Corner!

by: Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Be sure to drop in every week on a Thursday to share my useful tips that would help you in your journey to successful entrepreneurship!

This week's tips are specifically designed for people who are now starting out into entrepreneurship.

Love what you do and the wealth will follow: Marsha Sinetar the author of Do What you love: The Money will Follow- - Discovering Your Right Livelihood suggests that you should work at what you love and you will find the satisfaction that you have been looking for. Oprah Winfrey's also says, " . . . if you do work that you love, and the work fulfills you, the rest will come." Many successful people believe in this philosophy. Some business owners have also vouched that having a passion for what you do, makes it much easier to go through the challenges you face as an entrepreneur. It is what helps to sustain your business.

Get the support of others: Many entrepreneurs, particularly women tend to start a business alone because it often comes out of a great need. It can either be as a result of being divorced or the death of our spouse and we have to find alternative ways to support ourselves and children. It is wise that you get the support of someone to assist you in the event that difficult situations arise. If you are unable to get a friend or a family to support you, then it is wise to get a mentor. Join groups where you can also get the support. With the technology that are available, you can join online forums and others social media forum to network and share common experiences.
Create a Business Plan: A business plan will provide you with the road map that you need when thinking of getting into a business venture. It will provide you with valuable information regarding how much money you will need to start up your business, identify who are your target audience, the best place to purchase your equipments, furniture and other inventories, who are your competitors, and how best to market and promote you product or services, and such business logistics.
Education: It is important also that you increase you knowledge in the area of business that you want to get into. You must develop your expert knowledge of the industry you are in, as well as the product and or services that are the focus of your company. Engage in research, read books and attend workshops and seminars to stay current in your market. You would also want to know all about taxes as it applies to your business as well as business registration, and other operational logistics.
Access Professional Support: Professional support is always touted as being to expensive as a result many business owner delay this process. Remember that you do not have all the skills needed to successfully run your business. You most likely would have the entrepreneurial skills, but not necessarily have all the managerial skills needed to manage your business. A business requires both entrepreneurial and management skills to be sustainable. It is a holistic approach to successful entrepreneurship. Therefore if you need an accountant to manage your books, or a website designer to build your website or blog, outsource their help.
Professionalism: One of my advices that I gives to clients now starting out into the area of entrepreneurship is that they should always strive to be professional, and it does not only mean dressing great. Establishing a professional image from the beginning goes a long way in achieving business success. As a new business owner you should establish a business telephone number so that customers can easily contact you. A website is another feature that one should also consider having. In addition to online presence, an e-mail is equally important. These together with business cards, stationary and great customers’ service are a great start to establishing professionalism.

Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting. Cottle's Professional Consulting has a multidisciplinary portfolio including education, organizational development, professional development, and business development. Dr. Cottle is also a coach and mentor in areas of professional and business development. Interested in a service, please contact her at: ccottle@drcottle.com

©Copyright 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle and Cottle’s Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner - - How to Make Your Home Office Child-Friendly

2010-11-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

Business Tips Corner!

By: Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Be sure to drop in every week on a Thursday to view tips that would help you in your journey to successful entrepreneurship.

This week's tips are about how to make your home-based office child-friendly!

With my own grand-son at the stage where he wants to get into everything, my daughter was realizing how important it is to go-child-friendly when you work from home to secure your child’s safety. These are some of the things that we felt are needed in the office.

Ensure that your file and computer information is safe. Your toddler is at the stage where he or she is curious about everything. He or she can accidently touch your keyboard and make your files disappear. This would take some time to fix and may also cost you if you are unable to fix the problem yourself.
Keep all your office supplies securely stored away from the reach of your child or children. Your toddler is at the stage where they put everything in their mouth.
Make sure that all cupboards or storage systems are sturdy to prevent them from falling. Make sure that your cupboards doors are closed at all times.
Last but not least, make sure all electrical outlets are secured. Stoppers can be used to plug electrical outlets, also make sure that computer and printer cords are secured and not left hanging.
If possible you can have your child outside your work space, it would certainly prevent any mishaps.

Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting. Cottle's Professional Consulting has a multidisciplinary portfolio including education, organizational development, professional development, and business development. Dr. Cottle is also a coach and mentor in areas of professional and business development. Interested in a service, please contact her at: ccottle@drcottle.com

© Copyright 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle and Cottle’s Professional Consulting

Business Tips Corner - - Things to consider when you are choosing a location for your business.

2010-11-18T07:06:00.000-08:00

Business Tips Corner!

By: Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Be sure to drop in every week on a Thursday to view tips that would help you in your journey to successful entrepreneurship.

This week's tips are:

First find out whether your type of business is permitted in the area according to zoning laws.
Make sure that your business location is accessible to allow your customers and employees easy access.
Consider the surrounding community. Can the community support your business? Does it attract your niche market?
Carefully choose whether you would have a ground floor location for your business or a second floor. Customers generally find it easiest to just walk in off the street. If you choose a second floor, make sure that you advertise to attract customers to your store.
Similarly if you choose to have a location in a Mall, make sure that the Mall also has great access and secure parking facilities.
Decide whether you want to be in an area where you don’t have any direct competitors, or decide whether they will provide a great business climate.

Author:

Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting. Cottle's Professional Consulting has a multidisciplinary portfolio including education, organizational development, professional development, and business development. Dr. Cottle is also a coach and mentor in areas of professional and business development. Interested in a service, please contact her at: ccottle@drcottle.com

© Copyright 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle and Cottle’s Professional Consulting

Should Small Businesses with an exclusive product go E-commerce?

2010-11-16T08:54:00.000-08:00

By Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Many small businesses that deal exclusively with unique, one-of-a-kind, limited editions are now thinking about whether they should expand their exclusive business by going online. Many wonder if this approach to selling will reduce the value of their product in the eyes of their clients. The answer is no. What going online means is that you are now taking your business to a wider target audience. It means that you are now opening up what you do to others who will get a chance to see what you do, appreciate what you do and buy what you produce. It will also mean that you now have the opportunity to leverage the value of what you do. You now have a larger market; your would-be customers are no longer local but also international.

Going e-commerce does not mean that you are closing your “brick and mortar” store or your home-based store. It means that it is an extension of your business or an enlargement of your marketing plan. E-commerce simply means using a website with a shopping cart to enable your customers the ability to buy online.

E-commerce provides you with the opportunity to increase your market and take it before an international audience. It creates the opportunity to move from your mini local market to a macro market. However with this type of marketing, there are additional changes that will incur on your production, manufacturing, marketing, customer service, machinery and equipments, computer technology, shipping and handling and other key operational processes within your company. In some cases it will require an additional workforce to manage each operation as you expand.

Things that you will need in going e-commerce:

An e-commerce website will have to be designed and constructed. You can self-design and construct your own website if you have the skills to do so
Access an outside web designer to translate what you have in mind with sound design techniques to come up with an e-commerce site that meets your needs.
Register a domain name
Decide which web hosting company to host your website
Think about the design features for your website
Determine which products you will display
Generate your product description
Product Photography
Select a shopping cart
Establish a merchant account
Establish policies (including, purchasing, customer services, shipping and handling, etc.)
Shipping and handling - - which shipping provider will you use to facilitate your customer’s order
Establish a customer service unit to deal with customer-related issues.

If you require an ecommerce website we can build it for you. For more information on how we can help contact us at: ccottle@drcottle

Résumé Writing and the Job Search Process!

2010-10-22T14:27:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Cheryl Cottle
With the recessionary period, applying for a new job is none the easier. There are a lot of people also vying for that job that you have been looking for, so the competition is great. How to stand out above the competition and get the job is what you need to know. You can know how to, if you access an expert in job search, résumé and cover letter preparation, and job interviewing skills. You might have the educational background, skills and knowledge sets, work related experience, and wondering why I am not getting the job? Well, it just could be the approach that you are using.

Here are a few tips that will help you to move above the rest and get that perfect job.

Identify your skills and experiences:
You must identify the skills and experiences that you have as they relate to the job that you are applying. The question that you have to ask, is do I have these skills? Do I have the knowledge to perform the job? Having identified the skills and knowledge that you have within the context of the job, include them when responding to the job in your résumé and cover letter. What skills should I take into consideration? Identify your skills and experiences within the context of your past work experience and the position that you held, education and training, volunteering, and simply life’s skills.

Formatting your résumé:
This is critical to the organization and development of your résumé. You want your document to look professional and as if you have spent some time to details. You also want to show that you are detailed-oriented and organized. These are attributes that your employers are also looking for and they reflect in the way that you organize your résumé and write your cover letter.

Adhere to proper spelling and grammatical practices:
Once you have written your résumé and included all the necessary details, make sure that you review it for spelling errors and grammatical mistakes. Employees also evaluate your writing and form judgments about what type of worker you will be, by looking at the way that you pay attention to details, and it is often a critical attribute that they stress on their job postings. Get someone else to review your résumé and cover letter. Sometimes a second opinion helps. Note that a well written résumé gets notice for the very least. It is the same ones that gets called on the interview and the one to get the job.

Personalized your cover letter:
Personalizing your cover letter for each job that you are applying for is sometimes difficult to do. You have spent several hours coming up with the perfect résumé to meet the job requirements, and now you just have to complete the cover letter; but you are tired, and you simply just want to the application process to be over and done with. Similar to your résumé, you also have to pay great attention to details. A well written cover letter reflects your level of professionalism also. Always address your cover letter to the correct person within the company or corporation. The job position that you are applying for should also be indicated on your cover letter. It is also important to indicate where you saw the job advertised, and how your skills, educational background, and experience fits the job that they advertised. Always include a telephone number or an e-mail address so that they will be able to contact you should your letter of application is short listed.

The interviewing process:
If you are here in your job search process, you know that you are getting somewhere with finding a job. But this is also a very important stage that you must pay attention to. How you dress is very important in getting a job. This is your initial presentation. How you look or your image plays an important role in hiring. Make sure you wear clean and well coordinated colors, a beautiful pair of shoes, and a handbag, not to fashionable; if you are a female. Males, you too must pay special attention to how your look and yes smell. It is also important to pay attention to grooming; your hair must also be combed as well as your nails should be cut and cleaned. In addition, it is also important to be on time for your interview and you should also be prepared to answer any questions. In addition, it is great to have a number of questions that you can ask the panel especially when they ask you “Do you have any questions you will like to ask us?”

The Day of the Interview:
On the day of the interview, make sure that you are there on time. Some times it is best to go on a trial run if you are informed of the interview days before. This will allow you to identify road blocks that you may encounter and help you to circumvent them on the day of. Learn as much as you can about the company and particularly, how the position you are applying impacts the company’s functionality. Generally the interview questions are related to what you have written on your résumé. Remember you are talking about you, and the experiences that you have and how they apply to the position. Be confident when you respond. Remember always to have the names and contacts of your references. Another question that is commonly asked is, what you want from the job? And that generally translates into the question “Where do you see yourself in the next five years? Another generic question is; how will you be of benefit to the company? It is advisable that before going on an interview you must research the company. Learn about their company goals, mandate and culture. You also need to know if you will want to work with them. Just as they have to like you, you also have to like them. It is a two way relationship.

In summary: I hope that you find these tips useful to your job search, résumé preparation, and interview process. Good luck in your job search.

Interested in having us prepare a résumé and cover letter as well as prepare you for the job position that you are looking for. Call us! You can also have a telephone conferencing session with Dr. Cottle. For more information contact us at: ccottle@drcottle.com

Do you need a website? How to best leverage technology to benefit in the marketplace?

2010-10-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Cheryl Cottle
As an entrepreneur, both male or female, gone are the days when you only needed a hand shake to do business. In today’s global economies with the advent of computer technology and the internet, you must change, or you will be forever left behind; and this is not a cliché: It is a fact. Businesses regardless of size must get onto the bandwagon of technology. You no longer need a mobile phone and a fax machine; you also need a website, e-mail, access to the internet over all, and high speed internet connection. Technology is here and it is here to stay. With the advent of computer based technology business has become more competitive, but it has also provided people with greater opportunity to leverage what they can do ― their services and products. If you are also into selling your product and you will like to take your product and services to a wider market, then you will have to think about integrating e-commerce into your business strategy. This allows your customers, regardless of their geographical location, time, and currency exchange, to access your product and make a purchase.

What technology and the internet have done for the entrepreneur:

It has opened up connection and removed the barriers between individuals in different countries and continents who want to trade with each other.
You can easily conduct a detailed search of a company so that you know with whom you are doing business.
If you are looking for that special product or services, a search of the internet can put you in direct contact with the best in the market.
The internet and computer based technologies enables you to do business twenty four hours a day from where ever you are in the world and with whom you want to.
It also enables you to make contact with people with whom you might never have met.
The internet also puts you in direct contact with your supplier, or buyer thus reducing cost and time as in traditional business transaction.
Essentially the internet removes national boundaries thus opening a global gate way to commerce.

Interested in having a website for your business because you will like to extend your market globally, and will need visibility, Cottle’s Professional Consulting can do it for you. We will work with you to come up with the best design! Give us a shout out at: ccottle@drcottle.com

Author:

Book Review: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

2010-09-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Cheryl Cottle

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff is authored by Dr. Richard Carlson. I first heard about this book in 2002 when a friend brought it to my attention, but it was not until 2009 that I was reintroduced to Carlson’s; Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, by my sister. We were talking about great inspirational books; and she asked if I had read “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff”. I told her of my first introduction to the title of book, but admitted that I had not yet read it. She went to her library and retrieved it, and handed it to me saying, “It is a great book. It makes you see life in a simple way and provide ways on how to get the best out of life.”

I remember when I was growing up, my parents were always fostering in us how to deal with unpleasant experiences; or rather what we perceived as unpleasant. I understood that the message sent by my parents were, “don’t sweat the small stuff” though, then it translated, don’t make little things in life affect you negatively. There have been instances in my childhood where I saw people who sweated the “small stuff”, but it does not have much rewards. Early on in life, I learnt that “sweating the small stuff” is a waste of your valuable time, emotions, and well-being. Only then it was referred to as, “don’t worry about the little things”, or “don’t make little things bother you”, words to that effect.

That evening, I read Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff. I found it very easy to read. The language is simple, and the scenarios that he uses are situated in real life experiences. You can identify with what he is saying, but your perception is tweaked. It makes you reflect on your own experiences, and help you to rethink how meaningful life can be, if you don't “sweat the small stuff.”

In reading the book, I suggest that you read the introduction of the book first. It sets the stage for what is to come. Once you have read the introduction, you can open any of the pages to the many essays that he has written, and begin your reading. You can then move forward, back ward, jumping anywhere in the book until you have read the whole book. Each essay is an example of life’s lessons on how we can live our life with greater meaning, stress free, and happy; or at least happier.

For women readers in particular, I will like to recommend Meditations for Women Who Do too Much. The author is Anne Wilson Schaef. It is a book about quotes punctuated with the author’s perception of it and how it relates to how women live their lives. The book is also an easy read, and you can start reading from any point in the book, although it is set chronically, starting with meditations for each month beginning in January through December.

Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting. Cottle's Professional Consulting has a multidisciplinary portfolio including education, organizational development, professional development, and business development. Some of her core focus are teacher training and development, curriculum development, computer technology training and the implementation of computers in the workplace. Dr. Cottle is also a coach and mentor in areas of professional and business development. You can find her at her woman's online forum for business women CPC Women in Business. To learn more about Dr. Cottle's consultancy and to contact her go to: http://drcottle.com/

Book Club

2010-08-23T18:06:00.000-07:00

Cottle’s Professional Consulting invites you to join our Book Club.

Join us and participate in this Comfortable, Relaxing, and Sharing Environment. Come and network! Share your perceptions and understanding of the book and gain new insights and ideas on how to empower yourself to achieve your personal and business goals! See your Life Change!

The selected book for this month’s reading is - - The Richest Man in Babylon authored by George S. Clason. To read my review of the book check out the blog - - Book Review !

It is a very inspirational book, with great insights on creating the life that you want.

Let’s Share! Let’s gain new insights on how to live our lives with Purpose, Authenticity, and Abundance!

If you are interested in being part of this group with a goal to grow; emotionally, mentally, spiritually and financially, join us! Send me a message at: ccottle@drcottle.com, or message me in my inbox on Facebook.

The date and location of the first meeting in Toronto will be announced. Members of the Book Club are also invited to share there feedback in the Comment Section of this blog post.

If you are interested in being a part of the Book Club, contact me at: ccottle@drcottle .com, leave a comment, or message me on Facebook.

Book Review: The Richest Man in Babylon

2010-08-23T17:53:00.000-07:00

Book Review - - The Richest Man in Babylon
By: Dr. Cheryl Cottle

The Richest Man in Babylon written by George S. Clason is one of the books that I read recently. I found a copy of it in my daughter’s library in the home she shares with her husband and two sons, and I was moved to read it and I am glad that I did. It has been very enlightening and inspirational as well, and I will like to share it with you.

It is a book primarily about how to build financial security through “financial understanding.” If you don’t understand how to achieve financial wealth, it is difficult to build financial success. The author talks about building prosperity and suggests that the prosperity of a society is dependent upon the “personal financial prosperity of each of us as individuals.” These are his opening words of his book.

The book deals with the personal success of each person and the author suggests that:

Success means accomplishments as the result of our own efforts and abilities. Proper preparation is the key to success. Our acts can be no wiser than our thoughts. Our thinking can be no wiser than our understanding.

The author provides a way to build your financial dreams by recommending that you should safe one third of your earnings each time and after a while, you would gain the nest egg that you so which to achieve. He also suggests that once you have acquired your wealth, you should also understand how to invest your money wisely, because a bad investment will result in the loss of it.

The book is highly inspirational as it also provides insights on how to be empowered. The author's useful tips on the power of discernment, negotiation, respect and valuing others, asking for what you want, and taking action, are some of the values and attitudes that he suggests that we adopt, if we are too gain the wealth that we need to live life purposefully and with abundance. These are some of the things that I have adopted after reading The Richest Man in Babylon,and integrated into my approach to life and living; and they have proved to be effective.

The book is an easy read. The language is simple with beautiful imagery. It is written in a story-like form. Once you start to read it, it is not easy to put down! The book provides a way of moving from dreaming of wealth to the acquisition of wealth. How much money have you earned in the years since you have been working and still don’t have much to show? Have you been dreaming of wealth but still remains cash poor? Read, The Richest Man in Babylon, and your dreams may just become a reality. If you have been experiencing the lack of a “fat purse” and will like to change your circumstances, take a read. The book provides some “honorable ways” on how to build the wealth that you want.

Notes: Since it first publication in 1988, there has been over 2 million books in print to today.

Clason, George S. (1988) The Richest Man in Babylon, New American Library, Penguin Book USA Inc., New York.

I also added another book that I also read that I think is similar to The Richest Man in Babylon and can be of great help in enlightening you. It is The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandido.

Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an educator and the Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting. Cottle's Professional Consulting has a multidisciplinary portfolio. She conducts training in curriculum teaching and learning, as well as computer technology and the implementation of computers in the workplace. In addition, Dr. Cottle is also a coach and mentor in areas of professional and business development. She also manages a woman's online forum for business women globally at CPC Women in Business To learn more about her consultancy and to contact her go to: http://www.drcottle.com/

Blogging as a branding marketing technique

2010-08-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Branding today is not only a marketing strategy conducted by large corporations but other types of organizations are also using branding as a technique to promote their goals and mandates. Politics, education, training and development, health and fitness, family planning, community-based organizations, and causes are also using branding to promote what they do. Home-based businesses, woman-owned, as well as small and medium size businesses are also using branding to market their products or services to reach a wider target audience; extending from being a local market to a global market.

One strategy that they are using in common is “blogging”. When thinking about implementing “blogging” as a new marketing strategy, organizations and businesses alike should think about the analysis, design, development and implementation phases of their design plan to integrate “blogging” into their marketing strategy. It is also important to consider evaluating the effectiveness of the branding strategy in terms of; is it meeting your marketing goals: does it translates into increased clientele and increased production.

Attached is an interesting article that provides ways to think about when you plan to incorporate blogging into your marketing plan.

To learn more: http://zenhabits.net/branding-101-how-to-promote-your-blog-or-yourself-like-the-big-guys-do/

Need a BLOG for your business! We can design one for you!Contact us at: ccottle@drcottle.com

About the Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an Educator, Instructional Technologist, and System Analysis. She is the Founder of Cottle’s Professional Consulting a multidisciplinary consultancy. Her business website is at: http://drcottle.com Dr. Cottle is also the creator of two online forum; Women in Business on Facebook and CPC Women in Business at http://www.cpcwib.ning.com/

Copyright © 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting

Finding Balance in Life

2010-07-08T12:29:00.000-07:00

Finding Balance in Life
Author: Edward Aldama
Overview:
By Dr. Cheryl Cottle
In this article the author suggests that for most people, finding balance in life enables one to have happier relationships and a higher self concept. He states that, as human beings we are blessed with the capacity to appreciate a wide variety of experiences. He also goes on to explain with balance in your life you are better able to explore the world, learn new things, be creative, develop special relationships, and even contribute to changing the world into a better place. Finding balance gives you bountiful options, yet so many people are not able to achieve it. It seems to be a fleeting goal.

The author therefore suggests that to achieve balance we can examine our lives from seven perspectives; special relationships, social interactions, leisure activities, health and fitness, career, finances, and spiritual development. The author suggest that you look at each aspect of your life and identify the things that you are doing within each sphere that brings you happiness and also identify the things that you should be doing. This exercise should be done for each aspect of your life.

After completing this exercise, he recommends that you should review your lists and think about it in terms of your level of satisfaction: (1) are there areas you may be neglecting, or spending too much time in? (2) are there some activities you would like to add to your life, or stop doing?

He also suggests that after completing this exercise you will have a new perspective on how to channel your energy on achieving the things that will bring you satisfaction in your life. He further suggests that you work on one change at a time, gradually working on the others until you find maximum balance in your life.

To read more: http://www.sideroad.com/Work_Life_Balance/finding-balance-life.html

About the Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an Educator, Instructional Technologist, and System Analysis. She is the Founder of Cottle’s Professional Consulting a multidisciplinary consultancy. Her business website is at: http://www.drcottle.com Dr. Cottle is also the creator of two online forum; Women in Business on Facebook and CPC Women in Business at: http://www.cpcwib.ning.com
Copyright © 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting

Finding Balance and Meaning in a Nine-to-Five World

2010-07-07T20:36:00.000-07:00

Overview:
By. Dr. Cheryl Cottle (Educator and Business Coach)

Finding Balance and Meaning in a Nine-to-Five World by Mike Cook

This article looks at ways that you can find balance and meaning in your life. The author poses several questions to think about within the context of how to find a balance between your work life and your personal life. In today’s hectic world, finding a balance seems to be the solution that so many of us are striving for; to gain happiness, contentment, enjoyment and healthier living is a destination we will all like o get to. He suggests that everyone seeking to find happiness and a sense of balance in their lives should think about these questions.

How do you want to live your life, in and out of work?
What are your conditions of satisfaction?
What are your material aspirations?
How much do you need to earn to meet them?
How much are your time and skills worth?
What kinds of people do you prefer to work with?
What kind of work really turns you on, makes you sing?

He also makes recommendations that you can do to find a balance; and it is not an elusive goal, it is attainable. He therefore recommends that you should:

Follow your calling
Work in a state of awareness
Embrace interdependency and interconnection
Take responsibility
Stay young
Express gratitude
Accept circumstances without judgment
Have integrity

To learn more on how each of his recommendations is attainable, go to: http://www.businessknowhow.com/growth/balance9to5.htm

Dr. Cheryl Cottle is the Founder of Cottle’s Professional Consulting a multidisciplinary consultancy at: http://drcottle.com/. She is also the coordinator of CPC Women in Business at: http://cpcwib.ning.com/ as well as “Women in Business” on Facebook.

50 Social Sites That Every Business Needs a Presence on

2010-07-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

Web sites to help your company network, advertise recruit and more.
By Inside CRM Editors

This article provides useful marketing tips for business owners or anyone with an entrepreneurial venture. The article recommends several social media sites that you can use to network, market, and advertise your products or services.

If your business limits its online presence to advertising banners and blogging, it's missing out. The Internet provides powerful networking opportunities that allow users to effectively target their audience by logging on to social sites like LinkedIn, Digg and more. Take advantage of these tools by asserting your company's presence online and reaching more potential customers, business partners and employees.

The author recommends the following types of social sites that you can use to your advantage to share your website and connect with potential clients and business partners.
• Social Media/Social Book marking Sites
• Professional Networking Sites
• Niche Social-Media Sites
• General Social-Media Sites
• Job Sites

To learn more go to: http://www.insidecrm.com/features/50-social-sites-012808/

About the Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an Educator, Instructional Technologist, and System Analysis. She is the Founder of Cottle’s Professional Consulting a multidisciplinary consultancy. Her business website is at: http://www.drcottle.com Dr. Cottle is also the creator of two online forum; Women in Business on Facebook and CPC Women in Business at http://www.cpcwib.ning.com

Copyright © 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting

Overview of the article: Why Your Small Business Needs a Website in 2010

2010-07-03T23:21:00.000-07:00

by Lisa Barone, 12/21/2009
Overview by Dr. Cheryl Cottle

The article looks at the number of small businesses that have not yet built a website as a marketing tool for their business. The author states that 46 percent of all small businesses do not have a website, but suggests that they should all have a website because gone are the days when your customers or target audience uses a telephone directory to locate businesses to meet their needs. The author also talks about the widespread use of social media by small business owner; suggesting that it is a progressive move, but states that there are disadvantage on this dependency.

She therefore states that:

"It’s possible to create a Web presence without a full site thanks to things like Yelp and other social media outlets. However, you don’t control any of those. You have no say on how they’ll let you connect with customers. You can’t create an email list on Twitter. By relying on other sites to house your conversations you’re severely handicapping yourself." (Barone, L., 2009)

The author therefore suggests that small business owners would see more returns on their investment if they get a website to showcase their product or services. She recommends a simple website and not an e-commerce site. An e-commerce site is a much larger investment and requires greater management. An e-commerce site unlike a website adds much more to your business marketing expansion plan. A website does not have to be very large; a five page website is a great start for a small business.

She also recommends that in creating your website you don’t have to compete with large organizations and businesses by building a “huge web site over flowing with content” but a much smaller space that is more intimate; a place that customers can get to know you and what you do. She therefore recommends that five pages is a good start; and suggests that it should include your home page, product or services page, an about us page, and a contact page is a great first start.

The author further suggests that a “real” website will enable you to gain a great deal of advantage in the marketplace and points out what happens to those who rely solely on “free” social marketing space to market their product, services and or brand. The author states that without a “real” web site, you lose your ability to:

• Differentiate yourself
• Create authority and street credibility with customers and within your industry
• Spread ideas
• Get social
• Take advantage of universal search’s ranking power
• Benefit from the engines bias to show local results
• Share your company’s story and information
• House your own community
• Save costs by answering frequently asked questions
• Target your specific neighborhood: by defined by zip code, points of interest, ideas, etc)
• Build an email list.

You must be asking, what is a “real” website? “I have a “real” website on Facebook, and I also have a beautiful blog,” is your thought right now. While they serve as a great platform for promoting your product or services, they are not “real” websites. A business needs a professional website to reflect more professionalism and to gain greater respect and trustworthiness.

I hope that after reading this blog and the article that you will rethink your marketing strategy for your business and get a website built. If you have the skills and the expertise start now, or get a website expert to build one for you. If you want Cottle's Professional Consulting to build one for you, contact us at: ccottle@drcottle.com

An Overview of the article: 12 Benefits of Having a Website!

2010-07-03T22:57:00.000-07:00

12 Benefits of Having a Website
This overview is written by: Dr. Cheryl Cottle

This article examines the benefits to small businesses having a website as part of their marketing strategy. The author states that having a website is far cheaper and much more flexible than using print-based advertising. The author also suggests that a website is much cheaper to have, and it has greater accessibility and visibility with greater longevity and maturity, while not discounting other forms of marketing methods. He also states that a website also facilitates a business to bridge “geographical barriers” making contact with other markets globally.

A website is not only used as a “medium for representation of your company,” to inform your target audience of what you do and who you are, but you can also use your website to advertise for other business. Selling advertising space to other businesses is a great opportunity to create another income stream and provide an opportunity to have a residual income. This however requires careful planning making sure that you do not advertise for companies that are your direct competitors. The author suggests that the best approach to use is, to sell advertising to companies that complement your business, and not to those that are in direct competition.

Another advantage to having a company’s website is accessibility to customers twenty-four hours. He suggests that while you post a closing sign on your business establishment that says’ closed, a website is always open. Gone are the days for relying solely on your answering machine, saying “We are not in at the moment but if you leave your telephone number and a detailed message we will get back to you as soon as possible.” With a website a person can write you an inquiry in your inbox and you can respond to it in a timely manner.

A website also affords the customer the opportunity to access and research your website at his or her convenience from the privacy of their home. He states that “a potential customer won t have to judge a call centre agent to determine whether he has their best interests in mind, or just wants to make a sale.” With the information provided on your website; a would be customer can make that decision on his or her own. A website provides “convenience” to your customers. He points out that by “offering convenience” and individualized customer service you have add value to your offerings and this fosters a higher level of customer satisfaction.

He also suggests that you include an aspect on your website to facilitate social interactions by featuring tips, advice, and general interest content like daily affirmation tips, or quotations that speaks to people. You can also include visitors’ polls, online survey for customers’ feedback on your product or service, customer service and or marketing strategy used. You can also track your web traffic by analyzing the data provided, as to who accesses your website, time and geographical location of the person, to identify whether your business is best positioned within the market place, and allow you to thinks of ways of making changes if the indicators are not positively reflecting where you want your business to be in the marketplace. Make it a source for great information also, and this will surely keep your customers coming!

In the design of your company’s website, it is also advised that you include a tag line that reflect your company’s philosophy; as your business pitch. He recommends that you analyze the pitches that you have used, and determined which one was most effective and use it. For example, you can include one that says, “We are here to meet your needs!” A website also helps to improve your credibility. Customers conducting research on a product or services will determine if your product or services is what they need and decide whether they will patronize your business. In addition, a website serves as a great space and direct marketing space for referrals. Once a person receives a referral, they can immediately check, out your website for confirmation.

In addition, a website can be used to provide information to your “brick and mortar” business location. To make getting to you easy, a map can be used on your website to direct customers where to find you; it is easy, accessible and timely. If you have to relocate your store front, you can easily update this on your website. You no longer have to write each customer a letter and post it, you can just e-mail everyone informing them of you move, or post the change on your website. The use of e-mailing is another lesson that small businesses need to incorporate into their business marketing strategy that also requires training. The author also states that a website in addition to its great potential also provides a “growth opportunity” for would be investors. Individuals interested in investing in your business can easily analyze and monitor your business’s progress and decide at a distance whether they will invest or not in your business: if that is one of you business objective.

A website is a great forum for any type of business. It enables you to reach a larger audience, at anytime from the privacy of their home. It is an open door to your business. It provides information about who you are and what you do; immediately and it allows the person to make a decision on the spot so to speak whether they will patronize your business and refer you to another.

Need a website, Cottle’s Professional Consulting Will design one for you at a reasonable cost and specific to your business Needs!
To read the article go to: www.webworldindex.com/articles/12-Benefits-Of-Having-A-Website.html

About the Author:
Dr. Cheryl Cottle is an Educator, Instructional Technologist, and System Analysis. She is the Founder of Cottle’s Professional Consulting a multidisciplinary consultancy. Her business website is at: http://drcottle.com Dr. Cottle is also the creator of two online forum; Women in Business on Facebook and CPC Women in Business at http://www.cpcwib.ning.com/

Copyright © 2010 by Dr. Cheryl Cottle ● Cottle’s Professional Consulting

9 Tips for Successful Cold Calling

2010-02-23T19:58:00.000-08:00

Cold calling is one of the most widely used marketing tools. However, it also remains one of the most feared methods, due to its painstaking nature and hostile, vague replies. The basic principle behind cold calling is, 'If you want business, you go for it.' If used effectively, cold calling will help you to achieve the desired response. It can be easily defined as the first step in turning prospects into customers. Follow these useful tips to pitch successfully to your clients or customers:

Tip 1: Make a Specific Caller List

Browse through various telephone directories to obtain the telephone numbers. You can also use the local library to create a detailed list of contacts. Keep track of your calls to avoid calling the same caller twice.

Tip 2: Make a Conversation, Not a Sale

Try to make a conversation with the prospect instead of selling your product. Begin with a short greeting or introduction, and make the receiver feel comfortable. Write down a polite opening statement like, "Sir/Madam, is this the right time to talk to you?" and use it to get the permission of the customer. Do keep the purpose of the call in mind and do not stray away from it. Keep in mind that there is no such thing as a 'best time to call.' Call during the work hours, when you are fresh and motivated.

Tip 3: Prepare a Detailed Script

A bound script will prevent you from wandering away from the topic. It will also act as a teleprompter if you forget your lines. However, the conversation should not appear staged. Maintain a free low of words, and add your spontaneous inputs whenever necessary. Maintain a polite phone manner throughout the conversation.

Tip 4: Covey the Purpose

Without wasting time, come to the purpose of the call. Briefly explain about the reason for the call and the nature of your firm and service. Allow the customer to offer his opinion in between. Do not interrupt the customer at any point of time.

Tip 5: Highlight the Benefits

Explain to the customer how he can benefit from the particular service. Include topics such as special discounts or incentives in the beginning of the conversation. This helps to keep the interest of the receiver intact.

Tip 6: Understand the Customer

Understand the customer while communicating with him. Find out information concerning occupational details during the course of the call. This will help you to gauge whether the particular customer can afford your service or not.

Tip 7: Fix an Appointment

Set up an appointment with the customer if he is interested in your product or service. Fix a time and place depending upon the customer's convenience.

Tip 8: The Follow-up

Sales goals are realised only after persistent meetings and calls. Maintain a regular contact with the customer.

Tip 9: Seek for References

If the particular contact is not interested in your service, then politely ask him to divulge contact details of friends or family members who might be actually interested.

Practice is the key to effective cold calling technique. Practice on a regular basis to master the art of cold calling.

Source: http://wahm.com/articles/9-tips-for-successful-cold-calling.html

Logos and Company Identity: Why it is Necessary

2010-02-23T19:43:00.000-08:00

Logos and Company Identity: Why it is Necessary

Building a company identity through the use of graphic design (logos, business cards, website design, etc.) is an extremely important part of having a successful business. There are several reasons why having a logo and company identity are so important: it gives your business a sense of legitimacy, it makes your product recognizable and memorable, and it provides insight as to what your company is and what it stands for.

How Logos Contribute to Legitimacy

Having graphics for your company, specifically a logo, helps to make consumers believe that your company is established and stable. A company which makes a financial investment in a logo is a serious company, out to succeed. It is tangible proof of a dedication to the business, suggesting that the business will endure.

Customers can be comfortable supporting a company when they believe that they will be able to form a lasting association with that company. They will know that they have something to fall back on if there's a problem with anything, which is reassuring and will help to develop trust and consumer confidence.

How Logos Make You Memorable

Having a logo gives customers a visual representation to associate with your business. It makes any products branded with the logo instantly recognizable as yours, and provides added potential for word of mouth to spread. People will be able to remember your product and identify it.

For an example of how logos and the entire process of branding make a significant difference in how products are perceived, consider designer clothing. Some people will drop between $200 and $300 on a pair of designer jeans, but would never look twice at a less expensive pair of equal quality and design which did not have a brand name associated with it.

How Logos Provide Insight

Consider the strong and straightforward Nike "Swoosh," or the sleek and modern Apple design. Successful logos give a consumer an idea of what to expect from a company. A customer should be drawn in by your graphics and should be curious about the company which those grpahics represent. Make a list of the attributes you want to be associated with your company, and think of a design (or hire somebody else to) which accurately represents those traits.

Creating Consistency With Graphics

Logos are possibly the most important part of graphic design and are what will be what people focus on most, but this does not mean you should pay less attention to other aspects of graphic design associated with your company. Having your own colors and a general overall feel which are kept constant throughout the logo, website and print advertisements will give your business consistency and a polished appeal. A talented designer can help design company graphics, which are meant to be consistently representative of you and your business.

Creating a company identity and supporting it with your choice of graphic design will help you reach out to more customers and build a more successful business.

Source: http://wahm.com/articles/logos-and-company-identity-why-it-is-necessary.html

Sustaining Your Successful Business with Customer Service

2009-11-20T15:41:00.000-08:00

Overview:
This article provides entrepreneurs with useful tips on what to do to maintain an already successful business, by focusing on customer service.

Sustaining Your Successful Business with Customer Service
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Whether you're trying to run a successful home business, customer service has to be one of the most important elements in sustaining an ongoing relationship with your client. It is imperative that a client be treated as the ultimate commodity. For all the inventory and fancy decor, a business is only worth the reputation it makes for itself.

Customer Service Made Simple

•Start with a smile, even while dealing with a client over the phone, your smile will come through in the tone of your voice.
•When at all possible, have a written contract detailing what you are offering as a product or service and an agreed price from the client. A well written contract can help avoid future contradictions.
•Understand your clients needs and make sure you can meet their expectations. Don't promise what you can't deliver.
•Establish means of communication. Find out if your client prefers to keep in touch via email, phone or snail mail.
•Make yourself available. Set business hours so your clients can get a hold of you. Have an answering machine, or voice mail for a client to leave you a message.
•Return phone calls and emails in a timely manner; nothing shouts poor customer service more than a client who's concerns are not addressed.
•Set the stage: give your business the time, space and atmosphere it requires for success.
•Avoid the mom multitasking syndrome, your client will notice if you're not paying attention.

Running a home business is a venture all its own. If not careful and well planned, you can be on the phone with a potential client, and one of your kids will run-in screaming for your attention. "Can you please hold...Tommy just scrapped his knee..." is not what a paying customer wants to hear.

Customer Service and the Difficult Client

•Don't engage in a confrontation. Remember the customer is always right, even if you know he's not.
•Refer to the detailed contract for any clarification and to remind the customer of your agreement.
•Keep your cool and choose your battles. Often times you will find that conceding to a customers demand is more lucrative than standing your ground and loosing him forever.
•Separate yourself from the equation: it's not personal, it's business. This may sometimes help you see things from the customers perspective, allowing you to take a different approach in solving an issue.
•Mediate at all cost--give and take until you can turn a dissatisfied client into a satisfied customer.

Even with the best intentions, unforeseen problems can arise. When they do, confront the issue immediately, and keep the client in the loop. More times than not, a client will respect your candor. On the other hand, if you avoid the customer, you will create distrust, and ultimately, you will risk loosing the client you worked so hard to get. A business is built one client at a time; treat each one as if they were your only one.

Source: http://wahm.com/articles/sustaining-your-successful-business-with-customer-service.html

Know your market before you leap

2009-11-11T20:14:00.000-08:00

The author of this article advises entrepreneurs to conduct a market research to find out whether your business concept will work before establishing it. He suggest that one should conduct both primary and secondary research. He also adds that only after conducting a comprehensive research you will know if your idea is plausible and creative.

To read more:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/10/business/smallbusiness/10toolkit.html?partner=rss&emc=rss

Small business hunker down for survival

2009-11-11T19:55:00.000-08:00

This article examines strategies that small businesses can to combat the challenges of the economic times.

The author notes:

From the beginning of this year through Sept. 30, sales at small businesses (privately held companies with revenue of $10 million or less) have fallen 3.75 percent, according to figures from Sageworks Inc. At the same time, net profit at these businesses has risen to 6.5 percent. How have they accomplished this? By cutting their costs. Overhead, payroll and advertising as a percentage of sales have all declined

One in Four Businesses Calls the Owner ‘Ma’am’

2009-11-11T19:39:00.000-08:00

This article looks at a study conducted in the US that examines women in business and their contribution to the economy. It states that: 8 million or 28% of all businesses were owned by women and that those businesses accounted for 16 percent of all jobs in a range of industries including, business services, communication, real estate, personal services and health services.

To read more:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/05/business/smallbusiness/05sbiz.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss

Cottle's Professional Consulting: Cyber Crimes on Facebook

2009-11-11T19:34:00.000-08:00

Criminals exist in every society; developed, underdeveloped and or in developing countries. Where ever you are crime is a social issue, and it has a great impact on people's lives and the economy overall. Well, we might have thought that the internet is a safe place, no one can perpetrate me on cyberspace! Well you are wrong; crime also occurs in cybespace. To learn how and what to do to protect yourself from becomeing a victim, please go to: Cottle's Professional Consulting: Cyber Crimes on Facebook

Cyber Crimes on Facebook

2009-11-11T19:27:00.000-08:00

This article provides warning to Facebook users about crimes committed on the forum.

According to Facebook, its security team has noticed an increase in number of complaints from users that their login information is collected through phishing sites and then their Facebook accounts are secretly accessed to ask family and friends of the user for money.

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/20091002/facebook-intensifies-fight-against-cyber-crimes-suspends-fake-accounts_1.htm

Why is social interaction important for websites

2009-11-11T14:01:00.000-08:00

The article suggests that to get more people visiting and revisiting your webpage, you must include in your web design strategies to keep your would be clients and clients coming back. Take a look and learn how you too can have them coming back!
http://www.instantshift.com/2009/11/11/why-is-social-interaction-important-for-a-website/#more-2321

The importance of social interaction features to web design

2009-11-11T13:13:00.000-08:00

http://teemingpod.blogspot.com/I will like to share this information on the importance of having features on your web site to encourage continued flow of people and increase your business capacity.

Women in Business - - Survey

2008-11-27T15:27:00.000-08:00

Dear Members of Women in Business,

This survey is designed for members of the group Women in Business on FB.
Please take the time to respond to the short survey. Your response will help in making WIB a more resourceful place for you.

To respond, please go to: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=w0iFLnPggSLyutA4vTLvXQ_3d_3d

Thank you for your participation.

Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Program Administrator

The Importance of Social Networking - - Great for Women in Business

2008-11-25T10:48:00.000-08:00

Social networking helps us to form friendships, access job opportunities, form business arrangements, keep connected to family all over the world, form love relationships, as well as facilitate business development. Programs such as Facebook, MySpace, and LinkedIn facilitate social networking.

I am an avid fan of Facebook and I find it to be great. It is user-friendly and it affords you with great opportunities. You can form networks by joining others through their circle of friends, or you can also request people to join your circle of friends. This connection enables you to connect with many people. It is a multi-layered approach to building your network. In addition, there are many groups of which you can also become a member. If you are innovative and like to coordinate, you can also create a social networking group to bring people with similar interest together. On Facebook, I manage a group for women entrepreneurs call "Women in Business". It is an interesting group comprising of both women and men from our global village. It provides opportunities for networking, advertising and marketing your product or services. It is also a great platform for learning and sharing.

Here is a video on how social networking works and its implications.

Please go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a_KF7TYKVc

CPC: Website Design and Development

2008-11-11T20:18:00.000-08:00

Cottle's Professional Consulting web site design and development services are comprehensive and designed to meet your needs; including small business entrepreneurs, large businesses, organizations, government and community-based organizations, students, academics and educational institutions.

If you are thinking of introducing a web site to your business development plan or you are a professional looking to enhance your marketability, our customized, client-focused web design and development services can offer you the e-solutions you need. Our dynamic and impacting web designs will separate you and your web site from all the template generated web sites that exist online today.

We also offer services in the following areas:

Blog Designs
Blog Writing
Copy Writing
Logo Design
FaceBook Fan Page
FaceBook Group Design
Twitter Page Design
We also offer coaching to meet your Branding Needs

Cottle's Professional Consulting is committed to your success, and to developing your online presence that will draw visitor traffic and increase user commitment. To meet these goals: Your Web Site, Blog, Fanpage, Group, Online Community, Twitter and YouTube require a strategic approach to design and marketing.

To learn more about this service, please go to:http://www.drcottle.com/services/webservices.html.

If you are interested in having this service, please write to us at: Cottle's Professional Consulting

Cottle's Professional Consulting - - Professional Development Services

2008-11-04T22:02:00.000-08:00

Cottle's Professional Consulting, professional development services are geared towards individuals entering the workplace, making a career change or pursuing their academic or professional goals. We also work with you if you want to develop your skills and knowledge in a number of areas. High school graduates can also benefit from our services by gaining valuable tools to assist them in planning their academic and career objectives and by gaining an effective plan for accomplishing those objectives.

Cottle's Professional Consulting also extends its services to community-based organizations and government agencies whose mandates are to provide professional development services to their clients. We can work with you to design and deliver an effective program to meet the needs of your clientele.

Are you a professional looking to market yourself? We assist you in developing the professional image and portfolio that will make you to stand out from your competition. We also give you the tools that will help you to highlight your skills and expertise in your field. We will also teach you how to dress for success, and to communicate effectively.

To learn more about Cottle's Professional Consulting, professional development services and how we can be of service to you, visit us at:http://www. drcottle.com. We can be contacted at:info@drcottle.com

Cottle's Professional Consulting - - Business Development Services

2008-11-04T20:48:00.000-08:00

Our business development services are designed for individuals developing a small or medium size business. Community-based organizations and government agencies interested in delivering business development programs to the community can also find our expertise of service. This comprehensive service will help you to better manage your business portfolio and assist you in achieving your business goals.

Cottle's Professional Consulting designed this service to assist you at all levels of business development. You can benefit from our services by gaining valuable tools to define your business objectives, register your business, develop an effective business plan, and implement your business idea. Our services are geared towards helping you to maximize your resources and achieve the success you desire.

You can also participate in one of our workshops or seminars. Our educational forums lead you through the steps required to design and develop a business plan, along with other valuable tools to build your business. Each of our sessions are small, so you can interact with other entrepreneurs and gain advantageous knowledge through the collaborative learning setting that is created.

To learn more about Cottle's Professional Consulting and our business development services visit us at drcottle.com.

Interested in receiving our services, you can write us at: info@drcottle.com.

CPC Women in Business

2008-11-03T22:44:00.001-08:00

About CPC Women in Business

Overview
CPC Women in Business is an online community of women entrepreneurs who have come together to network, educate, empower and develop themselves to create and manage their businesses more successfully in a supportive environment. It is a global community where women regardless of race, class, religion, age, culture, and geography, but bounded by their entrepreneurial spirit, passion, creativity and innovation and a need for independence and to contribute to the economy that they belong. Women regardless of the business sector and the size of business are welcome to join and participate. This community web-forum is a platform where members can collaborate with each other by sharing their experiences and expertise in business development to generate new ideas and create new knowledge or information from which each member can construct new ways of building or enhancing their individual business venture ─ each contributing to and learning from the joint information gathering system. It also relies upon the active participation of its members to make this community a powerhouse for knowledge creation and business resources for women in business.

Mission
CPC Women in Business mission is to meet the needs of the members, by utilizing a holistic approach to business development, with education as the core of our business developmental process. Through this approach, we hope to empower, motivate, and better prepare women to grow their businesses into the success that they envisioned. Our mission is to ultimately facilitate growth by providing a supportive environment that is engaging and socially friendly where practical assistance is openly offered by women ─ to ─ women to empower and promote their business.
We also provide opportunity to motivate and inspire each other on a daily basis due to our incentive programs. In addition, efforts are made to represent every member that is a part of our space, and recognize that every one can contribute to the development of the space and to each other and themselves. CPCWIB is a user-friendly forum designed with practical spaces for asking questions and receiving assistance.

Membership
CPC Women in Business is specifically designed for women in all fields of business, in Canada, United States of America, Canada, the Caribbean, Latin America, and other regions of the world. Our members include consultants, virtual assistants, educators, coaches, fashion and accessories designers, hair stylist, online business owners, shop owners, and many more businesses.
To read more go to: http://cpcwib.ning.com/notes/index/show?noteKey=WHAT_IS_CPCWOMEN_IN_BUSINESS_FORUM%3F

To join CPC Women in Business please go to: http://www.cpcwib.ning.com/

Women in Business - - Referral: It’s Impact on Business

2008-10-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

A referral is an effective marketing tool for increasing a business’s clientele, and when supported by the media, it can have a powerful impact on the company’s production, profit and visibility. You can follow the effect of Michelle Obama’s endorsement of the dress she wore on “The View” and the escalating effect of her endorsement. When Michelle Obama was asked on “The View” where she got her dress, she shared the information and viewers went on a search for it. Michelle Obama’s endorsement catapulted customers’ need for the dress thus torpedoing the designer’s visibility, production, and income. Although Donna Ricco was a successful designer, over night, Michelle Obama’s endorsement made her one of America’s sort after designer, as women search for the “Tank Leaf Print Dress”.

Women in business over all need referrals to increase their clientele and grow their business. Referrals help to increase sales, maximize one’s visibility, and validate the business woman. It is an essential ingredient that is needed to make a business successful.

See for more information on how Michelle Obama’s referral influenced the designer’s business:

http://blogs.reuters.com/shop-talk/2008/06/19/check-out-line-michelle-obama-retail-savior/: Check Out Line: Michelle Obama, Retail Saviour? By Brad Dorfman·
http://michelleobamawatch.com/michelles-view-dress-is-a-big-hit: Michelle’s “View” Dress is a big hit.
http://www.politico.com/blogs/anneschroeder/0608/The_dress.html. The dress by Anne Schroeder Mullinshttp://www.nbc5.com/news/16665897/detail.html “Michelle Obama's $148 Dress A Fashion Smash”·
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/health/content/business/epaper/2008/06/19/0619chicos.html Michelle Obama's dress on 'The View' catches retailer off-guard by Allison Ross.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=213783%20“The 'Michelle Obama dress' phenomenon” by Jamie Sotonoff.
http://www.osoblog.tv/2008/06/everyone_wants_michelle_obamas.html Everyone wants Michelle Obama's dress.

About Me

2008-10-07T21:00:00.000-07:00

My name is Dr. Cheryl Cottle, and I am the designer of this blog; Cottle's Professional Consulting. Through this forum, I will be blogging about issues that bridge my consulting business website and Facebook where I created a group "Women in Business". I will be highlighting what we do at CPC as well as bring issues that impact women in business.
I hope that you will find our services at Cottle's Professional Consulting (CPC) of interest to you.

Courtesy,
Dr. Cheryl Cottle
Chief Consultant of Cottle's Professional Consulting
http://drcottle.com

CPC: Organization Development

2008-10-07T20:42:00.000-07:00

Cottle's Professional Consulting services in organization development, is a comprehensive service designed to assist organizations; including government agencies, community-based organizations, and corporations to meet their objectives. We offer services that will help you to effectively manage your organization's portfolio.

If you are thinking of introducing computer technology into your organization, our expertise in the adoption, diffusion, and infusion of computer technology can be of great assistance to you. We also offer our services to organizations that are restructuring their computer technology system to better facilitate their operations.

Cottle's Professional Consulting also offers organizations comprehensive training in a number of areas, including; leadership skills development, strategic planning, decision making, managing diversity in the workplace, culture of the organization, train-the-trainer, and project design, to list a few. Training can be customized to meet the needs of your organization. Our training programs in computer technology will also enhance your staffs' skills and proficiency in various software and other office management tools.

The strategies that we utilize are supported by our many years of experience and the research conducted by Dr. Cottle in the field of Information Technology and Computer Technology Adoption. Dr. Cottle's research and expertise includes working with organizations within various business sectors and industries; and encompasses organizations in North America and the Caribbean.

To learn more about how we can be of assistance to you and your organization please write to us at info@drcottle.com or visit us at: http://www.drcottle.com/

Cottle's Professional Consulting - - Education Services

2008-10-04T08:23:00.000-07:00

EDUCATION SERVICES

Cottle's Professional Consulting educational service is a comprehensive program designed to assist all types of educational institutions meet their educational development needs. We offer training in curriculum development, program design and development, designing lesson plans, instructional technology, curriculum evaluation, research, and other educational programs.

Schools in both the private and public sectors can access and benefit from our expertise and professionalism.

Teacher Training and Development:

School administrators seeking teacher-training and development can access our services in curriculum, teaching and learning and integrating computers in the curriculum.

To learn more about how we can customize a training program to meet your specific training needs please go to:http://www.drcottle.com/services/education.html

For more information on how our service can be of benefit to you, write to us at info@drcottle.com

Cottle's Professional Consulting

2008-10-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

Cottle's Professional Consulting provides a wide range of services for the successful development of individuals, organizations and businesses. Our expertise in the field of education, business development, organization development, human resource development, research, computer training, the implementation of information technology, and research, is utilized to aid our clients in the realization of their potential. Our expert and professional services have been carefully designed and is strategically implemented by Dr. Cheryl Cottle and her team of experienced professionals. Cottle’s Professional Consulting services are guaranteed to provide you with the tools for your success.

For more information on our services write us at ccottle@drcottle.com
Website: http://www.drcottle.com

Women in Business

2008-09-10T18:23:00.001-07:00

Women in Business is a group on Facebook. It is an information-sharing environment that looks at the issues and challenges that women face when conducting a business venture. It is a platform from which women in business can learn from each other as well as network with each other to sustain and build a successful business.

Cottle's Professional Consulting: Information Forum is intended to extend the discussion, and to provide resources to help us to grow our business. It looks at women in business from a global perspective, therefore women regardless of geographical location and culture are encouraged to join and participate. Men are also encouraged to participate because they are often our partners in business, business support activist, and husbands. In this regard it is an open forum transcending, gender, age, race, economics/class, education, culture, and sexual orientation. See Women in Business on Facebook.

CPC Business Development Services - - A Woman-Focused Program

2008-09-10T14:29:00.000-07:00

While Cottle's Professional Consulting business development services are designed to meet the needs of organizations, our services are also geared to individuals. Although our business portfolio is packaged to meet the needs of clients regardless of gender, we pride ourselves in developing programs specifically designed to meet the needs of women in business. As a woman entrepreneur, I identify with the challenges that women face when embarking on a business venture. Therefore, I have incorporated a woman-focused element into my company by hosting seminars and workshops targeted to the needs of women.

We also offer seminars and workshops on business development specially design for women. Our educational forums are informative, interactive and interesting. We lead you through the steps required to design and develop a business plan, and provide you with other valuable tools to build and sustain your business. Each of our session is small, so you can interact with other entrepreneurs and gain advantageous knowledge through the collaborative learning setting that is created.

Our services for women include: Business Planning, Computer Training, Integration of Computer Technology into Business, Technology Needs Assessment, Training Needs Assessment, Marketing, E-Commerce, and other strategies to build and sustain a business.

To learn more about our business development services, seminar and workshops for women go to our website.

Challenges Women in Business Face!

2008-09-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

Research shows that one of the primary challenge that women in business face is access to financial resources in order to grow their business. However, there are other issues that impede businesses of women. Some are:

Economics' access to funding through financial institutions

Inability to qualify or meet banking institutions' requirements

Having to hold two or more jobs to make money to manage their business

Children and other family responsibilities

Dealing with divorce and learning to be independent and financially independent

Dealing with the loss of a loved one, and learning to cope and develop a business at the same time

Finding an adequate location for one's business

Inability to pay for space rental

Dealing with health issues and managing a business

Developing a clientele

Developing reliable referrals

Education barriers

Insufficient training

Other barriers : You can add to the list