Month: March 2009

Now is the time, are you ready for it?

We all experience moments of deep awareness of life and our place in it.  What separates those with a fervor for life from those who are just willing to settle is their willingness to expand those moments from single experiences to a lifetime of movement. The ones who are ready to acknowledge that those moments of awareness are our inner selves telling us that this is the time to act.

Remember that nagging feeling that you should be doing something or that sudden insight into a person, place or situation?  How often do you listen to them?  How often do you stop and realize that these moments are your little push to do something.  That somewhere inside you there is a little voice or feeling telling you that this is the time.  The time to think, the time to feel, the time to act.

All too often we get wrapped up in the busyness of our day to day lives that we let those times slip through our fingers.   We fail to realize that by letting those moments slip away we are loosing our chance at the wonder life can bring.   Then along comes those vivid reminders of just how short life really can be.  That phone call that we have unexpectedly lost a loved one, the mother of a friend has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and only has days to live (that was the one I was faced with this morning), a job has been lost, friends are getting divorced…. the list of those life shortening, life altering notices can be endless.

So faced with the reality that life is unexpected and short, the importance of recognizing those moments becomes paramount.  Experiencing those moments of awareness, listening to those little murmers in our ears to take action, allowing ourselves to be fully immersed in life – these are the things that tell us it is time.  Time to make sure we never leave this life with regrets.  Time to make sure that those we care about know every moment that they are important to us.  Time to build foundations under the castles of dreams that we have built in the sky.  TIME TO LIVE, LOVE AND LAUGH!  Are you ready?

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Are you running your business or is it running you?

As entrepreneurs, freelancers, small business owners – take your pick of what you want to be called – we are called upon to not only wear many differents hats, but shoes, shirts and pants too.   In seconds we may have to go from being the receptionist to the CEO to the janitor.  Then, somewhere in the midst of doing all of that, we also have to do the things we get paid to do, the things we are passionate about, the things that we took that risk and started our businesses to do.

When a business fails one fairly consistent response from the owner, if they are being honest, is “I was overwhelmed. There was so much to consider”.  There is a lot to consider and a lot to do.  The key is to stop your business from running you and turn to running your business.  This means spending significant time identifying just what your goals are and a solid, realistic plan on how to achieve them.  It also means accepting your limitations and knowing when to ask for help.   We are not all good at everything, as much as we might like to be or think we are.  Most of us have gone into business for ourselves because there is one or a few things we are really good at.  One of the keys to making sure we are running our business rather than it running us is to acknowledge what we are not good at.  You may be The Rock Star graphic designer, but if you are lousy at writing, your proposals will suffer and so will your business.  If you are the world’s best writer, but you are lousy at math, your books are going to suffer and so will your business.

Almost as important as what we are not good at, is what we don’t have time to do.  The bottom line to having our own businesses is exactly that – the bottom line.  Primary in our decisions should be the lifestyle that being an entrepreneur allows us to have, but if the bills are not getting paid, there is no lifestyle.  If you are spending too much of your time running your business and not working on the things that build your business and bring in the money, you are losing out on opportunities.

So how do you make sure that you are the one in charge of your businesses destiny?  Start with identifying your end goal and your plan to get there.  Then take a long, hard, probably soul-searching look at yourself and, if necessary, your team.  What are you good at?  What do you like to do? What are you passionate about?  If a team, what are your combined and individual strengths, and more importantly, what are your weaknesses?   Once you have honestly assessed what you should be doing – the things you are good at and passionate about – now you can begin to evaluate the things you are not good at or don’t have time for.   Is your bookkeeping piece the one that needs work?  Do you fall behind on new contact/potential lead follow-ups?  Are you bad about remembering appointments or your clients’ birthdays and company anniversaries? Are you lost when it comes to marketing or think that social media is filming your friend’s birthday party?    Once you know what you don’t know, you can begin to develop a plan to overcome the gaps in your knowledge or your processes.

Maybe the answer is something as simple as taking a quick class and re-learning skills you already had, maybe you need to reallocate the resources your team already has to better play to their individual strengths, maybe the answer is to turn to a professional.  For everyone and every business, the solution will be different.  One key thing to remember is that occasionally spending money to hire someone to do the things you don’t like to do or are not good can ultimately be a savings.  It is a savings in the aggravation, wasted time, worry and lost billable hours you would otherwise experience.  Now this does not mean turn over the reins to your business to someone else!  It is still your business and you should always be actively involved in every aspect of it.  What it does mean is you find someone with skills you do not have to be your partner.  Make sure they understand your business and your vision as clearly as you would have your team or employees understand them.

So now, the question for you is what do you need to do to stop your business from running you? Or more importantly, away from you?  I’d love to hear your answers – so please keep the comments coming.

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Why Gloria Bell NEEDS to go to Online Media Boot Camp

“Customers and prospects searching the Internet for products, services-and conversation-and the world of marketing has changed forever. Your company, brand and industry are being discussed online… Are you prepared?”  From Online Media Boot Camp

As the owner of Red Stapler Consulting, I work daily with clients who have an online presence (as well as having one of my own).  The mission of my business is to help my clients be more successful and profitable.  The only way for me to succeed in this mission is to be prepared with support, advice and most importantly – knowledge.  The world of social media and online marketing has evolved to a “must-have” for any business person determined to succeed.   This is why I NEED to attend Online Media Boot Camp.  Not only will the knowledge I acquire from the talented and brilliant speakers prepare me to assist my clients, but it will provide me the insights necessary to run and market my business’ online presence better.

Why do I deserve to win a free ticket to Online Media Boot Camp?   My passion for social media is probably the biggest reason.  I have the firm belief that we can and will change the world in multiple ways through the voices that social media and online marketing allow us to spread.  We are continuously redefining how business is done and how we communicate and the most important ways these changes occur are online .  Since becoming involved in social media, I have thrown myself into learning as much as possible and to being as active in the communities as possible.  This is evidenced by my work with Social Media Club, Indy Hall, Geeks Who Give, Twestival, Philly Startup Leaders and just generally being a “loud voice” on Twitter.  Why do I deserve to win the free ticket? Because I can promise that what I learn at Boot Camp will be put to good use as I continue to be a social media evangelist.

While I see this a a must attend event, being a boot-strapped start-up, a free ticket would be a HUGE bonus in allowing me to avail myself of the information and knowledge that will be presented.  I would definitely attend and since fortunately since it is a local event, transportation costs are not an issue.

Thanks to Beth Harte & Li Evans for bringing such an important and timely event to our wonderful city!  And Thanks to all of the speakers – Shashi Bellamkonda, Valeria Maltoni and Mack Collier for being willing to share of their wisdom!

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They are starting to “Get” the power

The estimated number of companies currently on Twitter is in the thousands. The businesses are immensely diverse but their basic goals remain the same – to leverage the “Power” of social media for the betterment of their bottom line. While not every company on Twitter has found the magic formula that leaves that warm, fuzzy, “I’ve got to do business with this company” feeling with its followers, there are a few who either have gotten or are starting to “Get” the power the medium can hold. One such company that popped up less than two weeks ago in the Twittersphere is Maggiano’s. A family-friendly chain restaurant whose apparent mission is to provide it’s customers with bountiful, consistently good Italian food in a Little Italy style atmosphere.

The evidence that Maggiano’s is learning to harness the power of Twitter is clearly illustrated in the story of my lunch last Saturday. Beth Harte, Li Evans, Mayra Ruiz and I had plans to meet at the Maggiano’s in King of Prussia, PA. Mayra and her husband had driven up from West Virginia for the the day and we ladies were gathering to share, not only some food, but some sparkling discussion on the state of social media. Mayra was also interviewing Beth and Li about their upcoming Online Media Boot Camp. I was driving from my home in South Philly (Thanks Philly Car Share!) out to the ‘burbs when almost to King of Prussia, I realize I could not remember which side of the mall Maggiano’s is located on. So, Twitterholic that I am, I send out this tweet: @GloriaBell: Quick someone – Maggiano’s in King of Prussia, which side of the mall is it on?
Before I received a response, I sighted the restaurant, parked and joined the ladies inside. We were seated and I, again Twitterholic that I am, stole a quick look at at my replies (so I could thank anyone who had sent me directions) prior to starting our conversation. Imagine my pleasant surprise to see this tweet:
@Maggianos: @gloriabell Enjoy your lunch at Maggiano’s King of Prussia!
It had been posted less than ten minutes after my request for directions. The other ladies were just as pleasantly surprised so I sent out a “joint” reply: @Maggianos I am having a lovely lunch with some brilliant ladies @marketingmisfit @bethharte & @storyspinner
Within minutes we received @BethHarte @storyspinner @gloriabell @marketingmisfit Glad you’re enjoying your lunch! Cheers!
Enthusiastic social media evangelists all, we waited a bit and checked our new followers. Sure enough, @Maggianos was now following all four of us. Curious about the man/woman behind the mask (ok, the avatar, but mask flows so much better), I asked @Maggianos to direct message me with his/her name.
After exchanging a few direct messages, I learned that the man behind our “conversation” was Michael from Maggiano’s Marketing Department. They had only been on Twitter for approximately eight days and, to use his own words “We think it will be a great way to build a relationship with our Guests. Lots of potential uses, from informing them about Maggiano’s news and special promotions, to checking in to ensure we’re delivering a great experience.”

Now there are many questions still to be asked of Michael/@Maggianos such as – Did they receive a recommendation from a PR or Marketing person or agency to establish a Twitter presence or was it an internal decision? How did he learn about managing/leveraging Maggiano’s Twitter account? Was it from personal experience, for example did he have his own Twitter identity prior to establishing the Maggiano’s account? However, even with these unanswered questions, a quick review of @Maggianos Twitter stream shows a sincere willingness on their part to utilize the “Power” of the Twitterverse to inform their customers, obtain feedback, as well as enhance the customer’s experience with the Maggiano’s brand. Maggiano’s is demonstrating the understanding that, in today’s ultra-competitive climate, businesses have to utilize all the tools available to generate that magic combination of customer service and brand recognition that ultimately generates our revenue. Maggiano’s is far from being the only company that has recognized the inherent power of Twitter to help generate customer loyalty and business. What is impressive is their quick grasp of the “proper” use of the medium. Their use of the secret sauce of broadcast messages, monitoring traffic for their name and, most importantly, interaction/conversations with current and potential customers. Well done, Maggiano’s! Thanks for not only a fantastic lunch, but a great lesson as well.

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They are starting to “Get” the power

The estimated number of companies currently on Twitter is in the thousands.  The businesses are immensely diverse but their basic goals remain the same – to leverage the “Power” of social media for the betterment of their bottom line.  While not every company on Twitter has found the magic formula that leaves that warm, fuzzy, “I’ve got to do business with this company” feeling with its followers, there are a few who either have gotten or are starting to “Get” the power the medium can hold.  One such company that popped up less than two weeks ago in the Twittersphere is Maggiano’s.  A family-friendly chain restaurant whose apparent mission is to provide it’s customers with bountiful, consistently good Italian food in a Little Italy style atmosphere.

The evidence that Maggiano’s is learning to harness the power of Twitter is clearly illustrated in the story of my lunch last Saturday.  Beth Harte, Li Evans, Mayra Ruiz and I had plans to meet at the Maggiano’s in King of Prussia, PA.  Mayra and her husband had driven up from West Virginia for the the day and we ladies were gathering to share, not only some food, but some sparkling discussion on the state of social media.  Mayra was also interviewing Beth and Li about their upcoming Online Media Boot Camp.  I was driving from my home in South Philly (Thanks Philly Car Share!) out to the ‘burbs when almost to King of Prussia, I realize I could not remember which side of the mall Maggiano’s is located on.  So, Twitterholic that I am, I send out this tweet: @GloriaBell: Quick someone – Maggiano‘s in King of Prussia, which side of the mall is it on?

Before I received a response, I sighted the restaurant, parked and joined the ladies inside.  We were seated and I, again Twitterholic that I am, stole a quick look at at my replies (so I could thank anyone who had sent me directions) prior to starting our conversation.  Imagine my pleasant surprise to see this tweet:
@Maggianos: @gloriabell Enjoy your lunch at Maggiano‘s King of Prussia!
It had been posted less than ten minutes after my request for directions.  The other ladies were just as pleasantly surprised so I sent out a “joint” reply: @Maggianos I am having a lovely lunch with some brilliant ladies @marketingmisfit @bethharte & @storyspinner
Within minutes we received @BethHarte @storyspinner @gloriabell @marketingmisfit Glad you’re enjoying your lunch! Cheers!
Enthusiastic social media evangelists all, we waited a bit and checked our new followers.  Sure enough, @Maggianos was now following all four of us.  Curious about the man/woman behind the mask (ok, the avatar, but mask flows so much better), I asked @Maggianos to direct message me with his/her name.
After exchanging a few direct messages, I learned that the man behind our “conversation” was Michael from Maggiano’s Marketing Department.  They had only been on Twitter for approximately eight days and, to use his own words  “We think it will be a great way to build a relationship with our Guests. Lots of potential uses, from informing them about Maggiano’s news and special promotions, to checking in to ensure we’re delivering a great experience.”

Now there are many questions still to be asked of Michael/@Maggianos such as – Did they receive a recommendation from a PR or Marketing person or agency to establish a Twitter presence or was it an internal decision? How did he learn about managing/leveraging Maggiano’s Twitter account?  Was it from personal experience, for example did he have his own Twitter identity prior to establishing the Maggiano’s account?  However, even with these unanswered questions, a quick review of @Maggianos Twitter stream shows a sincere willingness on their part to utilize the “Power” of the Twitterverse to inform their customers, obtain feedback, as well as enhance the customer’s experience with the Maggiano’s brand.   Maggiano’s is demonstrating the understanding that, in today’s ultra-competitive climate, businesses have to utilize all the tools available to generate that magic combination of customer service and brand recognition that ultimately generates our revenue.  Maggiano’s is far from being the only company that has recognized the inherent power of Twitter to help generate customer loyalty and business.   What is impressive is their quick grasp of the “proper” use of the medium.  Their use of the secret sauce of broadcast messages, monitoring traffic for their name and, most importantly, interaction/conversations with current and potential customers.  Well done, Maggiano’s!  Thanks for not only a fantastic lunch, but a great lesson as well.


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Little Smiles …

Do you ever stop & really think about the small wonders & pleasures in your life? Are you as appreciative of them as you should be?  A lot of really special things have been happening in my life lately and I have spent a lot of time thinking about what makes me happy and what I want in my life.  Often this soul-searching culminates in a realization of the blessings in my life. Realizations that bring those little knowing smiles to my face.

I have two healthy, happy sons who are growing into kind, intelligent, compassionate, talented young men.  I am fortunate enough to be able to take a chance on myself and work on building a business doing things I am good at and that I love.  I am surrounded by people, on and off line, who are inspiring, loving and willing to give of their hearts and minds.  I have my health and, most of the time (lol), my sanity.  I have sunrises, flowers, laughter, music, puppies, I could go on and on.  All of the little things that bring smiles to our faces. Smiles that we all too often are not even aware are brightening our world.

So my challenge to you is to find at least one thing each day – one of those simple pleasures, one of the wonderful thoughts, anything that brings a smile to your face.  Hold it in your hands, your head or your heart, let it brighten your life.  Then do the most important thing you can possibly do, Share It.


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There, but for Grace

In yesterday’s post, I made the observation “We get caught up in going through the motions and redundancies of life.”

Today, when I plugged in my headphones and hit shuffle on my ipod, one of my favorite songs, Keith Urban’s “But for the Grace of God“came on.  (I know not everyone likes country music, but I do, and the words to this song always make me smile.)  It seemed serendipitious that I had those thoughts last night and the song came on today.  Although in the song, he is singing about how lucky he feels to have found the love of his life, it always makes me think far beyond the limited scope of those relationships.

I grew up hearing the phrase, “there but for the grace of God go I”.  It was used by people from my grandmothers to my preacher, a lot of people in my life using similar phrases to describe how lucky we/they were be in a better situation than someone who was having a hard time in their lives.  The phrase has always had a special meaning for me.   Recitation of it was my way of giving thanks for the wonderous gifts that had been bestowed on me by my Higher Power.  Those of you who know me well know that I have a deep faith. (The rest of you can be appropriately surprised at this point.)   I’m not a religious person by anyone’s imagination, but I have a Faith that runs ocean deep and wide.  While not everyone carries the same beliefs or faith, none of us can dismiss that there are times we are faced with the certainty that our personal situations are infinitely better than others around us.  We walk by the homeless person on the street, we watch the news and see the poverty and devastation in other parts of the world, we listen to the story of the child that lost his only parent in a drive by shooting.  All of these things should give us pause instead of melding into our “going through the motions… of life”.   Our instant and constant access to information makes it easier to allow the images and words to occasionally flit across our conscience without deep absorption.

While I like to think that Thankfulness is a constant state for me, there are times that I feel the grace more poignantly than other times.  For example, being bi-polar, I know all too well the depths that a mental illness can take us to, physically, emotionally and financially.   All too often I am reminded how incredibly fortunate I am to have my mental illness easily managed. There are so many who do not have the resources, love and support to allow them to lead “normal” lives.   I remember daily that grace has allowed me to lead a life, that may not always be easy, but it is often full of love, laughter and happiness.

I know that not everyone is going to agree with me about a higher power having a hand in giving us better circumstances.  And that is OK with me, we all have the right to our own beliefs.  It is more important to me that we recognize our better circumstances, feel the appropriate empathy and take action.  That we not get so caught up in the living of our everyday lives that we lose sight of those less fortunate than ourselves.  That we, in whatever way fits in with our personal beliefs, remember “There, But For Grace, Go I”.

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