Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Putting money down a rat hole
Have you ever attended a seminar, convention on workshop and heard a great speaker. They filled you with great ideas about how to improve your business, get more customers, and make more money. You leave full of ideas and motivated to change.
Then you get back home and the notebook full of ideas and the marketing package you bought from the speaker gets thrown in a drawer and forgotten. Why, because you may not have any idea how to implement the ideas into you business.
Often it is because the speaker told you of their success but weren’t in a position to help you modify their ideas for your circumstances.
This is where we can help. We have worked with hundreds of small business owners to help them tailor a marketing program which works. We work one-on-one with you to learn about your business and your potential customers. From there we help you modify marketing ideas and strategies to attract your targeted clients.
We want to help you. Before you invest another dime in someone else’s marketing ideas only to toss them aside without putting them to use you need to call us. We will help you decide what marketing will be most beneficial for you and your business, create a plan for implementing the concepts and a process for reviewing how well they worked for you.
This year instead of investing in more ideas which get thrown in the drawer—call us—we will help you put together a plan which will address your business and maximize your success. Rather than buy a canned marketing program we will help you create your own customized plan. And we can do it for about what you would invest in the canned plan—contact us today.
To get started fill-out our online form or call us at 208-595-4234.
Then you get back home and the notebook full of ideas and the marketing package you bought from the speaker gets thrown in a drawer and forgotten. Why, because you may not have any idea how to implement the ideas into you business.
Often it is because the speaker told you of their success but weren’t in a position to help you modify their ideas for your circumstances.
This is where we can help. We have worked with hundreds of small business owners to help them tailor a marketing program which works. We work one-on-one with you to learn about your business and your potential customers. From there we help you modify marketing ideas and strategies to attract your targeted clients.
We want to help you. Before you invest another dime in someone else’s marketing ideas only to toss them aside without putting them to use you need to call us. We will help you decide what marketing will be most beneficial for you and your business, create a plan for implementing the concepts and a process for reviewing how well they worked for you.
This year instead of investing in more ideas which get thrown in the drawer—call us—we will help you put together a plan which will address your business and maximize your success. Rather than buy a canned marketing program we will help you create your own customized plan. And we can do it for about what you would invest in the canned plan—contact us today.
To get started fill-out our online form or call us at 208-595-4234.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Monday, May 09, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Monday, February 07, 2011
Monday, January 31, 2011
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
What is your New Year's resolution
2011 brings about the opportunity to correct the things which are keeping us from full success in our business. What resolutions do you need to make? And more importantly, how are you going to successfully implement these changes? WE CAN HELP!
The current economy has had a major impact on all of us. The question becomes, what are we going to do about it? WE CAN HELP!
How? By offering you a FREE one hour telephone consultation! ... During this consultation we will discuss those things which are most concerning and are having the biggest impact on your business. We have thirty-one years of experience in small business and management. Let us put our experience to work for you!
During the phone consultation we will help you identify the specific areas where you need to direct attention and give you advice on how to get started. Some of the areas you may consider are:
Managing your business in a poor economy
Debt management
Creating marketing which works
Understanding the numbers
Profitable pricing structures
Time management
Or there may be something else?
This consultation is valued at $250 and is yours free with no further obligation. If you choose to continue to work with us we have a variety of consulting packages and services to assist you.
So, now is the time to get those tough questions asked and let us help you find solutions which will bring you more success in 2011 and the future.
What do you have to lose, an hour of your time? What do you have to gain? A more profitable and productive future for your business!
You must fill-out the web form to get started .
http://www.SpeSend.net/itsc.staceyf60/SurveyIniitalBusinessQuestionnaire/Survey.aspx
Please answer the questions fully so we can make the best use of our time on the phone.
Call us today at 208-595-4234
The current economy has had a major impact on all of us. The question becomes, what are we going to do about it? WE CAN HELP!
How? By offering you a FREE one hour telephone consultation! ... During this consultation we will discuss those things which are most concerning and are having the biggest impact on your business. We have thirty-one years of experience in small business and management. Let us put our experience to work for you!
During the phone consultation we will help you identify the specific areas where you need to direct attention and give you advice on how to get started. Some of the areas you may consider are:
Managing your business in a poor economy
Debt management
Creating marketing which works
Understanding the numbers
Profitable pricing structures
Time management
Or there may be something else?
This consultation is valued at $250 and is yours free with no further obligation. If you choose to continue to work with us we have a variety of consulting packages and services to assist you.
So, now is the time to get those tough questions asked and let us help you find solutions which will bring you more success in 2011 and the future.
What do you have to lose, an hour of your time? What do you have to gain? A more profitable and productive future for your business!
You must fill-out the web form to get started .
http://www.SpeSend.net/itsc.staceyf60/SurveyIniitalBusinessQuestionnaire/Survey.aspx
Please answer the questions fully so we can make the best use of our time on the phone.
Call us today at 208-595-4234
Monday, December 27, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
What are the biggest concerns you have about your business in the coming year? | LinkedIn
You are invited to join in on this discussion:
What are the biggest concerns you have about your business in the coming year? | LinkedIn
What are the biggest concerns you have about your business in the coming year? | LinkedIn
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Make 2011 Great!
Market Planning Retreat!
Its time to get away and get a plan
Spend an entire day one-on-one with Stacey and your staff. We will work with you to create a comprehensive twelve-month marketing plan tailored specifically for your business. Stacey will come to you, simply select a site away from you business location and we will be there to walk you through creating your plan....This package will include:
A review of your current marketing efforts prior to the retreat
Creation of an overall vision for your business
A calendar of promotional marketing
Creation of ongoing promotions
A time-line for implementation of your program
Selection of advertising methods for each promotion
Creation of ad copy and marketing material layouts
A system for reviewing the success of your marketing efforts
Work on specific needs you may have for implementing this program
Creating the proper environment for your annual planning is very important. We recommend you do this away from your place of business. Contact us for more information on how to make this time the most productive.
Bonus! You will receive one-hour of telephone follow-up and review of your plan per quarter for the next twelve months.
Retreat must be scheduled between January 5 and March 31, 2011.
All retreats must be booked by December 24, 2010.
Hurry; there are only a limited number of retreat dates still available.
Request more information http://www.spesend.net/ITSC.staceyf60/SurveyCurrentSpecials/Survey.aspxOr contact us today at info@inthespiritconsulting.com or by phone at 309-962-8143.
Cannot be combined with other offers
Its time to get away and get a plan
Spend an entire day one-on-one with Stacey and your staff. We will work with you to create a comprehensive twelve-month marketing plan tailored specifically for your business. Stacey will come to you, simply select a site away from you business location and we will be there to walk you through creating your plan....This package will include:
A review of your current marketing efforts prior to the retreat
Creation of an overall vision for your business
A calendar of promotional marketing
Creation of ongoing promotions
A time-line for implementation of your program
Selection of advertising methods for each promotion
Creation of ad copy and marketing material layouts
A system for reviewing the success of your marketing efforts
Work on specific needs you may have for implementing this program
Creating the proper environment for your annual planning is very important. We recommend you do this away from your place of business. Contact us for more information on how to make this time the most productive.
Bonus! You will receive one-hour of telephone follow-up and review of your plan per quarter for the next twelve months.
Retreat must be scheduled between January 5 and March 31, 2011.
All retreats must be booked by December 24, 2010.
Hurry; there are only a limited number of retreat dates still available.
Request more information http://www.spesend.net/ITSC.staceyf60/SurveyCurrentSpecials/Survey.aspxOr contact us today at info@inthespiritconsulting.com or by phone at 309-962-8143.
Cannot be combined with other offers
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Cyber Monday Specials all week long
Offer #1
One Day Only—Wednesday, December 1
Financial Health Profile
So how is your business doing? Profitable? Able to meet payroll? Current with your bills? Paying yourself?
NOT SURE?
Let us help
We can do a review of your profit and loss statements and provide you with a written summary of your revenue and expense lines. We will also give you a written analysis of each line item and where modifications can be made to improve your cash flow and your bottom line.
We will do all of this for you for just $295*
*A current YTD and previous year P&L statement must be provided
Fees paid may be applied to a full consulting package
You don’t have to wait until the end of the year. We will work with your current year-to-date information, by doing it now you will have a jumpstart on 2011. Managing your business finances can be tedious, overwhelming and frightening. Let us help you get back on track and put you back in control of your business.
Contact us today at info@inthespiritconsulting.com or by phone at 208-595-4234
--------------------------------------------------------
Offer #2
We Can Help--Let Us Prove It
We are offering 45% off our 5-hour consulting package Time can be scheduled in one or multi-hour sessions. All time must be used within six-months.Fees paid may be applied to larger package.
Promotion ends December 3, 2010
Visit our website at inthespiritconsulting.com for full details. May not be combined with other offers. Total package must be pre-paid.
--------------------------------------------------------
Offer #3
50% off any of our consulting packages.
This is by far the best offer we have ever made and may not be repeated.
We will give you half off the regular price of any of our consulting packages. To take advantage of this special simply send us an e-mail before 6pm MST on Friday, December 3.
"Cyber Monday Offer" must appear in the subject line. Include your daytime phone number in the body of the message. We will then contact you to get started helping you maximize your business success. Send e-mail to stacey@inthespiritconsulting.com
Please note we will be doing follow-up calls so be sure to include a daytime phone number. We will also send you an e-mail confirmation that you have qualified for this offer.
Some restrictions apply. May not be combined with other offers
--------------------------------------------------------
Simply fill out this form
http://www.SpeSend.net/itsc.staceyf60/SurveyCurrentSpecials/Survey.aspx
or call 208-595-4234 to get started with any of the above.
One Day Only—Wednesday, December 1
Financial Health Profile
So how is your business doing? Profitable? Able to meet payroll? Current with your bills? Paying yourself?
NOT SURE?
Let us help
We can do a review of your profit and loss statements and provide you with a written summary of your revenue and expense lines. We will also give you a written analysis of each line item and where modifications can be made to improve your cash flow and your bottom line.
We will do all of this for you for just $295*
*A current YTD and previous year P&L statement must be provided
Fees paid may be applied to a full consulting package
You don’t have to wait until the end of the year. We will work with your current year-to-date information, by doing it now you will have a jumpstart on 2011. Managing your business finances can be tedious, overwhelming and frightening. Let us help you get back on track and put you back in control of your business.
Contact us today at info@inthespiritconsulting.com or by phone at 208-595-4234
--------------------------------------------------------
Offer #2
We Can Help--Let Us Prove It
We are offering 45% off our 5-hour consulting package Time can be scheduled in one or multi-hour sessions. All time must be used within six-months.Fees paid may be applied to larger package.
Promotion ends December 3, 2010
Visit our website at inthespiritconsulting.com for full details. May not be combined with other offers. Total package must be pre-paid.
--------------------------------------------------------
Offer #3
50% off any of our consulting packages.
This is by far the best offer we have ever made and may not be repeated.
We will give you half off the regular price of any of our consulting packages. To take advantage of this special simply send us an e-mail before 6pm MST on Friday, December 3.
"Cyber Monday Offer" must appear in the subject line. Include your daytime phone number in the body of the message. We will then contact you to get started helping you maximize your business success. Send e-mail to stacey@inthespiritconsulting.com
Please note we will be doing follow-up calls so be sure to include a daytime phone number. We will also send you an e-mail confirmation that you have qualified for this offer.
Some restrictions apply. May not be combined with other offers
--------------------------------------------------------
Simply fill out this form
http://www.SpeSend.net/itsc.staceyf60/SurveyCurrentSpecials/Survey.aspx
or call 208-595-4234 to get started with any of the above.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Monday, October 04, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
1000 Followers
We are pleased to announce we have surpassed one thousand followers on this blog. Thanks to everyone for your interest. Be sure to watch for more original content coming in the near future.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Saturday, July 17, 2010
UPDIG for photographers
The UPDIG guidelines aim to clarify issues affecting accurate reproduction and management of digital images. These guidelines were created to establish photographic standards and practices for photographers, designers, printers, and image distributors. The guidelines cover Digital Asset Management, Color Profiling, Metadata, and Photography Workflow.
Version 4.0 of the guidelines represents the industry consensus as of Sept 22, 2008. The guidelines were prepared by the UPDIG Coalition, with the help of many digital imaging professionals, software vendors, and hardware manufacturers. The UPDIG Coalition is dedicated to promoting standards for photographic digital imaging.
www.updig.org/pdfs/updig_photographers_guidelines_v40.pdf
Version 4.0 of the guidelines represents the industry consensus as of Sept 22, 2008. The guidelines were prepared by the UPDIG Coalition, with the help of many digital imaging professionals, software vendors, and hardware manufacturers. The UPDIG Coalition is dedicated to promoting standards for photographic digital imaging.
www.updig.org/pdfs/updig_photographers_guidelines_v40.pdf
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Wednesday, June 09, 2010
Thursday, June 03, 2010
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
Monday, May 03, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Government controlled healthcare
I made the following statement on my Facebook page the night the Healthcare billed passed the Senate and it began a firestorm of comments which I wanted to share on my blog.
"To all who voted for and supported the federal healthcare bill may God have mercy on your soul."
Carolyn Jarmon Jones
Over dramatic much?
Dave Russell
what a hateful, disgusting sentiment.
Roger Mathis
You think socialism is the answer, Dave? Freedom, slowly slipping away, so goodbye to the UNITED states.
Chris Humphreys
I'm sure God is pissed that we took a little bit of power from a for profit insurance industry.
Stacey Friedlein
Read more on the subject of maintaining the free enterprise system here. http://inthespiritconsulting.blogspot.com/2010/03/socialist-society-cannot-live-as-free.html
Stacey Friedlein
Be happy we live in a country where companies are allowed to make a profit.
Michael Smith
And this is the problem with the country ... 2 sides against each other.
Mitchell Burt
Stacey, I understand that you disagree with what our nation has voted to attain, but this is simply inappropriate and offensive and I'm frankly embarrassed for your lack of control. I ask you , what does it profiteth a man to lose the world AND his soul in the process? Perhaps you should go to your room and pray on it...
Dan Baiotto
I have to agree with you Stacey.... I for one have been part of a high risk insurance pool.... not fun, couldn't afford to see my regular doctors let alone get sick. I am all for reform...getting rid of pre-existing conditions. I am all for tort reform.... I am not for government funded abortions. The president executive order is only as good as ... See Morethe paper it is written on. Law is law , executive orders don't trump law. Just wait..... the first time it comes up and goes to the Supreme Court....they will have to stand on the law, not a promise from a president. Sad day indeed. What about the catch 22 that says all must have insurance or you pay penalty.. that law goes into effect immediately. and to those who have a pre-existing condition and can't get insurance...but will in 4 yrs.... What do they do Pay the fine for the next 4 yrs?????????
Jen Hester
I doubt I need God's "mercy" for supporting a bill that will give healthcare to those that go without. I think He would appreciate us taking care of each other.
Jim Wilson
God does not show mercy to communist.
Dan Baiotto
I think the representatives will need God's mercy for supporting a bill that supports and funds the death of the unborn, the old who can't afford or the sick who will suffer from the decrease in health care. Show me one other nation that has a successful socialistic health care program that has better health care than what we are getting now or used to get.
Roger Mathis
Jen, your are correct, and if this were a motto that we HAD lived by there would be no need for reform......but moving on......Stacey, I appreciate the stand that you have taken, if you stand for nothing you'll fall for anything-You Stood!If you had a chance to read www.healthreform.gov and all the propoganda put in this sight to make us think we need THIS particular bill, it's insane.
Andrew McDavid
Yes Jen, we will take care of each other, but does it have to be at the point of a gun, or a fine, or an agent of the govt. putting his hand in my pocket?I am all for taking care of those who cannot take care of themselves; the unborn are a perfect example, and they have been dealt another death blow with this legislation.I think Stacey's statement might be better said; God have mercy on us all.
Stacey Friedlein
I rarely let my political views known on a public forum. However, this is such a critical issue to the future of our country and to the future success of small business I felt I needed to comment.
Stacey Friedlein
I don't disagree that those who cannot get health insurance or other help don't need assistance. I just do not believe it should be the job of government to provide it to them.
Danielle Goodman
Great Quote by Dr. Adrian Rogers......You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthly out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The goverment cannot give to anybody anything that the goverment does not first take from somebody else. When half of the people... See More ... See Moreget the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that my dear friend, is about the end of any nation. You cannot mulitiply wealth by dividing it.I believe in charity, but I believe that I should be able to give it by choice. I believe that all Americans should have a reason to work, not take a hand out. Even in my college days, I worked 1 sometimes 2 jobs, paid my rent & utilities & paid for my health insurance. Of course it was alot of money for me, but I did without things that I would have like to have had in exchange for being responsible. It is still this way today. I have 3 kids, we are on one income (for all practical purposes) and we pay for our health insurance. We don't go to the doctor unless we are really, really sick. Unlike people I know (a relative) who runs to the ER everytime she coughs & doesn't pay for it. BTW, she sits & chooses to watch TV all day. Unlike some of us, working hard. BTW, Insurance is a business. Yes, I think that there are a few things that need to be fixed, they should not be able to just cancel you if you get sick (I don't know anyone who has had that happen & I know several cancer patients) But at the end of the day, if Insurance does not make money, they will not stay in business. How many of you want to run a business just for charity? They have to keep a certain ratio or they can not guarentee to be able to pay claims. I just think, if you don't have insurance & you can't pay for it out of pocket, then you don't get treated (except for kids) I mean if your house is burning down, you can't run out & get insurance.
Stacey Friedlein
So everyone understands. I do not oppose the idea of healthcare for everyone. I just do not want the government running the program.
Danielle Goodman
I think everyone should have healthcare & .....health insurance. Perfect world, huh? I don't want the goverment stepping in & controlling any more of my life than they already do. The people who want insurance, have it, the people who can't or won't afford it, still won't & we just gave more power to goverment.
Jan Sexson
Stacy, thanks for having the guts to take a stand. Considering this country's current deficit, and even more, the predicted future deficit, the passing of this bill frightens me. Social Security and Medicare are already in trouble, consequently I don't have a lot of faith in the government to run our health care. Being self-employed, I have no ... See Moreinsurance. Every cent I make is going to support my son who is too ill to work, yet it will take several months at the least for him to be approved for Social Security Disability. Consequently, I can not afford insurance and certainly can't afford to pay a fine for being too poor to afford insurance! Possibly, in four years, the government might supply me with health care, but what quality? Time will tell. Like you, Stacy and Dan, I am also upset that this bill allows payment for abortion. So much for protecting those who cannot protect themselves. I need insurance, and I don't pretend to have the answers, I'm only voicing my concerns about whether this health care bill is the answer.
Nina Miller
If there was a God and if he was any good, he'd make sure people wouldn't get sick in the first place. Seriously.
Ernie Baiotto
You need to look at the hidden things in the bill--For instance Harry Ried has a clause that say no future congress can change this section of the bill. Also the the buying of votes from Conneticut, vermont, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, and Lousianna. Is this the way our government was meant to be run? Our forefathers are probably turning over in their graves this morning.
Stacey Friedlein
I am not a fan of dividing democrats and republicans but am more interested in defining idealogy without labels.
Jeff Delaney
Excellent point Danielle....in light of this marked legislation, you'll begin to see the face the "business" of health care change drastically, and my guess is that you won't like it. I am constantly amazed, (I really don't know why) and the things that our government comes up with. I understand their motivation (to keep their jobs) but really. We ... See Morespeak of keeping drunks off of the road, but then allow their charges to be reduced to non-moving violations if you have the $$$. We speak of the atrocity of the taking of an unborn life, yet dare not to find a solution to the problem, even though it beats you upside the head. We reform health care without addressing one of its major facets, malpractice, for medical professionals (who are human beings) in the event that God forbid they make a mistake. Let me see if I can find a tie there.....Attorneys sue doctors and get huge settlements for their clients, lining their pockets with dollars that could other wise be used to lower health care costs for everyone and extend coverage to those who cannot afford it. How many "Lawmakers" are Attorneys? Hummmm? Perhaps it's time to elect people who aren't so familiar with the law, and more familiar with the real needs of people.
Jeff Conrad
Thank You Stacey for your comment. I've been roaming around today in a great void feeling like I was alone. Now may GOD have mercy on us all and overturn the demise that has been set forth by the forced legislation on us all. Some representative government. Lets go back to pre-revolutionary times.....oh wait a minute we already have.
Bottom of Form
"To all who voted for and supported the federal healthcare bill may God have mercy on your soul."
Carolyn Jarmon Jones
Over dramatic much?
Dave Russell
what a hateful, disgusting sentiment.
Roger Mathis
You think socialism is the answer, Dave? Freedom, slowly slipping away, so goodbye to the UNITED states.
Chris Humphreys
I'm sure God is pissed that we took a little bit of power from a for profit insurance industry.
Stacey Friedlein
Read more on the subject of maintaining the free enterprise system here. http://inthespiritconsulting.blogspot.com/2010/03/socialist-society-cannot-live-as-free.html
Stacey Friedlein
Be happy we live in a country where companies are allowed to make a profit.
Michael Smith
And this is the problem with the country ... 2 sides against each other.
Mitchell Burt
Stacey, I understand that you disagree with what our nation has voted to attain, but this is simply inappropriate and offensive and I'm frankly embarrassed for your lack of control. I ask you , what does it profiteth a man to lose the world AND his soul in the process? Perhaps you should go to your room and pray on it...
Dan Baiotto
I have to agree with you Stacey.... I for one have been part of a high risk insurance pool.... not fun, couldn't afford to see my regular doctors let alone get sick. I am all for reform...getting rid of pre-existing conditions. I am all for tort reform.... I am not for government funded abortions. The president executive order is only as good as ... See Morethe paper it is written on. Law is law , executive orders don't trump law. Just wait..... the first time it comes up and goes to the Supreme Court....they will have to stand on the law, not a promise from a president. Sad day indeed. What about the catch 22 that says all must have insurance or you pay penalty.. that law goes into effect immediately. and to those who have a pre-existing condition and can't get insurance...but will in 4 yrs.... What do they do Pay the fine for the next 4 yrs?????????
Jen Hester
I doubt I need God's "mercy" for supporting a bill that will give healthcare to those that go without. I think He would appreciate us taking care of each other.
Jim Wilson
God does not show mercy to communist.
Dan Baiotto
I think the representatives will need God's mercy for supporting a bill that supports and funds the death of the unborn, the old who can't afford or the sick who will suffer from the decrease in health care. Show me one other nation that has a successful socialistic health care program that has better health care than what we are getting now or used to get.
Roger Mathis
Jen, your are correct, and if this were a motto that we HAD lived by there would be no need for reform......but moving on......Stacey, I appreciate the stand that you have taken, if you stand for nothing you'll fall for anything-You Stood!If you had a chance to read www.healthreform.gov and all the propoganda put in this sight to make us think we need THIS particular bill, it's insane.
Andrew McDavid
Yes Jen, we will take care of each other, but does it have to be at the point of a gun, or a fine, or an agent of the govt. putting his hand in my pocket?I am all for taking care of those who cannot take care of themselves; the unborn are a perfect example, and they have been dealt another death blow with this legislation.I think Stacey's statement might be better said; God have mercy on us all.
Stacey Friedlein
I rarely let my political views known on a public forum. However, this is such a critical issue to the future of our country and to the future success of small business I felt I needed to comment.
Stacey Friedlein
I don't disagree that those who cannot get health insurance or other help don't need assistance. I just do not believe it should be the job of government to provide it to them.
Danielle Goodman
Great Quote by Dr. Adrian Rogers......You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthly out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The goverment cannot give to anybody anything that the goverment does not first take from somebody else. When half of the people... See More ... See Moreget the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that my dear friend, is about the end of any nation. You cannot mulitiply wealth by dividing it.I believe in charity, but I believe that I should be able to give it by choice. I believe that all Americans should have a reason to work, not take a hand out. Even in my college days, I worked 1 sometimes 2 jobs, paid my rent & utilities & paid for my health insurance. Of course it was alot of money for me, but I did without things that I would have like to have had in exchange for being responsible. It is still this way today. I have 3 kids, we are on one income (for all practical purposes) and we pay for our health insurance. We don't go to the doctor unless we are really, really sick. Unlike people I know (a relative) who runs to the ER everytime she coughs & doesn't pay for it. BTW, she sits & chooses to watch TV all day. Unlike some of us, working hard. BTW, Insurance is a business. Yes, I think that there are a few things that need to be fixed, they should not be able to just cancel you if you get sick (I don't know anyone who has had that happen & I know several cancer patients) But at the end of the day, if Insurance does not make money, they will not stay in business. How many of you want to run a business just for charity? They have to keep a certain ratio or they can not guarentee to be able to pay claims. I just think, if you don't have insurance & you can't pay for it out of pocket, then you don't get treated (except for kids) I mean if your house is burning down, you can't run out & get insurance.
Stacey Friedlein
So everyone understands. I do not oppose the idea of healthcare for everyone. I just do not want the government running the program.
Danielle Goodman
I think everyone should have healthcare & .....health insurance. Perfect world, huh? I don't want the goverment stepping in & controlling any more of my life than they already do. The people who want insurance, have it, the people who can't or won't afford it, still won't & we just gave more power to goverment.
Jan Sexson
Stacy, thanks for having the guts to take a stand. Considering this country's current deficit, and even more, the predicted future deficit, the passing of this bill frightens me. Social Security and Medicare are already in trouble, consequently I don't have a lot of faith in the government to run our health care. Being self-employed, I have no ... See Moreinsurance. Every cent I make is going to support my son who is too ill to work, yet it will take several months at the least for him to be approved for Social Security Disability. Consequently, I can not afford insurance and certainly can't afford to pay a fine for being too poor to afford insurance! Possibly, in four years, the government might supply me with health care, but what quality? Time will tell. Like you, Stacy and Dan, I am also upset that this bill allows payment for abortion. So much for protecting those who cannot protect themselves. I need insurance, and I don't pretend to have the answers, I'm only voicing my concerns about whether this health care bill is the answer.
Nina Miller
If there was a God and if he was any good, he'd make sure people wouldn't get sick in the first place. Seriously.
Ernie Baiotto
You need to look at the hidden things in the bill--For instance Harry Ried has a clause that say no future congress can change this section of the bill. Also the the buying of votes from Conneticut, vermont, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, and Lousianna. Is this the way our government was meant to be run? Our forefathers are probably turning over in their graves this morning.
Stacey Friedlein
I am not a fan of dividing democrats and republicans but am more interested in defining idealogy without labels.
Jeff Delaney
Excellent point Danielle....in light of this marked legislation, you'll begin to see the face the "business" of health care change drastically, and my guess is that you won't like it. I am constantly amazed, (I really don't know why) and the things that our government comes up with. I understand their motivation (to keep their jobs) but really. We ... See Morespeak of keeping drunks off of the road, but then allow their charges to be reduced to non-moving violations if you have the $$$. We speak of the atrocity of the taking of an unborn life, yet dare not to find a solution to the problem, even though it beats you upside the head. We reform health care without addressing one of its major facets, malpractice, for medical professionals (who are human beings) in the event that God forbid they make a mistake. Let me see if I can find a tie there.....Attorneys sue doctors and get huge settlements for their clients, lining their pockets with dollars that could other wise be used to lower health care costs for everyone and extend coverage to those who cannot afford it. How many "Lawmakers" are Attorneys? Hummmm? Perhaps it's time to elect people who aren't so familiar with the law, and more familiar with the real needs of people.
Jeff Conrad
Thank You Stacey for your comment. I've been roaming around today in a great void feeling like I was alone. Now may GOD have mercy on us all and overturn the demise that has been set forth by the forced legislation on us all. Some representative government. Lets go back to pre-revolutionary times.....oh wait a minute we already have.
Bottom of Form
Sunday, March 21, 2010
A socialist society cannot live as a free society
A socialist society cannot live as a free society. In order to be truly free a society must become reliant on their individual selves. This is not to say individuals do not need interaction with other people. It needs to be understood that we cannot rely on government to provide for our needs and enjoy the freedoms which we all value. To a certain degree they are mutually exclusive.
It is difficult to imagine we can live in a society and enjoy all of the freedoms on one hand and on the other expect the government to provide for our needs. Allowing the government to make decisions about how, who and when we receive services such as healthcare takes the very freedom we desire away.
The expectation of relying on government is a dangerous path to follow. Unfortunately we have become a lazy citizenry and feel we are too busy to get involved in the process. It is this laziness coupled with apathy which has allowed our government to take us so far down this path.
It is time for those of us who are in the middle, who stand for reason and compromise, those of us who are willing to roll up our sleeves and do the hard work of creating an environment of fair and open dialog to push our agenda ahead. This agenda should be led by the desire to create a smaller government with local control.
Government should provide the tools and support for the free society to function successfully. It is not their responsibility to intervene in the free enterprise system. Allowing free commerce to work through the ebbs and flows of economic trends is far more effective than having the government putting themselves in the mix.
There will always be times when the economy needs to be corrected. Allowing it to self-correct is the best way for that to happen. Allowing bureaucrats and politicians to interfere with these corrective periods is precisely why we have large swings in the stability of the economy.
There are many out there who would like to see government take control. Those who are self-employed or business owners who have this mindset seem to be at odds with the reasons they may have become self employed. The independence which may be a primary reason for following such a career path disappears when we look to the government to provide things like health insurance, business bailouts and job creation.
More to come…
It is difficult to imagine we can live in a society and enjoy all of the freedoms on one hand and on the other expect the government to provide for our needs. Allowing the government to make decisions about how, who and when we receive services such as healthcare takes the very freedom we desire away.
The expectation of relying on government is a dangerous path to follow. Unfortunately we have become a lazy citizenry and feel we are too busy to get involved in the process. It is this laziness coupled with apathy which has allowed our government to take us so far down this path.
It is time for those of us who are in the middle, who stand for reason and compromise, those of us who are willing to roll up our sleeves and do the hard work of creating an environment of fair and open dialog to push our agenda ahead. This agenda should be led by the desire to create a smaller government with local control.
Government should provide the tools and support for the free society to function successfully. It is not their responsibility to intervene in the free enterprise system. Allowing free commerce to work through the ebbs and flows of economic trends is far more effective than having the government putting themselves in the mix.
There will always be times when the economy needs to be corrected. Allowing it to self-correct is the best way for that to happen. Allowing bureaucrats and politicians to interfere with these corrective periods is precisely why we have large swings in the stability of the economy.
There are many out there who would like to see government take control. Those who are self-employed or business owners who have this mindset seem to be at odds with the reasons they may have become self employed. The independence which may be a primary reason for following such a career path disappears when we look to the government to provide things like health insurance, business bailouts and job creation.
More to come…
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Monday, March 08, 2010
Friday, March 05, 2010
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Pricing Lessons from the Airline Industry
Pricing Lessons from the Airline Industry
Small business consultant Gene Marks uses airline fees as an example of what not to do when establishing prices for products and services
read it here:
http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/content/feb2010/sb20100212_273018.htm
Small business consultant Gene Marks uses airline fees as an example of what not to do when establishing prices for products and services
read it here:
http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/content/feb2010/sb20100212_273018.htm
Monday, February 15, 2010
Thursday, February 04, 2010
Small businesses tout Web-driven 'buy local' campaign
The following article re enforces the message I was trying to convey in a previous post on supporting small business.
Small businesses tout Web-driven 'buy local' campaign
The original post is:Helping Small Business $ucceed: Value of small business
Small businesses tout Web-driven 'buy local' campaign
The original post is:Helping Small Business $ucceed: Value of small business
Monday, December 21, 2009
Let us help make 2010 great
M.A.P. Your 2010 Plan for Success!
Now that you are to the end of 2009 it is time to look ahead to how you are going to maximize the success you had in 2010.
To help make the correct decisions on how to expand your success in 2010 you should consider the following:
· Identify your growth areas
o Where did you succeed?
o Where were your profit centers?
o How can you maximize your profitability in these areas?
· Cut out the deadwood
o Where were you not able to grow?
o Why? Can the reason be changed?
o If so, how if not, why?
· Get lean in your operations
o Where can you trim expenses?
o Focus on cost reductions
o Eliminate unprofitable products and services
o Evaluate price structures for profitability
· Produce products for your demographics
o Study you actual demographic
o Understand their buying habits
§ Don’t sell above your client’s reach
§ Don’t sell below their expectations
· Understand the new economy
o As with any economic change the market has also changed
o How has the new economy affected your clients thinking
o Create a plan to address the changes
We can help you find the answers to all of the above. We have put together our brand new
Marketing Adjustment Program
Here is what we are offering.
· A resource CD containing a series of worksheets and evaluation forms to help you with the assessment process.
· Instructions on how to utilize the resource CD
· Three hours of consulting time with us to review and help you lay out an action plan for addressing your findings.
· A written assessment of our evaluation and recommendations.
· Review of final plan.
All of this for just $350* Regular value of this plan $695
Bonus—Order this package before December 24 and we will include a copy of our Market Planning Calendar and Workbook CD free. A $119 value
May not be combined with previous contracts or other offers or discount coupons.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Putting money down a rat hole
Have you ever attended a seminar, convention or workshop and heard a great speaker. They filled you with great ideas about how to improve your business, get more customers, and make more money. You leave full of ideas and motivated to change.
Then you get back home and the notebook full of ideas and the marketing package you bought from the speaker gets thrown in a drawer and forgotten. Why, because you may not have any idea how to implement the ideas into you business.
Often it is because the speaker told you of their success but weren’t in a position to help you modify their ideas for your circumstances.
This is where we can help. We have worked with hundreds of small business owners to help them tailor a marketing program which works. We work one-on-one with you to learn about your business and your potential customers. From there we help you modify marketing ideas and strategies to attract your targeted clients.
We want to help you. Before you invest another dime in someone else’s marketing ideas only to toss them aside without putting them to use you need to call us. We will help you decide what marketing will be most beneficial for you and your business, create a plan for implementing the concepts and a process for reviewing how well they worked for you.
This year instead of investing in more ideas which get thrown in the drawer—call us—we will help you put together a plan which will address your business and maximize your success. Rather than buy a canned marketing program we will help you create your own customized plan. And we can do it for about what you would invest in the canned plan—contact us today.
To get started fill-out our online form or call us at 309-962-8143.
Then you get back home and the notebook full of ideas and the marketing package you bought from the speaker gets thrown in a drawer and forgotten. Why, because you may not have any idea how to implement the ideas into you business.
Often it is because the speaker told you of their success but weren’t in a position to help you modify their ideas for your circumstances.
This is where we can help. We have worked with hundreds of small business owners to help them tailor a marketing program which works. We work one-on-one with you to learn about your business and your potential customers. From there we help you modify marketing ideas and strategies to attract your targeted clients.
We want to help you. Before you invest another dime in someone else’s marketing ideas only to toss them aside without putting them to use you need to call us. We will help you decide what marketing will be most beneficial for you and your business, create a plan for implementing the concepts and a process for reviewing how well they worked for you.
This year instead of investing in more ideas which get thrown in the drawer—call us—we will help you put together a plan which will address your business and maximize your success. Rather than buy a canned marketing program we will help you create your own customized plan. And we can do it for about what you would invest in the canned plan—contact us today.
To get started fill-out our online form or call us at 309-962-8143.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Redefining the traditional business model
Anyone who has been in the photographic industry for more than ten years can attest to the fact of how greatly the industry has changed. We have seen major changes in the way we capture and manipulate photographs. This in itself has caused a fundamental shift in the way professional photographers do business.
In recent weeks I have paid particular attention to what is happening in the consumer photography market. After all, like it or not, the changes in the amateur market are what drives change in the professional market.
Recently I was reading a trade magazine for photographic retailers. The article discussed the wave of new technology and how consumers would be flocking to embrace the new opportunities to save and utilize the photographs they had taken.
The one are which really caught my attention was the availability of digital press products, particularly press books. At first I was frightened by the idea that the consumer could walk up to a kiosk and walk away with a finished digital press product.
Then I began to think about how the professional photographer could embrace this technology. It occurred to me that there was a wonderful opportunity in this new technology. What if the portrait photographer was to present their customer with a more illustrative storybook concept in capturing the portrait session?
You can leverage the strength of the retail photography market to grow your portrait business by offering these creative portrait sessions. The children and family markets seem to be the most logical areas to promote the storybook concept however the concept can be adapted to other markets.
In the past we have looked to offer portrait package or wall print discounts to solicit sessions. With this new opportunity your lead marketing product could be in offering a portrait story book. Think of the opportunities you have to utilize your creative abilities to create custom storybooks for your clients. You may also want to consider creating theme books which can be used in promotions. For example you may want to offer several theme day promotions throughout the year where the storybook is the hook in the offer.
The price point of having these books printed makes them a very attractive lead marketing product. Once a theme is created it can be duplicated for other clients. You can personalize the books with their session images and incorporating them into the text of the story.
Yes it is true they can order similar products for themselves but what will set you apart is your ability to capture the emotions and poses which will help illustrate the storybook. With the low cost of duplicate books you have a great opportunity to sell additional copies for grandparents and other relatives and maintain a strong profit margin.
In addition you maintain the integrity of your print sales and it will also allow you to consider some great add-on sales. These items would include the new jewelry and other digital product. Another idea I really like is in offering photo charms as an incentive in your session promotions. This is an especially strong idea in your newborn and first year children’s promotions. What mom or grandmother would not love a charm bracelet with photo charms of their children?
So as we move into a new paradigm of marketing in the photographic industry we can either embrace the new technology or allow it to be an excuse for not succeeding. If you would like assistance please contact me for more information on how to utilize these new products in your business.
In recent weeks I have paid particular attention to what is happening in the consumer photography market. After all, like it or not, the changes in the amateur market are what drives change in the professional market.
Recently I was reading a trade magazine for photographic retailers. The article discussed the wave of new technology and how consumers would be flocking to embrace the new opportunities to save and utilize the photographs they had taken.
The one are which really caught my attention was the availability of digital press products, particularly press books. At first I was frightened by the idea that the consumer could walk up to a kiosk and walk away with a finished digital press product.
Then I began to think about how the professional photographer could embrace this technology. It occurred to me that there was a wonderful opportunity in this new technology. What if the portrait photographer was to present their customer with a more illustrative storybook concept in capturing the portrait session?
You can leverage the strength of the retail photography market to grow your portrait business by offering these creative portrait sessions. The children and family markets seem to be the most logical areas to promote the storybook concept however the concept can be adapted to other markets.
In the past we have looked to offer portrait package or wall print discounts to solicit sessions. With this new opportunity your lead marketing product could be in offering a portrait story book. Think of the opportunities you have to utilize your creative abilities to create custom storybooks for your clients. You may also want to consider creating theme books which can be used in promotions. For example you may want to offer several theme day promotions throughout the year where the storybook is the hook in the offer.
The price point of having these books printed makes them a very attractive lead marketing product. Once a theme is created it can be duplicated for other clients. You can personalize the books with their session images and incorporating them into the text of the story.
Yes it is true they can order similar products for themselves but what will set you apart is your ability to capture the emotions and poses which will help illustrate the storybook. With the low cost of duplicate books you have a great opportunity to sell additional copies for grandparents and other relatives and maintain a strong profit margin.
In addition you maintain the integrity of your print sales and it will also allow you to consider some great add-on sales. These items would include the new jewelry and other digital product. Another idea I really like is in offering photo charms as an incentive in your session promotions. This is an especially strong idea in your newborn and first year children’s promotions. What mom or grandmother would not love a charm bracelet with photo charms of their children?
So as we move into a new paradigm of marketing in the photographic industry we can either embrace the new technology or allow it to be an excuse for not succeeding. If you would like assistance please contact me for more information on how to utilize these new products in your business.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Pretender or Contender—Life in a New Economy
The recession is over! It has been proclaimed by economists, legislators, and the media. It must be true. After all we believed them when they told us we were in a recession. And their message of doom and gloom led to one of the most difficult economic periods since the Great Depression.
Don’t get me wrong. There were other factors which accounted for the difficult financial times we have come through. Starting with banks making poor lending decisions, an auto industry’s sagging profits due to competition, poor management and greedy unions, and a healthcare system which has allowed profitability to take precedence over patient needs.
On top of all of this we have a government whose interference continues to be a detriment to economic recovery. The idea of government intervention in managing business is ludicrous. They need to focus on managing government not micromanaging the private sector. What has always made business successful is the ability to be free for innovation, product development and self management. We need to allow the free market system to work. The way that will happen is for it to be self driven and self controlled.
I will get off my soap box and focus on what is most important to you. Now it is time to get on with the business of building back your business. As consumers regain confidence they will begin to let loose of their discretionary money and you will want to be ready by having the products and services they desire. Now is the time to decide whether you are going to get serious about your business as a contender or continue to put in a half-hearted effort and remain a pretender.
There are three things I want you to consider: 1. Break out of survivor mode, 2. Marketing to the consumer mindset and, 3. Gain your competitions lost market share.
First, you need to change your mind-set. For the past two years many small business owners have buckled down and gone into a mode of just getting by. Scrimping in areas of their business which they felt were unnecessary. Two years ago this was wise but now is the time to rethink your business especially in the areas of marketing and promotion.
For those of you in the photographic and service industries you will want to pay particular attention to the social marketing opportunities which exist. This is one of the fastest growing segments of marketing. Why, because the internet has become the new hotspot. It is where people interact, they talk and seek information. Social networking will be vital to a small business success in the future. Be ready. Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, LinkedIn and the like will become some of the most powerful marketing tools available.
Next, become proactive in your marketing efforts. Consumers are looking for a deal. Don’t let your ego get in the way of your sales. Small business owners will need to become more innovative and creative in their product offerings and pricing structures in order to stay viable in the new economy. The need to offer products in ways never considered before may be what keeps you in business.
If you are going to truly be a long-term contender you will need to become serious about your desire to be in business. The business hobbyists will not be able to survive. Having a solid financial and marketing plan based in realistic goals will be critical.
Finally, you want to take advantage of your competitions lack of marketing during the hard economic times and their lack of preparedness in marketing in the new economy. Seek out weaknesses in your competition and exploit them to your full advantage. If they are not going to work to get customers back then it is up to you to show their lost customers what you can do for them.
There will be businesses who fail, they will be the ones who were not willing or able to adapt or commit to the challenges of a new business climate. There will be businesses that will succeed, those who have studied and planned to create a plan for how they will contend in the market place. They will have created adaptability and the ability to contend in a new economy.
Contender or pretender, it is up to you to determine whether your business is important enough to make the tough decisions and be a contender.
Don’t get me wrong. There were other factors which accounted for the difficult financial times we have come through. Starting with banks making poor lending decisions, an auto industry’s sagging profits due to competition, poor management and greedy unions, and a healthcare system which has allowed profitability to take precedence over patient needs.
On top of all of this we have a government whose interference continues to be a detriment to economic recovery. The idea of government intervention in managing business is ludicrous. They need to focus on managing government not micromanaging the private sector. What has always made business successful is the ability to be free for innovation, product development and self management. We need to allow the free market system to work. The way that will happen is for it to be self driven and self controlled.
I will get off my soap box and focus on what is most important to you. Now it is time to get on with the business of building back your business. As consumers regain confidence they will begin to let loose of their discretionary money and you will want to be ready by having the products and services they desire. Now is the time to decide whether you are going to get serious about your business as a contender or continue to put in a half-hearted effort and remain a pretender.
There are three things I want you to consider: 1. Break out of survivor mode, 2. Marketing to the consumer mindset and, 3. Gain your competitions lost market share.
First, you need to change your mind-set. For the past two years many small business owners have buckled down and gone into a mode of just getting by. Scrimping in areas of their business which they felt were unnecessary. Two years ago this was wise but now is the time to rethink your business especially in the areas of marketing and promotion.
For those of you in the photographic and service industries you will want to pay particular attention to the social marketing opportunities which exist. This is one of the fastest growing segments of marketing. Why, because the internet has become the new hotspot. It is where people interact, they talk and seek information. Social networking will be vital to a small business success in the future. Be ready. Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, LinkedIn and the like will become some of the most powerful marketing tools available.
Next, become proactive in your marketing efforts. Consumers are looking for a deal. Don’t let your ego get in the way of your sales. Small business owners will need to become more innovative and creative in their product offerings and pricing structures in order to stay viable in the new economy. The need to offer products in ways never considered before may be what keeps you in business.
If you are going to truly be a long-term contender you will need to become serious about your desire to be in business. The business hobbyists will not be able to survive. Having a solid financial and marketing plan based in realistic goals will be critical.
Finally, you want to take advantage of your competitions lack of marketing during the hard economic times and their lack of preparedness in marketing in the new economy. Seek out weaknesses in your competition and exploit them to your full advantage. If they are not going to work to get customers back then it is up to you to show their lost customers what you can do for them.
There will be businesses who fail, they will be the ones who were not willing or able to adapt or commit to the challenges of a new business climate. There will be businesses that will succeed, those who have studied and planned to create a plan for how they will contend in the market place. They will have created adaptability and the ability to contend in a new economy.
Contender or pretender, it is up to you to determine whether your business is important enough to make the tough decisions and be a contender.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Dog Days of Summer = Your Busy Season
Now is the time of the year which most portrait photographers are in their most profitable months. Hopefully you are maximizing your opportunities. The hardest thing is to manage your schedule so you are not only taking care of business today but you are preparing for the inevitable slowdown after the holidays.
You need to consider several things:
Are you using your time to its fullest?
Are you setting aside enough cash to get you through the leaner months?
Are you preparing a strong marketing plan to maximize your opportunities in the lean months?
We can help you...
Get more done
Maximize your profitably
And prepare a marketing plan to jumpstart the coming year
Plus much more
Plans start as low as $295.
With 2010 comes the promise of better economic times. We can help you to be ready to take full advantage. Call us today or fill-out the simple web form to get started.
The first 10 to respond will receive our Surviving and Thriving DVD.
A $147 value FREE with purchase.
Ask if you qualify for our Pay As You Go consulting.
You need to consider several things:
Are you using your time to its fullest?
Are you setting aside enough cash to get you through the leaner months?
Are you preparing a strong marketing plan to maximize your opportunities in the lean months?
We can help you...
Get more done
Maximize your profitably
And prepare a marketing plan to jumpstart the coming year
Plus much more
Plans start as low as $295.
With 2010 comes the promise of better economic times. We can help you to be ready to take full advantage. Call us today or fill-out the simple web form to get started.
The first 10 to respond will receive our Surviving and Thriving DVD.
A $147 value FREE with purchase.
Ask if you qualify for our Pay As You Go consulting.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
We are looking for a Business Development Manager
We are looking for a Business Development Manager
Start part-time and grow with our company.
Job Functions include:
Ø Outgoing sales calls to qualified leads and some cold calling
Ø Manage coordination of company schedule
Ø Negotiate contracts with potential clients
Ø Maintain client database—data entry
Ø Handle event planning for seminars and workshops
Ø Internet marketing management
See Our Job Posting on BloomingtonHelpWanted.com
Start part-time and grow with our company.
Job Functions include:
Ø Outgoing sales calls to qualified leads and some cold calling
Ø Manage coordination of company schedule
Ø Negotiate contracts with potential clients
Ø Maintain client database—data entry
Ø Handle event planning for seminars and workshops
Ø Internet marketing management
See Our Job Posting on BloomingtonHelpWanted.com
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Finding my way home
I have been home from my trip to the the northwest for about ten days. The six weeks I was gone allowed my to gain some great perspective on my life.
Convinced more than ever of God's call for me I have been allowed to more clearly define the role he is asking me to play. In addition to teaching and consulting I feel a sense of speaking more vocally of God's work in my life and how His love works in the lives of others.
Over the next few weeks I will be working on my speaking tour for 2010. It is an ambitious schedule of forty-five cities. I have come to recognize I am to not only teach my business classes but am to take time to witness my faith to those I encounter.
As I travel on this tour my goal will be to seek out and fulfill these opportunities. Whether it is one-on-one or speaking to a large group. In each city I travel I hope to find an opportunity to present a program on personal values, goals and spiritual gifts and how together they can form the foundation for anyone to find their own level of success.
Please, if you would be interested in having me speak to you or your church, study group or business association. Contact me. There will be no charge for these courses and I will make them available in the cities I travel through the remainder of this year and in 2010.
God has blessed me with this gift of teaching and has challenged me to use it to deliver this incredible message. Please let me share it with you and those you love.
Convinced more than ever of God's call for me I have been allowed to more clearly define the role he is asking me to play. In addition to teaching and consulting I feel a sense of speaking more vocally of God's work in my life and how His love works in the lives of others.
Over the next few weeks I will be working on my speaking tour for 2010. It is an ambitious schedule of forty-five cities. I have come to recognize I am to not only teach my business classes but am to take time to witness my faith to those I encounter.
As I travel on this tour my goal will be to seek out and fulfill these opportunities. Whether it is one-on-one or speaking to a large group. In each city I travel I hope to find an opportunity to present a program on personal values, goals and spiritual gifts and how together they can form the foundation for anyone to find their own level of success.
Please, if you would be interested in having me speak to you or your church, study group or business association. Contact me. There will be no charge for these courses and I will make them available in the cities I travel through the remainder of this year and in 2010.
God has blessed me with this gift of teaching and has challenged me to use it to deliver this incredible message. Please let me share it with you and those you love.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Think before you post
Not only employees but business owners need to consdier what they are posting on social networking sites. The ability to be hired by clients can be severely hampered if they are reading about personal exploits.
Many clients would think twice before hiring a photographers or other service providor who brags about how drunk they got over the weekend. Think before you post.
Read the following:
Before a job hunt, put a lid on your tweets
Source: www.pantagraph.com
MINNEAPOLIS -- Rose McKinney recalls one job candidate who blogged and tweeted herself directly out of a job interview.
Many clients would think twice before hiring a photographers or other service providor who brags about how drunk they got over the weekend. Think before you post.
Read the following:
Before a job hunt, put a lid on your tweets
Source: www.pantagraph.com
MINNEAPOLIS -- Rose McKinney recalls one job candidate who blogged and tweeted herself directly out of a job interview.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Value of small business
Why is it important for small business owners to support other small businesses? There are several considerations in where we spend our money which should help to clarify the value in small business owner’s spending money and sharing resources with each other.
First and foremost, you are a small business owner. Supporting those who are trying to also build a small business is good for you and good for them. Yes, you may pay a lower price for the identical product at a big box store. But can you get the same service and support from the big box. Generally the answer will be no.
Like you the small business owner understands the importance of providing outstanding customer service. Generally you will find the service from a small business to be superior to the big box store. Why, because you are dealing with the owner or an employee who has a more vested interest in seeing the business succeeds. With the same generality the minimum wage employee at the big box store could care less about the customer. They just want to finish their shift and get off of their feet.
It is that service which sets you apart from your competition. And do you know what? It is the little extra you invest in your customer that will keep them coming back to you. You may offer the same widget as the big box and it may be at a slightly higher price. The customer is willing to pay the extra when they are treated fairly and they feel they have a relationship with the business.
Having a strong working relationship with other small businesses allows for you to create a network and solidify your relationship in the community. These relationships can allow you to attract the kinds of customers you are looking. Customers begin to identify you as a contributor to your community.
This brings us to the next point. As a small business owner it is vital you become engaged in your community. Support the causes you find important. Be sure to let your community know how you intend to give back. People are more inclined to do business with companies which support them and local concerns.
You have a great opportunity to show you are reinvesting in the community which supports you. Unlike the big box stores who wire their deposits to some distant bank. The money they take from the community has little chance of being reinvested and used to improve the local community. Your dollars stay local and continue to work in your community.
The challenge comes for you to think about where you are spending money. Many small business owners feel the pinch and want to save all the money they can. This is understandable but you must consider the impact and example you make when you do all you can to buy from locally owned and operated businesses.
Why would you expect a fellow business person to utilize your services or buy your goods when you don’t support them? There are many arrogant business owners who feel they don’t need to do any of this. Their product or service is good enough that they don’t need to support anyone else. They are fools. This same arrogance will eventually kill their business.
Your customers do notice. When you buy cheap from the big box, what is that saying to your customer. If you are trying to appeal to the demographic that also looks for the best bargain then you are on track. If you are appealing to a demographic that is looking for the best quality and service then you need to be willing to utilize companies which are appealing to the same target demographic.
Thrift is important but thrift also involves understanding your return on investment. If you are able to attract a more affluent demographic because you are investing a little more on the goods you buy then you are in a position to increase your sales averages.
The big box store serves its purpose. One even operated on the mantra of “stack it high and sell it cheap”. If you want to be identified with such a philosophy then you are in the right place. If not consider supporting the guy down the street who is, like you, working to make a living, support his family and be a positive contributor to his community.
First and foremost, you are a small business owner. Supporting those who are trying to also build a small business is good for you and good for them. Yes, you may pay a lower price for the identical product at a big box store. But can you get the same service and support from the big box. Generally the answer will be no.
Like you the small business owner understands the importance of providing outstanding customer service. Generally you will find the service from a small business to be superior to the big box store. Why, because you are dealing with the owner or an employee who has a more vested interest in seeing the business succeeds. With the same generality the minimum wage employee at the big box store could care less about the customer. They just want to finish their shift and get off of their feet.
It is that service which sets you apart from your competition. And do you know what? It is the little extra you invest in your customer that will keep them coming back to you. You may offer the same widget as the big box and it may be at a slightly higher price. The customer is willing to pay the extra when they are treated fairly and they feel they have a relationship with the business.
Having a strong working relationship with other small businesses allows for you to create a network and solidify your relationship in the community. These relationships can allow you to attract the kinds of customers you are looking. Customers begin to identify you as a contributor to your community.
This brings us to the next point. As a small business owner it is vital you become engaged in your community. Support the causes you find important. Be sure to let your community know how you intend to give back. People are more inclined to do business with companies which support them and local concerns.
You have a great opportunity to show you are reinvesting in the community which supports you. Unlike the big box stores who wire their deposits to some distant bank. The money they take from the community has little chance of being reinvested and used to improve the local community. Your dollars stay local and continue to work in your community.
The challenge comes for you to think about where you are spending money. Many small business owners feel the pinch and want to save all the money they can. This is understandable but you must consider the impact and example you make when you do all you can to buy from locally owned and operated businesses.
Why would you expect a fellow business person to utilize your services or buy your goods when you don’t support them? There are many arrogant business owners who feel they don’t need to do any of this. Their product or service is good enough that they don’t need to support anyone else. They are fools. This same arrogance will eventually kill their business.
Your customers do notice. When you buy cheap from the big box, what is that saying to your customer. If you are trying to appeal to the demographic that also looks for the best bargain then you are on track. If you are appealing to a demographic that is looking for the best quality and service then you need to be willing to utilize companies which are appealing to the same target demographic.
Thrift is important but thrift also involves understanding your return on investment. If you are able to attract a more affluent demographic because you are investing a little more on the goods you buy then you are in a position to increase your sales averages.
The big box store serves its purpose. One even operated on the mantra of “stack it high and sell it cheap”. If you want to be identified with such a philosophy then you are in the right place. If not consider supporting the guy down the street who is, like you, working to make a living, support his family and be a positive contributor to his community.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Marketing in a Can
Innovation may be a thing of the past for many small business owners. I have always been fascinated to watch how marketing trends develop over time for small business. It seems as soon as someone creates a concept and shows any amount of success other business owners follow it like bees to honey.
The small business owner believes that by simply following a marketing formula used by another they can achieve the same levels of success. Don’t get me wrong there are great marketing people running small businesses today with great success. But my guess is if you really study the reasons they are successful is because they took an idea and adapted it to their own situation and market.
As I continue to work with clients from all over the country I am amazed and sometimes amused by the frustration they feel when a so called “sure-fire” marketing campaign does not work for them. The comment is “well it worked for them”. It probably did but it doesn’t mean you can duplicate their success by following their program.
In order to maximize your success you have to be able to know and understand your potential client and their demographic. What are their goals, their wants and what motivates their buying decision. My experience shows the same target demographic in different regions of the country respond differently to the same marketing messages. Environmental influences do impact the thinking of your potential customer.
An example I will use from a much larger scale. A certain big box discount chain modifies the inventory they carry in their stores based on the population demographic. They have learned to track sales and marketing trends on an individual store basis. Then they are able to maximize profitability by offering the goods and services which are most saleable based on the information they have collected.
Usually when you see a “sure-fire” marketing campaign or someone tries to sell you on a marketing program based on national trends you want to be somewhat leery. Yes they can work but usually with some modification for your situation. I have yet to find a one-size fits all program which is successful across the board.
Pounding a square peg into a round hole only leaves the peg and the hole damaged and the hammer frustrated. When you begin to consider marketing for your business evaluate how you can best implement the concept. Answer the following questions.
Who is your target client? How can you best get information to them? What is the best way to present your offer to them? What products and services do they value and how are you appealing to their values? In answering these questions you will be able to formulate and adapt your marketing to your intended clients.
Now, evaluate how to best get your message out. Generally it will be a combination of media. Select wisely and be sure to evaluate the return on your marketing investment. Monitor where your clients are coming from. What media worked? What did not work and how can you adapt future advertising to maximize your investment.
Remember you need to maximize your opportunities and this starts with being sure you understand your potential customer and what will attract them to you. Be careful not to over invest in you advertising or in programs which may not be effective for you. Learn all you can about your client base and make that information work for you.
The small business owner believes that by simply following a marketing formula used by another they can achieve the same levels of success. Don’t get me wrong there are great marketing people running small businesses today with great success. But my guess is if you really study the reasons they are successful is because they took an idea and adapted it to their own situation and market.
As I continue to work with clients from all over the country I am amazed and sometimes amused by the frustration they feel when a so called “sure-fire” marketing campaign does not work for them. The comment is “well it worked for them”. It probably did but it doesn’t mean you can duplicate their success by following their program.
In order to maximize your success you have to be able to know and understand your potential client and their demographic. What are their goals, their wants and what motivates their buying decision. My experience shows the same target demographic in different regions of the country respond differently to the same marketing messages. Environmental influences do impact the thinking of your potential customer.
An example I will use from a much larger scale. A certain big box discount chain modifies the inventory they carry in their stores based on the population demographic. They have learned to track sales and marketing trends on an individual store basis. Then they are able to maximize profitability by offering the goods and services which are most saleable based on the information they have collected.
Usually when you see a “sure-fire” marketing campaign or someone tries to sell you on a marketing program based on national trends you want to be somewhat leery. Yes they can work but usually with some modification for your situation. I have yet to find a one-size fits all program which is successful across the board.
Pounding a square peg into a round hole only leaves the peg and the hole damaged and the hammer frustrated. When you begin to consider marketing for your business evaluate how you can best implement the concept. Answer the following questions.
Who is your target client? How can you best get information to them? What is the best way to present your offer to them? What products and services do they value and how are you appealing to their values? In answering these questions you will be able to formulate and adapt your marketing to your intended clients.
Now, evaluate how to best get your message out. Generally it will be a combination of media. Select wisely and be sure to evaluate the return on your marketing investment. Monitor where your clients are coming from. What media worked? What did not work and how can you adapt future advertising to maximize your investment.
Remember you need to maximize your opportunities and this starts with being sure you understand your potential customer and what will attract them to you. Be careful not to over invest in you advertising or in programs which may not be effective for you. Learn all you can about your client base and make that information work for you.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Some general ideas on photographng families
Family groups occur all year but are most prevalent around Christmas and on the occasion of weddings, because everybody naturally gathers together for these happy occasions. Many photographers encourage family photography at weddings because it’s convenient for the people and everybody is in a sentimental “family” mood. With the appropriate background you always carry with you to your weddings, the actual family group photography is very easy to do.
Some suggestions for family photography:
Photograph the largest group first and then separate the grown children’s families and photograph each family individually. Doesn’t matter if you’re in-studio or at a wedding (or are lucky and have been invited into the parents’ home for the day!) Take a helper who’s good with kids and it works fine.
To increase your potential sales (and be of great service to your customers), photograph the entire family as a single unit and then break them down into smaller units. Example: photograph the large group, then grandma and granddad alone, mom and dad alone, the kids alone, the kids with mom, the kids with dad, and each child individually. Honor any and all requests which will come up. The resulting big order will surprise you.
Family-group stuffers in your seniors’ finished work this year will increase family group sittings next year. Be sure the stuffer includes discounts for group sittings. Even though it’s a good idea, people will be more likely to do it if there’s a “hook” involved. You may want to offer a free session or a discount session and print.
Utilize your website and social networking pages to promote your family business. Link the seniors you have photographed to their family portraits. The same is true in photographing children.
More suggestions:
Be sure you display your very latest and best group portraits on your studio walls. Directory photographers don’t have this luxury. Hair styles change constantly. You need fresh prints to be current. This is very important. Gone are the days when a family group sample is good for two or three years. Change samples at least every year, if not every six months. Ask any sharp teenage girl to look at your samples, and ask her about clothing and hair styles. I guarantee you will be shocked, and you will order new samples!
If your family groups are just average, go to seminars and learn how to improve them. You need to be an excellent technician to compete in this market.
Posing-lighting seminars for family groups are available all the time. They will make money for you, perhaps hundreds of times what they actually cost.
Join a professional association such as PPA and/or your state association and any regional groups available. The benefits to you are enormous. They point you in the right direction.
Compete in regional print competitions to teach yourself what is necessary for success in family group photography. If you don’t know what you need to know, find out.
Retouching is pretty much mandatory for families, because you are dealing with several generations, which requires finished prints to be polished products. Gone are the days when you could just snap the shutter and deliver poor proofs. This doesn’t work for studio “pros.”
Clothing consultations are desirable. This is something you must do to be worthy of your higher price!
Hang (or offer to hang) your finished wall prints in customers’ homes, and to light the prints properly by furnishing (and charging for) portrait lights which attach to frames. Some will ask for track lighting, and you may want to have it done for them by somebody who knows about this stuff better than you do, but arrange to have it done to the customers’ satisfaction at their convenience. This will start a trend toward reliance upon you as the “expert” in the area, and they will deal with the expert more than they will with any itinerant family photographer.
Diffuse, vignette, do whatever you need to do to make the best finished product you possibly can; be sure to retouch and use the best lab you can find. Fine labs don’t cost, they make money for you.
Following is a Sample letter for family groups and stuffer for seniors:
You will want to use your studio letterhead. You may want to omit any salutation. You can’t know individual circumstances and don’t want to offend anyone.
First paragraph: thank them for the senior’s business. Graduation is only one of the many important events in your life. Congratulations! Great start!
Second paragraph: stress importance of and value of recording important events in their family’s lives.
Third paragraph: sales pitch. Our studio will provide you with the chance to continue recording these important events in your lives. A family group photograph is another excellent suggestion for you, which I’m sure you’ve already considered.
Fourth paragraph: make it as easy as possible to contact you for an appointment for this important occasion. “. You can also reach us at by phone or via e-mail at you@yourstudio.com.
Sincerely,
Your photographer
There is a great opportunity for professional photographers to repcapture the lucrative family portrait market. Sell yourself and the quality of your service to set yourself apart and utilize the marketing tools which your already have.
Some suggestions for family photography:
Photograph the largest group first and then separate the grown children’s families and photograph each family individually. Doesn’t matter if you’re in-studio or at a wedding (or are lucky and have been invited into the parents’ home for the day!) Take a helper who’s good with kids and it works fine.
To increase your potential sales (and be of great service to your customers), photograph the entire family as a single unit and then break them down into smaller units. Example: photograph the large group, then grandma and granddad alone, mom and dad alone, the kids alone, the kids with mom, the kids with dad, and each child individually. Honor any and all requests which will come up. The resulting big order will surprise you.
Family-group stuffers in your seniors’ finished work this year will increase family group sittings next year. Be sure the stuffer includes discounts for group sittings. Even though it’s a good idea, people will be more likely to do it if there’s a “hook” involved. You may want to offer a free session or a discount session and print.
Utilize your website and social networking pages to promote your family business. Link the seniors you have photographed to their family portraits. The same is true in photographing children.
More suggestions:
Be sure you display your very latest and best group portraits on your studio walls. Directory photographers don’t have this luxury. Hair styles change constantly. You need fresh prints to be current. This is very important. Gone are the days when a family group sample is good for two or three years. Change samples at least every year, if not every six months. Ask any sharp teenage girl to look at your samples, and ask her about clothing and hair styles. I guarantee you will be shocked, and you will order new samples!
If your family groups are just average, go to seminars and learn how to improve them. You need to be an excellent technician to compete in this market.
Posing-lighting seminars for family groups are available all the time. They will make money for you, perhaps hundreds of times what they actually cost.
Join a professional association such as PPA and/or your state association and any regional groups available. The benefits to you are enormous. They point you in the right direction.
Compete in regional print competitions to teach yourself what is necessary for success in family group photography. If you don’t know what you need to know, find out.
Retouching is pretty much mandatory for families, because you are dealing with several generations, which requires finished prints to be polished products. Gone are the days when you could just snap the shutter and deliver poor proofs. This doesn’t work for studio “pros.”
Clothing consultations are desirable. This is something you must do to be worthy of your higher price!
Hang (or offer to hang) your finished wall prints in customers’ homes, and to light the prints properly by furnishing (and charging for) portrait lights which attach to frames. Some will ask for track lighting, and you may want to have it done for them by somebody who knows about this stuff better than you do, but arrange to have it done to the customers’ satisfaction at their convenience. This will start a trend toward reliance upon you as the “expert” in the area, and they will deal with the expert more than they will with any itinerant family photographer.
Diffuse, vignette, do whatever you need to do to make the best finished product you possibly can; be sure to retouch and use the best lab you can find. Fine labs don’t cost, they make money for you.
Following is a Sample letter for family groups and stuffer for seniors:
You will want to use your studio letterhead. You may want to omit any salutation. You can’t know individual circumstances and don’t want to offend anyone.
First paragraph: thank them for the senior’s business. Graduation is only one of the many important events in your life. Congratulations! Great start!
Second paragraph: stress importance of and value of recording important events in their family’s lives.
Third paragraph: sales pitch. Our studio will provide you with the chance to continue recording these important events in your lives. A family group photograph is another excellent suggestion for you, which I’m sure you’ve already considered.
Fourth paragraph: make it as easy as possible to contact you for an appointment for this important occasion. “. You can also reach us at by phone or via e-mail at you@yourstudio.com.
Sincerely,
Your photographer
There is a great opportunity for professional photographers to repcapture the lucrative family portrait market. Sell yourself and the quality of your service to set yourself apart and utilize the marketing tools which your already have.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The value of small business supporting small business
Thought for the day. Attention Wal-Mart shoppers, there is a sale in our portrait studio today, 187 prints for $4.99. Make you cringe? Then why are you shopping there for items you could purchase from the small business owner down the street? What goes around comes around.
James Day at 7:57am April 28
Very valid point.
Kelly Schantz Cook at 7:59am April 28
Agreed!
Staci Severin Landis at 8:00am April 28
Wow.
Peter Alcivar at 8:02am April 28
Several years ago, while I was unemployed, I interviewed for a photographer job at the Wal-Mart portrait studio. They didn't ask to see a portfolio. The only requirement was that I had to get a haircut and shave.You get what you pay for.
Jessica Padgett Bell at 8:13am April 28
I couldn't agree more! You DO get what you pay for. I checked into a "photographer" job at our WM awhile back and was SHOCKED to learn that you didn't really need any photography skills at all- they send you to a week-long "training" and you are all set! And here I've been working and working and studying and practicing for YEARS when all I needed to do to be a photographer was take a week-long "class" at WalMart... ROFL :-p
Carrie Viohl at 8:17am April 28
I totally agree, Stacey! We shop local as often as possible... and the blood pressure stays down, too!
Amy Tilley at 8:30am April 28
I totally agree you get what you pay for!!! and it to makes me cringe!!But one point I want to make is.... Walmart was once the small business down the street and Sam Walton made the American dream come true!I sure hope when I make it really really big, people don't stop using me!! Just don't see the need to dog on wal-mart.
Jenni Merrill at 8:48am April 28
I refuse to shop at Walmart after seeing the movie 'The high cost of low prices' Sure it's cheaper but cheap is never good and good is never cheap. Also, I know a guy who works in Walmart produce and he admits it's bought in bulk and crap...he buys his produce at the grocery store next door! THAT'S saying something!
Stacey Friedlein at 8:57am April 28
Amy, My intention is not to take pot shots at Wal Mart but to help small buiness owners understand they need to consider their own actions when they see how their clients react to the differences in services between them and the discount stores.I admire Sam Walton also. I have read his book and found many useflul ideas. But when your business model (Wal Mart) is to undersell all of your competition then as a consumer and a competitior you need to realize how your decisions to support and compete create a conflitct in your business model.
Julia Gerace at 8:56am April 28
hmmm... I'm not sure if I have a problem buying socks and underwear for the kids at Walmart - I mean, where else would you go for that type of stuff? or, like papertowels...any suggestions?
Stacey Friedlein at 9:02am April 28
Julia,Do you have a local childrens clothing store and a locally owned grocery, hardware or drug store which may carry these items. The challenge is to seek them out. Let them know you are also an independent business person. It may be the start of a great business relationship.
I agree Julia. As a photographer, I don't view Walmart as my competition. The clientele who purchase "portraits" there are not the clients I'm seeking out. Plus, I've heard that Walmart makes no money off their portrait studios...they're only hoping you'll buy other stuff while you're there! I LOVE to support small business, especially women-owned, and do so frequently. But when it comes to buying toiletries, envelopes, etc., a girl has gotta do what she can in this new economy! As in all things, balance & moderation.
Stacey Friedlein at 10:59am April 28
Barbara,I certainly agree with your concept Wal-Mart is not your competition. What I am trying to get accross is if you are willing to make buying decisions based strictly on price then don't be uspet when your poteintial client does not utilize your services because of your price.The second point is supporting small business is good for your small business. The few extra pennies you spend at the local store can pay huge dividends for you in the future.
Kathy L. Phy at 10:01am April 28
I won't step foot in a Wal-mart if someone paid me. The place gives me a major headache
Fred Hinegardner at 1:22pm April 28
When I had a studio, I was glad Wal-Mart and 15 other similar operations did what they did. They took people off my hands that I no longer wished to serve. I instructed all my help to assist callers who could no longer afford me.I cut my photographic teeth shooting 97 cent 8x10 specials. I shot 200 sittings a week while the studios maybe shot 20. Experience helps a rapid learning curve.One day I saw a local PPA Master hiding behind some shrubbery, watching my operation. I waved. He ran. He later tried to prevent my joining "his" PPA. My subsequent history is public.I don't think whining or boycotting solves anything more than creating an energy drain.I have even recommended people who want to gain a lot of portrait experience in a short amount of time to go to work for one of these outfits. I retired at 50.
Randy McNeely at 8:24pm April 28
Stacey, I agreed with you on this that is why I have not been there since Christmas.
Allen Austin at 8:27pm April 28
The pictures are still over priced!
Lindsi Jones at 8:53pm April 28
barf..
Travis Cossel at 8:56pm April 28
Nothing wrong with shopping at Wal-Mart. If I need staples or a light bulb or a bunch of bananas there's really no reason to pay more somewhere else. I think the distinction comes with a business that provides more than just a product like everyone else. To be honest, there are people out there that are perfectly happy with Wal-Mart pictures ... and you're never going to convince them to spend more for a better product. Not everyone is your customer, you know?
Tony Cooper at 9:00pm April 28
'Zackly Travis. There's no mom and pops nearby that sell what I need for less... and none of them are personalized custom products, either. I'm not competing with WM... if you're a WM portrait client, you probably aren't mine, and were never meant to be. On the other hand, if you are my client, you'll likely never want to be a WM client again. :)
Jack Corzine at 9:02pm April 28
nope, sorry, I take my own pictures and do the cropping and touch up on the computer. Sorry Stacey, in general I do agree with you but if it is something that I can do I will. There is one thing I do wish to say though on this subject. That is simply that each and EVERY small business owner has a responsibility to provide the very best personal ... Read Moreservice available. Otherwise it makes the easy way of taking it to someplace like Walmart more appealing to people. I've been burnt by a small business photographer and it does make you much more wary of placing what can amount to much more money into someone elses hands (granted this is a rare occurance).
Stacey Friedlein at 9:17pm April 28
I appreciate everyone's comments. Here is a challenge for the small business owners. Next time you are heading out to do your shopping think about whether the items you are going to get can be purchased locally. You might be surprised.
I totally agree the Wal Mart customer is probably not your client but this is not the point of this post. The original reason for asking this question was to get small business owners consider the double standard of wanting clients to use their services but who may be looking for the cheapest solutions to their needs.
If you don't feel you can afford what you are selling it makes the selling proposition much more difficult.
I plan to write more on this topic in the future. Again thanks to everyone for their input.
Barbara Jones Adelman at 9:26pm April 28
Hey Stacey - this is kind of timely - I attended an event for ISU tonight and looked around at all the other small business women in attendance, met or got re -aquatinted with many and realized that this network of support and personal relationships is not only the beauty of our city, but also the connections that will grow my business - I should not expect their support if I do not attempt to support them. My goal for the rest of the year is a campaign of one on one support of local business and fund raising efforts in order to be a vital part of the community= even though the time and effort may be a little more, the benefits both to my business and my spirit I believe will be great (and cost effective)
Travis Cossel at 9:29pm April 28
Grocery workers aren't underpaid .. I've worked in the industry and the work isn't all that hard. There are certainly much more difficult jobs out there that pay the same or less (including my current job). The bottom line is that I would bet that for most of us, Wal-Mart employees are NOT our target demographic .. just like Burger King employees aren't our target demographic. This idea that I should pay more for something somewhere else to somehow better support our towns is bunk
Stacey Friedlein at 9:41pm April 28
Travis, I am concerned with your comments. If you are in business you should understand the value of doing business with other small business. It is good and healthy for you and for them. Discounting people based on their employment is also short-sighted.
James Day at 7:57am April 28
Very valid point.
Kelly Schantz Cook at 7:59am April 28
Agreed!
Staci Severin Landis at 8:00am April 28
Wow.
Peter Alcivar at 8:02am April 28
Several years ago, while I was unemployed, I interviewed for a photographer job at the Wal-Mart portrait studio. They didn't ask to see a portfolio. The only requirement was that I had to get a haircut and shave.You get what you pay for.
Jessica Padgett Bell at 8:13am April 28
I couldn't agree more! You DO get what you pay for. I checked into a "photographer" job at our WM awhile back and was SHOCKED to learn that you didn't really need any photography skills at all- they send you to a week-long "training" and you are all set! And here I've been working and working and studying and practicing for YEARS when all I needed to do to be a photographer was take a week-long "class" at WalMart... ROFL :-p
Carrie Viohl at 8:17am April 28
I totally agree, Stacey! We shop local as often as possible... and the blood pressure stays down, too!
Amy Tilley at 8:30am April 28
I totally agree you get what you pay for!!! and it to makes me cringe!!But one point I want to make is.... Walmart was once the small business down the street and Sam Walton made the American dream come true!I sure hope when I make it really really big, people don't stop using me!! Just don't see the need to dog on wal-mart.
Jenni Merrill at 8:48am April 28
I refuse to shop at Walmart after seeing the movie 'The high cost of low prices' Sure it's cheaper but cheap is never good and good is never cheap. Also, I know a guy who works in Walmart produce and he admits it's bought in bulk and crap...he buys his produce at the grocery store next door! THAT'S saying something!
Stacey Friedlein at 8:57am April 28
Amy, My intention is not to take pot shots at Wal Mart but to help small buiness owners understand they need to consider their own actions when they see how their clients react to the differences in services between them and the discount stores.I admire Sam Walton also. I have read his book and found many useflul ideas. But when your business model (Wal Mart) is to undersell all of your competition then as a consumer and a competitior you need to realize how your decisions to support and compete create a conflitct in your business model.
Julia Gerace at 8:56am April 28
hmmm... I'm not sure if I have a problem buying socks and underwear for the kids at Walmart - I mean, where else would you go for that type of stuff? or, like papertowels...any suggestions?
Stacey Friedlein at 9:02am April 28
Julia,Do you have a local childrens clothing store and a locally owned grocery, hardware or drug store which may carry these items. The challenge is to seek them out. Let them know you are also an independent business person. It may be the start of a great business relationship.
Peter Alcivar at 9:11am April 28
There is a well-known project management axiom known as the Project Triangle. It's an extension of Jenni's comment that cheap is never good and good is never cheap. At its simplest, it can be expressed as "good, fast, cheap--pick any two". Although it sounds facetious, it really isn't. If you want something done well and quickly, it won't be ... cheap--we may have to hire more staff. If you want it done quickly and cheaply, quality suffers--we'll have to cut corners somewhere, and if you want it done well and cheaply, it won't be fast--we'll have to wait for downtime from other projects.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_triangleWhile this is only obliquely related to the original post, it does underscore the need to understand one's priorities and the consequences of one's decisions, and that cost is only one consideration when making a purchasing decision.
I agree Julia. As a photographer, I don't view Walmart as my competition. The clientele who purchase "portraits" there are not the clients I'm seeking out. Plus, I've heard that Walmart makes no money off their portrait studios...they're only hoping you'll buy other stuff while you're there! I LOVE to support small business, especially women-owned, and do so frequently. But when it comes to buying toiletries, envelopes, etc., a girl has gotta do what she can in this new economy! As in all things, balance & moderation.
Stacey Friedlein at 10:59am April 28
Barbara,I certainly agree with your concept Wal-Mart is not your competition. What I am trying to get accross is if you are willing to make buying decisions based strictly on price then don't be uspet when your poteintial client does not utilize your services because of your price.The second point is supporting small business is good for your small business. The few extra pennies you spend at the local store can pay huge dividends for you in the future.
Kathy L. Phy at 10:01am April 28
I won't step foot in a Wal-mart if someone paid me. The place gives me a major headache
Fred Hinegardner at 1:22pm April 28
When I had a studio, I was glad Wal-Mart and 15 other similar operations did what they did. They took people off my hands that I no longer wished to serve. I instructed all my help to assist callers who could no longer afford me.I cut my photographic teeth shooting 97 cent 8x10 specials. I shot 200 sittings a week while the studios maybe shot 20. Experience helps a rapid learning curve.One day I saw a local PPA Master hiding behind some shrubbery, watching my operation. I waved. He ran. He later tried to prevent my joining "his" PPA. My subsequent history is public.I don't think whining or boycotting solves anything more than creating an energy drain.I have even recommended people who want to gain a lot of portrait experience in a short amount of time to go to work for one of these outfits. I retired at 50.
Randy McNeely at 8:24pm April 28
Stacey, I agreed with you on this that is why I have not been there since Christmas.
Allen Austin at 8:27pm April 28
The pictures are still over priced!
Lindsi Jones at 8:53pm April 28
barf..
Travis Cossel at 8:56pm April 28
Nothing wrong with shopping at Wal-Mart. If I need staples or a light bulb or a bunch of bananas there's really no reason to pay more somewhere else. I think the distinction comes with a business that provides more than just a product like everyone else. To be honest, there are people out there that are perfectly happy with Wal-Mart pictures ... and you're never going to convince them to spend more for a better product. Not everyone is your customer, you know?
Tony Cooper at 9:00pm April 28
'Zackly Travis. There's no mom and pops nearby that sell what I need for less... and none of them are personalized custom products, either. I'm not competing with WM... if you're a WM portrait client, you probably aren't mine, and were never meant to be. On the other hand, if you are my client, you'll likely never want to be a WM client again. :)
Jack Corzine at 9:02pm April 28
nope, sorry, I take my own pictures and do the cropping and touch up on the computer. Sorry Stacey, in general I do agree with you but if it is something that I can do I will. There is one thing I do wish to say though on this subject. That is simply that each and EVERY small business owner has a responsibility to provide the very best personal ... Read Moreservice available. Otherwise it makes the easy way of taking it to someplace like Walmart more appealing to people. I've been burnt by a small business photographer and it does make you much more wary of placing what can amount to much more money into someone elses hands (granted this is a rare occurance).
Stacey Friedlein at 9:17pm April 28
I appreciate everyone's comments. Here is a challenge for the small business owners. Next time you are heading out to do your shopping think about whether the items you are going to get can be purchased locally. You might be surprised.
I totally agree the Wal Mart customer is probably not your client but this is not the point of this post. The original reason for asking this question was to get small business owners consider the double standard of wanting clients to use their services but who may be looking for the cheapest solutions to their needs.
If you don't feel you can afford what you are selling it makes the selling proposition much more difficult.
I plan to write more on this topic in the future. Again thanks to everyone for their input.
Barbara Jones Adelman at 9:26pm April 28
Hey Stacey - this is kind of timely - I attended an event for ISU tonight and looked around at all the other small business women in attendance, met or got re -aquatinted with many and realized that this network of support and personal relationships is not only the beauty of our city, but also the connections that will grow my business - I should not expect their support if I do not attempt to support them. My goal for the rest of the year is a campaign of one on one support of local business and fund raising efforts in order to be a vital part of the community= even though the time and effort may be a little more, the benefits both to my business and my spirit I believe will be great (and cost effective)
Travis Cossel at 9:29pm April 28
Grocery workers aren't underpaid .. I've worked in the industry and the work isn't all that hard. There are certainly much more difficult jobs out there that pay the same or less (including my current job). The bottom line is that I would bet that for most of us, Wal-Mart employees are NOT our target demographic .. just like Burger King employees aren't our target demographic. This idea that I should pay more for something somewhere else to somehow better support our towns is bunk
Stacey Friedlein at 9:41pm April 28
Travis, I am concerned with your comments. If you are in business you should understand the value of doing business with other small business. It is good and healthy for you and for them. Discounting people based on their employment is also short-sighted.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Don't create your own doom and gloom
I love a challenge. Reading though group posts on Facebook I found this post on the Pro Photo Supply group page. I want to challenge each of the ‘broken’ things. I have written and spoken on this topic many times and wish to offer some insight. Grand, these comments are not directed at you personally. There are many small business owners who feel this pressure.
Grand Lubell (Toledo, OH) replied to Mark's post
There are a few broken things that we can't fix:
1. Given the number of unemployed, maybe 10%, the media loves to tell us. All of this hype makes the other 90%, still employed, very nervous. They want deals so low as if they were suffering themselves. Those deals then cut into small businesses, lower margins and kill personalized service. Wal-Mart made it on volume and tough negotiating. Small business can't do that. We need the media to end the scare.
My response: You are right. Perception is reality and people are nervous but it is incumbent on the small business owner to study their market, understand their buying habits and what motivates their decisions. The ‘Walmart” shopper is likely not your client. If it is then you need to be prepared to compete on price While clients may be more price sensitive creating value in your product is possible without jeopardizing your profitability.
2. Part-time and start-ups can work for less and make more. A real studio with taxes, insurance, employees, benefits, advertising, equipment, a building and real suppliers, are lucky to keep 40% of the sale. The start-up could have none of this. Many avoid sales and income tax. No insurance and little back up. They sell in a Starbucks. A $1,300 start-up wedding shooter will make more than a $2,500 brick and mortar guy. And many start-ups are talented. Also most start-ups use photography for additional income finding health insurance elsewhere,
My response: You cannot focus on what the other guy is doing. Taking the time to create a business plan to address your goals and needs and creating an effective marketing plan is the only way you are going to achieve financial success and ride out the tough times. One of the areas to evaluate as you assess your profitability is your fixed costs. If overhead is eroding to much profit then assess whether you should continue in a commercial location or if there is a less expensive alternative.
3. The Internet made us all equal. Also thank bludomain. Nice product for cheap that brought parity to the market place.
My response: The internet is simply a tool to be used to drive customers to your business. Anyone can have a webpage but it is how well it is used along with other marketing tools to promote your business which will determine your successs.
4. The PPA was not our friend. The copyright thing is dead. The energy should be on promoting professional photography, not policing our clients ink jet printers.
My response: PPA is your association. Make your desires known and look carefully at all the tools they have to offer. Copyright protection is a very small part of what PPA can offer you as a member.
5. Canon and Nikon brought our technology to Costco for cheap.
My response: Cameras are simply tools used to create our final product. Before your client can appreciate what you can do with the tool you need to appreciate at it yourself. Making an investment in education and product innovation is essential to set you apart from your competition. It is not the tools or the products as much as it is how you make your client feel about your interest and ability to fulfill their needs.
6. It became cool for art students to shoot weddings because photography was no longer a "dark" craft. The tech part disappeared.
My response: Establishing your style and your ability to capture images in a way which appeals to your client. You need to be concerned about selling your service and the experience you are creating for your client. Again, look within and stop blaming outside influences for the success of your company.
7. Fuji sold us out on the Frontier
My response: See number 5
8. Millers sold us out with Mpix
My response: See number 5
9. Albums Inc. sold us out with Life's Imprints
My response: See number 5
10. There will be a new crop of Debbie and Donnie Digitals born each day. They will come and go, drop both the price and exceptions will become so low that we will never catch up. Sure there will be a few who want the best. But what is the best? The best today is rapidly shot, miss matched color, grainy, fun photography. And Debbie does a great job of it.
My response: Stop blaming every outside influence and worry about what you can control…your quality, your marketing and most importantly your ability to give your client something only you can give them. YOU! Understand the best thing going for you is you. Creating a positive attitude about what you can offer your client and making them understand the experience you create for them is something only you can do will eliminate all of the objections you have listed. I think you are up to the challenge.
A great portfolio will get you customers who aren’t shopping for price. Dropping your price will put you out of business. Holding your price will put you out of business.I hear the fat lady singing and I'm not sure how to pull her off stage.
My response: You are right. Establish your pricing based on sound financial decisions, understand your target demographic and create products and services which cater to their needs and you can overcome the current economic news. Focus inward on yourself and your business and I believe you will find the success which you feel is eluding you. Ignore the fat lady, she is not singing for you.
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