My Upcoming Trip to Washington D.C. (Maryland, Virginia)

My Upcoming Trip to Washington D.C. (Maryland, Virginia) Updated Sept 16. I finally bought tickets for my D.C. trip.   I dont have much scheduled now but will over the next few weeks.   Heres what I know now: Friday, Sept 18: Fly in late (9:30pm).   Grab rental car and stay with friends in Maryland. Saturday, Sept 19: sightseeing with my oldest daughter in D.C.   Any suggestions?   I think all the Smithsonian museums are closed on Saturday? Sunday, Sept 20: Running around Woodbridge, VA showing her were I met her mom and dinner with a buddy and my sister. Monday, Sept 21: 1:30 â€" 3:30 â€" Private presentation in Hunt Valley, MD (outplacement firm) 7pm â€" Bel Air, MD Grace Career Networking Group.   Free come if you can! Tuesday, Sept 22: 11:00 â€" 12:30 â€" Private corporate presentation in D.C. 1:30 â€" 3:30 â€" Private presentation in Fairfax, VA (outplacement firm) 6:30 â€" 8:30 â€" socStardom at Johns Hopkins University Montgomery Campus, Rockville, MD.   This is for entrepreneurs and businesses and will focus on how to use social media to grow your business.   Register here. Free. Wednesday, Sept 23: 1:00 â€" 3:00 â€" Human Resources Association National Capital Area on job search/career management in Washington, D.C.   Location and registration info here.   Not sure if you have to be a member, but this event is Free. 4:00 â€" 5:30 â€" LinkedIn for Executives ($50 or $60) register here.   Note times are Eastern youll have to do the math to figure out what time that is for YOU. 6:00 â€" 8:00 â€" State of Maryland Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC) presentation (location here).   Already booked solid. Drive to Annapolis for Conference Thursday, Sept 24: conference in Annapolis Friday, Sept 25: conference in Annapolis Dinner with my sister, her man, and my daugter in MD or D.C. Saturday, Sept 26: conference in Annapolis, then fly home around lunch (oops, I thought I had this scheduled on Sunday) If you know of any job clubs, etc. that I can speak at, let me know Id love to fill my schedule (up to 4 presentations per day). Anything IN Annapolis would be great for Wed Saturday. My Upcoming Trip to Washington D.C. (Maryland, Virginia) Updated Sept 16. I finally bought tickets for my D.C. trip.   I dont have much scheduled now but will over the next few weeks.   Heres what I know now: Friday, Sept 18: Fly in late (9:30pm).   Grab rental car and stay with friends in Maryland. Saturday, Sept 19: sightseeing with my oldest daughter in D.C.   Any suggestions?   I think all the Smithsonian museums are closed on Saturday? Sunday, Sept 20: Running around Woodbridge, VA showing her were I met her mom and dinner with a buddy and my sister. Monday, Sept 21: 1:30 â€" 3:30 â€" Private presentation in Hunt Valley, MD (outplacement firm) 7pm â€" Bel Air, MD Grace Career Networking Group.   Free come if you can! Tuesday, Sept 22: 11:00 â€" 12:30 â€" Private corporate presentation in D.C. 1:30 â€" 3:30 â€" Private presentation in Fairfax, VA (outplacement firm) 6:30 â€" 8:30 â€" socStardom at Johns Hopkins University Montgomery Campus, Rockville, MD.   This is for entrepreneurs and businesses and will focus on how to use social media to grow your business.   Register here. Free. Wednesday, Sept 23: 1:00 â€" 3:00 â€" Human Resources Association National Capital Area on job search/career management in Washington, D.C.   Location and registration info here.   Not sure if you have to be a member, but this event is Free. 4:00 â€" 5:30 â€" LinkedIn for Executives ($50 or $60) register here.   Note times are Eastern youll have to do the math to figure out what time that is for YOU. 6:00 â€" 8:00 â€" State of Maryland Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC) presentation (location here).   Already booked solid. Drive to Annapolis for Conference Thursday, Sept 24: conference in Annapolis Friday, Sept 25: conference in Annapolis Dinner with my sister, her man, and my daugter in MD or D.C. Saturday, Sept 26: conference in Annapolis, then fly home around lunch (oops, I thought I had this scheduled on Sunday) If you know of any job clubs, etc. that I can speak at, let me know Id love to fill my schedule (up to 4 presentations per day). Anything IN Annapolis would be great for Wed Saturday. My Upcoming Trip to Washington D.C. (Maryland, Virginia) Updated Sept 16. I finally bought tickets for my D.C. trip.   I dont have much scheduled now but will over the next few weeks.   Heres what I know now: Friday, Sept 18: Fly in late (9:30pm).   Grab rental car and stay with friends in Maryland. Saturday, Sept 19: sightseeing with my oldest daughter in D.C.   Any suggestions?   I think all the Smithsonian museums are closed on Saturday? Sunday, Sept 20: Running around Woodbridge, VA showing her were I met her mom and dinner with a buddy and my sister. Monday, Sept 21: 1:30 â€" 3:30 â€" Private presentation in Hunt Valley, MD (outplacement firm) 7pm â€" Bel Air, MD Grace Career Networking Group.   Free come if you can! Tuesday, Sept 22: 11:00 â€" 12:30 â€" Private corporate presentation in D.C. 1:30 â€" 3:30 â€" Private presentation in Fairfax, VA (outplacement firm) 6:30 â€" 8:30 â€" socStardom at Johns Hopkins University Montgomery Campus, Rockville, MD.   This is for entrepreneurs and businesses and will focus on how to use social media to grow your business.   Register here. Free. Wednesday, Sept 23: 1:00 â€" 3:00 â€" Human Resources Association National Capital Area on job search/career management in Washington, D.C.   Location and registration info here.   Not sure if you have to be a member, but this event is Free. 4:00 â€" 5:30 â€" LinkedIn for Executives ($50 or $60) register here.   Note times are Eastern youll have to do the math to figure out what time that is for YOU. 6:00 â€" 8:00 â€" State of Maryland Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC) presentation (location here).   Already booked solid. Drive to Annapolis for Conference Thursday, Sept 24: conference in Annapolis Friday, Sept 25: conference in Annapolis Dinner with my sister, her man, and my daugter in MD or D.C. Saturday, Sept 26: conference in Annapolis, then fly home around lunch (oops, I thought I had this scheduled on Sunday) If you know of any job clubs, etc. that I can speak at, let me know Id love to fill my schedule (up to 4 presentations per day). Anything IN Annapolis would be great for Wed Saturday.

13 Common Remote Job Titles Without Location Requirements -

13 Common Remote Job Titles Without Location Requirements - A wide range of work from anywhere positions are available to those seeking a portable career.   As job seekers enter a promising job market and a historically strong hiring season, it is a prime time for many to start or expand their efforts to find remote work. However, it is a misconception that all remote jobs can be done from any location. In fact, approximately 95% of remote jobs require workers to be based in a certain geographic location, such as a specific city, state, region or country. To help job seekers interested in finding remote jobs that can truly be performed from anywhere,  FlexJobs has identified 13 common remote job titles that typically do not include a location requirement.   Work From Anywhere Literally “There is a great marketplace of  work-from-anywhere jobs  that provide tremendous latitude for people looking to work untethered from geographic requirements,“ said Sara Sutton, Founder and CEO of FlexJobs. “Whether you’re a digital nomad or simply someone seeking to cut your ties to a traditional location-bound job, there are a wealth of employers unconcerned with workers’ locations, and more concerned that they’re producing high-quality work,” Sutton concluded. Here are seven of the most common reasons that remote jobs have location requirements: Employment and tax law: employment and tax law requirements pertaining to the state or country in which the company operates Certifications: the employer or job requires certifications that are location-specific Time zone: the company might want the employee to live in a certain time zone Meetings: to be close in proximity to company offices for in-person meetings Clients: to be close to clients, especially in the case of sales and project management jobs Office work: the company requires employees to work from the office part-time or occasionally Travel: the job is travel-heavy and the employer wants the employee to be close to travel destinations main transport hubs The 13 job titles below are commonly found in the FlexJobs database of work from anywhere jobsthose remote jobs which provide tremendous latitude for people looking to work untethered from geographic requirements. Business Development Manager Average salary via PayScale: $71,968 Business development managers create business plans, drive new customers and business, manage client accounts, increase brand loyalty, and improve customer satisfaction. Strong relational skills are needed for this role. Copywriter Average salary via PayScale: $50,570 Copywriters write persuasive copy to draw in an audience and convince them to purchase or use a product or service. Copywriters need to be able to write clear and concise copy, and many jobs require editing skills. Curriculum Designer Average salary via PayScale: $61,389 Curriculum or instructional designers write and create academic training and course materials. Duties can include updating and writing syllabi, creating online course content, and using feedback to update course materials. Customer Support Specialist Average salary via PayScale: $41,382 Customer service specialists often deal with customers and clients via phone, email, chat, and social media. They answer questions, troubleshoot problems, and may sell products or services. Front-End Developer Average salary via PayScale: $71,145 Front-end developers code the front end of a website by converting design files into HTML, JavaScript, or CSS. The online nature of this role makes it one of the best remote jobs to do from anywhere. Marketing Manager Average salary via PayScale: $64,500 Marketing managers typically create advertising and marketing campaigns to sell products and services. Writing, social media, and SEO skills are often needed for this role. Online ESL Teacher Average salary via PayScale: $43,878 ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers teach English to non-native students. Virtual teachers may meet one-on-one or in a group setting. Grading student work and creating curriculum may be part of the job. Product Manager Average salary via PayScale: $82,916 Product managers oversee the production of a product. They help to meet goals, guide a team, manage expenses, oversee budgets, and more. Recruiter Average salary via PayScale: $49,544 Recruiters work to find candidates for open roles. They may write and post descriptions, reach out to qualified candidates, perform interviews, do background checks, and onboard new employees. Social Media Manager Average salary via PayScale: $49,881 Social media managers manage social media pages and profiles. Drafting posts, interacting with followers, and tracking metrics and engagement are a few tasks of a social media manager. Translator Average salary via PayScale: $47,974 Remote translators work to translate the written word from one language to another. Translators may work to translate books, articles, scripts, captions, and more. Fluency and expertise in another language is required. Virtual Assistant Average salary via PayScale: $39,617 Virtual assistants can set up meetings and appointments, oversee calendar management, take meeting notes, organize digital files, respond to emails, and more. Web Designer Average salary via PayScale: $49,649 Developing, creating, and coding web pages and apps are the main tasks of a web designer. Web designers typically need to know one or more coding languages and have some graphic design skills. For more information please visit Flexjobs   or contact Kathy Gardner at  [emailprotected]. About FlexJobs FlexJobs  is a premium online job service for professionals seeking flexible work, specializing in full-time and part-time remote jobs, employee and freelance jobs, and on-site jobs with flexible, part-time, and alternative schedules. Since its start in 2007, FlexJobs has helped more than 4 million people in their job searches and has created the largest vetted database of legitimate flexible job opportunities in over 50 career categories. In addition, FlexJobs provides robust career support, including curated expert resources and career coaching services, to partner with job seekers in all phases of their journey. A trusted source in the media, FlexJobs has been cited in top national outlets such as CNN, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, CNBC, Forbes, and many others.

Real Career Girls featuring GLAMMA WINE A Taste of Celebration

Real Career Girls featuring GLAMMA WINE A Taste of Celebration When sisters-in-law Linda Baltrusch and Stacy Waldenberg from the treasured state of Montanaâ€"who have been friends for 35 yearsâ€"were in search of a unique gift idea to celebrate triumphs and milestones “in style” for women; little did they know it marked the beginnings of an entrepreneurial undertaking. With a zeal for living the good life, these modern, stylish optimists, who always incorporate savory wines into their celebratory gatherings with friends and family, decided to create a line of their own. With an intention to represent their demographics, yet provide a product for women of all ages to enjoy, they took hold of a  new name for “Grandma” with the term “Glamma” (defined by the Urban Dictionary as a woman with a sense of self and style) and thus was born the name, Glamma Wine. With no experience in the wine business, the company of two worked voraciously. They engaged in countless hours of researching, conversing with experts, and visiting wineries to learn the process of wine making from vineyards to bottling. The fact that women account for 85% of all consumer purchases was an endorsement to their decision to market their wine to the female market. Complementing the “Glamma” name is the subtly seductive label donning a faceless caricature of mature sophistication. The clever image, cooperatively designed with a marketing company, caught the eye of a wine manufacturer from Paso Robles, California and the two entities partnered to create the Glamma Wine line. It’s a celebration in every glass,” a perfectly fitting motto, displayed on every bottle. In less than two years, integrating the artistic, entertaining and intrinsic sensory aspects of wine taste with the factors that underlie purchase motivation, the two have made an imprint in the competitive industry offering four unique selections. The 2009 Cabernet entails a complex mix of aromatics and flavors with complex characteristics of licorice, dried strawberries, and black currant along with hints of clementine and vanilla. The 2013 Viognier, is a young rhone varietal consisting of fresh aromatics of lychee, pineapple, stone fruits, peach, and apricots. Then there’s the shining 2013 Chardonnay. In it you’ll taste apple and pineapple flavors with bits of nectarine and toasted hazelnut. And if you prefer your wine sparkling, Glamma Wine offers the Bubble Bling, a delicately fruity sensation with a smooth crisp finish. All are competitively priced between $20 and $24 per bottle. “Life is supposed to be good,” hails Stacy, while concern makes its way into Linda’s voice referring to Glamma Wine as a ‘kind of therapy’ for women that requires nothing more than to sip, savor and relax. The unique varieties are as much a perfect pairing for gals sharing special occasions as it is with delectable recipes, like the ones provided on the Glamma Wine website. Even with slogans like “Girls plus wine equal fabulous times,” men are not excluded from the Glamma Wine experience. Linda explains that while men’s approach to wine are different from that of women they, too, are enjoying the brandâ€"particularly the Cabernet. Characteristic of the wine trade, Linda and Stacy are hospitable and generous, embracing opportunities to sponsor fundraisers and other events such as: Family Service, Dress for Success, Boys Girls Club, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Trailmixer, Bozerman Deaconess Foundation, Mayfair Hospital Foundation and Heart of the West Contemporary Western Art Show and Auction. On the horizon, the entrepreneurs are working to expand their brand to other gift ideas that complement Glamma Wine like designer drinking glasses, diamond studded wine stoppers and other trinkets that bring the glitz and glamour to any party. Stacy and Linda shared their advice for burgeoning female entrepreneurs with ideas to start a business. “Don’t Look Back!   Don’t Give Up!   Keep Pursuing Your Dream!” Understanding full well the uphill challenges that often confront women, who are parents, spouses and caretakers with careers; Glamma Wines’ presence in the market is a testament to the adage that says all things are possible to those who believe. When I asked about information they’d like to pass on to women with aspirations to enter the wine industry specifically, Stacy’s feisty response came immediately. “Back off! The New Glammas are in town!” And Linda laughingly concurs, “Don’t mess with us!” The cackling outburst is soon brought under control. In the momentary pause there is a sense of exhale; the relief and pride one feels with the accomplishment of an arrival. In their final remarks, they make evident their intention to stay in the ever-growing, competitive world of wine-making. From birthdays to holidaysâ€"promotions, engagements and anniversaries in betweenâ€"Linda (The GICF ‘Glamma in charge of Fabulousness’) and Stacy (The GICF ‘Glamma in charge of Glambition’) have created a memorable gift idea, of “feel-good” and celebratory proportions. As well they have positioned themselves among the ranks of other successful women entrepreneurs and laid a foundation for a future legacy.   A toast to a vision successfully realized! Glamma Wine may be purchased in retail stores in Montana and on line at www.glammawine.com. Stay connected at facebook.com/glammawine  and twitter.com/glammawine .

Personal Yet Professional Conversation Creates Improves Meeting Results - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

Personal Yet Professional Conversation Creates Improves Meeting Results - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career As an entrepreneur or salesperson, it is up to you to have a flexible agenda in place prior to any type of meeting. At the start of the serious portion of each meeting, let it be known what you would like to accomplish by the conclusion of your time spent. Then ask participants for their desired outcomes. Take note and be certain to add their concerns in your original agenda. The above instruction becomes the basis for leading the conversation with questions. This is strongly advised in order to gain perspective from all in attendance. Meetings are to be viewed as a team effort to achieve the best possible outcome. Professional Approach The inclusion of everyone in attendance, serves to build a larger opportunity and a win for all. Preparation will have you standing out as a professional, and one who is worthy of serious consideration. Human Touch All types of meetings see improved success when you come across as both personable and professional. The small talk upfront, and finding commonality through the conversation are equally important to the serious discussion. This further defines who you are alongside establishing a favorable personal brand. The human touch encourages prospective clients to take action. This is particularly true when they recognize you are working on their behalf first vs. simply there to secure a sale. Social Media Connection When you apply the human touch to social media, results dramatically improve. For example, on Twitter, you may readily read insights from an individual to get an idea of their thinking. Some you will quickly pass over, while others will motivate and inspire. It becomes likely that you will follow those found in the latter category. To move the connection forward, research the person on LinkedIn. The profiles are a quick read. You will soon know whether to reach out to connect there and potentially take it to the next level. This combination is so powerful, that an article was written detailing how you may do the same.  http://bit.ly/1TAdCe0 Your Effort Should you be frustrated with fruitless meetings, consider the following: Are you agreeing to meet out of desperation? Is it time to interact with a new audience or try a new platform to improve results? We are educated to believe that our processes need to be rock solid. But we soon learn there is no one hard rule defining how business is to be run and operated. Factors to consider: Changing times such as technology and social trends Experience brings new ideas Business growth requires additional change Flexibility opens the door to greater opportunity By recognizing what needs to be refreshed, and how you differ from others in your field, will have you advancing more quickly. A good policy is to review processes quarterly. This allows you to make both updates and changes in order to remain ahead of the pack and in front of clientele. These guidelines will lead you to the Smooth Sale!

Benefits of Using Resume Writing Consultants in Mumbai

Benefits of Using Resume Writing Consultants in MumbaiResume writing consultants in Mumbai offer various services, which include conceptualizing, structuring and drafting of your resume. By having these professionals guide you, your future job prospects will be much improved. Let's look at some of the key benefits of using this form of assistance.Due to their in-depth knowledge and experience, resume writing consultants in Mumbai are able to bring about significant changes and improvements to your resume and cover letter. They can help you make sure that your resume is appealing to your prospective employer and not to mention, that it is written in such a way that it effectively and clearly communicates your expertise and worth. With this professional help, your resume will present you in the best possible light.With a customized service from a resume writing consultant in Mumbai, you can get your resume written in a particular format. This gives you the flexibility to write your res ume in a way that suits your personality and your professional career goals. Instead of getting a standard resume, you can decide to add more items or remove some items that you don't need.A customized resume means that you will get professional assistance from an experienced professional. This is of immense importance, as there is a great deal of stress involved in applying for a particular job. With the help of a qualified professional, your resume will be designed to be more appealing and effective, so that you are able to get the job that you want. Resume writing consultants in Mumbai can write your resume in a manner that conveys your career objectives clearly.With the help of this professional assistance, you will be able to select the best format of your resume, as well as the formatting guidelines that are required to be followed. Professional resume writing consultants in Mumbai will then help you polish your resume until it is convincing enough to make the hiring manager t o give you the job that you want. The end result is that you will get hired for the job that you have applied for, because your resume is proving itself to be more effective than your competitors'.In the world of today, where technology is changing rapidly, technology is also advancing, and in this case, you will benefit from the professional assistance that resume writing consultants in Mumbai can provide. With the help of their expertise, you will be able to communicate your capabilities and talents clearly, and in a manner that they are interpreted in an appealing and powerful manner. The impact will be more effective than what it would have been if you had left it to chance.With the help of this expert and professional assistance, you will be able to save time and effort. You will be able to do your job faster, and you will also be able to focus on the task at hand. The result is that you will be able to do your job without too much pressure. That is, if you leave it to the resu me writing consultants in Mumbai.Resume writing consultants in Mumbai understand that your resume has to reflect your potentials, and that it needs to be written in a manner that can impress the hiring manager. With your future career in mind, they can ensure that your resume is completed to perfection. With them at your side, you will never have to worry about anything when it comes to your future job.

If Youre Not a Little Uncomfortable, Youre Not Reaching Far Enough For Your Goals - CareerEnlightenment.com

If Youre Not a Little Uncomfortable, Youre Not Reaching Far Enough For Your Goals You hate crowds but here you are, getting ready to take the stage at a public speaking contest. Butterflies in your stomach? More like a ball of fire. The hum of the crowd increases after they announce you are next. Time to take the stage.Why are you doing this? Because you know the value personal development has in your life. You know discomfort is part of achieving big goals, and you’re facing the best opportunity right now earning acceptance into your dream college.Staying in your comfort zone is not the answer. Instead, learn how your personality traits form your comfort zone, then realize that you need to develop self-awareness and determine how to step out of your comfort zone to make your dreams come true.Follow these steps to get out of your comfort zone and earn acceptance into your dream college:Step 1: Define Your Comfort ZoneA comfort zone is a psychological state where you feel at ease and in control of your environment. You are familiar with your situation. Naturall y, stepping outside of this causes anxiety and generates stress.The best way to start your personal development journey is by defining your comfort zone based on your personality. For example, if you’re more introverted, activities like public speaking and working in group settings may seem daunting.Reflect on your past experiences in work and in school. Determine what situations made you feel the least and most comfortable. This will give you a good idea of where fear is holding you back.Let’s say you felt the most uncomfortable leading a group project. You felt perfectly comfortable doing your part of the project but didn’t like having to delegate tasks to others. This shows you that leadership skills don’t come naturally to you, which is perfectly fine. Now you know what to work toward.Step 2: Determine What Scares YouOnce you know your comfort zone, select activities outside of that. What activities scare you? What activities go against your nature?It’s important to kn ow this because when you apply to colleges, admissions professionals look for specific traits that may lie outside your comfort zone. My company, KudosWall, conducted a  study  and found that creativity, which is commonly viewed as an introvert trait, is highly valued in college resumes, online portfolios, online presence, and admission essays.On the other hand, extroverts prevail by showcasing their outgoing personality, creating large networks, and establishing a personal brand. To put it simply, both extroverts and introverts have advantages in different areas of the application process.While it’s important to play to your strengths, also find ways to pursue new challenges. Dedicate yourself to personal development by finding those activities that push you beyond your boundaries.Do you hate leading? Find activities that give you more experience in that role, like being captain of a soccer team. Discomfort is where growth begins. Want to Read More Articles Like This One?Sign up here to receive weekly updates from Career Enlightenment, and never miss another powerful job searching tip! SUBSCRIBE! You have Successfully Subscribed!We hate spam too. Unsubscribe any time. Step 3: Find Your ‘Productive Discomfort’Expect to face fears, doubts, anxiety, and discomfort. You’re going to want to quit. You may regret signing up for a project or entering a competition.Whatever causes these feelings, run  toward  that. That fear and anxiety actually make you more productive and adaptable.The more you do things outside of your comfort zone, the easier it will be when you face new, unexpected changes. This is called ‘productive discomfort’ when you reach a state of optimal anxiety that pushes you to perform better.As you seek new experiences and learn new skills, you will be more creative and see old problems in a new light. This obviously creates many benefits for you moving forward in your academics.You may suddenly realize when the pressure is on that yo u are actually great at organizing big projects, delegating to your partners, and following through on the final outcome. This is progress.Step 4: Share Your ProgressAs you seek out ways to push yourself outside of your comfort zone, share your personal development journey publicly. This isn’t just for bragging or gaining attention it can actually help you get into college.In fact, our survey found that online presence is one of the most valuable college application factors admissions professionals look at. Your online presence is where you let your character and personality shine. If seeking out growth opportunities is part of your character, be proud of that.Consider creating a personal website or starting a blog to tell your stories of failure and success. Document what your process looks like and how you manage to accept discomfort and grow.The ball of fire in your stomach, that tightness in your shoulders, those sweaty palms these feelings mean you’re growing.How are you approaching personal development and seeking discomfort? Share in the comments!

6 quick and affordable tips to grow a new business

?6 quick and affordable tips to grow a new business Small businesses play a vital role in the U.S. economy where they are incubators for innovation and employment growth. About 97 percent of U.S. companies are small businesses, but their combined revenues are 66 percent the nation’s total business revenues. And a new business is risky, with about 50 percent still in operation after five years. So what should new business owners do to grow their companies? Margot Dorfman, CEO of the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce has keen insights. As an experienced business owner herself and the co-founder and leader of the national chamber of commerce for women, Dorfman understands how to generate business growth quickly and affordably. Here are Dorfmans quick tips for a fast start: 1. Present Yourself as an Expert. Present yourself (and your company) as an expert in your field. “I hear consistently from buyers that they want to buy from the person with the most experience, passion, and focus, Dorman says. Typically that is the owner. If you have sales people on the front line, make sure they communicate knowledgeably about the company and the industry and deliver a strong message professionally.” Avoid the, “I do everything” trap. Many new business owners take on too much and present themselves as an unfocused “jack of all trades.” Build your business in one solid area of focus where you are indeed an expert. 2. Leverage Free Visibility. Demonstrate your expertise by writing articles for trade journals, local newspapers and magazines, and making presentations at meetings and conferences. If you are involved in government contracting, attend and speak at city council and commission meetings. Share your expertise and let people see who you are. You may also pick up tips from these meetings about new opportunities for your company. “I was presenting at an event recently when one business owner said that she had time to only attend her one organization luncheon each month, Dorman says. The attendees were other women business owners having the same struggles, and this was a support network for her.” Dorfman challenged her to broaden her network by stepping out to a range of meetings and activities so that she would be meeting new people â€" and they would be meeting her. 3. Make the Most Of Opportunities Nearby. Identify buyers and potential buyers within a five-mile radius of your business. Look at consumers, small businesses, schools, local, county and state governments, large corporations, and any federal agencies, including military bases. Make a target list and reach out to these buyers to begin building relationships. 4. Expand Your Network Through Volunteering. Business startups are more than a full-time job and can leave little (if any) time to attend industry meetings or become actively involved in your community. However, it is these very relationships that provide new opportunities for business growth. Volunteering or serving on not-for-profit boards for causes with which you are aligned gives you the ability to meet other professionals that may be in need of your product or service. 5. Be Prepared and Present Solutions. When approaching buyers, make sure you have done your homework first. What sets you apart in the conversation? Research the companies or agencies to see if they buy what you sell. If yes, understand their pitfalls and lead the conversation with solutions to their challenges. 6. Above All, Follow Up! The biggest downfall to potential business is the lack of follow up. Send follow up email, keep in touch with relevant information, and deliver on promises. “One buyer I know says he sees the 80/20 rule reign here,” advises Dorfman. “Twenty percent of the businesses he meets respond 80 percent of the time. What happens to the rest? They make contact, don’t follow up, and lose his business. There are a lot of good companies with which he would have welcomed the opportunity to do business.” Dorfman has learned, from her own experience as an entrepreneur and her experience coaching other small businesses, that companies that are successful have created a wide network of targeted connections. Successful business owners limit their efforts to targeted regions or areas of focus, establish themselves as experts, provide appropriate solutions for each customer, and follow up consistently. Every small-business owner can build a successful business by making a commitment to building relationships, providing a quality product or service, being a market leader, and keeping those relationships going with good follow up.