Kathie Nelson, LLC

“Stepping out of Line” Book Review

I had recent opportunity to meet author Nell Merlino a few months ago when she was in Portland.  After hearing her I was inspired to pick up a couple of her books.  You will find this book a fun read.  Nell’s voice comes through loud and clear.  

I found “Stepping out of Line – Lessons from Women Who Want it Their Way” an easy read on the flight from LA to Hawaii a few weeks ago. I loved the juicy nuggets she serves up. Here are a few:

1. Exercise the favor muscle.  
   Nell’s take on the “pay it forward” principle.
2. Changing systems is easier than you think.  
   Love how she points out our submission to what is…and how easy it is to change it.
3. Imagine our future.
   Nothing happens if not first a dream.  How much time do we spend imagining the future we desire?   
4. The ripple effect. 
   Every one of us effects the other.  When we step out, we create opportunities and provide permission for others.
5. Daily choices make the difference.
    Zinger!  Are we willing to make the choices that daily affect our outcomes?  Start today. 
6. The overall message…what are you waiting for? or better, what am I waiting for? Permission? From who? 
   Great food for thought.  Enough to stimulate me to action. 

This timely message resonated with me. Nell shares that statistically 50% of the women business owners earn less than $50k annually. Wow!

Women, including myself, have a hope, inspiration, or an idea that brings value to the marketplace. Why don’t we pursue it or fully leverage the idea? Or a better question might be, why do we stall out in our pursuit? What is it we don’t know? Nell is committed to connecting us to the knowlege and resources through her Make Mine a Million $ Business. www.makemineamillion.org.

I put this book down inspired and compelled to no longer settle for mediocre in my own business. I am joining the race. How about you?

Wild West was Won with Heart and Passion – Inspires Business Growth Initiatives for the New Economy

I am convinced that business done with heart and passion is the business that will endure.

I had the opportunity to visit Eastern Oregon last week as a keynote for a local business resource fair. I was WOW’d from the time I drove into town until 24 hours later when I left.

Baker City, Oregon in times far past held it’s claim as the premier social center with the largest population in Oregon. It’s residents are enamored with the beauty of the area and burst with pride at their history. For example, over 100 buildings in the downtown are over 100 years old. After hanging out with them for one day, I was sold!

It was the collaboration of several entities that brought this event into fruition. I believe it is this type of cooperation that will enable us to weather this storm and come out on the other side wiser, better positioned, and cared for in the process.

• Travel with folks going your way. Hang out with positive, forward thinking people. Build your power team. Share the work.
• When trouble comes. Circle the wagons. This is not to deny the recession we are in but rather to accept where we are and do what we can to make a difference in the world.
• Keep moving toward the goal. You will be surprised at the difference in your ability to see bigger and take positive action when you see others finding success and opportunity just by their attitude.

  I want to publicly commend the local players in Baker City who work together to serve their community.
  Gene Stackle, B.E.G.I.N.; Ann MeHaffy, Historic Baker City, Inc.; Andrew Bryan, Baker County Development Corporation; Debi Bainter, Baker County Chamber of Commerce; Jake Jacobs, Small Business Development Center; and Linda Noble, Oregon Employment Department.

Wherever you are, there are resources like these and more! Working together we will get through!

Keep looking forward.

PS There are not many towns where you can visit the local wine bar to meet the reporter who wrote about you in the local paper…where he was the entertainment! Ed Merriman with the Baker City Herald is not only a talented reporter but also musician. Thanks, Ed for all your efforts on our behalf. Ed’s stories stories here and here.

If you ever get to Baker City, the first Friday is the Gallery Crawl. This is a VERY fun way to spend the evening. The Geiser Grand Hotel is a must visit for the restaurant or lodging. Start your day at Mad Matilda’s for coffee and the Earth & Vine for a night cap.

Pursue your Dream and Stimulate the Economy

I had the pleasure of meeting Nell Merlino, founder of Make Mine a Million $ Business® a few weeks ago at a WIFS (Women in Insurance & Financial Services) event in Portland.

Her presentation inspired and reminded me that women (and men) with vision contribute to us all.

First and foremost in sharing their vision, we are inspired to dream along too.  Along with inspiring us they show us how to take action but modeling their own process.

Nell’s inspiration:

1.  There is good news in the world. Small businesses are growing and hiring.  (I know I am investing in sub-contractors and service providers myself to get my websites up to date and implement systems to keep in touch.)

2.  50% of the women in business earn $50k or less annually. I knew this but had forgotten the impact.  Her challenge to the audience:

• If you are making less than you desire, what are you settling for?
• What line are you standing in waiting for permission?
• Do you really want to grow your business?  Really?
• What is missing?  What do you need?

3.  You may have an idea. You may want to be (or already are) in business.  You would love to do more of what you are REALLY good at.  Now is the time to figure out what you want and see your life as part of the bigger picture.

4.  You may think growing your business bigger means more work. This misperception keeps most women’s business small.  The truth is bigger business with the right team means less work for you.  Think about what you REALLY want.  You are the Queen of your Business and Life.

Alice Tang, founder of the local chapter of WIFS, leader and visionary herself, reminded us at the event close the Chinese words for crisis are danger and opportunity.  This accurately describes the current era.  Will you withdraw from danger or embrace opportunity?  Your choice.

Side note about WIFS-Portland - Alice Tang and her leadership team have done an excellent job of creating a culture of strategic partnerships and collaboration.  If you are in a business that serves the financial services industry or in the industry itself, you should check it out!  www.wifsportlandmetro.com

Is Indecision Killing Your Biz?

Are you driving away customers through indecision?

The curious side affect of indecision is that it actually drives business away.

Those stuck in indecision or fear tend to be drawn to others who are stuck in the same place. They subconsciously “leak” vibes that illustrate their mood by use of words, body language and facial expressions. Your indecision might simply show up as withdrawal because you want to be sure to do the RIGHT thing when you do take action.

Now is the time to move from indecision to decision. I challenge you to take action now! Become a client magnet by simply acting on the following.

1. Be the Voice of Reason. How do you do this? Find ways to assure yourself and your customers. Go back to what you know and are passionate about. If you are in the print business, you know that your customers will still need copies and quality service. If you are in telecom, you know your customers will still need phone service, repairs, and upgrades. If you are in personal services, you know consumers will still need services in Real Estate, cosmetics, nutrition, self care, beauty. The needs have not gone away. People will still do business with those they know, like, and trust. Always have. Always will. Reach out and let your community know you are still open for business.

2. Re-tool your products or service offerings. If you are able to adjust your offerings, do so now. Make it easy for your customers to buy from you. I am NOT saying to drop your price or discount. I am suggesting that consumers are buying differently now. If you are able to package, bundle, or break up your offering consider doing it sooner rather than later. If you are in the Portland area, check out our Package your Passion for Profit workshop on this topic.

3. Keep your finger on the pulse. Survey your customers and network. Whether formally or informally, this is a great reason to reach out and touch people. Pick up the phone and ask your customers. Find out the top three things they are doing differently now. Ask what changes they might be making as it relates to your product and service or those of in your network. For example, when I survey folks right now I am not directly asking about consulting or planning. I ask about how they are making decisions about marketing; How they’ve fine tuned their sales process; If they are reducing their outside support services such as bookkeeping, membership organizations, etc. Surveying, if done well can open up new opportunties and more sales. This will also keep you on top of changes in mood keeping you ahead in the game.

4. Commit. I love the quote by Napoleon Hill “The moment you commit and quit holding back, all sorts of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance will rise up to help you. The simple act of commitment is a powerful magnet for help.” It is a fundamental principle through the ages!

5. Hang out with positive, forward thinking people. Build your power team. This is not to deny the recession we are in but rather to accept where we are and do what we can to make a difference in the world. You will be surprised at the difference in your ability to see bigger and take positive action when you see others finding success and opportunity just by their attitude.

Case study: My client, Rob Arps, has steadily been shifting his focus to serve his clients as their businesses change due to budget cuts.

His business is unique. He works with sculptors to produce their end product; either monuments or reductions. He uses state of the art technology and 3D printers along with his team’s artistic ability to streamline the process and produce a high quality product in the art world.

What he is doing differently.

• He added a high quality 3D printer which allows him to do reductions and prototypes in less time in higher quality.
• He added classes on the software he uses along with workshops on the tools at hand to help artists streamline their own services to reduce costs and increase their margins.
• He is also working in other mediums such as wood in addition to the traditional foam and clay.
• He is out “walking around”. Visiting galleries and artists in the community to keep his finger on the pulse.

His first round of classes are sold out. More about his studio at www.AdditiveWorkshop.com

I believe small businesses are going to be instrumental in turning this economy around. Do your part. Look for opportunities to solve problems for your customers and beyond! Decide to do more than survive! Decide to thrive.

Who is your Role Model in Times Like This?

Role models.  Who are yours? 

I want to tell you about mine.  My mother. 

What prompted this story is that my mom is making news at 72 years of age for doing some amazing things!

Let me give you some history before I get into the news.  In my lifetime I watched my mom travel a hard road.  Divorced from my father after 28 years, she was forced to face life on her own after being a stay at home mom and raising 5 kids.  Leaving the town and family she relocated across the country and began to create a life for herself.  She struggled alone for a very long time before settling in the same state as my sister.   Of course, these are just the highlights. 

What is noteworthy is her courage, tenacity and commitment to self discovery and the quality of life those qualities bring.   I want to share with you the pitch letter, DIY Publicity Expert, Nancy Juetten is using to open doors with Redbook, Oprah and NBC Nightly News just today. 

With so many near-retirement Americans being dismayed and disappointed that their retirement funds have evaporated as a result of the current economic challenges of our nation, media consumers are hungry for inspiring, good news.  Bette James Laughrun, 72, of Grand Junction, Colorado offers a pretty remarkable human interest story that can lift spirits and inspire hope and action. 

At age 62, she was preparing to die.  Since her parents had died around that age, she suspected her time on Earth was near complete.  She retreated from life.  She thought twice about receiving dental work because she wasn’t sure the return on investment was worth it.  Then, she received an invitation in the mail to participate in a human potential workshop. She decided to attend.  During the workshop, she realized she wasn’t living her life with a long term vision.  She reflected on the value of her life and the contribution she was — or wasn’t — making.  She realized she had a whole lot more to offer to her community and her family, and she has done both in abundance since coming to that realization.  Now, ten years later, she is fully engaged in life, preparing to treat her extended family to an all-expense paid dream trip to the Big Island of Hawaii on March 12, and she has been recognized for achieving the million dollar mark in the business she launched not long after attending that workshop.  Laughrun is most proud of her project, called ThePeopleBuilders.com, that works with churches and community organizations to help improve the health of group members.  You can read more about this project at www.thepeoplebuilders.com.  Bette James Laughrun works with a business coach weekly, and technology is her friend.  She is familiar with Skype and web casting, and welcomes opportunities to learn new things, contribute to other’s health and success. She is proof positive that the Third Phase of life can be the best of all those to come before.  Her contributions to others give her life meaning.  She is surrounded by family, friends, and business associates who value the contribution she makes.  She is healthy, vibrant, and alive.  And, she has the financial foundation to provide an exceptional quality of life while generously giving back to others in need.  The sense of urgency she feels to make the most of every day is apparent because she is having way too much fun and doesn’t want to miss a single moment.  That is a far different and welcome approach to life than considering whether or not needed dental work will deliver ROI.

Laughrun said, “Today, I am able to donate to many great organizations that can change the lives of others and who need encouragement.  It may be an Ethiopian teenager in Israel who has been uprooted from her own land and can’t afford the luxury of getting her teeth fixed.  It might be a traumatized child from Gaza who lives in the torment of war and needs to get away to a quiet, no-stress camp to have some fun for a reprieve.  It may be an orphan who has lost parents and family or a widowed refugee left with the support of her five children as a result of the continuous bombings.  I see more needs every day.  I have set up a family trust so that the giving goes on long after my death.  It is to be a living memorial in the lives of those in need.”  She also said, “I read somewhere that you can change your life when you change your mind.  I know that from my personal experience, it is really true.” 

Here are convenient links to make it easy for you to read more about this inspiring woman:

• http://www.gjsentinel.com/hp/content/business/stories/2009/02/17/021809_9b_Isagenix_top_seller.html
• http://www.isagenix.com/us/en/community_bette.dhtml

My mom aspires to be more.  She is writing a book, speaking nationally, continuing to take take business and personal development programs.   As a role model, she continues to inspire me with her attitude, her faith, and commitment to serving others….and living life fully till she is done.  This is my idea of retirement!  

Look around.  In times like these your role model may be closer than you think. 

Does Networking Culture Vary Geographically?

I spoke for a PortlandConnect event last night. This group is an extension of a Linked In group who want to connect face to face.

The organizers of this event, Ken Wagner, Liz du Toit, and Stephanie Sanford talked at length about the Portland networking culture.  A couple of characteristics came up…

1. The quantity of networking activities.  Portland Metro seems to have a preponderance of networking events at any given time both on and off line.
2. The quality of people networking.  Wherever you go you are guaranteed to encounter some of Portland’s Super Connectors.  People who connect people and opportunites and follow up.

This discussion totally set me up for my brief presentation on the “Secrets of Super Connectors”.   After polling the room, the group consensus was that Super Connecting is not just a personality style some are born with but rather, a skill that can be learned. 

1. Do you believe networking culture varies geographically?  If so, why?
2. Do you think super networking can be learned?

I’d like to hear your thoughts on these two questions at the close of this blog post. 

In the meantime…Happy Networking!

Secrets of Super Connectors

Networking secrets are not news these days.  Everyone seems to have their own bag of tricks.  I’ve developed a few of my own strategies based two things. 

1. Results from networking badly…and well. 
   I’ve used networking as a warm cold calling technique in my early years with mediocre results that left me feeling like a sleazy sales person .  I shifted mindsets when I had a big goal in mind and discovered how to network for mutual benefit and explore opportunites, resources, and needs.  In doing so I unlocked an exponential stream of new business, partners, and a personal brand.  i.e.   I doubled my sales in one year and launched a successful consulting practice using professional networking strategies.
2. Looking at folks I aspire to emulate. 
   Harvey MacKay “Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty” clearly articulates C-level networking strategies and tactics that every person can learn from.  Bob Burg is another who really gets it.  His book “The Go Giver” talks about a powerful business idea.  Serving others is the intention behind the idea of Super Connecting!

Secrets of Super Connectors
(behaviors practiced until they become unconciously competent)

Here is a quick assessment for you…

Visibility

• Are you showing up in the right places?
• Are you being “seen” by the right folks?
• Where do your natural referral sources or related professions gather?
• Keep in mind, if you are out of sight, you are out of mind.

Credibility

•  Are you believable?
• Do you appear… knowledgeable? successful? able to deliver?
• What would increase your credibility factor?

“Value” Trail

•  Are you repeating the same old worn out networking lines? 
• Find a fresh perspective. Ask better questions.
• Get curious. Determine to learn more how you can be of service.
• Be ready with helpful information. You have a wealth of knowledge within you. Everyday! 

Closing thought:

For those of you who are super connectors, reach out and connect UP. Who don’t you know but really want to know but are a little intimidated by? See if you can gain an introduction from someone in your network. Return the favor.

For those of you who are new to networking, reach out and follow up. Ask those you connect with for common mistakes to avoid, shortcuts, or insights they might share. Again, return the favor if you have some insights to share.

If you’d like to join my larger network here are a couple of options.

1. Subscribe to my newsletter and event notices. I recommend quality events around Portland Metro or online. www.KathieNelson.com
2. Follow me on Twitter. www.Twitter.com/kathienelson
3. Connect with me on Linked In.  www.LinkedIn.com/in/kathienelson
4. Connect with me on . 

Have your own ideas about what makes a super connector?  I’d love to hear!  Please comment.

In the meantime, Happy Networking!

What makes Super Connectors different? 
Super connectors are strategically visible, credible and leave a “value trail”.