This week I attended a luncheon hosted by the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, where Tim Templeton, Executive VP of Locallife, challenged us to apply the 1% rule. This means looking inside our businesses, examining each process, and finding a way to make the processes 1% better or more efficient. A process includes everything from the way we answer the phone to the way we follow up with business leads. He advised us to make a list of each process we engage in, which should include over 100, and focus on solutions to improve each one. While this task sounded a bit overwhelming to me, since I usually am scrambling for more hours in a day, I decided to take it slow. This weekend and next week I will create the list. Then pick one process per week to improve by 1% (or more).
Here is an example, or at least this is my interpretation, of the applying the 1% rule. Process: the way I answer the phone. I usually say, “Bolt PR, this is Anne.” I try to always sound upbeat. Now, how can I improve this to make the caller feel like I have been looking forward to speaking with him or her? Perhaps I can add in “Thank you for calling…” or remember to smile when speaking.
The 1% rule reminds us to be purposeful in our actions. I don’t always consciously think through each process I engage in because everything becomes second nature. But how much more effective will I be when I label each process and aim to improve?
Posted by: Anne Carr, anne@boltpr.com
Friday, February 20, 2009
Getting Creative During Job Searches
NextWork, a career transition organization helping individuals identify personal strengths to discover a fitting career path, have noted that the changing economy and the rising unemployment numbers have forced job seekers to discover new tactics to really stand out. However, what new job searching methods are almost too unconventional and leave the wrong impression with potential employers?
An article published by CNNMoney.com on February 14 (http://money.cnn.com/2009/01/14/pf/unconventional_job_searches/index.htm?postversion=2009011413), explored this question further and identified individuals exploring the good and the bad side of standing out from competing job searchers.
Most experts, including NextWork, agree that attending networking events is still the best approach in proactively searching for a job. Experts also note to expand upon face-to-face networking and to incorporate the wonderful world of online socializing by utilizing such sites as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn (see we keep gabbing about these outlets because they truly are the great wave of the future!). A couple of years ago these tactics were not so widely used, but now many individuals use these approaches and job searchers still need to take their approach a step further and try something unique.
A Web developer profiled in the article distributed an email to his family and friends with his job search objective and resume. He asked all of them to pass the information along to any appropriate contacts and even offered a $150 incentive to anyone who led him to a job opening. Utilizing friends and family can really help you gain the support you need during a job search and is a great approach.
Another tactic discussed in the article was one practiced by a private duty registered nurse and a marketing manager, who both wore printed t-shirts with their Web site, contact information, resume and cover letter. This is a very easy approach that can lead to discussions with strangers that may have a tip to get you in the right direction.
On the flip side, the article noted that while creativity is appreciated, 52% of marketing executives and 26% of advertising executives see unconventional job-hunting methods as unprofessional. One example that was mentioned was an individual who mailed a shoe, noting that the candidate was hoping to get a foot in the door.
The rule of thumb is to absolutely explore your creative side, but to be mindful of what is appropriate for your given industry. For more tips on job searching methods, call NextWork at (760) 420-8444 or visit www.nextworkservices.com.
Posted by: Monica Kenney, monica@boltpr.com
An article published by CNNMoney.com on February 14 (http://money.cnn.com/2009/01/14/pf/unconventional_job_searches/index.htm?postversion=2009011413), explored this question further and identified individuals exploring the good and the bad side of standing out from competing job searchers.
Most experts, including NextWork, agree that attending networking events is still the best approach in proactively searching for a job. Experts also note to expand upon face-to-face networking and to incorporate the wonderful world of online socializing by utilizing such sites as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn (see we keep gabbing about these outlets because they truly are the great wave of the future!). A couple of years ago these tactics were not so widely used, but now many individuals use these approaches and job searchers still need to take their approach a step further and try something unique.
A Web developer profiled in the article distributed an email to his family and friends with his job search objective and resume. He asked all of them to pass the information along to any appropriate contacts and even offered a $150 incentive to anyone who led him to a job opening. Utilizing friends and family can really help you gain the support you need during a job search and is a great approach.
Another tactic discussed in the article was one practiced by a private duty registered nurse and a marketing manager, who both wore printed t-shirts with their Web site, contact information, resume and cover letter. This is a very easy approach that can lead to discussions with strangers that may have a tip to get you in the right direction.
On the flip side, the article noted that while creativity is appreciated, 52% of marketing executives and 26% of advertising executives see unconventional job-hunting methods as unprofessional. One example that was mentioned was an individual who mailed a shoe, noting that the candidate was hoping to get a foot in the door.
The rule of thumb is to absolutely explore your creative side, but to be mindful of what is appropriate for your given industry. For more tips on job searching methods, call NextWork at (760) 420-8444 or visit www.nextworkservices.com.
Posted by: Monica Kenney, monica@boltpr.com
Friday, February 13, 2009
The Value of Strategic, Effective Communication
We’ve all heard the old panda in a café joke:
A panda walks into a café. He orders a sandwich, eats it, then draws a gun and proceeds to fire it.
“Why?” asks the confused, surviving waiter, as the panda makes towards the exit.
The panda responds, “I’m a panda. Look it up." The panda produces a poorly punctuated wildlife manual and tosses it over his shoulder. The waiter turns to the relevant entry in the manual and, sure enough, finds an explanation. “Panda. Large black-and-white bear, native to China. Eats, shoots and leaves.”
The value of clear, concise and strategic communication cannot be emphasized enough. Too often, we send emails in a hurry, type up documents in a flash, or prepare materials for meetings, all without thinking twice about our language, style, flow, context and clarity.
Every single word you write or type should be evaluated. Any communication you send to clients, customers, bosses, colleagues and even friends, should be proofread. The more often you do something, the more habitual it becomes. Thus, poor communication skills only become worse if not corrected. Ask yourself the following to ensure you’re communicating as effectively as you possibly can:
1. Is there another, more concise way to make my point? Can I tighten up my sentences while still getting my message across?
2. Is my grammar perfect? Do all of my nouns and verbs agree? Have I included commas where appropriate?
3. Have I misspelled any names, titles or companies?
Tip: When typing a person’s or company’s name, perform a quick Google search to ensure that you’re spelling the name correctly.
4. Will my recipient understand the context of what I’m sending to him or her? Do I need to provide any additional background or information?
Tip: Remember to make your sentences clean and concise, but make your communication thorough.
5. Have I structured my sentences in the best way possible? Is there another way to order my words so my message is better communicated?
6. Am I using “power” words? Are there any words I can replace with a “power” word?
Tip: Check out these “power” words on CareerOwl.com: http://www.careerowlresources.ca/Resumes/Res_Frame.htm?res_power.htm~right
If you have more tips to offer, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll add them to this short list. And remember, your words are a direct representation of you. Make them the best they can possibly be.
Posted by: Caroline Callaway, caroline@boltpr.com
A panda walks into a café. He orders a sandwich, eats it, then draws a gun and proceeds to fire it.
“Why?” asks the confused, surviving waiter, as the panda makes towards the exit.
The panda responds, “I’m a panda. Look it up." The panda produces a poorly punctuated wildlife manual and tosses it over his shoulder. The waiter turns to the relevant entry in the manual and, sure enough, finds an explanation. “Panda. Large black-and-white bear, native to China. Eats, shoots and leaves.”
The value of clear, concise and strategic communication cannot be emphasized enough. Too often, we send emails in a hurry, type up documents in a flash, or prepare materials for meetings, all without thinking twice about our language, style, flow, context and clarity.
Every single word you write or type should be evaluated. Any communication you send to clients, customers, bosses, colleagues and even friends, should be proofread. The more often you do something, the more habitual it becomes. Thus, poor communication skills only become worse if not corrected. Ask yourself the following to ensure you’re communicating as effectively as you possibly can:
1. Is there another, more concise way to make my point? Can I tighten up my sentences while still getting my message across?
2. Is my grammar perfect? Do all of my nouns and verbs agree? Have I included commas where appropriate?
3. Have I misspelled any names, titles or companies?
Tip: When typing a person’s or company’s name, perform a quick Google search to ensure that you’re spelling the name correctly.
4. Will my recipient understand the context of what I’m sending to him or her? Do I need to provide any additional background or information?
Tip: Remember to make your sentences clean and concise, but make your communication thorough.
5. Have I structured my sentences in the best way possible? Is there another way to order my words so my message is better communicated?
6. Am I using “power” words? Are there any words I can replace with a “power” word?
Tip: Check out these “power” words on CareerOwl.com: http://www.careerowlresources.ca/Resumes/Res_Frame.htm?res_power.htm~right
If you have more tips to offer, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll add them to this short list. And remember, your words are a direct representation of you. Make them the best they can possibly be.
Posted by: Caroline Callaway, caroline@boltpr.com
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Be More Than a Business Owner; Be a True Entrepreneur
According to the Encarta Dictionary, an entrepreneur is a risk-taking businessperson who initiates or finances new commercial enterprises. I recently read an article about an entrepreneur who truly defined the word, and her ambition leaves an inspiriting message for all.
Sara Blakely, the creator of Spanx, at the age of 25 was selling fax machines door-to-door and debating the direction of her career. When she was 27, Sara saved up for a pair of expensive white pants that she adored, but unfortunately had an issue wearing. Despite the undergarments she paired with the pants, they were very revealing and could not be worn. After many shopping trips searching for the perfect undergarment, Sara had the idea to cut the feet off a pair of control-top panty hose, and much to her surprise she found the perfect solution.
From her shopping experience, and the compliments she received on the pants, Sara saw a need in the market and started developing her own line of form-flattering undergarments. Blakely called many manufactures and many people laughed at the concept, until she finally found one that respected her determination and wanted to give the product a shot.
Today there are currently 150 styles of Spanx and the product can be found in many department stores alongside Calvin Klein and Donna Karan. The product graced Oprah’s favorites list and red carpet conversations with celebrities typically make mention of this must-have item.
While the business did not happen or grow overnight, many people thought it was a silly concept, and though Blakely had little money and no fashion experience, she encompassed the true sense of entrepreneurism and set out to make something happen. Every successful business owner takes risks and experiences some hiccups along the way, but in the end, gains the benefits that come with that risk-taking mentality. If you strive to be an entrepreneur, remember to be unique, take chances and have confidence in your goals even when everyone else thinks they’re random. You never know where your drive and determination will take you.
By: Monica Kenney, monica@boltpr.com
Sara Blakely, the creator of Spanx, at the age of 25 was selling fax machines door-to-door and debating the direction of her career. When she was 27, Sara saved up for a pair of expensive white pants that she adored, but unfortunately had an issue wearing. Despite the undergarments she paired with the pants, they were very revealing and could not be worn. After many shopping trips searching for the perfect undergarment, Sara had the idea to cut the feet off a pair of control-top panty hose, and much to her surprise she found the perfect solution.
From her shopping experience, and the compliments she received on the pants, Sara saw a need in the market and started developing her own line of form-flattering undergarments. Blakely called many manufactures and many people laughed at the concept, until she finally found one that respected her determination and wanted to give the product a shot.
Today there are currently 150 styles of Spanx and the product can be found in many department stores alongside Calvin Klein and Donna Karan. The product graced Oprah’s favorites list and red carpet conversations with celebrities typically make mention of this must-have item.
While the business did not happen or grow overnight, many people thought it was a silly concept, and though Blakely had little money and no fashion experience, she encompassed the true sense of entrepreneurism and set out to make something happen. Every successful business owner takes risks and experiences some hiccups along the way, but in the end, gains the benefits that come with that risk-taking mentality. If you strive to be an entrepreneur, remember to be unique, take chances and have confidence in your goals even when everyone else thinks they’re random. You never know where your drive and determination will take you.
By: Monica Kenney, monica@boltpr.com
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Live Coverage on Twitter
Twitter has become one of my go-to sources for breaking news. Last night I logged on to respond to a few direct messages (DM’s in Twitter lingo) and noticed a few tweets relating to an LA slow speed car chase involving a white Bentley. The police followed the Bentley driver for hours before the man stopped. The incident caught my attention because there was speculation that the driver could possibly be Chris Brown. The chase ended tragically and law enforcement has not yet released the name of the driver.
Through Twitter coverage, I learned that LA’s ABC and Fox news stations were streaming live coverage. I watched online and via Twitter (#bentley), hoping to discover the driver’s identity. To find more information I turned to Google, my first instinct when I have a question, but found nothing. The Associated Press did not release news about the chase until 1:34 a.m., after the driver was taken away in an ambulance. Twitter coverage proved much faster than Google or any other news outlet – aside from ABC channel 7 and Fox channel 11.
This is evidence that Twitter can absolutely raise a buzz and lead to media coverage. This principle proves true in the world of public relations. Often, if a business or brand can saturate the realm of social media, it will lead to mainstream coverage. At Bolt Public Relations, we offer social media management services to ensure that our clients receive maximum exposure across all public mediums.
For more information about the Twitter coverage versus traditional media, see Dave Winer’s blog post. For more information about the police chase, see LA Times article, “Suspect leads police on low speed pursuit in a Bentley, kills self during standoff.”
By: Anne Carr, anne@boltpr.com
Through Twitter coverage, I learned that LA’s ABC and Fox news stations were streaming live coverage. I watched online and via Twitter (#bentley), hoping to discover the driver’s identity. To find more information I turned to Google, my first instinct when I have a question, but found nothing. The Associated Press did not release news about the chase until 1:34 a.m., after the driver was taken away in an ambulance. Twitter coverage proved much faster than Google or any other news outlet – aside from ABC channel 7 and Fox channel 11.
This is evidence that Twitter can absolutely raise a buzz and lead to media coverage. This principle proves true in the world of public relations. Often, if a business or brand can saturate the realm of social media, it will lead to mainstream coverage. At Bolt Public Relations, we offer social media management services to ensure that our clients receive maximum exposure across all public mediums.
For more information about the Twitter coverage versus traditional media, see Dave Winer’s blog post. For more information about the police chase, see LA Times article, “Suspect leads police on low speed pursuit in a Bentley, kills self during standoff.”
By: Anne Carr, anne@boltpr.com
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Always Practice Safety When Socializing Online
As discussed by my colleague in her latest blog, utilizing online social networking is key in keeping up with the times and successfully establishing new relationships with other professionals to benefit your business. Many sites, such as Twitter, LinkedIn and FastPitchNetworking, are used for more professional reasons and are strongly protected to prevent user issues. However, other sites carry some risks that can be easily avoided if you take proper precautions.
Whatever social sites you choose to use, follow the steps below to make online networking safe, beneficial and fun.
1. Choose a strong, unique password for each Web account you own. It is easy for hackers to tap into one site and find a common link to all of your accounts through your password.
2. Download reputable anti-virus software that will constantly scan your computer to flag any suspicious activities, downloads or files.
3. Utilize a current Web browser that provides users with the added service of anti-phishing blacklist.
4. Immediately change your Web account passwords if you are suspicious of any unauthorized activity.
5. Do your homework before accepting a connection/friend request from a stranger. Google the person’s name to see where else they are listed, or look to see if you have any mutual connections/friends through the online social site.
6. Limit the amount of personal information you display, such as your home address or other information that overly exposes you.
7. When using a non-professional social site, such as MySpace or Facebook, try to keep your settings private where only your friends or colleagues can access your Web page.
Social media channels are extremely valuable tools to generate exposure and grow your business, but as with any Web site, just be smart about what information you choose to make public.
By: Monica Kenney, monica@boltpr.com
Whatever social sites you choose to use, follow the steps below to make online networking safe, beneficial and fun.
1. Choose a strong, unique password for each Web account you own. It is easy for hackers to tap into one site and find a common link to all of your accounts through your password.
2. Download reputable anti-virus software that will constantly scan your computer to flag any suspicious activities, downloads or files.
3. Utilize a current Web browser that provides users with the added service of anti-phishing blacklist.
4. Immediately change your Web account passwords if you are suspicious of any unauthorized activity.
5. Do your homework before accepting a connection/friend request from a stranger. Google the person’s name to see where else they are listed, or look to see if you have any mutual connections/friends through the online social site.
6. Limit the amount of personal information you display, such as your home address or other information that overly exposes you.
7. When using a non-professional social site, such as MySpace or Facebook, try to keep your settings private where only your friends or colleagues can access your Web page.
Social media channels are extremely valuable tools to generate exposure and grow your business, but as with any Web site, just be smart about what information you choose to make public.
By: Monica Kenney, monica@boltpr.com
5 Ways to Integrate Social Media with Public Relations
With the emergence of social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, FastPitchNetworking and LinkedIn, businesses have almost an unlimited access to the public. Consequently, public relations is evolving beyond traditional media outlets to Web 2.0. In order to monitor all messages and raise an online buzz, social media management should be an integral piece of your public relations campaign.
Many people I have met at various networking events or meetings have been intrigued by the idea of social media and grill me with questions regarding how to utilize it for brand awareness. To help explain how social networking partners with public relations efforts, I made a list of five ways that Bolt PR integrates the two practices to create a profitable buzz for our clients.
For a more detailed explanation of these 5 ideas, see my article in Social Computing Magazine. Feel free to reach out to us at Bolt PR if you have questions about our services or social media in general. All of us love to be a resource to anyone, client or not.
By: Anne Carr, anne@boltpr.com
Many people I have met at various networking events or meetings have been intrigued by the idea of social media and grill me with questions regarding how to utilize it for brand awareness. To help explain how social networking partners with public relations efforts, I made a list of five ways that Bolt PR integrates the two practices to create a profitable buzz for our clients.
- Link to articles. When you come across an article about your business or industry, share it with others by posting a link on your blog, Twitter, Facebook or other social network you are involved in. It is also a great idea to bookmark the article using StumbleUpon, Delicious, Reddit and Digg.
- Drive traffic to website. When you participate in online forums or post blog comments, include a link to your website at the bottom.
- Be an industry expert. Rather that focus on selling, be an educator. When you come across a question relating to your area of expertise, post an answer with your name, company, website and Twitter.
- Respond to feedback. Search for what people are saying about you and your brand using Google or Twitter search. Respond to comments by thanking those who sing your praises and try to make it right with those who had a negative experience.
- Involve the audience. Some of the best viral marketing campaigns involve audience participation on Twitter, Facebook fan pages, YouTube and Myspace. Ask for feedback or host a contest to help get your customers involved and generate some attention to your brand or product.
For a more detailed explanation of these 5 ideas, see my article in Social Computing Magazine. Feel free to reach out to us at Bolt PR if you have questions about our services or social media in general. All of us love to be a resource to anyone, client or not.
By: Anne Carr, anne@boltpr.com
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