Five Tips For Writing a Successful Newsletter It seems like everyone from your fifteen-year-old niece to the pest control guy publishes a newsletter or blog. Perhaps this is something you should do too? Really, how hard can it be? You are an expert in your field, a decent writer, and a ... [Continue Reading]
Pick Up The Phone Already
Talking on the phone is so last century. Texting is the communication vehicle of choice for huge chunks of the population--done on the go, at any hour, no interpersonal skills required. But sometimes a phone call is what it takes to get it done. Recently I worked with a younger agent on a ... [Continue Reading]
How My Starbucks Mobile App Keeps Me Honest!
How My Starbucks Mobile App Keeps Me Honest! My new favorite thing is my Starbucks mobile app. No more standing in a lengthy line for my tall iced coffee. With a few swipes, I order in advance, and my chilled drink is waiting for me at the counter. The obvious advantage of this is that it ... [Continue Reading]
Two Must Read Books on How to Use Social Media to Promote Yourself or Your Business
How do you find a readable and reputable book on social media marketing? Ask me, of course! I’ve plowed through lots of lousy books on the subject, so you don’t have to! Here are two recommendations. Both books were published within the past two years, but business books become dated quickly. ... [Continue Reading]
Three Must Read Blogs on How to Use Social Media To Promote Yourself or Your Business
As an entrepreneur or small business owner, have you considered writing a blog or creating a facebook fan page, but don't know where to begin? I know, the whole social media thing can be overwhelming! There is plenty of advice out there, but much of it is puffery. Not so the following three ... [Continue Reading]
Are You Looking For Function or Fashion?
When trying on a new pair of sneakers recently, a friend of mine complained to the sales clerk that the shoes were rather ugly. He replied (smarmily,) “Are you looking for function or fashion?” Both, of course! And why not? Because at the click of a button, I can compare shoe prices and ... [Continue Reading]
What’s In Your Mailbox?
Below is a list of what I received in the mail today. Each piece went directly (unopened) into the trash can. Why do I even have a mailbox? Brochure from Oceania Cruises Postcard from The Great Courses Postcard from a roofing company("Hail Alert!") Comcast promotion (the first of several I'll ... [Continue Reading]
Season Lightly
“Simplicity allows us to appreciate the execution more than the cleverness of our plan.” I know something about making simple things overly complicated (and about being too clever for my own good!) which is why this quote from Chris Brogan resonated with me. Perhaps you know something about this ... [Continue Reading]
Horses or Houses –It’s a Numbers Game
My friend Jane is selling her horse Sascha, and the process is remarkably like selling a house. She studies the current market for similar horses, she establishes a competitive selling price, she advertises, posts professional photos and videos, and makes lots of phone calls. And then a ... [Continue Reading]
What’s In Your World?
Welcome to ECW-WORLD. Here are a few features of my ideal place. There is an abundance of adult-only coffee shops that serve exclusively coffee beverages. Bookstores proliferate, profitably. Men are not allowed to wear jeans that expose their Ralph Lauren brand briefs when they sit down. NPR ... [Continue Reading]