HomeGirl Chronicles #2: Make Your Own First Impression

Relying on introductions can be #TheWorst.  As a business person, neighbor, or just wanna buy a girl a drink you naturally want people to see you in a good light ... that is if you're like me.

As a marketer and publicist I find myself reaching out to people on a daily basis.  And I love when I get in touch with just the right person the first time-around ("Never Take a NO", new post coming soon).

I hate, however, when I have to go through other people to make a contact.  It requires patience and confidence that whomever your reference is can properly communicate information about you ... excuse me, GOOD information about you.

I mean, you can't always trust what people say or how it comes out.

So, I was overjoyed when I found @WhoDoYouKnowAt ... its a site that (1) Locate the proper people and describe their relationship to you .. or (2) Allow you to build your own interactional (because you have to define this now, since everything internet is social, interactional is the congregation of actual people in a common place)


#WHOAT.NET will let you use their CHAMPION GOLF COURSE .. that's right!  If they can't find the right person you want to talk to, they'll let you use their  golf course.


The site is coming soon and has already gotten much acclaim as a top contender for super stardom!  Check it out and let me know what you think!

http://whoat.net?lrRef=O0mIi

Got some great things in the terms of getting the coolest info and toys to my faithful tech-monsters. 


All this month readers will get some awesome opportunities to score FREE STUFF! Check back soon!


ttyl

New Year, New Lessons ... Putting an End to my Beginning

Happy New Year Everyone!!

BiTC celebrated its FIFTH YEAR ANNIVERSARY yesterday ... and I never really cause a big fuss over it...I love my blog, but I don't really celebrate it like I should.  Instead I like to think back on my posts and think how they can be better, a skill I learned at the end of every school year during finals...

I have been a freelance publicist for almost 2 years now.  I've worked on campaigns in Detroit, San Antonio, Austin, Chicago and the DMV as well as completed tons of online campaigns.  It's been a weird year.

When I last talked about my employment situation I had just been fired from Nordstroms for reasons unknown, other than being a cool headed black girl. .. I took my new-found forced independence in stride, vowing never to go back on the clock again.  I created proposals for new events and drafted contracts with new clients. I hit the keyboard at 6am most mornings finding contacts in the media and focusing on gaining ground in the realm of B2B relations.

BiTC talked a lot of mess in 2012...

 Part of being freelance is creating my own schedule as well as managing my own customer service methods.  Which is often the hardest thing for new entrepreneurs.  Of course every one imagines being able to roll out of bed whenever you want, billing large clients for exuberant amounts of "consulting" hours, networking and laughing it up with other entrepreneurs over a glass of red wine and a t-bone steak....but managing a service-centered small business is getting more and more complicated.  Having 5 years of fresh corporate experience did not well enough prepare me for 2011, and neither did the 5 years I spent at Michigan (yup, I'm admitting to the 5th year victory lap...atleast I finished)

A quick move to San Antonio, TX put BiTC in a good place to grow

Real world experience taught me where to start learning when it came to building my small business.  

Whereas I have just gotten over the fear of "what if I can't pay my [insert life altering expense here]?" phase of being an entrepreneur...the phase where I find myself applying for a few open positions every now and then... to the "now, I demand a deposit before any services are begun." mindset of entrepreneurship.  

@darealChrisReed, circa '09
Woodward bus stop, downtown Detroit

In 2011 I focused a lot on finding the lessons I need to learn from ... or in my aunts' words, I got into a ton of trouble.  I took chances, and explored how to talk to people, what to say, when to ask for what you want and to walk away when people tell you NO...because I am obviously talking to the wrong person.

@BethanyEastPR, 2012 ... San Antonio, TX ..
still wide-eyed, not so much bushy-tailed

Now, it's 2012 and BethanyEast PR and Mgmt. Consulting has a ton of new projects, ideas and opportunities for clients and affiliates.  This year we will be creating marketing gold on an international scale. 

We've claimed the San Antonio/Houston and Austin circuit as our new home and are ready to make waves in the media, among diverse audience.  

The #BlackInTheCity blog will also be changing to include a well rounded approach to what it means to be Black in the City, in the Suburbs, in America (thanks Soledad) and in your own right ... this year I stand to prove that blackness may be universal, but it most definitely is not what it use to be.

I am putting an end to my beginning entrepreneurial lifestyle, this year marks the overhaul.  Stay blessed, learn often and ...

ttyl

Projects Schmojects ... Getting work done!

You have an awesome idea and want to make it happen.

Your business plan is complete and you are in the process of putting you plan into action... and whether it is a product or service you want to launch there is no possible way that you can or should do everything alone...for obvious reasons.


 
So from graphic designers, copywriting, public relations and marketing, fundraising and web design there will be a multitude of tasks that you should outsource to professionals who actually know what they are doing .... making sure you have the proper team should not be an issue.

Websites like Craigslist allow you to post classifieds online for everyone to see.  I myself, use Craigslist at times for apartment searches and maybe to laugh at random personal ads (don't judge me).  But the problem with Craigslist, other than the killer, is that there's no exclusivity, there's no way of knowing if people you meet are honest and skilled, and, it's just plain creepy sometimes. 

For large projects I prefer to use notable gig-posting sites like Elance.com to post items that you need to get done pertaining to your business.

Elance.com makes sure that all of its freelancers take prerequisite "exams" to ensure they have the proper skillset needed to complete jobs they apply for.

And for all of my Freelance friends out there, Elance.com assists you in making sure you get paid for the work that you do ... those days of waiting until your clients reach success to get paid, no more bounced checks or late payments.

Check it out, tell me what you think of the process and Get Work Done!

What Are You Saying? Building Your Social ME.dia Message

Most of my jobs consist of writing, well, all of them actually.  Whether it be writing reviews for some of San Antonio's newest hotspots to the newest (most useless) of web Apps, I find that I am writing about 80% of my work day.  I blog, comment, share, forward, reply, invite and chat at almost 85 words per minute.  But it wasn't until earlier this week, a conversation with my boyfriend, where I found myself stuck in the conversation as to finding out verbalize the importance of what you want people to read, rather than what you want to say.  He was starting a blog and I was having a hard time letting him move past the first two steps because he hadn't planned out what the blog was going to be about.  


"How dare you start a blog without a plan" was my argument.  And no matter how many times I asked him what his fishing bowl of topics may be contain, he couldn't tell me...his only response, "It's going to be about me." ...but alas, that was not enough.

My Twitter Cloud, @daRealChrisReed, courtesy of tagxedo.com

My boutique PR firm is growing quite fast as I am becoming more and more acceptable with my aesthetic and how I've created a work ethic to accommodate my many business moves.  My work is becoming more streamlined and my clients are boasting new successes as contacts are more eager to return emails and phone calls. What's my secret?  Asking for what I want and not just taking what I can get ... and being able to really communicate is basically the root of all of my success.  


Which leads me to my point.  What's your message?  What are you trying to convey?  
Does your "Rise and Grind" tweets get lost in your "Beer for Breakfast" facebook update?  Is your LinkedIn "I'm all about business and professionalism" profile get overshadowed by all of your "Picture Me Clubbin" pic tags?  


As marketers reach out to specific demographics using social media its often uncertain how to tell gauge what type of consumer, professional and or business owner someone is because every message they post almost always negates the previous.  The world is becoming increasingly smaller (despite how much reaching 7 billion is being publicized) as we are able to see just about every thought, idea, new picture, friend, baby pic, business venture, party and purchase that all of our acquaintances are making up to the minute.  I remember when CNN tickers were only in stock trader language, now I am updated on break ups and new comments while friends (in Hawaii) challenge me to a game of Scrabble.  Anyone can google my name and find out what I do, how to contact me, what I did yesterday and what I am planning in March ... it's easy (I mean, I think I make it easy, especially with sites like About.me/ChrisBethany).  

Word Cloud of the #BlackIntheCity Blog

This week Klout.com restructured its Klout Scoring System which rates a persons effectiveness and influence on the web through a series of calculations and cloud observations.  This very specific algorithm is almost a 2.0 to the former website scoring system Google used in the past.  It gives individual persons the tool of understanding what optimized (searchable) content they've uploaded is saying about them.  


What are you saying?  Do you use social media and the web to air out your dirty laundry?  Or are you using this tool to build your road to success?  Which ever it is, pick a message and stick with it...maybe airing your dirties for everyone to see will bring you success ... but, um, isn't that what reality tv is for?  Whole 'nother subject.


Oh, I figured out that I was going to go ahead and accept my boyfriends idea of going blindly into Blog-stardom, only to be forwarded his blog URL, MrOgba.blogspot.com ... lol, its all about him, he was right.

Sun Up to Sun Up, Project Mgmt & Your Work Schedule

#focus

My new routine is growing on me.  I am working constantly to create a profitable livelihood, my new word to use in place of career seeing as how I am trying to bring my skills to the ca-front.  And the responsibility is looking good on me.  New tools and resources and being able to take advantage of such freely can give anyone the inspiration they need to remain productive ...  however it is the process of seeking out these tools that will show you just how much work it takes to actually ... well, work.

This week I pieced together a RFI for a friend that wanted to make a presentation to a local, promising, small business.  She wanted me to create a project plan and detailed scope of services that pertained to completing a string of tasks.  The end result, launching and maintaining a full out branding campaign for a new clothing company and relaunching its mothering urban entertainment company.  Easy enough. (side eye)

"I know how to get the work done." She explained, "I just don't know how to put it into words."

I set out doing research, compiling content, creating a project plan, budget and checklist.  I even put in a FAQ section for pizzazz.  Within a few hours she was forwarded a formatted PDF e-document composed to make the simplest of minds understand ins and outs of the services of my girls awesome work.

Like I said, easy enough.

What we do is sometimes so overwhelming to us that we forget just how we got to where we are.  I was greeted today by Black-life commentator Roland Smith on CNN giving his reasons why the African American unemployment rate is at its highest in 27 years.  Which really hit home because this means that as for as long as I have been alive the very community in which I live, love and rely on has progressively gotten worse.  Which only means to me ... that .. it must be getting better from here.  Coming from where I'm from (an eighties baby & Detroit-native) unemployment and the notion of entrepreneurship has always come hand in hand.

Optimistic .. i.e. "can't tell me nothing" #kanyeshrug

When asked, I replied, "Sometimes it is the Bridge that is greener,  and on top of all that, it connects BOTH sides."
*I visited the Japanese Tea Gardens this week with @IgboSwag, it was absolutely beautiful!

Being a freelance anything in the eyes of my Assembly Line-era family is the same as "not having no job".  However, my argument is this, wasn't entrepreneurship what started Motor City in the first place.  Wasn't it also such that further the independent civil rights fights for blacks in the 40s, 50s and 60s?  I mean, I don't think many large pharmaceutical companies were doing event sponsorships for Equal Rights Rallies.

Sun Up to Sun Up

My entrepreneur life is teaching me so much on a daily.  From sun up to sun up, is my newest mantra ... it describes my work day.  No naps, a few breaks, tons of phone calls and emails comprise my day.

I have gotten into the habit of not taking "no" as an answer.  And by keeping a well scripted log of my actions I am putting different spins on BethanyEast PR events and connections.  A string of lessons has taught me some key things:

• look for roads less taken when it comes to my industry,
• ask the right questions and do the research necessary to get the right answers
• be courteous of your time as well as other peoples time
• stay relevant and/or maintain knowledge of what is relevant

Simple enough right ...?

I know where I am.  Do you?

Upon this revelation, my girl who I had completed the earlier mentioned work shot me a GChat, "Thank you.  I don't know how you do it." ... my reply, "Me either."

• always be open to new lessons, continued lessons and old lessons.

What have you learned about your #werq ethic lately?  I am anxious to looking into more black-/minority-/oddly owned businesses and events ... talk to me people.

TTYL.

Good Hair: Beauty Trunk Show in San Antonio, TX

I know what you are thinking ... I thought you had dreads ... and that's true.  I do have dreads, but that isn't stopping me from hosting an event for my long and wavvy loving sistas.

The #GoodHair Trunk Show is an event for the masses, not only are stylists coming to shop for the most premium of Indian, Malaysian and Brazilian human hair, but the public is welcome to the event as well. 

We all know that San Antonio may not always have the best selection of beauty products for those women that like a little something extra and are more familiar with a premium grade of extension so I am teaming up with Glam Hair by Jay to host this event at TC's Hair & Nail Salon on October 3rd from 5-7:30. 

Attendees must RSVP at GoodHairTrunkShow.eventbrite.com, there is a $10 shopping fee, but don't worry, refreshments will be served and you'll get an awesome gift bag full of goodies to take home.  You can also RSVP via Facebook, but the price at the door may be slightly higher than advertised here.

Peep the flyer.... TTYL

Drumming up some new business ... do so with advertisements.

Normal banner ads and links on associating websites may not do the trick, create local exposure using the Highway Method in advertising ... place ads where you know the traffic will go.  From Craigslist to Local Blogs, reach out to the frontier of where your clients and social networks will surely find you.

Make sure your advertisements aren't too vague, the average consumer requires just enough information to get them interested and then just enough information to verify you as an authority on the subject or industry or product, thus and therefore, giving you a call.

I made this ad with Microsoft Powerpoint, even making it into a JPG and PDF was easy.

If you see this on a Craigslist site near you, don't hate.

Just a tip, TTYL

The Blessings in Redirecting

It seems as if every other blog I write is meant to illustrate some new frontier in my life.  I don't necessarily believe that this one is going to be any different.  So, if you don't feel like being inspired, having a quick little revelation, or even finding out that you are not the only one switching up the scene, then I suggest you stop reading ... everyone else, roll with me.

So business is looking up and I am preparing to launch my newly renovated website, BethanyEastPR.com (don't click on it yet, I said I am preparing, so be patient).  The website will illustrate a few of my PR products.  And by products I mean, a la carte public relations and media services that any small business will be able to purchase, track and see a noticeable ROI (return on investment).  I began to formulate these products in late 2009 when some local business owners that I had befriended had a desperate need for PR but no particular budget that included hourly billing for such a service.  I began to offer my services under a monthly contract, however that wasn't as lucrative for myself as each business owner would basically over work me.  It was a mess.

In early 2010 I decided to dive into my own lane of public relations, actually producing events and marketing opportunities for small businesses in the Detroit area, it was a rocky road, but pretty soon I began to earn a little recognition for my efforts.

Then came the move to San Antonio, where at first, I struggled to locate my new niche market.

The entire process was a lesson.  And I decided, towards the middle of last year that in each instance of interaction with a potential client or entrepreneurs to take a few notes as to what it was that I was doing, learning and thinking.  

I've since filled a 5-subject notebook with contract drafts, proposal outlines, budgets, book ideas, event ideas, dinner ideas, tasks lists ... whatever it was that I dreamed or was motivated to expound upon, I wrote it down. And now, I have a string of blogs that will soon become staples among my lineup of posts.  I will feature everything from commentary on politics, fashion finds, dates on the city, advice, business and marketing tips, twitpic tours and guest bloggers.  Its been a tough transition, but I must say, things are looking up.

It all comes down to being redirected.  

If you're a true #BlackInTheCity blog reader you know that I am all for making decisions without excuses, stating my opinion and creating action.  I take things in stride and I am not easily angered. And most importantly I always accept when to make a change, and how to recognize when that change validates itself in both my business and my life.

Don't get me wrong, most of these "changes" can often times be considered, failures .. but, I'm an optimist and everything's relative.  Right?

That's where the blessings lay.  Everytime I start a new contract or project I will encounter my fair share of obstacles.  As I quickly make moves to learn new skills and make new contacts, I'm often redirected .. not meaning to say that I am given the run around but, hey, it happens.  But being steadfast and diligent in all of my tasks is a lesson that I am constantly being taught.

I've come into a situation that has created a zen within me.  I wish I could tell you what exactly it is, but that would ruin all of the new things I've got lined up for you.  

TTYL

 

... my idea of when one of those "changes" becomes a redirected blessing in your favorite ...

FAN PAGE EXCHANGE - SUPPORTING EACH OTHER ON FACEBOOK | LinkedIn

The movement has begun... and its spreading.

Many have been trying to answer the question, Is blogging a competition?

And the answer is No, never. How could it be? This question infers that there is a good and bad type of blogger, but the actual truth is that the blogging media is only in competition with the widespread media, those stories that when you turn on the television, radio or log on are all from ...well, the associated press, which I have no qualm with, but I kinda dislike repetition, the same story every 15 minutes annoys me to no end. I mean, frank.

Bloggers are a community, mutually beneficial, that found there was news and information the public needed but weren't getting. They get inspiration from other blogs, advertisements, their everyday lives, personal business, etc., and they're driven by the need to share, teach and receive feedback. Which is why I felt compelled to blog about this movement.

After a few weeks of reading and commenting on some of my favorite blogs I logged onto LinkedIn and found this conversation on the Black Enterprise Network...its an actual network of business owners, not a game of "who can get the most".

The FAN PAGE EXCHANGE is a promotional tool, kinda like #teamfollowback for facebook, much like the Black Blogger Network, helping business owners cross reference each other, build with each other and ofcourse, exchange support. I urge all of you to read about the businesses that are self promoting themselves, much like blogs via their Facebook pages...so read up and by all means, support your local and national small business.

FAN PAGE EXCHANGE - SUPPORTING EACH OTHER ON FACEBOOK | LinkedIn: "FAN PAGE EXCHANGE - SUPPORTING EACH OTHER ON FACEBOOK
Social media is really on fire right on. I am participating in several Linkedin Fan Page Exchanges, and as a result, there are several testimonies of where business professionals now have over 600 fans in a short period of time. If you would like to increase your fans, please participate in this exchange. Supporting each other through social media is what it is about today. Thanks for participating.

Here's the simple instructions:

1) Post Your Fan Page Url for Other Members to Become a Fan
2) Anyone that Replies that they have become a fan, then you become a fan of their page.
3) Become a fan of everyone that is listed, and post a reply to each person that you have become a fan of.
4) Log in everyday to add more fans

oooh...and check out my about.me/chrisbethany page ... it leads you to all of my social networking sites.

Nothing's Better Than Cotton ... everyone thinks so

So I have been consumed with sourcing this week, I know ... it doesn't stop right. I have been trying to find a few of the finest t-shirts in the game for a friends new line. In and out of dressing rooms, feeling tanks, stretching shirts, peeking at labels, I am completely hands on with this task.

I mean, have you looked at how the t-shirt business has grown over the past 10 years. People are astounded with Twitter and Facebook being so popular, but a t-shirt ... when do you think a t-shirt will ever become un-popular...tell the truth!? Last week I think I collected about 20 free shirts on my trip to Austin...all of which with funny remarks and slogans. And although I am not sitting here thinking, I can't wait to rock this Rackspace.com tee with my Bebe or Juicy sweatsuit, but I do know that they make a few rounds with me either on the treadmill, in my subdivision, or even at the gym ... if I ever get around going ... but that's another update.

Any who, all these t-shirts have me running circles around San Antonio, and its surprising the amount of Rayon, Polyester and just all kinds of horrible fibers that won't turn out well after the first wash. Which led me to one question ... where's the cotton?

Share with me your favorite cotton experience ... well here are mine, the Cotton commercials ... and for the record, I want every dress, sweater, shoe...within reason, in all of these commercials.

Jasmine Sullivan, the epitome of soul in a cotton commercial

Leona Lewis, I like the wallpaper too

Colbie Caillat

Miranda Lambert ... a lil' country flava

Zooey Deschanel

Whew ... was that a fresh little piece of fashion purity or what?

Makes me feel like a little giveaway ... for my XLs, I have a few KIK/Play Nice tees as well as a couple other free tshirts I got at SXSW this year, if you want one, share your favorite t-shirt pic/tagline in the replies and I'll pick a pic/tagline and ship you out a freebie ... how's that? Hurry, giveaway ends on Friday.

Black to my search ... ttyl

Its Good to be Black In The City!

This morning I woke to a great surprise (kinda, I had a little foreshadowing) ... but in my efforts to promote the Black In The City blog around the country, I am being featured as the Blog of The Day via BlackBloggerNetwork.com !!!

Thanks to my readers, the academy ... haha, just joking.

TTYL

Looking for small businesses to promote BIG!!

Most recently I have been given the opportunity to allow small business, no just Detroit based, to promote themselves and advertise to a traffic of almost 30k monthly viewers in the heart of Detroits' Harmonie Park (Paradise Valley), on the very majestic and historic Wurlitzer Building.

This opportunity puts your ad in the community along with MGM Casino, Verizon, Don Julio Tequila and Bacardi Gold. The Wurlitzer Building sits on the corner of Broadway and Grand River, across the street from the prominent Detroit Opera House and 4-blocks from Comerica Park and Ford Field...the advertising wall is directly along the tracks of the Detroit People Mover.

Here are the rates...

5x10ft Mesh Vinyl Logo/URL Banner - $120 printing & $400/month

5x20ft Mesh Vinyl Logo/URL Banner - $185 printing & $500/month

10x25ft Mesh Vinyl Pictoral/URL Banner - $275 printing & $700/month

10x50ft Mesh Vinyl Pictoral/URL Banner - $350 printing & $825/month

Space is limited, so act face ... here is the media kit for the last sale of the space ... its really really lucrative.

Wine @ The River w/ Mahogany Tastings

BethanyEast PR teams with wine connoisseur Chuck Jackson of Mahogany Tastings to present a special tasting event at the River Place Bar & Grill this Friday, November 26, 2010 from 6pm- 9pm. The event is conveniently priced at $15 and includes at tasting of 4 luxury wines, amply paired with Mediterranean hor d’oeuvres, prepared by Chef Sultan and an inviting atmosphere of music.

Chuck will introduce each wine as well as educate tasters on proper etiquette as well as how to pair your wines at home. The event is great for professionals, novice and other connoisseurs.

Taste and embellish your pallet with the following delicious wines …
• Coastal Ridge Riesling*
• Coastal Ridge Chardonnay
• Charamba Douro Red*
• 2 Copas Red

The River Place Bar is located at 225 E. Joseph Campau at Guoin

*available for sale at River Place Bar
To RSVP for this event email me, chris@BethanyEastPR.com or just show up!!

TTYL!

Mash Mag Preview Event was a SUCCESS!!

So, last night was the Mash Mag Preview Party ... and it was FAB!! Here's a few pics, but you can find more on tIM pAULE's Facebook Album

The event was wonderful, it featured a live band and dj, Mike Bonner was the host and he was HILARIOUS, there were ample networking opportunities, tons of models, business owners, fashion lovers and friends. Great job MASH Makers!!

My younger bro was gracious enough to go with me.

The Glam Squad. (Mo Did It & Crew)

The Lady of the Evening, Mashawnta (center)

myself, Myron & Jacinta ... trusty MASH makers

oh ... and Myron, being the super talented being that he is created a commercial for the event, peep it below!!

Mash Preview from Myron Watkins on Vimeo.

Building and Benefiting - Divas Connection networking event!

Divas Country Club, an event series started in 2008 by entrepreneur Christian Reed was created to assist in building a thriving social network amongst the urban and professional women in Detroit. The Club has hosted events at some of downtown Detroit's most visited hotspots, including Detroit Riverfront, 5E Gallery and Cliff Bells Bar.

Who are the Divas?

Divas, up and coming, movers and shakers in the City. The Divas understand self worth and know that having a social life is just as much of an investment as their newest business suit, laptop tote, and even their education. The Divas Country Club caters to women that are seeking fun, inspiration as well as looking to climb the corporate latter or promote their service or skill.

A DCC staple, the Divas Connection is an opportunity for women business owners and corporate decision makers to come together and build profitable relationships. This networking event is peppered with giveaways, special deals on bulk orders with specific DDC vendors, chair massages and hor'dourves.

Divas Connection & Happy Hour

Thursday, October, 28, 2010 4-8pm

RiverPlace Bar and Grill (formerly Miami Bar)

225 Joseph Campau, located Downtown Detroit

RiverPlace Bar Website

Drink Specials/ Hor'Deurves/ Networking/ Giveaways

All are welcome to this FREE Event.

Back , Black and Better than Ever! Home from the Bahamas

Hello everyone! It's been a few weeks, I took a little time for a much needed vacation. Now, I am BACK! BLACK! and BETTER THAN EVER!

I tanned a lot while on my little 4-day cruise. I took the opportunity to just sit, in the heat, and smile for no reason ... and now I am kinda suffering from it...however, my sunkissed chocolate glow hasn't faded, so expect me to Michelle-Obama every outfit from now til September.

Upon my return stateside I've had a few new opportunities to work on some new projects. Fellow blogger, U-M and Cass Tech alum, Mashawnta Armstrong, will be launching her fashion magazine this September, MASH Mag is a collaboration of art, style, architecture and urban fashion.

Aside from this the DAPCEP Alumni association will be briefly interviewing alum for a series of profiles on the DAPCEP website. I am actively searching for alum with interesting and important journeys or careers.

There is so much other stuff, oh I lost weight on the cruise, even though I felt like we never stopped eating ... I got a little peace. Vacations are meant to be stints of time where you don't bother with your normal routine. I took the time to come up with the notion that my normal routine was boring me. There weren't any instances where my normal routine left me fulfilled or satisfied. It took me doing nothing for a whole week to actually recognize that I wasn't doing enough.

What's coming up this month ....
-- Body Boot Camp returns for August, check BethanyEastPR.com for dates
-- Scholarship/Mentorship Course sign up starts July 28th - First come first served...get your students involved in their own scholarship search
--Promote your business in MASH Mag
--DAPCEP Alum Interviews, July 26th @4pm in the Wayne State Welcome Center on Woodward and Warren

Entrepreneurship, Full time jobs, and Healthcare

I decided that I wanted to quite my fulltime job. I didn't decide not to tell everyone. As soon as I mentioned something to my friends and family the responses I got back were "Don't do it! Don't quit your day job! You need the healthcare."

But what is healthcare really?
My fulltime job happens to be in healthcare ... not really dealing with health, more like procurement for a healthcare company. And it ain't all its cracked up to be. In actuality what I've learned from my three years working for the company is that healthcare is nothing but a discount service, that costs a ton of money to maintain because the actual healthcare professionals have been allowed to run rampant with how their prices are set.

For example, McDonalds is required to hand out only sterile toys in their Kids Meals. The toys are usually plastic wrapped in a thick plastic bag, and cost about $0.45 to produce, package and distribute, the meal costs a little under $4. Hospitals practice the same preparation techniques, sterile plastic seringes/needles and tools are wrapped in a sterile thicker plastic, costing about $0.55 to make but when your hospital bill comes these items (including use and distribution) can cost up to $95, a little outrageous. Healthcare companies have basically worked out a system where they'll charge you $50 - $250 (approx.) a month and in turn pay the hospitals a negotiated rate for their services to you, so they'll pay $20 for the $95 needle.

Me being the person that I am, recognizing that some things just may be unnecessary, kinda like unions, once they get so big they are no longer effective. Healthcare has gotten so big it can't possibly be as effective as, say, living healthy.

Stay with me, I'm going somewhere with this.

I usually associate living healthy with living happy. And happiness is clutch. I am not happy with my job, but I am happy with the steps I've taken to allow my entrepreneurial skills thrive. Life changes are my healthcare.

My business, BethanyEast PR & Mgmt. Consulting is reaching new heights and gaining new publicity. I have introduced a summer Boot Camp series, Body Boot Camp, hosted on the beautiful Detroit RiverWalk.

Body Boot Camp Days/Times/Locations

Thursday, June 10, 2010, 6am – 7am at the Carousel

Saturday, June 12, 2010, 9am – 10am at the Carousel

Thursday, June 17, 2010, 6am – 7am at the Dequindre Cut

Saturday, June 19, 2010, 9am – 10am at the Dequindre Cut

Thursday, June 24, 2010, 6am – 7am at the Carousel

Saturday, June 26, 2010, 9am – 10am at the Dequindre Cut

Sessions are $12 each, or you can purchase a combo of 5 sessions for $50, 6 for $55

The Divas Country Club sector of BethanyEast is slowing turning into a nonprofit to benefit single entrepreneurial minded women in their efforts to gain individualism and independence.

Organizing has been key in my development for the last three months, and I can't say that I've gotten everything together when it comes to running my business, but I know that it doesn't involve having a fulltime job for a healthcare company that is ultimately making me unhealthy.

Lets see how this goes....ttyl peeps!

Personal Branding, Live from Brand Camp University

Mitch Joel, Personal Brands, How to connect in a connected world

1. Create the conversation ... INTERNALLY

Understand your own personal story. I totally agree that in creating your personal brand you have to understand that its never going to work if you don't stay true to yourself. If you are trying to bring yourself up...it might be most important to actually bring YOURSELF. Use our internal conversation, the value that you feel inside, knowing your goals and realizing what it is you're prepared to sacrifice in order to get what you want. Be realistic. Write your story, write your definition. What will happen is, people will begin to think differently of you, they will see a more authentic side of you. Brands have this conversation as well, they push themselves to be real, to be revered and to be utilized for profit.

2. Create the conversation ... ONE TO ONE

The idea of exchanging dialog with someone in a "networking" environment is to create a want to converse at a later time, in a different setting. Networking isn't just for passing out business cards, its for creating a connection that you can take with you, to coffee, for lunch, another event... but first the conversation has to begin.

Listen ... educate ... interpret ... understand ... he has a very good point when it comes to listening. Listen actively, allow your self to be involved in a conversation, you'd be amazed at the outcome ... you'll be amazed who remembers you at the next event. The product of a good one-to-one conversation deprives the "its all about who you know" mindset of unsuccessful entrepreneurs and replaces it with "its all about who knows me". Put value on yourself and your brand.

3. Create the conversation ... One to Many, transferring your values, goals and beliefs to the masses
Prior to this workshop I understood that I can connect to people that I knew in high school or college, and basically string along those relationships. Then I gained an understanding that I can create long lasting relationships woth some of the most interesting people and never sit next to them in a classroom, never give them a high five ... never even be on the same continent. WE are all connected!

Follow @mitchjoel

Social Networking and Marketing for your small business

I gotta get the panel members for this panel, my minicomputer was acting up. They seem powerful and extremely well-put together.

The dollar doesn't turn around once in the Black community, that means, when a black person gets a dollar, they spend it and more than likely with someone of an opposite race. Out of approximately 6000 businesses that start every year, less than 19% of those businesses are started by blacks. Small business is a major aspect in revitalizing the national economy.

Okay, here are the panel members
Ken Blanks Harrell
Ed Foxworthy
Hajj Flemmings (moderator)
there's a few more, but I am doing this LIVE and I am not keeping up with the names like I should...email me chrisreed07@gmail.com
1. HOW DID YOU IDENTIFY THE BUSINESS THAT YOU ARE IN (marketing)? What was your AH-HA moment?
-Forget about what you think life is and figure out what you enjoy doing and put a dollar sign on it.
-After making so many mistakes, and having self pitty parties, you begin to realize that your loyalty needs to be with you. Maximize your time, improve your skill and make your activities co-inside with your goal. If you say you want to make $1 million, then make it.

Ms. Gillian Blackwell, one of the benefits of the internet, they have leveled the playing field for small businesses and the connections that they can make. But one of the downfalls is that everyone is claiming to be an expert. However, it trying to organizing who is best at what. In my last post I mentioned that small business owners need to find those that are perfectionists in their industries and can help you run your business. But take your mommas advice to heart, You can tell a tree by its fruit. Look at the relationships that your colleagues may have created, take a peek at their e-networking history, listen to what they have to say, do your research..don't go int a situation completely blind.

@ Mr. Ken Blanks Harrell, he demanded that we take notes. He speaks on his success and what prevents them from being successful (making money)
1. There is no need for your service
2. There is no money
3. There is no trust
Staying consistent with your message is very important with how your business lives
Stay relevant with the audience you want, get a website, build your following, be in the face of your audience. Promote yourself. Create a plan that you will be able to make you money.

I am really enjoying this forum, especially when they are talking about FREE methods of social networking and finding leads for your business. It all comes down to building a base, and then using those connections. Thats what facebook, myspace, twitter and the such are for, they are to be used to better define your audience, getting your specific message to the people and most importantly, LISTENING TO YOUR AUDIENCE. Although there are a ton of things to get on sites like ebay and amazon.com, but if you look close enough you can find the things that people want. When building your social network make sure you keep thinking about who you want to meet, what you want them to know about you and why they should want to continue to know you.

Branding - Developing a Professional Image and Polishing Your Brand
All of your information needs to be available to potential clients/customers. Your customers should constantly see it so that when people they know need something, you are the first person they think of it. Gaining HOUSEHOLD BRAND status is very important and very easy, just stay out there, all the time and everywhere. Your branding strategy includes the entire experience a customer has when dealing with you, the way you answer the phone, the presentation of your product, your follow up, the price versus the feel of purchasing your product or service. Develop what it is that is going to be your image.

JUST GOT A LITTLE INSPIRATION, I'ma post this on TWITTER (darealchrisreed) NEWSLETTER COMING SOON

Thank you to Mr. Harrell for "Own your own, or be owned by someone else." Corporate America is frustrating and I am pretty sure that you feel me on this, let it frustrate you so much that you start your own and do it as good as you can.

LIVE from the Detroit Black Expo - LEGAL ADVICE FOR ENTREPRENEURS

What you need to know how to run your business correctly, legally and profitably!

w/ Anita Davis, Managing Director of an Accounting/Tax/Audit firm. Her services is offered to all entities and persons. She assists businesses in establishing structure, assureing each client is efficient accounting practices. She is passionate about economic development in the city and in Black business;
W/ Allen Venable, Attorney at Venable Law PLLC, a litigator by trait, he deals with criminal law and personal injury. He is a strong believer in black business and is happy to offer any assistance;
w/ Nikki Wright, Attorney and Counselor, NR Wright and Associate ; has been in practice for 15 years, she represents businesses on contract, personal injuries, contract/document preparation as well as nonprofit law. She's chosen to sit on the panel after recognizing she can offer legal advice to small businesses; and
w/ Jeane Adams, Attorney, a member of the largest law firm in Detroit, she is a transactional lawyer who specializes in franchise law.


What are some of the things that small business hasnt done to legitimate themselves as an entrepreneur.
Allen V. - Businesses havent sat down and written down how your business fits within the economy and the industry they plan to infiltrate. They havent figured out how to make money, or how they can differ themselves.
N. Wright, business owners, especially new entrepreneurs don't differentiate their funds. They continue to expose their personal assets to risk by co-mingling financials. This puts your assets under pressure, liability issues are a big problem becuase if (god forbid) their is legal action, everything you have can be taken.
Anita Davis - It's hard to manage your business when you don't know how you are spending your money. As business owners we are visionaries, however, an accounting structure is necessary to capture costs and to dive in finding out more about running a business aside from building it.

As always, the panel agreed that business owners often lack when it comes to seeking advice and asking for help. This provides you with not only the proper information, but you build that connection and gain the exposure, and you realize that the people that you are meeting are the RIGHT people.

The proper relationships are very important in running your business.
What type of entity works best for you business?
DBA : Doing Business As, a filing within your country/city that allows for you to complete business

LLC : Limited Liability Corporation, a filing with the State, a basic business filing. Has certain tax benefits over and under the S Corp.

S Corp : Smaller Corporation

C Corp: Large Corporation, board of directors and has many more tax advantages.

Each corporate entity has different tax benefits as well as insurance accompaniments.

The major motif behind this particular forum is ASK FOR HELP get the proper advice, get to a professional. This is global for all, if you are a competent business owner you want people to come to you...accountants, attorneys and consultants are experts in what they do...why not ask them to "hook you up". Utilizing the business of your peers not only grows your network of businesses and people you know.

DON'T BE SCARED OF THE MONEY...
Products cost money, products for your business, however, make money...in the long run. Visiting random legal document sites is, dare we say, sloppy. Mass created documents aren't as industry specific as a document drafted by your attorney or a statement/tax form created by an attorney. The money that your business spends on itself is an investment, just as a fashion designer wants to have the best fabrics you should also want the best insurance, legal advice, banking rates, location or whatever...investing in how your business is run affects how much your business can make.