Essence of Motown: Literary Jam Event 11/12

I have a few friends that are authors, aspiring self-publishers and interested in composing ... I know that marketing may not be the easiest thing to do, but its always great to find like minded people who may be able to be a mentor.  Check out the Essence of Motown Literary Jam and Conference, hosted by 

Geared to provide literary events in Metro Detroit and assist writers in writing, publishing, marketing and promoting. The Essence of Motown Alliance was created to bring together literary groups and provide an annual literary conference inside of Detroit. The Motown Writers Network is a readers and writers organization that provides networking and education on and off the Internet. Established in 1999, MWN has over 600 members & growing. Members is free with newsletter subscription. All email subscriptions are free. 

Motown Writers presents its annual

Essence of Motown Literary Jam and Conference

November 11-12, 2011

The Virgil Carr Cultural Center

http://artsleague.com 

311 E. Grand River

Detroit, MI 48226

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check it out! ttyl

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.

Its Your Fault!

I know a few people.  People who have their own businesses.  People who have gotten advanced degrees.  People who have lost it all and those that have risen from the ashes.  In every instance there were some sort factor that worked against them, some team of forces that, whether it was their responsibility or not, tried to police their progression.

A few years ago while riding on a train in Chicago I met a young author, Kirby Jones who wrote a book titled "Silence the Naysayers" - a great title.  Now I'm not about to sit here and lead you to believe that I read the entire book, I got through a few chapters when I had my lightbulb moment.  There are always going to be haters.  However, hard work and determination aren't always in the equation, for some random reason.

Stay with me, this is gonna get good.

Most recently at church on Sunday morning the reverend spoke of how King David (yup, the same one that fought Goliath) had an instance where his people threatened to stone him to death after a rebel army kidnapped the women and children of Israel.  David's family was also taken.  A true moment of adversity.

A young musician contacted me on Twitter a few days ago and on Sunday morning (before service) we conversed about a plethora of topics.  At first he asked for marketing advice for his newest mixtape.  I sort of reprimanded him for guerrilla tweeting (honestly, what is the purpose of sending the same message a thousand times to different people, I mean isn't that what twitter does automatically anyway?)  It wasn't until her made a remark concerning his job, and how hard he was trying to keep it that I really sat down and got completely interested in the issue.  This guy, who had two jobs, one as a musical talent and the other punching a clock somewhere.  He knew that both gigs were dually important and guided his ability to work the other.  But it was something holding him back ... a co-worker trying to get him fired, a lack of enthusiasm in his work, his inability to break directly into the music industry ... there were somethings there that were holding him back.

My advice to this man was to change his mindset, push forward, gain an understanding  of what it is that you control.

In every instance where steps were taken toward advancement whether it be gaining new freedoms or rights, getting a new job, or just growing up ... something has to give ... and it doesn't have to be you.

Back at church, the reverend has made a good point, don't let your current situation define your long term decisions.  It will never be profitable.  Instead, think ahead and make your decisions for now, accordingly.

This decision will always include making it your mission to work harder, not just maintain, but transcend ... grow your skill, reach your goals, improve upon your work ethic and your environment.

-David did it with prayer, which led him to seeking solice for himself and his people in the nation of his former enemy
-Women in American banded together to show their power during the industrial revolution and wars
-Black Americans marched for equal rights and better treatment, all the while making strides in medicine, technology and politics.

In all the cases, they battle didn't end with altering an entire universe.  On the contrary, it ended with just altering themselves ... you.  You can't get rid of racism, but instead you can change peoples opinion of you by revamping how you act, work, talk, and get along.  This is a determination of sorts, when singularly or communally it is announced that
 -I want "them" to see me as a leader
 -I want "them" to see me as able
 -I want "them" to see me as smart ... equal ... or, human.

Just a thought ... what are you looking to get passed or over?  How do you plan to change your situation.

An Inspiration for the Brothas!

A few days ago I posted a blog on my response to a conversation I held with a colleague of mine. Our topic, the hardship of the black man... and as I was impressed with his argument, I was not moved. So, I am going to show you all some black men ... from around the world that are doing what they do best ... making it work!

So, the first is Oliver Rousteing, a black french designer who was just named the Head Designer at one of my favorite fashion houses, Balmain ... (fast forward to a future posting of a dress my mom recently re-styled to resemble a Beyonce Balmain dress I fell in love with last year)

Olivier Rousteing Named New Head Designer of Balmain « The Fashion Bomb Blog /// All Urban Fashion… All the Time - All Urban Fashion // All the Time

So this is very exciting for black men around the world .. not only are they running countries .. but fashion houses as well! Wow, bro...

TTYL

How to Get What You Want ... in business

SO I was delighted this morning when one of my best business owner buddies hit me up on Facebook. She had a need, and new what she wanted her solution to be ... she just needed a little help devising a way to get what she wanted. As a business owner, especially a small business owner, we're often faced with tasks that can be a little bit out of our reach. But not in all cases.

My one method I take to get what I want for my business,

#1. Ask and you shall receive

THE ISSUE:
You want to host a promotional event.

THE FACTORS:
Your expenses are low. However, you have an excellent following and know that you've kicked a ton of money into advertising and creating the proper product.

THE SOLUTION:
Ask the best, most fab locations that you can to host the event. Often times hotels they'll donate a room or lobby for a few hours if they can see that you've done your work, and are sure to be able to gain some new and lucrative contacts in exchange.

Entertain the idea of hosting an event at a Bed & Breakfast or model apartment, in exchange the owners can give a small presentation concerning their establishment.

In 2010 event spaces were being leased for thousands of dollars, while the housing market almost halted. Don't be selfish, use cross-promotion and list-sharing as a bargaining tool. The more highly ranked locations will definitely require a better addressed patron list from you, don't ask for a room in the Ritz if your demographic couldn't afford it, even if they've just got their tax refund.

Recognize the need

By writing a proposal and listing everything that you have, need and planning to do you can better make your case for an unconventional partnership.

Formulate your address

Whether you are asking for a corner in the lobby or entire suite to host a photoshoot, make sure you know the person you are supposed to talk to. Don't just write an email, I suggest finding out who's in authority to answer your request and meeting with them face to face.

Communicate dual benefits

Be honest. Explain what you are getting out of this request as well as what they'll be getting in return. Will you publicize their good deed? Are you willing, and able to share contacts list? Will pictures be taken and promoted via social networks?

Emphasize the request as a solution to their problem

Businesses like to get as much as they can, for free. Isn't that what you are doing. In cases where you are making requests it will be easier to get the solution you desire by offering convincing and tempting benefits, sort of like a Return On Investment for the love. Think promotions, media, reach and profits. Let them know just how lucrative this opportunity will be in terms of increasing their business.

Maintain the relationship

Don't forget the follow-up. And don't be cheap. You've convinced them that you have a specific need, a specific patron list and a specific product that has longevity in its market. More than likely the move they've allowed you to make will benefit you enough for you to send a thank you gift their way. Price range questions, try spending a 15-20% of what the "favor" would have cost if you had paid for it... this could be a flower arrangement for their office, a surprise delivery lunch for the staff or a promotional/thank you banner on your website.

...so, take note of what it is that you have, but never think that you can't get what you want in business.

Shoutout to Kesha Williams, owner of Smooth As Ice, all natural body scrub & butters for the inspiration in this blog post.

• Check out more about Smooth As Ice on Facebook

So, what are you looking for that will give your business the boost? What products do you need that will put you over the top...

• Proposal and Media Kit
• Demographic and Marketing Plan
• Social Media Relations
• Outreach and Sourcing

Contact me via facebook or twitter ... check out About.me/chrisbethany

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

CHRISTMAS DAY DEALS

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!

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.