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  It's not by accident that reflection, action, and change are often the result of first asking a great question. One such example: "What one word do we want to own in the minds of our members, employees, and strategic partners?" A deceptively simple query that is not so easy to answer due to the vast diversity of your programs. Go ahead, ask your colleagues! The challenging questions we ask ourselves as an organization are the ones that tend to be the most transformative, especially during these times of rapid change and massive disruption. Here are a few more example questions every organization should be asking: Q: Would we rather recruit knowledgeable and informed long-term members who join for the right reason or sell to uninformed, easy to get short-term members? Do our incentives match the goal? Before you assume you have a retention problem, consider whether you have an acquisition problem instead. As they say, easy come, easy go! If more than 10 percent of your n

  Are You Having a Rough Day? Well, you're not alone. Here are some other folks that had the occasional rough day too . . . 27 publishers rejected Dr. Seuss's first book,   To Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street . Van Gogh sold only one painting during his lifetime, and even this sale was to the sister of one of his friends for 400 francs (approximately $50). This didn't stop him from completing over 900 works of art. A Paris art dealer refused Picasso shelter when he asked if he could bring his paintings in from the rain. Charlie Chaplin was initially rejected by Hollywood studio chiefs because his pantomime was considered "nonsense." Stephen King's first novel   Carrie   was rejected 30 times. After Harrison Ford's first performance as a hotel bellhop in the film   Dead Heat on a Merry-Go-Round , the studio vice president called him in to his office. "Sit down, kid," the studio head said, "I want to tell you a story. The first time Tony

  In the realm of success, the Greeks have gifted us a beautiful term - "Meraki" (may-rah-kee). It encapsulates the essence of infusing soul, creativity, and love into one's work, leaving an indelible mark. Meraki is that elusive quality, a secret ingredient that propels individuals to hyper-success in our fiercely competitive marketplace. Identifying Meraki is akin to finding a rare seed, and in my quest, I've curated a comprehensive list of thought-provoking questions. These questions serve as a compass, guiding me to discern the presence of Meraki in every professional I bring into our membership and retention team. This meticulous approach significantly enhances the likelihood of long-term success for all involved. Meraki is not a skill that can be taught or a facade that can be faked. It is a flowering that takes place through authenticity, wisdom, and the passage of time. It's the commitment to imbue every task with a piece of oneself, a dedication that goes

A Guide to Navigating Your Mentorship Journey Embarking on a journey of personal or professional growth often involves seeking guidance from experienced individuals who can share their wisdom, knowledge, and insights. Choosing the right mentor is a crucial step in this process, as a mentor can significantly impact your development and help you navigate challenges. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to choose a mentor wisely. Define Your Goals and Needs Before seeking a mentor, take the time to reflect on your goals and needs. What specific skills or knowledge are you looking to acquire? What challenges do you anticipate in your personal or professional life? Understanding your objectives will help you identify a mentor whose expertise aligns with your aspirations. Identify Potential Mentors Look for individuals who have achieved success in your field of interest or have the skills and experience you seek. This can include colleagues, industry leaders, or professi

In the realm of sales and outreach, leaving a voicemail might not always seem like the most fruitful endeavor. However, skilled professionals understand that reaching a prospect's voicemail can offer invaluable insights that can significantly enhance your chances of making a meaningful connection. This often-overlooked step can provide a window into the personality of the individual you're trying to reach, ultimately influencing how you approach your initial introduction. In this article, we'll delve into the art of leveraging voicemail greetings as a strategic tool in building rapport and establishing a foundation for fruitful conversations. The Power of the Voicemail Greeting Upon reaching a prospect's voicemail, one of the first things to pay attention to is their greeting message. It may seem like a small detail, but it holds a wealth of information about the person you're attempting to connect with. Is their voicemail message characterized by a light, bubbly, a

In the fast-paced world of modern communication, silence is often overlooked or even feared. However, it is a crucial element in becoming a proficient communicator. When engaging in conversations, it is imperative to remember that silence allows space for the other party to participate actively. By incorporating strategic pauses, you create an environment where your prospect feels comfortable to share their thoughts and perspectives. These moments of quiet reflection grant them the opportunity to organize their ideas and express themselves more effectively. Embracing silence not only enhances the quality of conversations but also fosters deeper connections. It demonstrates a genuine interest in what the other person has to say and encourages them to contribute meaningfully to the exchange. So, rather than shying away from moments of quiet, consider them as invaluable opportunities for both parties to truly connect and communicate with intention and depth. Remember, sometimes, silence t

Joining a chamber of commerce can offer numerous benefits for businesses of all sizes. Here are ten compelling reasons to consider joining Networking Opportunities - Chambers of commerce provide excellent networking platforms where you can connect with other local businesses, potential customers, and community leaders. This can lead to valuable partnerships, collaborations, and new business opportunities. Visibility and Exposure - Being a member of a chamber can increase your business's visibility in the community. Chambers often promote their members through directories, events, and various marketing channels, helping you reach a broader audience. Credibility and Trustworthiness - Membership in a reputable chamber of commerce can lend credibility to your business. It signals to customers, clients, and partners that you are committed to the local community and adhere to certain ethical and professional standards. Access to Resources and Information - Chambers often provide valua

In today's fast-paced world, the ability to truly listen is a skill that sets exceptional communicators apart. To become an expert listener, one must go beyond simply hearing words and strive to understand the deeper meaning and emotions behind them. Firstly, practice the art of non-verbal communication. Maintain eye contact, nod in agreement, and use facial expressions to convey empathy and engagement. This signals to the speaker that their words are valued and encourages open, honest communication. Secondly, resist the urge to formulate your response while the speaker is still talking. Instead, focus entirely on their words and absorb their message. This allows you to respond thoughtfully and with greater insight, rather than simply reacting. Additionally, active listening entails asking insightful questions. By seeking clarification or further information, you demonstrate genuine interest and a desire to fully comprehend the speaker's perspective. Moreover, resist interrupti

In the realm of professional communication, your voice is an invaluable instrument. It carries your message, conveys confidence, and establishes your presence in the business world. Just like a musician tunes their instrument before a performance, business professionals can benefit greatly from warming up their voice before important meetings, presentations, or negotiations. Let's explore why your voice is a crucial tool and introduce some effective warm-up techniques to ensure you're delivering your message with maximum impact. The Voice as Your Instrument Much like a musical instrument, your voice requires care and preparation to perform at its best. It's the medium through which you convey your ideas, influence decisions, and establish rapport with colleagues, clients, and superiors. A well-prepared voice exudes confidence and authority, making it an essential asset in any professional setting. Warm-Up Techniques for Business Professionals Breathing Exercises Start by fo

In today's fast-paced and interconnected professional landscape, technical skills alone are no longer enough to guarantee success. Employers and leaders increasingly recognize the critical importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in the workplace. This invaluable skill set, often referred to as EQ, involves the ability to understand, manage, and effectively navigate emotions in oneself and others. Let's delve into why EQ is a game-changer in career development. Understanding Emotional Intelligence Emotional intelligence encompasses a range of abilities, including self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. It's about recognizing and harnessing the power of emotions to enhance communication, build relationships, and make sound decisions. Empathy - A Cornerstone of EQ Empathy, a key component of emotional intelligence, allows individuals to put themselves in others' shoes, understand their perspectives, and respond with sensitivity. This quality is parti

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, adaptability and innovation are key drivers of success. While entrepreneurship has long been championed for its ability to bring fresh ideas to market, a parallel concept, intrapreneurship, is gaining prominence. Intrapreneurship involves cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset within a corporate or organizational setting. This article explores the significance of intrapreneurship and provides practical insights on how businesses can harness the power of entrepreneurial thinking within their own ranks. Embracing Innovation from Within Recognizing the Intrapreneurial Spirit Intrapreneurs are individuals within an organization who possess an entrepreneurial spirit. They exhibit a penchant for innovation, a willingness to take calculated risks, and an eagerness to challenge the status quo. Identifying and nurturing these intrapreneurs can be a catalyst for organizational growth and transformation. Fostering a Culture of Innovation To cult

In the competitive landscape of today's business world, building a strong brand is paramount for success. This is especially true for small or new companies striving to establish themselves in their respective markets. A well-defined brand strategy not only sets you apart from the competition but also fosters trust and loyalty among your customers. Here are five essential brand strategy principles to guide your small or new company towards a path of sustained success. Clear Brand Identity and Positioning The foundation of any successful brand strategy is a clear and distinct brand identity. Define what your company stands for, its mission, and its unique value proposition. Consider what makes your products or services different from the rest. This differentiation will be the cornerstone of your brand's positioning in the market. Action Step - Conduct a thorough brand audit to identify your company's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Use this information to

Success is a journey that requires not only hard work and determination but also a positive mindset. Affirmations, when used effectively, can be a powerful tool to cultivate this mindset. They are positive statements or phrases that can help rewire your subconscious mind, boost confidence, and propel you towards your goals. In this article, we'll explore how to write affirmations specifically tailored to success. Be Specific and Clear One of the key elements of a successful affirmation is specificity. Vague or general affirmations may not have the same impact as those that are precise and clear. For example, instead of saying "I want to be successful," try "I am achieving remarkable success in my career as a software developer." Use Positive Language Affirmations should be framed in a positive light. Instead of saying "I am not a failure," try "I am a capable and accomplished individual." This positive framing helps focus your mind on what yo

As I travel the country and meet with many amazing sales professionals, one of the distinguishable attributes that is possessed by the best of the best is their sense of being lucky. This is not to suggest that they aren't some of the hardest working, most passionate professionals in the industry - but rather that they possess an intangible "something extra" that emanates from them . . . like a golden aura positively impacting everything they touch. If you take all the famous quotes about luck, it will tell a tale that can be summed up in my ten steps on how to be one of the lucky few. 1. If you tell yourself every day that you are lucky, before long it will become a reality. 2. Lucky people know what they want, which makes it easier to recognize when it crosses their path. 3. Lucky people see the big picture of their position and have the ability to see the forest for the trees. 4. Lucky people are willing to work hard for the things they want. As Henry Ford said, &qu

Success is a journey, and like any journey, it requires a well-defined roadmap. One of the most effective tools in the arsenal of achievers is setting SMART goals. This acronym, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, provides a structured framework for turning aspirations into tangible accomplishments. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of SMART goals and how they can propel you towards unparalleled success. Breaking Down SMART Goals 1. Specific The first pillar of a SMART goal is specificity. Vague aspirations like "I want to be successful" lack the clarity needed for effective planning. Instead, a specific goal might be, "I want to increase my monthly sales by 20% within the next six months." This paints a clear picture of what you aim to achieve. 2. Measurable For a goal to be actionable, it must be measurable. This allows you to track progress and know when you've reached your target. Using the example a

Public speaking, often dubbed as one of the most common fears, can be a daunting task for many. The sweaty palms, racing heart, and jumbled thoughts can cripple even the most confident individuals. However, it's essential to remember that this fear is entirely conquerable with the right strategies. First and foremost, preparation is key. Thoroughly researching and rehearsing your material not only boosts your confidence but also ensures you have a solid foundation to fall back on. Secondly, visualization techniques can be a powerful tool. Picturing yourself speaking confidently in front of an audience can help rewire your brain to associate positivity with public speaking. Lastly, embracing your nerves and reframing them as excitement can be transformative. Recognizing that a certain level of nervousness is natural and can actually enhance your performance can empower you to step onto the stage with newfound confidence. Preparation is the cornerstone of overcoming the fear of publ

Embarking on the path of entrepreneurship demands a unique blend of qualities and skills. At its core, it begins with a compelling vision coupled with an unwavering passion. This combination fuels the drive to tackle challenges and persist through the inevitable ups and downs. Successful entrepreneurs exhibit resilience, bouncing back from setbacks with a determination to learn and grow. They possess a willingness to take calculated risks, balanced by a sharp decision-making ability, and an openness to adapt to changing circumstances. Continuous learning is a cornerstone of the entrepreneurial journey, demanding a commitment to staying informed about industry trends and emerging technologies. A strong work ethic, paired with discipline, empowers entrepreneurs to efficiently allocate time and resources. Effective communication is paramount, enabling them to convey their vision persuasively and build crucial relationships with stakeholders. Financial literacy is non-negotiable, encompass

  In the journey of success, setbacks and failures are as inevitable as they are challenging. It's easy to feel disheartened, especially when the road ahead seems daunting. However, before you consider throwing in the towel, remember the stories of these remarkable individuals who faced adversity head-on and emerged victorious. Oprah Winfrey - Before becoming one of the most influential media moguls in the world, Oprah Winfrey faced numerous challenges. She was fired from her first television job as an anchor because she was deemed "unfit for TV." However, she didn't let this setback define her, and she went on to create her own successful talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show." Steven Spielberg - The acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg was rejected from the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts multiple times. Undeterred, he attended a different school and later became one of the most celebrated directors in Hollywood, known for i

In the journey of success, setbacks and failures are as inevitable as they are challenging. It's easy to feel disheartened, especially when the road ahead seems daunting. However, before you consider throwing in the towel, remember the stories of these remarkable individuals who faced adversity head-on and emerged victorious. Thomas Edison - Defying Odds from an Early Age Thomas Edison's early years were marked by adversity when he was dismissed from school, with teachers doubting his abilities. Little did they know that this same individual would go on to become one of history's greatest inventors, holding over a thousand patents to his name. Harry S. Truman - From Failed Haberdasher to U.S. President Despite encountering initial setbacks in his haberdashery venture, Harry S. Truman did not let failure define his journey. Instead, he transitioned to a path that would eventually lead him to the highest office in the land - the President of the United States. R.H. Macy - Sev

Clear and open communication is crucial. Be transparent about goals, expectations, and any changes within the team or organization. Equally important is active listening. Take the time to understand your team members' perspectives, concerns, and ideas. This builds trust and fosters a collaborative work environment. Delegate Wisely: Trust your team members with responsibilities that match their strengths and skill sets. Avoid micromanaging, as it can stifle creativity and motivation. Provide clear instructions and set expectations , but also allow room for autonomy. Regularly check in without being intrusive, offering support when needed. Lead by Example: Demonstrate the behaviors and work ethic you expect from your team . This includes punctuality, professionalism, and a strong commitment to the organization's goals. Show empathy, adaptability, and a willingness to learn . Being a role model sets a positive tone for your team and establishes credibility as a leader. Remember,

Allocate specific time slots for prospecting with a structured approach. Spend 10 minutes researching and selecting potential leads, 3 minutes crafting a personalized and compelling outreach message, and 1 minute sending it out. This method emphasizes efficiency and personalization. By setting strict time limits, you prevent over-analysis and ensure you're consistently reaching out to new leads. The brief but impactful outreach message demonstrates respect for your prospect's time while showcasing your value proposition. Implementing the '10-3-1' method can lead to a steady flow of quality leads and ultimately increase your sales productivity. -Jim © 2023 SuccessCo.com