Throw It Back Thursday

On this Thursday as Summer has evaporated so quickly that it's a distant memory and the cold rushed in literally overnight it is clearly a time of change.  As the Expose song goes Seasons Change and some changes are obvious and even expected but most creep in when we were too busy focused on something else.

In this age of mindfulness take a moment and really take stock. Physically what's shifting.  Mentally what's taking up space.  In your business is your time being sucked up in a particular area.  

I'm a firm believer that CHANGES Give Warnings but are you AWARE.  Are you paying attention?  Are you proactive or reactive? 

How are you measuring your life in order to be able to assess your current status and thereby note when things are shifting?  Most changes don't really happen overnight.  Your weight doesn't increase 10 pounds overnight.  You got stressed, started snacking and skipping workouts but you were focused on the stress and didn't notice until you couldn't fit in to your favorite jeans any more.

Well TODAY stop just taking whatever life sends your way and take back your power.  You get to decide but YOU HAVE TO DECIDE.  You have to set goals.  You have to live an intentional life.  You have to go beyond dreaming...to planning...to taking action to make those dreams a reality.  

So while I love lemonade it's not always what I want.  If you have enough lemons then stop just accepting the bitterness of them and simply THROW THEM BACK and go get the chocolates that you really want. 

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer

The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression

Alaska Is For The Birds

Back in VA for a little over 24 hours and still adjusting to that crazy thing called a different time zone.  And while one imagines that getting 4 extra hours is somehow sublime you simply do not understand or your body doesn't understand and so the end result was getting up early (which I never do) and being too sleepy to stay up for the Northern Light show on most nights/mornings.  Please also note that you lose those hours QUICKLY upon your return.

So, for my first trip to the other coast and to Alaska (Congrats again Sergeant Murphy) I was amazed at the Ginormous Ravens.  They congregated around the trash bins, they boldly trolled the streets and one even flew smack dab in to the window pane of my room (just like the Windex commercial) and flew away.  After the "only in my life" window moment I started asking questions and the answers surprised me because while the menu at The Banks Alehouse offered elk, reindeer and buffalo (buffalo burger was pretty juicy) you did not find anything resembling the bigger than your baby chicken Raven on the menu (not that I think they'd be tasty but just thinking of the principle).

Well turns out that for the Alaskan Inuit tribe the Raven is a spirit/god that is known as a hero sometimes and a trickster at others.  It is therefore ILLEGAL to kill the birds even if they are killing your small animals and apparently many newcomers learn this with the hefty fines that they receive.  And before you think that the Alaskans are crazy, which there might be other reasons to think that - like living some place that just this year had -50° weather, my research showed that it's ILLEGAL to kill ravens in all 50 states and a few other countries as well.  It's all about Migratory Birds and a treaty created just for them and they even have their own holiday in May.

Now, why do you care.  Well, other than the fact that I might have just saved you from one of the many court cases out there against companies and citizens for harming these migratory pests there is also something to be learned.  Is your business a Raven?

Are you the hero or the trickster or any given situation?  Do you promise to provide their completed website by COB Wednesday and then call them Thursday morning to say oops technical errors?  Do you over deliver and under promise as I always tell my clients to do?  Unfortunately to the naked eye all ravens, that is, all small businesses look alike.

If someone knows someone who knows someone who had a HORRIFIC experience with an trickster entrepreneur in your field YOU now are in that same category just because you too are a small business owner.  So, while the Raven/Small Business is protected by law and required by state agencies to use they don't have to use you.

So now armed in the understanding that you fight the battle of the guy doing "business" out of his trunk and the one who just swindled someone's money be prepared to share the benefits of doing business with Ravens R'Us.  When making your pitch emphasize the customizable features that only your boutique business can offer.  Highlight the pivotability of a small company rather than a big box.  Share your passion and stellar customer service skills where you actually do know your clients name and not just because it's in an Excel spreadsheet.

So, Ravens it's time to fly now don your superhero cape and show the world why you're different, why you're special and why they will never regret that their business has gone to the birds.

Grow Right or Die

Grow Right or Die

My great nephew, Jeremiah, is only 2 years old, (pictured left as a baby) but is the size of a very solid 5 year old.  But he still has the communication skills and comprehension of a 2 year old.  He has the same inclinations of a 2 yr old to throw things and that strong temperament often aligned with the "Terrible Twos."  So, he has all of this strength and height and therefore can get in to SO MUCH trouble but people see him and assume that he's mentally challenged because he doesn't really talk but not realizing that he's younger than he looks.  Fortunately, as he ages his mental abilities will catch up with his body but can your business say the same.

Our business babies that we nurture and grow can also have growth spurts.  The concern isn't the growth but how prepared are we to handle and manage it.  Did we know a growth spurt was coming?  Can we keep our quality to match our increased production?  Have we priced our products and services accordingly or are we undercutting ourselves?  Do our employees understand our culture?  Do we need more employees?  Is it time to switch from jack of all trades to delegating and specializing?

For children it's pretty easy to see if they're on track.  Grab your ruler makes some tick marks on the wall and talk with your pediatrician to make sure they are growing as they should.  For your business the formula gets a little more tricky.  So, yes the business down the hallway started at the same time as your business but does that mean you should expect the same rate of growth or success.

While industry data does assist you in understanding how you stack up your real measurement of success is a bit different.  Frankly what's most important is not that you are growing at the same rate as another business but are you able to grow healthily.  As a consultant I've worked with companies that have been around for more than a decade but because they've never planned but only reacted they are only a crisis away from having to shut their doors.

The simple truth is that many businesses have never written a business plan, established what kind of culture they want for their office, developed policy and procedure manuals or developed a training procedure.  So, there is no need to be amazed that the business that has been in your neighborhood forever has all of a sudden shut it's doors because you either Grow Right of Die.

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer
The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression
804-426-1515

And Miles To Go Before I Sleep

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,   

But I have promises to keep,   

And miles to go before I sleep,   

And miles to go before I sleep.

Robert Frost and Will Smith might seem like strange philosophical bedfellows but the essence of their message is the same. EVERY entrepreneur knows this message and shares this sentiment with this excerpt from Frost's Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening and the quote from Will. To succeed you must sacrifice.

As an entrepreneur we sacrifice family time, vacations, financial security, MONEY, time, our sanity and lot and lots of sleep.  At this point in my journey as an entrepreneur even in my most frustrating moments I CAN'T GO BACK.  This means that my options are now limited.  I essentially succeed or die.

That death is not necessarily literal...but do you remember.  Do you remember someone else being in charge of your day?  Do you remember the dumb assignments that you were given?  Do you remember the stupid conversations that you had to be a part of?  Do you remember all of that hard work for "acceptable" pay but no real ownership in the success of that company?  Do you remember office politics?  Do you remember all of the reasons that you pulled the plug, or are thinking about pulling the plug, on your cushy gig? 

So, now going back after having lived even momentarily in the space of freedom - yes, there is fear - but now you can not remove the taste of freedom from your tastebuds. To return to the confines of someone else telling you whether or not you can take your daughter on her field trip or your mother to her doctor's appointment....well it's like death isn't it.  It's a death to your spirit.

So, this is why we jointly sacrifice knowing that a wonderful reward awaits us.  Some of us entrepreneurs might never be millionaires.  Some of us entrepreneurs may never do a TED Talk.  BUT you can be there for your family.  In my case I can run errands for my mother, even the stupid ones.  I can be there for a friend whose car has broken down.  I can attend the conference at my church August 1st and not have to fight about the time off.  I CAN...and so can you.

Always remember why you do what you do.  Enjoy the benefits of being your own boss.  While we might not sleep.  While me may stress.  In the end we have the greatest boss in the world although mine is an arduous taskmaster :).  Life has never been this good, so enjoy.

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer
The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression
804-426-1515

Don't Rain On My Parade...The Entrepreneur's Mantra

The Funny Girl is clearly belting the tune of our collective entrepreneurial hearts.  People in their well meaning ways try to keep you from taking the leap.  They want to provide your safety net but instead weave a net of negativity.

On this rainy day my reflections seem to revolve around my first parade. We practiced for weeks until the day but, since I was an orchestra gal rather than band, I'd never done a parade before.  So, there in the midst of my early twenties I joined my fellow steppers to be on display for thousands upon thousands of people and those at home watching the tv broadcast.

All of the work finally led up to the day and the sky was overcast.  The news predicted rain and I assumed that the parade would be canceled but, like a dutiful soldier, I showed up just to wait for the word to go home. Well I arrived to a bustle of activity.  I located my group and waited for the word...that never came.  

We were given basic instructions and placed in our order.  Did no one else feel the cold in the air? Did no one else know that people wouldn't come out in the rain?  Did no one else realize the safety hazards?  What was wrong with these people?

I asked a lot of internal questions but surely went along with the program. We assumed our positions and before we had walked two steps the heavens opened and do you know what happened.   The parade captain said move out...not go to our cars but "GET GOING."  No one cared that it was raining.  No one worried about the hazards.  This was the opportunity.  This was an honor.  This was our moment.  It was to be taken or to be lost and so we took it.

Years after I still received accolades and comments from people who saw me as they were OUT IN THE RAIN or who watched the live broadcast or rebroadcast of that Richmond Christmas Parade over two decades ago.  Logic says that when rain falls that our activities have to cease or be downgraded.  Logic says that no one will participate or care about your activities when it's inconvenient.

But Life says that you work hard for your moments and no matter what the temperamental weather brings you are to TAKE YOUR MOMENT.  Your business is not your fair weather friend and you can not be a fair weather friend to your business.  If THIS is what you are truly about then it is what you must be about at all times.  Rain or not this parade is going down!

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer

The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression

804-426-1515

I'm Dating For My Business

As most of you know I am single and since I finally feel settled with how things are going in my very CRAZY entrepreneurial life I've begun dating again.  My dating companions don't seem to last very long.  Many potentials don't make it past asking me out.

Why, one might wonder, would I not be falling out of my seat for men who compliment me and tell me I'm beautiful or who are offended if I want to pay (hey new business owner here, I'm on a budget) or seem to think I'm perfect in every way.  Why, one might wonder, would I not be flattered by the individual today who calls me gorgeous but whose mother is only 5 years older than me.  Why, one might wonder, am I not impressed with his bank account, looks or Swiss Patek Philippe (which has symbols that I don't even understand).

At this point I KNOW MYSELF.  In most instances I know almost immediately if I'm attracted to or interested in someone.  For those who make it past the initial impression one date tells me all else that I need to know with regard to the longevity of our time together.  I know what I'm looking for.  I know my flaws.  I know my strengths and what I have to offer.  At this point I know what doesn't work for me even if I don't know where to find it.  I am prepared and so when opportunity presents itself I am ready.

Part of that knowledge is also in knowing my business.  If we each applied our "quality" dating rules to our businesses we would be at an entirely different level.  New entrepreneurs, in particular, are wowed when someone compliments their work.  They often give it away for a kiss of kindness or a compliment of confidence.  Then they wonder why there being tossed over for the cutie who played hard to get.  But, if you don't know what your business is really about, what you provide, what you need and what external elements "fit" then you are destined to always be a bridesmaid and never a bride.  

Opportunities surround us everyday.  Networking is your "speed dating" business opportunity.  Go to these events with the knowledge of how your business and business ideas sparkle like a beautiful smile.  Enter the room knowing the wisdom that you're sharing is refreshing like the sparkling beverage they hand out as you enter the room.  Engage others knowing that your mere presence will have them begging for a meeting to hear more about your product/service or business plan.

But be vigilantly aware.  If you begin with self awareness then you will hear it when someone doesn't share the same values.  If you are aware of your business' needs you'll know when someone has nothing to offer your business.  If you are paying attention you will notice when someone is engaged in learning more about you and your offerings. 

Yes, just as in dating politely respond to those who ask you out but if they aren't a fit then let them go and do so quickly.  For those who are worth pursuing allow them the opportunity to show you all of their attributes so that it can best be determined how you can work together.  If it  turns out that everything will be about them and you and your products will start collecting dust then clearly that's not the best relationship for your business.  Partners, Ambassadors, Vendors and Clients should all fit in to your circle to take you to the next level.  So feel free to apply your dating rules to your networking and connecting for your business because it will save you hurt feelings and a possibly painful divorce (partner dissolution).  So Happy Dating and Happy Entrepreneuring!!!

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer
The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression
804-426-1515

They Smile In Your Face...Backstabbers

As the O'Jays would say: 
They smile in your face. All the time they want to take your place The back stabbers (back stabbers)

Yesterday I had the pleasure of participating in the Women's Business Owner's Conference hosted by Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity sponsored by some fabulous women owned business owners: Company B Communications, Superior Global Solutions, Inc., 2nd Chance Consulting (yay that's me) and Boomer3 Solutions, LLC.

Normally at these types of events I work my table and only have time to meet who comes to me.  This time I felt the urge to do it differently.  Instead when the participants went in to listen to the speakers I LISTENED TOO.  I just kept thinking that while I'm "experienced" and was even a panel participant there is ALWAYS more to know and learn.

I was not disappointed as first up after intros, from the fabulous Tammy Farmer of DSBSD, was Anne Moss Rogers of Impression Marketing.  Anne Moss spoke on how women can and should support one another.

She shared her own personal experiences and had us complete the exercise of only saying positive things about the images of high profile women that she displayed.  It was clear that it was hard for some to think of something nice to say about some of the women she shared.

What struck me especially in her personal story was the understanding that the qualities that we might admire in men we judge women negatively for.  And how we often sabotage our own.  While men are readily willing to hire other men statistics show that we, women that is, are far less likely to do so.

I'm sure my title has you wondering where the backstabbing comes in.  Sadly, it comes in every day with each and every one of us.  If you are truly looking for personal or business success then we have to start by looking at the success and not detriment of others.  Think first what positive attribute can I appreciate about the person who walks in to the room rather than automatically reaching for a negative comment.

Unfortunately the backstabber is often US and as Anne Moss so graciously put it while it's impossible to change the world we can indeed change ourselves and then see the changes happening in the world.

To quote Gandhi, Be the change you want to see in the world

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer
The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression
804-426-1515

We Wear The Mask...The Entrepreneur's Coverup

Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872-1906)

   We Wear the Mask

    WE wear the mask that grins and lies, 

    It hides our cheeks and shades our eyes,— 

    This debt we pay to human guile; 

    With torn and bleeding hearts we smile, 

    And mouth with myriad subtleties. 

    Why should the world be over-wise, 

    In counting all our tears and sighs? 

    Nay, let them only see us, while 

            We wear the mask. 

    We smile, but, O great Christ, our cries 

    To thee from tortured souls arise. 

    We sing, but oh the clay is vile 

    Beneath our feet, and long the mile; 

    But let the world dream otherwise, 

            We wear the mask!

As an entrepreneur we have to show No Fear.  We must be risk takers, rule makers and smile fakers.  We can not go to our employees to share the burden of a crisis.  We can not show weakness to our competitors.  We must protect the bottom line and our relationships with investors.  We must wear the mask.

Being an entrepreneur sometimes feels like you've started a cross country trek.  Many will be amazed but few if any will take the journey with you.  They'll like your Facebook posts but will question why you would start this endeavor.  They will envy your success but never consider following in your footsteps.  They will laugh at your foibles and in failure they will whisper that everyone knew that it couldn't be done so your failure is really just life putting you back in your place.

They will continue to exist but for you, oh glorious entrepreneur, "existence is futile."  We can not be a part of The Collective.  We have mountains to climb, Lands to explore and Accomplishments to Meet.  

Cherish the challenges that bring you to this place of EXCELLENCE.  Drop the pretense and masks. Amongst those that you are shielding your life from you might find support.  But even if you find negativity then congratulations because now you've found the truth.

Let that truth lead you to surround yourself with the right people. For every entrepreneur we must have a SAFE PLACE to come out of our silos and commiserate, recreate and celebrate.  Find your place because there there is no need for a mask.

Be bold. Be Brave and Be Free.

***Yes this is my favorite poem and Yes, those are Star Trek references (live long and prosper)

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer
The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression
804-426-1515

Is This The Life You Dreamed Of?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ng0VcQjZVbk

When I grow up...  Did you envision life as a football player, ballerina or a movie star.  What did you dream that your life would be?

Are you what you'd always hoped you be?  Are you anywhere near being what or where you'd planned for in college or after high school?  Do you look up from your desk job or carpool and wonder how you got there?  

Well rather than wondering if this is really your life it's time to dream again but then follow up with some action.  It might be too late to be a football player but it's not too late to have a life where you can earn income and still have time and funds for travel, family.

The life you seek could probably be found in answering this simple question for your business. What will my business be when it grows up? Take some time and revisit your "When My Business Grows Up Plan" otherwise known as your business plan.  

Are you still on track? Did you get distracted by dollar signs, the economy or convenience?  Now is the time to go back in order to go forward. Figure out what you want your business to be, plot the course and then stick to it.  You'll be amazed that your business can grow in to everything you've envisioned when you do the work to help it grow up.

Shirley E. Crawford

Small Business Whisperer * Speaker * Lecturer
The tools and resources that your business needs  to succeed

2nd Chance Consulting

Your 2nd Chance at a first impression
804-426-1515