Overcoming Overload: More Tips for Eliminating “Situational Gridlock”
by Adele Sommers
Are you overwhelmed by a constant state of overload? It’s certainly one reason why we can have trouble making decisions, taking an action, or choosing a direction.
In a previous article, I discussed two of the frustrating situations that can keep us mired in what I call “situational gridlock”:
- Worrying incessantly about the “perfect” move
- The desired move seems too intimidating (or too simple)
When dealing with these challenges, some of the remedies include finding low-risk, low-cost ways to research or try out our options before committing to anything. Also, by decomposing a “grand vision” into small steps, and taking only one small step one a time, we can let our successes build momentum and carry us forward at just the right pace.
The Technology Trap For Talking Takes a Toll
by Eileen McDargh, CSP, CPAE
A recent Harris Interactive survey for Whitepages.com released findings on what communication modes are most open to misunderstanding. Not surprisingly, 80% of adults found it most easy to misinterpret the tone of e-mail. Seventy-eight percent found text messages to be misleading, while 71% could also be put off by letters. Consider this: all these modes are flat, one-sided genres that allow the reader to intuit just about anything into the mix.
In our crazy busy world, how often do we automatically push the send key and instantly regret that action? Or how about the mistake of using upper case letters and the reader thinks he is being shouted at? Then too, in the rush to respond and be brief, single line messages can come across as terse, harsh and often inflammatory. Small wonder that e-mail might also stand for escalation and error.
Want Steady Sales, Even in Slower Markets? Market Before You Have To…
Here’s Sandy Geroux’s great marketing tip for the month of September …
Want Steady Sales, Even in Slower Markets? Market Before You Have To…
What happens when you wait until the last minute to do anything in life?
You become stressed out, trying to get something done too quickly;
The project is rushed, causing items to be overlooked, poorly done or completely missed
You often do the wrong thing… just to do something!
This is no way to run your life – and certainly is no way to run your business.
Would Your Customers Recommend You?
by Shep Hyken
One of the best sales techniques is to ask for referrals from your happy customers. As much as I want my sales people asking for referrals, I would much rather have my happy clients refer business to me without having to ask.
Wouldn’t you just love for that phone to ring with a constant stream of new business that comes as a result of your happy customers or clients voluntarily spreading the word about you? Of course you would!
Recently I worked with one of my clients at a sales rally that celebrated their success and also emphasized their newest theme, which is based on Fredrick Reichheld’s book, “The Ultimate Question.” In my preparation, I read this book for a second time, and it was time well spent. (If you haven’t done so, get the book and read it – tomorrow!)
Speak Up and Make Money – September 2007
http://www.myfastype.com/ezine/September_2007.htm
It’s been a long hot summer for most of us this year. We haven’t had to deal with quite the same level and intensity of heat here in Central Ohio as some of you in other parts of the country; and for that, I’m thankful. It was a great summer, despite the heat. I was able to combine business with pleasure the first weekend in August by getting together with four other VAs and their families at Bear Creek in Sparta, Ohio for a VA-cation. They all came in from different directions … Canada, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Virginia and then my family from Ohio, We had a great time pitching our tents, cooking over the campfire, and yes, discussing business. We even tried our hand at Karaoke … Click here ONLY if you’re brave and have a strong stomach. Then, later in the month Jim and I spent a glorious week up on Kelley’s Island on Lake Erie. Summer is winding down and I can see just a hint of the beginnings of Fall off in the distance. Fall, or Autumn, is my very favorite time of year, so I’m really looking forward to the coming months.
From time to time we’ve made some hints in our ezine and on our blog about some big changes taking place at Fastype. Well, we’re finally ready to spill the beans, and are pleased to announce that we are officially changing our business model from a single VA practice to a Multi-VA practice. In an effort to provide even better service and value to our clients, we have added some new services, and have added some very qualified Associate VAs to our team. We are in the process of updating our website to reflect the changes, and will be revealing all of our top-notch associates once those changes are made … as well as filling you in on some of the exciting new services we will be offering. And rest assured, you will continue to receive the same quality, and standard, of service you have come to expect when working with Fastype.
This issue’s feature article is written by Wendy Keller, President of Keller Media. Wendy shares some great tips and sage advice regarding how to get paid as a professional speaker.
To your success!
Terry
