I am reading a book called Mindset...The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dwek and it's been very fascinating. Check it out here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081W0DQA
The basic concept is there are two mindsets in humans, and the mindset you have, helps to determine your success. The fixed mindset is held by those that believe you are "as smart as you will be" and you cannot get smarter. You are a "good student." You are a "great dancer." You have these abilities (or lack thereof) and that is that.
The growth mindset, on the other hand, believes that you are a work in progress. You can get better (at nearly anything) with effort.
Dwek does a great job explaining why having either mindset changes ALL decisions you make without you even knowing it! Check it out if you want to become a better student, parent, teacher, leader, person, etc. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081W0DQA. And who doesn't?
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Fighting the Business Blahs
If you have a sales team, then at some point or another, you are sure to have a lull in activity. It sometimes comes in the summertime for me, but your organization might be different. But my guess is, regardless of the time of year, this shows up as the a few things coincide:
1) Lack of preparation (maybe you have been busy with business and have not done the prep work for new business).
2) Lack of desire (everyone gets tired of putting their foot to the floor ALL the time)
3) Lack of effort
This isn't me throwing stones. It happens. So far this July it has been the case with me. I was busy in the 2nd quarter so I was not doing the work to get ready for a busy summer (yes that would be number 1). I want to enjoy the summer and relax (number 2). And if I am honest, I have not been putting in the hours (number 3). I told someone yesterday, I blame summer being slow on the fact that everyone is on vacation. But the fact is I have been on a mental vacation. So the problem is...me.
The great news is, I have control over that. So this week I choose to show up differently. It's time to get rid of Business Blahs. It should be as easy as 1, 2, 3.
1) Lack of preparation (maybe you have been busy with business and have not done the prep work for new business).
2) Lack of desire (everyone gets tired of putting their foot to the floor ALL the time)
3) Lack of effort
This isn't me throwing stones. It happens. So far this July it has been the case with me. I was busy in the 2nd quarter so I was not doing the work to get ready for a busy summer (yes that would be number 1). I want to enjoy the summer and relax (number 2). And if I am honest, I have not been putting in the hours (number 3). I told someone yesterday, I blame summer being slow on the fact that everyone is on vacation. But the fact is I have been on a mental vacation. So the problem is...me.
The great news is, I have control over that. So this week I choose to show up differently. It's time to get rid of Business Blahs. It should be as easy as 1, 2, 3.
Friday, July 13, 2012
A Great Lesson on the Chapters of Our Life
I was listening to a CD in the car today of Wayne Dyer. As you may know, Dr. Dyer is a best selling author, speaker, teacher on the Power of Manifesting what you want in your life. I highly recommend his teachings for those that want to take control of their thoughts...and therefore, their life.
Today he told the story of a seminar where participants were given 5 3 x 5 index cards. They were told to write the 5 chapters of the "story of their life" on them. With a small index card you can only be so detailed. Here is what one person wrote:
Chapter 1: I am walking down a street. There is a big hole. I don't see it. I fall in the hole. It's not my fault. It takes a LONG time to get out.
Chapter 2: I am walking down the same street. There is a big hole. I see it. I fall in it anyway! It's not my fault. It still takes a long time to get out.
Chapter 3: I am walking down the same street. There is a big hole. I see it again! I fall in it again anway! It's my fault. I get out right away.
Chapter 4: I am walking down the same street. There is a big hole. I see it. I walk around it.
Chapter 5: I walk down a different street.
This message really struck me today. We all make mistakes in our lives. The key (as this illustrates) is to recognize them, take responsibility for them, and then "take a different street."
Have a great day!
Today he told the story of a seminar where participants were given 5 3 x 5 index cards. They were told to write the 5 chapters of the "story of their life" on them. With a small index card you can only be so detailed. Here is what one person wrote:
Chapter 1: I am walking down a street. There is a big hole. I don't see it. I fall in the hole. It's not my fault. It takes a LONG time to get out.
Chapter 2: I am walking down the same street. There is a big hole. I see it. I fall in it anyway! It's not my fault. It still takes a long time to get out.
Chapter 3: I am walking down the same street. There is a big hole. I see it again! I fall in it again anway! It's my fault. I get out right away.
Chapter 4: I am walking down the same street. There is a big hole. I see it. I walk around it.
Chapter 5: I walk down a different street.
This message really struck me today. We all make mistakes in our lives. The key (as this illustrates) is to recognize them, take responsibility for them, and then "take a different street."
Have a great day!
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
You Get What You Focus On
Yesterday I had the opportunity to walk around my community with a great group of concerned citizens looking to improve our area. We split up into groups and walked around looking for things to improve. This was a great exercise to do in this group because we were able to see things walking around that we miss while driving by in a car. We were able to see many things that could be done to improve our community...some without spending much money.
The challenge with an activity like this is that when you look for the bad, you will get it. Just like anything else in life, you get what you focus on. So by the end of the exercise I found myself in a bit of down mood. I spent the whole time looking for things to improve, so it became hard to see the things that are great! And just like any community, we have both.
We have a group coming soon as a part of the First Impressions group to give us their take on our town. I am anxious to see if they see all that we see...or if they see the good stuff too!
Remember...we get what we focus on. So make an effort to focus on good things in your life today.
If you have been following this blog, you know I have been working on the short eBook "Give Your Way To Success for a while. I am excited to announce that it is available on Amazon now! http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081W0DQA
This is a good thing in my life...so I intend to focus on it!
The challenge with an activity like this is that when you look for the bad, you will get it. Just like anything else in life, you get what you focus on. So by the end of the exercise I found myself in a bit of down mood. I spent the whole time looking for things to improve, so it became hard to see the things that are great! And just like any community, we have both.
We have a group coming soon as a part of the First Impressions group to give us their take on our town. I am anxious to see if they see all that we see...or if they see the good stuff too!
Remember...we get what we focus on. So make an effort to focus on good things in your life today.
If you have been following this blog, you know I have been working on the short eBook "Give Your Way To Success for a while. I am excited to announce that it is available on Amazon now! http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081W0DQA
This is a good thing in my life...so I intend to focus on it!
Monday, April 30, 2012
Want To Be Important? Make Others Feel Important
There are very few things that will increase your stature in other people's eyes than to simply make them feel important.
How do you do that? It's easy. Take that extra second to notice them. Call them by name. Send them a note to thank them for their effort. Give them a sincere compliment.
That simple act of kindness will raise your stature in that person's eyes immediately. Now...repeat.
How do you do that? It's easy. Take that extra second to notice them. Call them by name. Send them a note to thank them for their effort. Give them a sincere compliment.
That simple act of kindness will raise your stature in that person's eyes immediately. Now...repeat.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Be Nice...It's Free!
Sometimes, when times are tight, it's harder to act on our "promptings" to reach out in kindness to others. Though I think most of the time, this is just an excuse, there are times when I understand that folks legitimately need to be frugal.
But really there is no excuse to not send out joy because there are lots of low cost--and no cost--ways to do it!
First off, how expensive is it really to send a card? Done right...not very much. And this simple, low cost gesture can go a LONG way toward making someone else's day. And if we are really being honest with ourselves, there are hundreds of other things you can do to make others feel special that don't cost very much at all. I challenge you to give this 10 minutes thought and you will come up with a lot of your own.
But do you know what doesn't cost a thing? Smiling. Giving sincere compliments. Giving a hug.
You know it really does not cost a thing to be nice. And it's a funny thing, when you are nice, others are nice back. When you smile, most others smile back.
It's not rocket science folks. And you know what? You can actually convince yourself that you are in a better mood by smiling. In the book "The Power of Thinking Big" author David Schwartz challenges his readers to give a big toothy grin. Really get into it! If you do it, you will notice not only a change in the muscles in your face, it will actually give your spirit a lift too!
So the next time you are feeling down or without a lot of positive to give the world, smile. You will be surprised the powerful effect it will have on your life...and the lives of others!
But really there is no excuse to not send out joy because there are lots of low cost--and no cost--ways to do it!
First off, how expensive is it really to send a card? Done right...not very much. And this simple, low cost gesture can go a LONG way toward making someone else's day. And if we are really being honest with ourselves, there are hundreds of other things you can do to make others feel special that don't cost very much at all. I challenge you to give this 10 minutes thought and you will come up with a lot of your own.
But do you know what doesn't cost a thing? Smiling. Giving sincere compliments. Giving a hug.
You know it really does not cost a thing to be nice. And it's a funny thing, when you are nice, others are nice back. When you smile, most others smile back.
It's not rocket science folks. And you know what? You can actually convince yourself that you are in a better mood by smiling. In the book "The Power of Thinking Big" author David Schwartz challenges his readers to give a big toothy grin. Really get into it! If you do it, you will notice not only a change in the muscles in your face, it will actually give your spirit a lift too!
So the next time you are feeling down or without a lot of positive to give the world, smile. You will be surprised the powerful effect it will have on your life...and the lives of others!
You First Networking
Some people find networking to be hard and sometimes even, unsavory. It feels like you are trolling through a group of strangers just trying to find someone that can help your business interests. And frankly, if that is how you are doing it (most people are), then it IS hard and possibly unsavory!
But there is a better way. And if you do this kind of networking, it's fun and much easier. Think of it as "You First" Networking.
The next time you are involved in some networking event, survey the room and find a person you want to meet. When you go to shake their hand, make the mental shift that you want to help THEM find business. So as the conversation starts, you are going to need to find out everything you can about them so you can give them good leads and referrals.
It might go like this:
"Hi, I'm Kirby Hasseman."
"I'm Jane Smith."
"Nice to meet you Jane! What do you do?"
Now you will want to learn more about them in order to better help THEM grow their business. Here are some questions to get them talking.
"Wow! How did you get involved in that line work? Where did you study? Where do you look for work? Are you looking for clients now?"
You will need to be genuinely interested in the answers! Pay attention and you will be pleasantly surprises all you will learn. Now consider your mental Roledex and how you can help this person. Who do you know that you might be able to introduce them to to help their business?
"Jane, have you met John Contractor? You two might be able to partner on some projects to help you both grow you business."
You have decided to GIVE in your networking before you receive. It not only makes you more credible, but more likeable. And not only that, most people will be very interested in reciprocating by giving you credible leads as well. As a matter of fact, they will likely want to do business with you themselves, if they can!
This type of Networking makes the process easier. It also creates more long-term relationships, which is exactly the kind you want if you want a long-term successful business!
But there is a better way. And if you do this kind of networking, it's fun and much easier. Think of it as "You First" Networking.
The next time you are involved in some networking event, survey the room and find a person you want to meet. When you go to shake their hand, make the mental shift that you want to help THEM find business. So as the conversation starts, you are going to need to find out everything you can about them so you can give them good leads and referrals.
It might go like this:
"Hi, I'm Kirby Hasseman."
"I'm Jane Smith."
"Nice to meet you Jane! What do you do?"
Now you will want to learn more about them in order to better help THEM grow their business. Here are some questions to get them talking.
"Wow! How did you get involved in that line work? Where did you study? Where do you look for work? Are you looking for clients now?"
You will need to be genuinely interested in the answers! Pay attention and you will be pleasantly surprises all you will learn. Now consider your mental Roledex and how you can help this person. Who do you know that you might be able to introduce them to to help their business?
"Jane, have you met John Contractor? You two might be able to partner on some projects to help you both grow you business."
You have decided to GIVE in your networking before you receive. It not only makes you more credible, but more likeable. And not only that, most people will be very interested in reciprocating by giving you credible leads as well. As a matter of fact, they will likely want to do business with you themselves, if they can!
This type of Networking makes the process easier. It also creates more long-term relationships, which is exactly the kind you want if you want a long-term successful business!
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Exercise To Success
Want your brain to work better? Work out. Seriously!
In the book "Brain Rules," author John Medina points out that if you exercise you actually help brain function! He is not talking about doing a triathlon or benching 500 pounds. The exercise a brain needs to help it function better is simply cardiovascular. Just 20 minutes or more of this type of activity can help the human brain work better.
Why? It's simple. (And yes, forgive me scientists for explaining this so I can understand it!).
Inside the brain, exercise increases bloodflow. The blood is carried to the areas of the brain through blood vessels (Medina compares them to highways). The cool thing is, exercise not only makes the highways (vessels) more smoothly deliver the blood to the brain. There's more! Exercise actually creates more highways! So not only are the blood vessels doing a better job of giving the brain the blood it needs to function, it is creating more vessels to do the job! Cool stuff!
This is the reason that starting the day with some activity can help you feel more productive all day long. And, getting up and moving during the day can help you have more energy and be more mentally focused to accomplish mental tasks as well!
So make sure you add exercise to your mental workout each week!
In the book "Brain Rules," author John Medina points out that if you exercise you actually help brain function! He is not talking about doing a triathlon or benching 500 pounds. The exercise a brain needs to help it function better is simply cardiovascular. Just 20 minutes or more of this type of activity can help the human brain work better.
Why? It's simple. (And yes, forgive me scientists for explaining this so I can understand it!).
Inside the brain, exercise increases bloodflow. The blood is carried to the areas of the brain through blood vessels (Medina compares them to highways). The cool thing is, exercise not only makes the highways (vessels) more smoothly deliver the blood to the brain. There's more! Exercise actually creates more highways! So not only are the blood vessels doing a better job of giving the brain the blood it needs to function, it is creating more vessels to do the job! Cool stuff!
This is the reason that starting the day with some activity can help you feel more productive all day long. And, getting up and moving during the day can help you have more energy and be more mentally focused to accomplish mental tasks as well!
So make sure you add exercise to your mental workout each week!
Getting the Right People on the Team
I have spent the last couple of days checking in on the NFL Draft. Like many sports fans, I am very curious to see how my favorite squad will add new team members to its roster...and how they will fit and make a difference.
It's also really interesting to me to see how different teams seem to be really good at this process. They have done their research and seem to be able to make moves to put themselves in great position to get the person that fits their needs. Other organizations seem to flail. They chase the "hot prospect" or get sucked into bad deals because they don't seem to have a strong identity from which to make decisions.
While this happens on a huge stage with cameras, commentators, and fans watching, this is not that wildly different than what happens in the business world all over the planet.
Some organizations seem to have a great system in place to evaluate talent. They have a strong sense of self...and of who they want to become. They know the type of person they need...and how that person will fit in their organization. And they want ONLY the kind of person that will fit in their culture well. Zappos.com actually offers potential employees $2000 to quit before they finish training! Do you believe that? They know that the kind of person that takes the money is not the type of person that will fit with their team. They would rather pay the 2 grand...than be stuck with the wrong fit!
And of course there are the OTHER kinds of businesses out there. They just hire whoever walks in the door...or they fall in love with someone on paper before really considering whether they will fit in the organization. And just like in the NFL, the wrong person in the wrong position can set your organization back for LONG time!
So if you are in a position to add staff (good for you), make sure you have a strong sense of the kind of person you want...and how that person will fit in with the organization.
It's also really interesting to me to see how different teams seem to be really good at this process. They have done their research and seem to be able to make moves to put themselves in great position to get the person that fits their needs. Other organizations seem to flail. They chase the "hot prospect" or get sucked into bad deals because they don't seem to have a strong identity from which to make decisions.
While this happens on a huge stage with cameras, commentators, and fans watching, this is not that wildly different than what happens in the business world all over the planet.
Some organizations seem to have a great system in place to evaluate talent. They have a strong sense of self...and of who they want to become. They know the type of person they need...and how that person will fit in their organization. And they want ONLY the kind of person that will fit in their culture well. Zappos.com actually offers potential employees $2000 to quit before they finish training! Do you believe that? They know that the kind of person that takes the money is not the type of person that will fit with their team. They would rather pay the 2 grand...than be stuck with the wrong fit!
And of course there are the OTHER kinds of businesses out there. They just hire whoever walks in the door...or they fall in love with someone on paper before really considering whether they will fit in the organization. And just like in the NFL, the wrong person in the wrong position can set your organization back for LONG time!
So if you are in a position to add staff (good for you), make sure you have a strong sense of the kind of person you want...and how that person will fit in with the organization.
Attracting Good By Doing
Many authors and speakers spend a great deal of time talking about the Law of Attraction...and with good reason! It's a law that helps to rule the universe. As one author said, it's a great deal like gravity. It doesn't matter whether or not you believe it...it's still there!
The Law of Attraction is simple enough to understand. You get what you give out. So if you are a positive person, you tend to get positive back. If you are a negative person, you get that back. The example I use when I am speaking is my teenage daughter. I work hard to explain to her that is she is always complaining and negative, that will be the way that teachers, friends and parents respond to her. It's a simple concept. Give out good...get good back. But just because it's simple to understand doesn't mean it's easy to do!
Sometimes it's tough to stay in the positive frame of mind. I understand that. But no one ever said things that are worth doing are easy. You need to work at it to stay consistent in your effort to push out good things into the universe. The good news is, you control that effort. You...and only you.
But to me there is more to the Law of Attraction, than just thinking positive thoughts. So many times people misunderstand and think they just need to be a positive person...and riches will follow. That's just foolhardy. You have to DO something too!
The Law of Attraction says you get back what you give out. But you have to GIVE something more than postive thoughts. You have to take action! That is a huge piece to the Law of Attraction that I think sometimes gets glossed over.
If you want to be a force to be reckoned with in any area of life...you need to take action. Everyone has good ideas. But it's what you do with those ideas that separate people in the world. What have you DONE with those ideas?
And don't worry, you can start small. Often, that is where you can make a big impact and get your momentum going anyway. How? When you have an idea that you should send a "thank you," DO it. When you think you should go across the room and shake the new person's hand...DO it. When you think you should speak up...DO it. When you know you need to be on time to an important meeting...DO it!
You see, just like in many areas of life, it's the small things that sometimes turn into the big things. Do those things within your control consistently, your area of control increases.
So when you think about the Law of Attraction in your life, make sure you consider Taking Action in addition to just thinking good thoughts. Taking Action will be the thing that makes all the difference!
The Law of Attraction is simple enough to understand. You get what you give out. So if you are a positive person, you tend to get positive back. If you are a negative person, you get that back. The example I use when I am speaking is my teenage daughter. I work hard to explain to her that is she is always complaining and negative, that will be the way that teachers, friends and parents respond to her. It's a simple concept. Give out good...get good back. But just because it's simple to understand doesn't mean it's easy to do!
Sometimes it's tough to stay in the positive frame of mind. I understand that. But no one ever said things that are worth doing are easy. You need to work at it to stay consistent in your effort to push out good things into the universe. The good news is, you control that effort. You...and only you.
But to me there is more to the Law of Attraction, than just thinking positive thoughts. So many times people misunderstand and think they just need to be a positive person...and riches will follow. That's just foolhardy. You have to DO something too!
The Law of Attraction says you get back what you give out. But you have to GIVE something more than postive thoughts. You have to take action! That is a huge piece to the Law of Attraction that I think sometimes gets glossed over.
If you want to be a force to be reckoned with in any area of life...you need to take action. Everyone has good ideas. But it's what you do with those ideas that separate people in the world. What have you DONE with those ideas?
And don't worry, you can start small. Often, that is where you can make a big impact and get your momentum going anyway. How? When you have an idea that you should send a "thank you," DO it. When you think you should go across the room and shake the new person's hand...DO it. When you think you should speak up...DO it. When you know you need to be on time to an important meeting...DO it!
You see, just like in many areas of life, it's the small things that sometimes turn into the big things. Do those things within your control consistently, your area of control increases.
So when you think about the Law of Attraction in your life, make sure you consider Taking Action in addition to just thinking good thoughts. Taking Action will be the thing that makes all the difference!
Friday, April 27, 2012
The Most Powerful Computer
We are truly lucky. Each of us plays host to one of the most powerful super computers in the world. Our minds have the power to do amazing things within each our lives every day. The mind not only has the ability to make instantaneous decisions, calculate equations, find nourishment and communicate, but it also has the ability to guide us through tough times, connect with others and even heal.
The problem is that most of us simply don't consciously use our computer very well. We don't feed it information in order create the life we want. We take whatever life gives us and let that be the "food" we give our brain. That's no good.
Kody Bateman, in his book Promptings, tells us that 85% to 90% of what we see and hear every day is negative. And if you pay ANY attention to the news, people at work, or even your Facebook friends, you can see this is true. So if you are allowing all of those negative factors to shape your world and your attitude within the world, then your mind will begin from a negative mindset.
You see the subconscious mind is the part of the brain that never shuts off. This part of the brain is running all of the time to create the reality your conscious mind feeds it. The subconscious mind simply doesn't know what is real...and what is not. So if you want to create the life you desire...you need to feed the subconscious mind information that makes it operate from this place. If you want to be wealthy, for example, you need to feed your subconscious mind information that tells it that you are wealthy!
I am wealthy. I am a magnet for money. I am manifesting my own abundance. I am happy. And so on...
Notice how each of these statements are a positive statement of fact. You don't want to create the statements in the negative. Again, the subconscious mind simply doesn't discern between two.
Author Wayne Dyer tells us that most people get what they really, really want. They also get what they really, really don't want! Why? Because that is what they are focused on. They think about these things they don't want all the time. As Dyer puts it, "Once you realize that what you think about expands, you get really careful about what you think about!"
So make sure you are consciously feeding your subconscious mind what you want your life to be. Start today. One great exercise is to get a journal and write out the "story of your life" as you want it to be. Write this story in great detail about your life in your dreams. Now write it in the present tense, as if it has already happened. Where do you live? What is your health like? What are your relationships like? What are you doing for work or money? How did you get here? Do this today...and get your Super Computer to start operating from this reality right away!
The problem is that most of us simply don't consciously use our computer very well. We don't feed it information in order create the life we want. We take whatever life gives us and let that be the "food" we give our brain. That's no good.
Kody Bateman, in his book Promptings, tells us that 85% to 90% of what we see and hear every day is negative. And if you pay ANY attention to the news, people at work, or even your Facebook friends, you can see this is true. So if you are allowing all of those negative factors to shape your world and your attitude within the world, then your mind will begin from a negative mindset.
You see the subconscious mind is the part of the brain that never shuts off. This part of the brain is running all of the time to create the reality your conscious mind feeds it. The subconscious mind simply doesn't know what is real...and what is not. So if you want to create the life you desire...you need to feed the subconscious mind information that makes it operate from this place. If you want to be wealthy, for example, you need to feed your subconscious mind information that tells it that you are wealthy!
I am wealthy. I am a magnet for money. I am manifesting my own abundance. I am happy. And so on...
Notice how each of these statements are a positive statement of fact. You don't want to create the statements in the negative. Again, the subconscious mind simply doesn't discern between two.
Author Wayne Dyer tells us that most people get what they really, really want. They also get what they really, really don't want! Why? Because that is what they are focused on. They think about these things they don't want all the time. As Dyer puts it, "Once you realize that what you think about expands, you get really careful about what you think about!"
So make sure you are consciously feeding your subconscious mind what you want your life to be. Start today. One great exercise is to get a journal and write out the "story of your life" as you want it to be. Write this story in great detail about your life in your dreams. Now write it in the present tense, as if it has already happened. Where do you live? What is your health like? What are your relationships like? What are you doing for work or money? How did you get here? Do this today...and get your Super Computer to start operating from this reality right away!
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Little Things Make the Big Difference
When creating the extremely successful business CDBaby.com, Derek Sivers realized his automated "thank you" for customers who ordered, just wasn't enough. So, as he wrote in his book "Anything You Want," he spent twenty minutes and wrote an email that was funny, snarky, and full of his company's personality. That one single email made a huge difference!
It made such a huge difference that when you google search CD Baby Jet, you get thousands of hits on it. Here is the email that a happy client posted!
"Your CD has been gently taken from our CD Baby shelves with
sterilized contamination-free gloves and placed onto a satin pillow.
A team of 50 employees inspected your CD and polished it to make sure
it was in the best possible condition before mailing.
Our packing specialist from Japan lit a candle and a hush fell over
the crowd as he put your CD into the finest gold-lined box that money
can buy.
We all had a wonderful celebration afterwards and the whole party
marched down the street to the post office where the entire town of
Portland waved 'Bon Voyage!' to your package, on its way to you, in
our private CD Baby jet on this day, Tuesday, August 17th.
I hope you had a wonderful time shopping at CD Baby. We sure did.
Your picture is on our wall as 'Customer of the Year'. We're all
exhausted but can't wait for you to come back to CDBABY.COM!!
Thank you once again,
Derek Sivers, president, CD Baby
the little CD store with the best new independent music"
So as you can see, a really different, fun way to say "thank you" to his customers. At Hasseman Marketing we are taking this idea to heart. We have created automated emails that go out to each customer that orders something from us! Our difference is we are switching them up. We don't want the message to get stale for those that order from us regularly. And the response has already started to come in on this simple idea.
We also go out of our way to recognize our customers birthdays and special occasions when we can. We will send them a card with their picture on it to recognize their acheivement. It might take a little time, but the impact to our relationship is BIG!
You see we all want to have that big brilliant idea that will make sales double or triple. But in reality it's the simple things we can do to delight our customers that make a BIG difference in our long term sales!
It made such a huge difference that when you google search CD Baby Jet, you get thousands of hits on it. Here is the email that a happy client posted!
"Your CD has been gently taken from our CD Baby shelves with
sterilized contamination-free gloves and placed onto a satin pillow.
A team of 50 employees inspected your CD and polished it to make sure
it was in the best possible condition before mailing.
Our packing specialist from Japan lit a candle and a hush fell over
the crowd as he put your CD into the finest gold-lined box that money
can buy.
We all had a wonderful celebration afterwards and the whole party
marched down the street to the post office where the entire town of
Portland waved 'Bon Voyage!' to your package, on its way to you, in
our private CD Baby jet on this day, Tuesday, August 17th.
I hope you had a wonderful time shopping at CD Baby. We sure did.
Your picture is on our wall as 'Customer of the Year'. We're all
exhausted but can't wait for you to come back to CDBABY.COM!!
Thank you once again,
Derek Sivers, president, CD Baby
the little CD store with the best new independent music"
So as you can see, a really different, fun way to say "thank you" to his customers. At Hasseman Marketing we are taking this idea to heart. We have created automated emails that go out to each customer that orders something from us! Our difference is we are switching them up. We don't want the message to get stale for those that order from us regularly. And the response has already started to come in on this simple idea.
We also go out of our way to recognize our customers birthdays and special occasions when we can. We will send them a card with their picture on it to recognize their acheivement. It might take a little time, but the impact to our relationship is BIG!
You see we all want to have that big brilliant idea that will make sales double or triple. But in reality it's the simple things we can do to delight our customers that make a BIG difference in our long term sales!
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Controlling What We Can Control
Let's face it. Life is more fun when you are passionate about what you are working on! You want to get up in the morning. You are excited to go to work or school. You have a purpose. Therefore you are positive!
But every once in a while, even the most positive person can get a case of the "grumpies." So many times we can easily blame it on the weather, the neighbors, the boss, the customers, the spouse, or whatever. Sometimes I am not sure why I have a case of the blah's.
For me, when I am not "feeling it," or when I am in a down right foul mood it is because I am spending too much time outside of my Circle of Influence. The Circle of Influence is famously written about in the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The concept is that Highly Effective people spend time working on only things they can control. Things outside of their control cannot be influenced so there is no point spending any time or energy on them!
Things like gossip, worries, the weather and other's behavior are just a few things I simply can't control. So why bother?
When I am feeling frustrated with life (as frankly I was for a part of yesterday) it is almost ALWAYS because I am spending my time outside my circle of influence! So I need to re-focus my efforts onto controlling the things I can control. When I do that, I become more effective...and I get in a lot better mood too!
But every once in a while, even the most positive person can get a case of the "grumpies." So many times we can easily blame it on the weather, the neighbors, the boss, the customers, the spouse, or whatever. Sometimes I am not sure why I have a case of the blah's.
For me, when I am not "feeling it," or when I am in a down right foul mood it is because I am spending too much time outside of my Circle of Influence. The Circle of Influence is famously written about in the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The concept is that Highly Effective people spend time working on only things they can control. Things outside of their control cannot be influenced so there is no point spending any time or energy on them!
Things like gossip, worries, the weather and other's behavior are just a few things I simply can't control. So why bother?
When I am feeling frustrated with life (as frankly I was for a part of yesterday) it is almost ALWAYS because I am spending my time outside my circle of influence! So I need to re-focus my efforts onto controlling the things I can control. When I do that, I become more effective...and I get in a lot better mood too!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Raising Your Sights
Here is an email I sent to our staff...slightly modified.
Good morning gang. I hope each of you is doing well. I wanted to get you thinking about our company…and how I think we can propel our growth by changing our sights.
Each of you, by now, know that I am a big believer in goal setting. I think each of us need to have our goals, clearly defined and written down. It’s a powerful way to cause positive change in our lives.
You also know that I have laid out certain goals for HMC. I have said that I would like for us to shoot for (an aggressive reasonable goal) in sales for 2012. That could be viewed as a lofty goal considering our previous year’s sales. But I think it’s not lofty enough. Why? Because I think if you create a goal (say $1 Million) that is not high enough, you make decisions looking through those pair of glasses. Quite frankly, if each of us did a little more in sales, we could reach the reasonable goal. There is no need for a change in thinking.
I think if we change the conversation to a BIG Goal, it changes our internal conversation. It changes the way we view each decision. How would a larger company tackle this issue? Or, maybe more importantly, what kind of customers, sales techniques, and processes will we need to get there? What do we need to inherently do better to reach THE BIG GOAL?
The same is true for our sales team. I think I have done you each the disservice of saying (a reasonable number) is your goal. Though each of us has to set our personal sales goals, I think (from a company standpoint) we need to change the conversation. Instead of shooting to sell $2500 per week, you need to be shooting for $10,000 per week! Just think, if you fall short of this, you might still be quite above the original goal! And just think of what your income would look like if you are selling $10,000 per week. Totally different.
But to reach $10,000 per week you may have to view your own sales differently. What kind of customers do I have now? What kind do I need to reach this new level? What do I need to consistently do to get them? These are questions each of us need to ask ourselves to make sure we are keeping our eyes on our goals.
So that is the question I leave with each of us today. What can we do to change our focus toward THE BIG GOAL? What can you do to change your personal sales go upward? I have some thoughts, but I want your input. Please let me know what I can do to help!
Good morning gang. I hope each of you is doing well. I wanted to get you thinking about our company…and how I think we can propel our growth by changing our sights.
Each of you, by now, know that I am a big believer in goal setting. I think each of us need to have our goals, clearly defined and written down. It’s a powerful way to cause positive change in our lives.
You also know that I have laid out certain goals for HMC. I have said that I would like for us to shoot for (an aggressive reasonable goal) in sales for 2012. That could be viewed as a lofty goal considering our previous year’s sales. But I think it’s not lofty enough. Why? Because I think if you create a goal (say $1 Million) that is not high enough, you make decisions looking through those pair of glasses. Quite frankly, if each of us did a little more in sales, we could reach the reasonable goal. There is no need for a change in thinking.
I think if we change the conversation to a BIG Goal, it changes our internal conversation. It changes the way we view each decision. How would a larger company tackle this issue? Or, maybe more importantly, what kind of customers, sales techniques, and processes will we need to get there? What do we need to inherently do better to reach THE BIG GOAL?
The same is true for our sales team. I think I have done you each the disservice of saying (a reasonable number) is your goal. Though each of us has to set our personal sales goals, I think (from a company standpoint) we need to change the conversation. Instead of shooting to sell $2500 per week, you need to be shooting for $10,000 per week! Just think, if you fall short of this, you might still be quite above the original goal! And just think of what your income would look like if you are selling $10,000 per week. Totally different.
But to reach $10,000 per week you may have to view your own sales differently. What kind of customers do I have now? What kind do I need to reach this new level? What do I need to consistently do to get them? These are questions each of us need to ask ourselves to make sure we are keeping our eyes on our goals.
So that is the question I leave with each of us today. What can we do to change our focus toward THE BIG GOAL? What can you do to change your personal sales go upward? I have some thoughts, but I want your input. Please let me know what I can do to help!
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Losing Track
No matter how focuses, goal-oriented, intense, or passionate we are, we sometimes will lose our way when it comes to moving toward our goals. Life just gets in the way.
It's understandable and okay.
What I find is important in these moments is that we not allow that "bad day" to turn into a bad week, month or year. Take that time to acknowledge you are "off" and, if you can, why. Allow yourself to have that day and don't beat yourself up over it.
Sometimes that off day can be a great way to rebound and refocus. Remind yourself why you are working toward the goals you have set in the first place. And make sure you set pro-active actions for the next day to get yourself back on track.
Sometimes the "off" day can be a great springboard to get you moving full speed ahead!
It's understandable and okay.
What I find is important in these moments is that we not allow that "bad day" to turn into a bad week, month or year. Take that time to acknowledge you are "off" and, if you can, why. Allow yourself to have that day and don't beat yourself up over it.
Sometimes that off day can be a great way to rebound and refocus. Remind yourself why you are working toward the goals you have set in the first place. And make sure you set pro-active actions for the next day to get yourself back on track.
Sometimes the "off" day can be a great springboard to get you moving full speed ahead!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Building Your Personal Brand
Businesses talk about brand all of the time. But do you think about branding when it comes to the business of "YOU?" You should!
If you are looking to land a job, start a business, sell a product or get a date, the brand of "YOU" is what you are selling.
The bad news is most of us are not thinking this way. The good news, with social media and technology, it's easier than ever to begin building your brand.
I heard about a guy who's business card was just the google logo with his name typed in the search area. Cool huh? What would happen if you handed out this business card? Would anyone be able to find you? If you want to build a business...the answer better be yes!
If you are looking to land a job, start a business, sell a product or get a date, the brand of "YOU" is what you are selling.
The bad news is most of us are not thinking this way. The good news, with social media and technology, it's easier than ever to begin building your brand.
I heard about a guy who's business card was just the google logo with his name typed in the search area. Cool huh? What would happen if you handed out this business card? Would anyone be able to find you? If you want to build a business...the answer better be yes!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Are You Actually DOING it?
An email I sent to my sales team the other day.
So I read an ebook the other day that I decided to check out. It was a free download, so I took that into consideration. It was short and an easy read about how to sell $100,000 per month in promotional products. I think we would all be good with that goal!
Quite frankly I didn't think there was a lot of new ground being broken. I found myself saying, “yeah I know that.” But then I asked myself an important question…
“Am I actually DO-ing it?” And in many cases the answer is no. So this is my wake up call to myself. And here are my thoughts to you:
1) Prospecting Every Day: We need to continually be looking for new customers. I am going to implement a new prospecting program that starts next week. I am going to be looking for large clients and doing a mailer. I will share it with anyone, but you should do whatever it is you want. The key (as with anything) is just to do it…and do it regularly.
2) Specs and Virtuals: Each of us should be spending AT LEAST an hour a week working on ideas for current clients or prospects. We have some suppliers who will do them for FREE. When you can’t do a real spec, a virtual is better than nothing. By doing this you are adding real value to your clients. Set a time and day each week for this activity…and put it on your calendar!
3) Samples Sell: When you can’t have a Spec Sample, take a sample! Samples sell!
4) See the People: Have I mentioned that the best way to grow your business is to be in front of clients?
Now let’s get out there and do it!
Yes this was written to my sales group and the specifics might not be for you. But the question of pro-active action remains for just about any project. You know what you should be doing...are you doing it?
So I read an ebook the other day that I decided to check out. It was a free download, so I took that into consideration. It was short and an easy read about how to sell $100,000 per month in promotional products. I think we would all be good with that goal!
Quite frankly I didn't think there was a lot of new ground being broken. I found myself saying, “yeah I know that.” But then I asked myself an important question…
“Am I actually DO-ing it?” And in many cases the answer is no. So this is my wake up call to myself. And here are my thoughts to you:
1) Prospecting Every Day: We need to continually be looking for new customers. I am going to implement a new prospecting program that starts next week. I am going to be looking for large clients and doing a mailer. I will share it with anyone, but you should do whatever it is you want. The key (as with anything) is just to do it…and do it regularly.
2) Specs and Virtuals: Each of us should be spending AT LEAST an hour a week working on ideas for current clients or prospects. We have some suppliers who will do them for FREE. When you can’t do a real spec, a virtual is better than nothing. By doing this you are adding real value to your clients. Set a time and day each week for this activity…and put it on your calendar!
3) Samples Sell: When you can’t have a Spec Sample, take a sample! Samples sell!
4) See the People: Have I mentioned that the best way to grow your business is to be in front of clients?
Now let’s get out there and do it!
Yes this was written to my sales group and the specifics might not be for you. But the question of pro-active action remains for just about any project. You know what you should be doing...are you doing it?
Friday, March 2, 2012
Doing What You Have To Do
We have a disease in parts of our society. It's a disease that is eating away at our customer service, relationships and quality of life. It makes individual encounters (and mass ones) hard to deal with...and exhausting.
It's called "Doing What You Have To Do."
In so many sectors of our society, we see people that are doing ONLY what they have to do for each other...and nothing more. You can't call a customer service line, go to a retail store, or even read about our elected officials without seeing this creep in. Is there ANYONE that wants to call and deal with "customer service?" Why did this become a dirty word? It's because people are doing what they HAVE to do...and nothing more. In reality...it's a disease of laziness.
The problem is, when we look in a mirror it's easy to justify doing "what we have to" in our own life. You don't HAVE to go that extra mile for a customer, family member or friend. It's not required (unfortunately). You don't HAVE to wait that extra second to hold the door for a stranger. You don't HAVE to send a card. You don't HAVE to give a friend a surprise call just to say you miss them.
But isn't it nice when people do it for us?
The good news is, we each have the antidote for this dreaded disease. It's called "COULD DO." You see the answer to this problem really isn't making huge sweeping changes. It's usually taking just a moment to put yourself in the other person's shoes...and doing something to help them. We hear all the time that just that little extra can make a BIG difference. And of course it's true. But what are we doing today for that other person? That person you don't HAVE to help...but could.
Look in the mirror. Are you doing what you HAVE to do? Or are you doing what you COULD DO?
It's called "Doing What You Have To Do."
In so many sectors of our society, we see people that are doing ONLY what they have to do for each other...and nothing more. You can't call a customer service line, go to a retail store, or even read about our elected officials without seeing this creep in. Is there ANYONE that wants to call and deal with "customer service?" Why did this become a dirty word? It's because people are doing what they HAVE to do...and nothing more. In reality...it's a disease of laziness.
The problem is, when we look in a mirror it's easy to justify doing "what we have to" in our own life. You don't HAVE to go that extra mile for a customer, family member or friend. It's not required (unfortunately). You don't HAVE to wait that extra second to hold the door for a stranger. You don't HAVE to send a card. You don't HAVE to give a friend a surprise call just to say you miss them.
But isn't it nice when people do it for us?
The good news is, we each have the antidote for this dreaded disease. It's called "COULD DO." You see the answer to this problem really isn't making huge sweeping changes. It's usually taking just a moment to put yourself in the other person's shoes...and doing something to help them. We hear all the time that just that little extra can make a BIG difference. And of course it's true. But what are we doing today for that other person? That person you don't HAVE to help...but could.
Look in the mirror. Are you doing what you HAVE to do? Or are you doing what you COULD DO?
Thursday, March 1, 2012
I Don't Have Time
One of my pet peeves when I talk to people who are considering taking on a new project, is when they say, "I don't have time." Yes you do.
The question is not (generally) whether or not you have time. It's what you have decided to prioritize.
The fact is, most of us actually have plenty of time to take on a new project. We just decide not to do it because it will cut into our TV time. But even for those that are the super-achievers that are really super busy...it's still about priorities. In every case, we can choose to drop another project to a lower priority so we can focus on this new challenge. The challenge with this is to do so with purpose. One of my big problems is that I sometimes take on a lot of projects only to flit from one to another when that project "demands" my attention.
I am working to focus more specifically on each project without interuption so I can give that project it's due until it's time to move on. The human brain is not designed to multi-task (despite what some might tell you). You will be most effective when you work on one thing at a time.
But we all have time to take on new projects. We just have to decide whether this new project should take priority. It's totally okay to say "no" if the project is not important enough. But let's just be brave enough to say that...rather than the easy excuse of "I don't have time."
The question is not (generally) whether or not you have time. It's what you have decided to prioritize.
The fact is, most of us actually have plenty of time to take on a new project. We just decide not to do it because it will cut into our TV time. But even for those that are the super-achievers that are really super busy...it's still about priorities. In every case, we can choose to drop another project to a lower priority so we can focus on this new challenge. The challenge with this is to do so with purpose. One of my big problems is that I sometimes take on a lot of projects only to flit from one to another when that project "demands" my attention.
I am working to focus more specifically on each project without interuption so I can give that project it's due until it's time to move on. The human brain is not designed to multi-task (despite what some might tell you). You will be most effective when you work on one thing at a time.
But we all have time to take on new projects. We just have to decide whether this new project should take priority. It's totally okay to say "no" if the project is not important enough. But let's just be brave enough to say that...rather than the easy excuse of "I don't have time."
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Waiting on Someday
I am a big believer of dreaming big. You need to be able to stretch your dream muscles so that you can envision a life that is better than the one in which you currently live (if you want that!). I believe it is important to take the time to meditate, dream, pray, etc. so that you can "see" that life you want.
Frankly, I think it's vital.
The problem is, that is where most people stop. Even those that want to change their current circumstances won't go further. They "think" about it. They dream about it. But what do they actually DO about it?
It's amazing to me how few people actually write down their goals. It's a simple act. And pretty much every success book, blog, article or magazine says this is an important activity for success. These experts will tell you to dream big, then write down your goals on a regular basis. The act of writing it down, they will tell you, is a powerful, simple step toward making your dream a reality. They can even state studies that show this to be true.
But most people don't do it. Why?
I think most people want something better for themselves, but they are waiting on the dreaded "someday." Someday is the future horizon where everything will line up perfectly. "Someday when the bills are paid...when the kids are out of school...when I get an inheritance...when the economy is better." People are waiting for a someday that never comes. Because there is never a PERFECT time to jump. If you wait for their perfect day...you will never change.
The greatest distance in the world is the distance between "I know" and "I do." The dreamers of the world "know" what they need to do. They dream, they think and they plan. Those who are successful take the next step into action.
What are you going to DO today to make your future dreams come true?
Frankly, I think it's vital.
The problem is, that is where most people stop. Even those that want to change their current circumstances won't go further. They "think" about it. They dream about it. But what do they actually DO about it?
It's amazing to me how few people actually write down their goals. It's a simple act. And pretty much every success book, blog, article or magazine says this is an important activity for success. These experts will tell you to dream big, then write down your goals on a regular basis. The act of writing it down, they will tell you, is a powerful, simple step toward making your dream a reality. They can even state studies that show this to be true.
But most people don't do it. Why?
I think most people want something better for themselves, but they are waiting on the dreaded "someday." Someday is the future horizon where everything will line up perfectly. "Someday when the bills are paid...when the kids are out of school...when I get an inheritance...when the economy is better." People are waiting for a someday that never comes. Because there is never a PERFECT time to jump. If you wait for their perfect day...you will never change.
The greatest distance in the world is the distance between "I know" and "I do." The dreamers of the world "know" what they need to do. They dream, they think and they plan. Those who are successful take the next step into action.
What are you going to DO today to make your future dreams come true?
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Thinking Win-Win
I totally understand this is not a new concept. Ever since I read the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, I have been aware of the idea of looking for Win-Win solutions to challenges.
But the more I have an opportunity to be in business for myself, the more I see the power in this concept...and the more I see them as a REAL possibility for each of us.
Covey's concept was simple. So many of us enter discussions, situations, relationships, and negotiations with the idea that for me to win, you have to lose. This way is adversarial by nature and certainly does not create relationships we want to maintain. Even if we are the winner, the loser will look for any way to leave the agreement, or break it. There is no trust.
But if you enter these discussions with the idea that each party needs to win, then you see things differently. You take the time to understand things from their perspective. The irony is, by doing so, you often see solutions that you didn't see before. You can often see a way to meet the other person's needs that they have not asked for. You can great a win-win.
I strive to create Win-Win's in my life. I am certainly not perfect, but I do pride myself in being able to see another person's perspective. I don't always agree with them...but frankly I think that is okay too.
I am currently involved in a new project called www.efrugality.com that I think is a great example of win-win. Small businesses that participate with us have the opportunity to promote their business for free. Consumers have the opportunity to have great savings in shopping, while supporting local businesses. This is a bit of a new concept, but we think it will work. We believe it because it is a win-win.
Are you seeking out Win-Win's in your relationships or business? They are there if you look!
But the more I have an opportunity to be in business for myself, the more I see the power in this concept...and the more I see them as a REAL possibility for each of us.
Covey's concept was simple. So many of us enter discussions, situations, relationships, and negotiations with the idea that for me to win, you have to lose. This way is adversarial by nature and certainly does not create relationships we want to maintain. Even if we are the winner, the loser will look for any way to leave the agreement, or break it. There is no trust.
But if you enter these discussions with the idea that each party needs to win, then you see things differently. You take the time to understand things from their perspective. The irony is, by doing so, you often see solutions that you didn't see before. You can often see a way to meet the other person's needs that they have not asked for. You can great a win-win.
I strive to create Win-Win's in my life. I am certainly not perfect, but I do pride myself in being able to see another person's perspective. I don't always agree with them...but frankly I think that is okay too.
I am currently involved in a new project called www.efrugality.com that I think is a great example of win-win. Small businesses that participate with us have the opportunity to promote their business for free. Consumers have the opportunity to have great savings in shopping, while supporting local businesses. This is a bit of a new concept, but we think it will work. We believe it because it is a win-win.
Are you seeking out Win-Win's in your relationships or business? They are there if you look!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Mark Cuban's Book
I am currently reading Mark Cuban's ebook called "How To Win at the Sport of Business. If I Can Do It, You Can Do It." You can get it on Amazon for only $2.50 or so for your Kindle device and I think it is well worth it!
Last night I read a chapter called "The Best Equity is Sweat Equity." It's funny, I have been saying for years that you don't need a lot of money to start a business. My contention is, even in a tough economy, you can start a small niche business and create an income for yourself if you are willing to work it. Now I am reading it from Mark Cuban, the owner of the Dallas Mavericks.
He says the biggest mistake he sees entreprenuers make is focusing on raising money. He says this can be the biggest mistake many business owners can make. Cuban says by starting small, you can make up for your lack of office space, personel, and fancy furniture with hustle and creativity. "The reality is," Cuban says, "for most businesses, they don't need more cash, they need more brains."
I think this is inspiring. This is from a guy who has started, run and sold multiple businesses and is now a leading business leader in the world. He is the owner of the Dallas Mavericks! His advice? Start small and work hard. That's great because it means that success is not the domain of a select few. You can acheive it if you are willing to work.
Are you ready?
Last night I read a chapter called "The Best Equity is Sweat Equity." It's funny, I have been saying for years that you don't need a lot of money to start a business. My contention is, even in a tough economy, you can start a small niche business and create an income for yourself if you are willing to work it. Now I am reading it from Mark Cuban, the owner of the Dallas Mavericks.
He says the biggest mistake he sees entreprenuers make is focusing on raising money. He says this can be the biggest mistake many business owners can make. Cuban says by starting small, you can make up for your lack of office space, personel, and fancy furniture with hustle and creativity. "The reality is," Cuban says, "for most businesses, they don't need more cash, they need more brains."
I think this is inspiring. This is from a guy who has started, run and sold multiple businesses and is now a leading business leader in the world. He is the owner of the Dallas Mavericks! His advice? Start small and work hard. That's great because it means that success is not the domain of a select few. You can acheive it if you are willing to work.
Are you ready?
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