Mastermind Moment: Who Influences You

“The person who influences you the most is the person who has hurt you the most.”  -Donnaism

What a profound statement this independent professional shared! We operate within the limitations and image of the person who hurt us the most. Many times, because we are still trying to “please” them or negate their influence. The harder we push…the more they have influence.

Think about that for a moment.

If someone, even someone you value, admire or lookup to says, “you have ugly green hair” and you know beyond a SHADOW OF A DOUBT that you do not have green hair….do they influence you?  No, you dismiss their comment….rationalizing that they’ve “lost it” or THEY’VE had a “bad hair day” or they must be under pressure.

However, if you already have deep within you the uncertainty of something and someone you value, admire or lookup to says….”what a stupid move” and you harbor within you that same feeling that of  “that was a stupid move” then they will have tapped into the energy of that feeling combine it with their own and it will have a profound impact on you. 

Often, we are influenced and push back on statements of people who have hurt us in some form or fashion….conciously and subconciously.  Their words and actions influence how we behave.  It is amazing how much “power” we give to them.  YOU will never go beyond the image YOU have of yourself.  Let me repeat that….YOU will never go beyond the image YOU have of yourself.

On another note, I recently, I watched a movie called “The Secret”.  If you haven’t see it, then please let me encourage you to see it.  It is an awakening and at the very least will stimulate some amazing discussion.  In the movie, Jack Canfield (yes, the Chicken Soup for the Soul guy!), repeats something that Mother Theresa said….she said, “I will never attend an anti-war rally however, invite me to a peace rally and I will be there.” but more on that later…..

Happy Monday! Like attracts like….what are you attracting? - Coach Maria Elena

A Brand Is Not Defined By What You Tell The Customer…

But What Customers Tell Each Other.

You can control the “buzz” and what is being said with powerful word of mouth and key centers of influence.

A great friend of mine, Caren McCourt, McCourt Real Estate Services, summarizes it so beautifully when she says she looks for those associations that “move towards the light”.  This applies to your strategic alliances along with the companies and products that you purchase.  You look for those “good” things.  So, how do you get known as a “good” thing?  How DO YOU create buzz?

#1. Have a valid place in the conversation
Consumers talk about brands every day. While it may not be the first place they look, eventually consumers visit a brand or manufacturer’s web site to find information about a product. Be sure to offer information that answers questions.

#2. Use your voice and have an opinion
Think about “voice.” How does your voice tie in with your conventional advertising? What are you doing and saying on the website? Are you reflecting your brand’s personality across your entire communications strategy? Listen to what people are saying about you, and have an opinion.

#3. Be relevant
Understand what’s important to consumers as they talk about your product. Then be relevant when responding to their needs.

#4. Be responsible
You can have all kinds of modes of communication with people, but they’ll only appreciate it if you’re up front about who you are. Be responsible about your identity.

#5. Remember that it’s a social interaction
Always keep in mind that when people make a decision about something, it very seldom happens in isolation.

How’s your personal brand?  Like attracts like….what are you attracting? Coach Maria Elena

Three Maximum Networks

How do you choose the networks that to be involved in?

Choosing to join an organization, affiliation or networking group is a hefty decision. You are about to invest valuable dollars and even more valuable time involving yourself with this group. How do you know which groups to involve yourself in? How do you know “how many” is a good mix? When is it time to say “no”? Three networks maximum will keep you focused. You can do more however, do so with great thought, because it can dramatically water down your other effots. Want to know which three networks?

1. A Social Service Network: For example, a church group, Rotary Club, Lion Clubs, a non-profit committee or board.

A Social Service Network provides you variety in your contacts along with a chance to deepen relationships with people who have similar interests. A social service network, however, is not about doing business….it is about the MISSION of the organization…for the greater good, for “service above self.” Going in with an annoucement of “I’m looking for business” will be met with resistance and scorn. Instead, use this opportunity to showcase your wonderful talent (talent is AS IMPORTANT as treasure to non-profit, volunteer groups) and build relationships with those who have similar interests. It is important that you are “genuine” in your interest in the organization and its program. If you’re not, that “music” will play loud and clear to the members who are there for the MISSION. Utilize this opportunity to “make a difference”, “be seen and remembered” and to “showcase you work ethic”…remember, how effective you are as a VOLUNTEER speaks to how effective a person you are in business.

2.  An Industry Specific Network. (For example, for an accountant an ACCOUNTING SOCIETY; for a engineer, the PERMIAN BASIN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS, etc.)

An Industry Specific Network, keeps you “in the know” and at the “cutting edge” of your industry.  Who wants to work with an accountant who is well-versed in the 1998 tax laws?!  We want someone who is on the cutting edge of their industry.  We associate with those who exceed their industry standards and can keep us in the inside loop.

3 .  A Hard Contact Network (For example, a community based leads group that can tell you the “in’s & out’s” of what is happening in your community; a Connections Club, that keeps you in contact with PROFESSIONALS in their industries…the real “movers & shakers”!

A Hard Contact Network keeps you in the know on the local front.  It will keep you posted on new buildings before the ground is broken; about new businesses before the signs are posted and leadership moves before announcements are made.

The KEY here is to make sure that you have someone who is truly in the know as opposed to people “posing” that they’re in the know.  If you’re not sure, start asking around, especially those who are in community leadership….they’ll be happy to share their input.

Like attracts like….what are you attracting? Coach Maria Elena

Mastermind Moment: You Can’t Put In

“You Can’t Put In What God Left Out.”

-Alvinism

“You Can’t Put In What God Left Out.” While this can be said “jokingly” about someone, this was taken from the CEO Mastermind and was said in the context of “hiring people” or even deciding “who should be on your leadership team” or “you board of advisors” or “choosing who you do deals with.”

The phrase can also pertain to you. How often do you try to “do better” or improve on weak areas? Are you able to stay on top of what you’re truly good at when you’re building these weaknesses?

You can’t put in what God left out….ponder that for a moment? Are we REALLY meant to be GREAT at EVERYTHING? Or, is there something that really is your “niche” that is your “forte” …your strength. What would happen if you worked on that instead of WATERING DOWN your efforts trying to be good at everything else?

It is also the same in working and associating with others. Many times we may see a different reality of who someone is or what is their strength. However, after careful consideration you find you can’t “change” them. In marriage we know that going in with the “myth” that you are going to CHANGE someone or work on them…usually ends with none of that happening. In business, the rules of relationships are very similar. Your associations are the most important decisions you will make. You DO have a chance to fix what was broken however, you can rarely fix what never worked in the first place.

Attract those who are also focusing on their genius and start your “music” an octave higher!

Like attracts like….what are you attracting? – Coach Maria Elena

Mastermind Moment: Smart Person. Wise Person.

“A Smart Person Learns From Their Mistakes. A Wise Person Learns From Other People’s Mistakes.”

-K.C.ism

“A Smart Person Learns From Their Mistakes. A Wise Person Learns From Other People’s Mistakes.” - K.C.ism

Other people’s experience is EVEN MORE valuable than other people’s money. It’s that old saying we hear often, “if only I knew then what I know now”.

You can learn from the value of others if you “engage” them and know WHO to engage. Who do you know in your industry that could provide the information to keep you “in the know” or at “expert status” in your industry?

Here are some people to make a connection with…

1. People who hold a similar position in your industry or profession.(they can keep you on the cutting edge. possibly someone in another market from yours).
2. People who have RETIRED from that position or RETIRED from that business. (ask them, “if you knew then what you know now, what would you of done differently? Or, what would you tell someone who is new to your profession and just starting out…what pearls of wisdom would you share?
3. People who audit or regulate your industry.
4. People who consult, train or coach in your industry.
5. People who write or author books, training manuscripts in your industry.
6. Someone who heads a professional organization specific to your industry.

Want to know more about exactly WHO should be in your social capital portfolio? Contact Coach Maria Elena.

Referrals and Recommendations

The Numbers Don’t Lie
Here is some information on referrals:

Regarding referrals and getting to see the prospect, here is some information on types of referrals and the rates of conversion from prospect to customer from the Sandler Sales System training:

Cold referral = Client gives you name and number. Conversion rate =10%
Cool referral = Client gives you name and phone number,
and calls to let him know you’ll be calling. Conversion rate = 30%
Warm referral = Client not only calls, but tells about your business and what you’ve done for him. Conversion rate = 50%
Hot referral = Same as warm referral only this time your client accompanies you or brings client to your office. Conversion rate = 90+%

Where do the clients that give you the most pleasure and profit come from?

When asked this question, most businesses will answer “recommendations” or “someone referred them to me”.

Referrals and Recommendations tend to be the most effective and least expensive form of developing new business – yet many companies don’t have a strategy in place to maximize their potential.

Do you…

1. Have a system in place designed to generate leads and referrals?
2. Is that system a positive experience where everyone is treated individually as a professional?
3. Have access to community leaders, chamber of commerce leaders, professional and entrepreneur’s?
4. Is it a place were fun, results and attendance encouraged and nurtured?
5. Is it a place were professionalism is PRACTICED not “only preached”?

Is it attracting the kind of people that you are seeking who are the ambition level you are proud to associate with?

Like attracts like….what are you attracting? - Coach Maria Elena

Tip Tuesday: From Library To Lifestyle

Knowledge Isn’t Power - ‘Applied’ Knowledge Is

Book Smart! Near Genius. Common Sense Challenged. Ever heard someone described that way? While I’m the first one to load up my library (have to pay my ‘rent’ at Barnes & Nobles!), it’s the action of taking something out of your “library” and incorporating it into your “lifestyle” that is key!

Quoting words out of a book is interesting - more important is how you incorporate it in to what you do.  PLAN, DO and REVIEW are key components of making something a part of the way you operate.  However, get “stuck” in any of those areas and it’s not a part of  you.  I know more people than I care to count who PLAN all the time.  Yet, they are stuck in that planning….it’s that “analysis to the state of paralysis” syndrome.  I know some people who actually go DO things.  They think that constant “doing” is actually accomplishing.  One cannot confuse activity with accomplishment.  And truly, are YOU a human “being” or a human “doing”? DOing is one step better than PLANNING however true knowledge comes in the REVIEWING and then ADJUSTING.  It’s the person who can ADJUST that has taken this knowledge from “library” to “lifestyle”.

Like attracts like….what are you attracting?  - Coach Maria Elena

Mastermind Moment: Never Be So Arrogant

“Never Be So Arrogant As To Not Allow Someone To Help You.”

-Marthaism

Never Be So Arrogant To Not Allow Someone Else To Help You. Other people can provide insight, synergy, helpful criticism and partnership to ideas, thoughts and dreams that you have. If you are willing to allow them to help you; if you’re willing to ASK. How many of us “ask”? Ask and it is given!

Many people don’t ask for what they want.  Is it arrogance?  That IS a way to look at it.  However, many who don’t ask UNDERVALUE who they are and what they contribute so they think “why would I trouble someone else with having them do something for me?”  Lack of self esteem helps build a picture in our minds eye.  This IMAGE is one we hold of ourselves.  Often, I say from the front of the room, “the biggest sale you make everyday is to YOU!”  Another saying, taken from the mastermind, I think describes it best and very succinctly…You can never go beyond the image you have of yourself.

Think big…..your heritage provides it IF you will not be so arrogant as to not allow it!  If you want more practical, pro-active tips on this subject, contact Coach Maria Elena.

Like attracts like…what are you attracting?

The Fortune IS In The FollowUp

This information is an excerpt from The Best Selling Book “Growing Your Food Chain” by David P. Butler, America’s Note Network. The importance of following up is amply illustrated by research from the National Sales Executive Association, a trade organization for professional salesmen.  Their remarkable statistics demonstrate that most sales are made from the 5th through the 12th contact!

Here is the data they have compiled regarding sales per contacts ratios:

 *        2% of sales are made on the 1st contact

 *        3% of sales are made on the 2nd contact

 *        5% of sales are made on the 3rd contact

 *      10% of sales are made on the 4th contact

 *      80% of sales are made on the 5th-12th contact!!!

Do you know that 95% of your competition will drop a prospect after the third try? Can you see where putting out 25% more effort than your competition (by making the 4th contact) will improve your sales by 100%!

Did you know that 97% of people do not write thank you notes? It would take writing a handwritten, personal thank you note of only 3-4 sentences to raise yourself up higher than 97% of the masses. You would be in the top 3% just be saying “thank you”.

I help clients implement a system that is effective, cost-effective and acts like an off-line autoresponder…except you actually get a physical card with your handwriting and personal note.  Let me know (coach@buzz2bucks.com) if you would like to sample it!

Like attracts like….what are you attracting?

 

Mastermind Moments: Focus On Your Strengths

“Focus On Your Strengths. It’s A Mistake To Focus On Your Weak Areas. It Distracts You From Your Strengths And Makes You A Mediocre Person.”

-Jimism

Focus on the weaknesses and the threats and you just create more. Your strengths are your genius! So, spend 80% of your time building on those; developing those and really becoming THE BEST at that strength area. Too many times people have been “sold” that they need to develop their weak areas….why?

Somewhere early in life, school or our career, we bought into the myth that we need to be good at everything. May be even pangs of perfection loom inside us! However, the truth is there are some things that we are internally better at than anyone - I MEAN ANYONE else. The journey is to identify what those things are and to move forward in developing those things.

The 80/20 rule states that twenty percent of what we’re doing is garnering us 80% of the profit or pleasure. Spend 80% of your time focusing on those strength areas and watch your self SOAR!

Look around you….WHO are the BEST at what they do? It is those people who HONOR their genius! Now, honoring that genius does not always look the same for everyone nor can someone else’s “plan of action” do what it needs to do for us….that MUST come from you. Even my board of advisors (who I prefer to lovingly call my BOARD OF ACTION), don’t tell me what to do, they ask me questions, important questions, like:

• What does “winning” look like for you? (Be specific and make sure it’s measurable…you CANNOT MANAGE WHAT YOU CANNOT MEASURE!) *Yes, I teach that in Word-of-Mouth ROI (return on investment, too, and help professionals make that quantifiable…but that’s another subject!)
• Make 7 action steps to create the “winning” scene. Then break down each action step into 7 actions steps to create that. Do the actions that make YOUR definition of “winning” INEVITABLE.

Not sure if you’re focused on your TRUE STRENGTHS? Here’s some suggestions….

1. Read some books, like “The Right Questions”; “Refuse To Choose”; “The Renaissance Soul”; “The Dream Giver”….they will all start the “conversation” with you however, you will still need to answer the questions.
2. Do the “mission statement exercise” outlined by Jack Canfield (Success Principles) or Laurie Beth Jones (The Path). If you need those, email me (coach@buzz2bucks.com)
3. Get some coaching….if it’s LIFE COACHING you need then I have some wonderful coaches I can refer you too; if it’s BUSINESS COACHING (meaning that you’ve identified those strength areas now what do you do with that?)…I can help you!

On this the 4th of July week, take time to FREE your inner genius….focus on your strengths…be truthful with YOURSELF about what you love doing and the truth will set you FREE!

Happy 4th of July!

Like attracts like….what are you attracting?

Maria Elena

Coach Maria Elena, Attraction Marketing Coach & THE Champion of Connections