Finishing up last minute work before heading out for last minute shopping. Have a great plan for 2009 for great tele-classes and events. www.tinyurl.com/teleclassregistration

Great Book

I am just finishing a book I found at the book store called Photo Reading. I am historically a pretty slow reader but I have alibrary full of books I want to read and share. Photo reading is a phenomenal process for reading a book in a fraction of the time. While reading the Photo Reading book itself I also read The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey. It is one of the books that we will be covering in the new book club that I am starting in 2009. More info to come on that. I also read Eric Butow's book on using LinkedIn. I've been on LinkedIn for years but hadn't really mastered it. I"m not saying that I've mastered it yet (do you ever?), but I did learn alot and am using LinkedIn more. In fact-- early in 2009 I am planning a tele-seminar on using LinkedIn. Sign up for the newsletter -- link is to the right there, and I will let you know when the tele-seminar is. Let me know what your successes and challenges with LinkedIn are and I will research them and answer them on the the tele-class.

Do you have other business questions? Let me know!! I am always working to find answers to client questions and would love to be helpful to you too!!

What business books are you finding helpful?

Have a great one!

All the best,
Donna

Incredible Training Opp

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Strategic Leadership

Strategic Leadership

Strategic planning and strategic leadership styles vary just as the employees and owners of companies involved in the planning process differ. Visit local bookstores or check on line to see hundreds of books claiming to have the secrets to a successful business and easy strategic planning. Technology and the Internet has forced companies to make changes. Has the ability to get along with and manage others changed? Many businesses today are international. Constant news reports keep everyone updated on issues affecting the business world. The skills needed to effectively manage others have not changed that much. Rather employees today are not as willing to put up with poor leadership or bullies in the manager’s office, anymore. Employees have more choices and they expect leaders to be authentic.

Strategic leadership is defined as determining where an organization is going and how to get there. Years ago this was called long-range planning. Decisions then were made by upper management behind closed doors. Today strategic planning is likely to involve individuals from all levels of management and staff. Companies are learning the best way to achieve excellent plans and full company support is to involve individuals from all levels of the business.
Strategic leadership usually involves planning. Companies do not achieve their goals accidentally or by luck but rather by setting goals. Companies use different methods for strategic planning. They are based on the type of business, the mission statement or the marketing strategy. Basically the steps are the same with each model, some models are more complex and detailed. Small business owners and companies alike should adapt strategic planning to fit their situation. It's helpful to review how other leaders determine business strategies. It's critical to know leadership of a company is not one size fits all.

Thinking about where a company is going leads to discussions on what they do – their product or service. Without this knowledge strategic planning will not work. Sometimes companies write their mission statements during this stage of planning. Mission statements range from one simple sentence to numerous detailed paragraphs. Regardless of length the intent is to state the core purpose of the corporation what’s at the heart of the business. Companies then elaborate on their mission statements by adding vision and value statements.

Value statements usually deal with customer type, target markets, business activities or things they will not do. Moral values and public sentiment sometimes play a role. Companies that misjudge this often lose customers and market position. Vision and value statements, just like mission statements, are unique to the business. Truett Cathy, the owner of Chick-fil-A, is a good example. They will never open their restaurants on Sunday. This planning stage is sometimes referred to as strategic analysis.

Howard Behar, author of "It's not about the Coffee/Leadership Principles from a Life at Starbucks" defines his leadership philosophy as people are more important than the coffee. He believes when companies take care of their people – employees and customers – the business is profitable. Sometimes companies struggle to define their product. In the above situation many individuals define coffee as the product. Yet their strategic leaders define it as people. It helps to go beyond the physical product to see what need the product fills. Companies can't engage in strategic planning until there is clarity and agreement on what needs the company fulfills.
When determining the purpose of a company it is critical to analyze the environment they operate in. What's the competition? What are they doing to generate sales? What future trends might affect the business? If they market to a certain segment do they need to change or update their services? Are they using the most up to date technology available? How does the Internet apply to their business? Should they shift from a local to an international focus? Questions such as these help strategic leaders decide what major issues the company faces as well as potential opportunities available.

Once a company completes strategic analysis it's time to add the details. What actions are needed to fulfill their mission statement while balancing their values and vision? At this point the process becomes very detailed and specific. Usually there are multiple goals or objectives. It's helpful to divide these by product, task, location, customer, or some way unique to the business. Each of the divisions has a different manager with different tasks/goals specific to that aspect of the business. It's not enough to say the company wants to increase business. It's better to be very specific. How does the company want to increase their business? How do they plan to do this? Add dates, amounts and numbers.

The company has determined their mission and what's needed for this to happen. At this point the strategic leader usually releases details to the employees. The managers of each division usually report back to their managers with a trickling down effect. Team leads/managers explain the strategic plans during team meetings. Sometimes this announcement is kicked off with much promotion – lots of bells and whistles. Employees sometimes walk away thinking it's just another year. Strategic plans do not affect me. Employee acceptance of mission and vision statements is largely determined by their involvement in the planning process and their attitude toward management.

Employees can struggle with the goals attached to mission/vision statements. To insure companies meet their goals, strategic planners include responsibilities, timelines and accountability in the mission statement. Sometimes this involves change which employees do not always embrace. If negative consequences result from unmet goals, employees usually have negative attitudes. Management doesn't always recognize the feelings or issues of their employees. It's essential that all employees understand what's expected of them. Take time to answer their questions. Encourage teamwork. Listen.

Strategic plans usually involve budgets. Everybody likes money especially in their paycheck. If a company is doing well financially, and the new strategic plan does not include cutbacks, this is good news. But on the other hand, if money is tight, and the employees will not receive money as expected, this is bad news. Usually employees think of themselves first. When presenting a new mission statement to employees they typically think what's in it for me. If the company needs to cut corners or eliminate positions, this causes stress for everyone involved. Part of strategic planning includes how to deliver strategic plans to the staff. A good leader makes sure this is done in a positive way with consideration for the feelings of everyone involved.

Strategic planning isn't just for corporations. Small businesses, even a sole proprietor, benefit from making strategic plans on an annual basis. Usually the small business owner starts a company because they are good at one thing, but many times they don't have the skills needed to develop a successful company. They provide a product or service but don't know how to analyze the market, set goals, promote their business, or manage money. Writing a mission statement - determining where the company is going and how to get there - puts the business owner closer to the road of success.

Strategic planning is vital to business success but even more important is the implementation of the plan. Donna Price, Strategic Planning Facilitator and Business Success Coach guides clients through an easy process that gets them focused and aligned around their top goals. Ongoing coaching and facilitation keep the plan in motion and moving to accelerated results. Test your success factors at:
http://www.compassroseconsulting.com/business-success-inventory.html

Happy Summer!

Happy Summer! I hope you are enjoying the season. We are, here in New Jersey! I just returned from a few days at the shore, enjoying castle building , sea shell hunts, and walking on the board walk.

We hope to get in some camping and other travel later in the summer.

There is lots happening at Compass Rose Consulting too!
I recently presented 2 workshops at the Holistic Mentorship Network Conference. It was held in beautiful setting in New York State. Very restful. The Vision Board workshop was again such a success that I am planning to offer it hear later this summer and again in the fall. Be sure to keep an eye out.

I am also in the process of moving my websites to a new hosting company that will offer me additional resources AND will be moving my list. That means you! I will need you to confirm your participation on the list when you recieve the email. Otherwise you will be dropped. I will also be sending you a link for several different opportuntities! My Launching Your Dream e-course, free reprots etc. My plan right now is to continue Bearing Points. It is going to have a totally new look and feel. I think you will be impressed. It will focus on leadership in business. I will also be adding a marketing newsletter. I need a name for it! Do you have any ideas? The marketing news will give you marketing tips, access to marketing resources, software, reports, etc.

If you have a name for that newsletter -- send it to: donna@compassroseconsulting.com

Compass Rose Consulting is evolving this year -- it's fifth anniversary into a company focused on leadership development for small businesses and leadership teams. My vision is to continue to offer Bizology.Biz to micro businesses, the Leader's Book Club will be up again, along with programs for leadership teams, sales teams and management teams. Is Compass Rose Consulting the right name? Perhaps Compass Rose Center for Leadership; or Compass Rose Institute for Entrepeurial Leadership; or Compass Rose Entrepreneurial Leadership Center.

What do you think? The ultimate vision is to have a center where business owners can come for training, coaching, retreats etc.

You know, that I believe in sharing vision. This is a part of mine. I hope you will continue the journey with me. My passion is supporting your success! I have many things happening this fall. I hope you will be a part of them.

Happy Summer!

Donna


Donna Price
Compass Rose Consulting, LLC
931 Maple Ave
Newton, NJ 07860

Strategic Planning Improves Results with Consistent Implementation

Strategic plans only help organizations when they are kept active and implemented. The strategic plan defines the business direction. That direction is based on the future, the vision of the company. Before an effective strategic plan can be developed a clear and compelling vision is needed. Visions are optimistic, the ideal picture of the future. The strategic plan is the map to the vision and then only effective if it is implemented.

Strategic plans can sound intimidating and overwhelming to many small business owners. The most effective strategic plans are those that are simple, completed with the leadership team and key people in the company. Complex documents that consume excessive amounts of time to create don’t guarantee success. In fact, the large and cumbersome strategic plan can be so overwhelming that it just doesn’t work.

Start with vision. Write down what you envision for the future. What does the future of your business look like? What do you want for the future? Vision stories are inspiring, it’s your dream. Once you have created your vision you can begin building strategies.

The vision is the destination, where you are going. The strategies are the map that gets you to the vision. Company values are the guide or the “compass” in our map metaphor for making decisions along the way. Values keep you oriented and in alignment. When values are out of alignment the company is off track; not moving in the direction of the vision.

Strategic goals can be limited to the top 6-10. By having fewer goals the plan is able to stay alive and in front of you. By alive, it means that the plan is always where you can see it, use it and keep working on it.

To set strategies for your business first look at the vision, the different aspects of the vision. Brainstorm all of the goals, all of the strategies for each aspect of the vision. With brainstorming it is important to get all of the ideas out and write them down without judging them or editing them. Often the best idea comes from an idea that at first look seems too wild or crazy. Ideas jump off of other ideas.

Once you have brainstormed all of the ideas, prioritize them. Often ideas can be grouped with similar ideas. This can help in the prioritization process. The goal is to narrow the list down to the top 6-10 strategies. What are the goals or strategies that will give your business the future you envision, that will create a breakthrough that will produce the results that you want? Those are the goals that you should be selecting as top priorities.

Creating a powerful strategic plan is just one of the first steps. Many organizations have strategic plans that are well thought out and crafted. Where they fall short is in the implementation of that plan. Implementation is the key. If you fail to implement, the results will not be what you set out to achieve.

Implementation is the result of focused and continuous action. Strategic plans don’t just happen on their own: they require your attention. By keeping the plan in front of you and the team responsible for the plan, focus is maintained. Regular meetings about the plan also keep the plan moving in the right direction. Check-in meetings hold people accountable. When teams don’t meet and don’t keep their eye on the plan, the day to day interferes and the status quo remains. In order to make changes in the results that you achieve there has to be intention and commitment on the part of the team. The check-in meeting gives the team the opportunity to review what is happening, what is interfering with the results they want and need and make the changes necessary to change the outcomes. Through the intention of the leadership, the plan and the team, the culture of the workplace can shift from one of non-performance to one of performance focused.

Performance focused companies are companies that are thriving. The energy performing teams shifts the energy of the whole organization. It becomes more positive and contagious. People become excited about the vision, the plan and their implementation of the plan. Results create energy and excitement that keeps the plan moving, it propels the plan.

Organizations that produce results have a clear vision of the future; have a plan that is simple and strategic; and they work on the plan all the time. Their actions are designed to move that plan forward. They don’t let themselves or others get in the way. By implementing the strategic plan organizations achieve results.

We Sold Our House!

Last Friday we sat with lawyers and our buyer and sold our house. It's been a long drawn out process of over 16 months on the market. We bravely bought a new house in August and moved. Confident that we would sell. Throughout nervous that we wouldn't and constantly listening to the news and the "crumbling housing market". I have often wondered how the Law of Attraction played into the whole thing. I am a skeptical believer in the Law of Attraction. I struggle with the concept and continue to read about it to try and figure it out. But, I do believe that the media has contributed to the economy that we are seeing. If you believe in the Law of Attraction then all of the negative talk about the economy and the housing market is creating just that a negative economy and a negative housing market. We see this played out over and over. There are leaders like the Fed Chairman that know when they speak, what they say directly affects the economy. So, if this is so clearly known what would happen if they were to talk differently, talk more positively, highlight the positive aspects of the economy?

In looking at the affect of negative talk on the country's economy and relating it to the Law of Attraction I began also looking at myself and my personal economy. Part of what I have learned is the believing in the vision, writing it down "as if" it is happening now. Going and test driving the car, getting the FEELINGS of it. I have done all of that and at the same time in my head and my heart been saying "Yeah, BUT, the reality is: we don't have the money to pay the bills; or, our debt is too high; or we aren't going to be able to.... " and my negative talk goes on and on, based in "reality", just like the country, the FED, the media.

Ah haa! It's one of those ah haa moments; where lights go on in your head, bells ring and you shout: "OH, I GET IT!!" I am creating that personal negative economy just by continuing to hold that energy, stay in that thought pattern. The mindset that it's "reality" isn't helping me to change it, it is keeping me right there in it.

How do you stay in the positive flow? Just like everything else in life: PRACTICE.

This is what I have learned:

• Meditate regularly (each day, and practice being in the flow)
• Create a meditation CD or Audio if that is helpful.
• Journal -- I keep what I call a passion journal -- accomplishments, gratitude and intentions
• Stay connected to the vision, write and read it.
• When I get distracted by the negative talk that is mine, acknowledge it, take a breath, hold my hands on my heart and breathe in the positive flow
• Read my vision again if I am really stuck in the negative talk
• Have faith and believe.

Positive energy builds more positive energy. It is the flow of creativity and the connection to the universe.

What do you do to stay in the flow?

What's in your email address??

What’s in your email address?

Donna Price
Copyright 2008

Did you know that your email address can affect your business reputation, can help build business relationships and have an effect on your business? Think about the email addresses you see coming into your Inbox. Do you have a different impression of a new contact if their email address is @yahoo.com or @hotmail.com or @gmail.com? I know I do. I look twice. Sometimes I delete the email as spam. I also wonder if they really have a business.

When you own a business you need to have a web presence. It gives you credibility. It’s your online brochure. You can even get business directly from your website. At this point most of us know that we have to have a website. Yet, I receive business cards weekly from people that have a website address listed on their business card AND still have their local provider email or free email account. If you own a domain that is part of your business, add an email account and gain credibility.

There are several good reasons to have an email account from your domain:

Your professional email can clarify who you are and your business.
It gives people a domain to look at for more information about you even if you haven’t given them the web address.
Your professional email builds your reputation and legitimacy. When an email comes in from a generic free email provider it is unclear if your business is genuine.
Your email address advertises your website. When you see my email address @compassroseconsulting.com, you know that I also have a website at that address. Even if you don’t know me you can check my website and choose to do business with me as a result.
Credibility = trustworthiness; integrity; sincerity; reliability. Aren’t these the types of qualities that your company represents? That free email could be dwindling each of these qualities in the eyes of the beholder.

Building a simple, professional web page is achievable with site builder tools, templates and easy to use software programs. Setting up your professional email address is a simple 1, 2, 3 process. First, buy a domain if you don’t already have one. Second, set up a hosting account. Third, set up your new email account with your domain.

Most hosting companies offer a web mail version where you can check your email online or you can set up your email program such as Outlook to receive the email.

Remember, to always add a signature to your emails that includes your contact information, another credibility feature of email. It’s something that people look at to again, determine if the email is legitimate or not. When a business owner is emailing me and wanting me to take some type of action in response to their email, if there is no indication of who they are and their contact info, then my action is “delete”.

Each detail of your business affects your credibility. Look at all the details as you build your business.

Donna Price is a business success coach. Get her free report: 8 Keys to Your Business Success at: http://www.strugglingsmallbusiness.com/

What’s in your email address?

Did you know that your email address can affect your business reputation, can help build business relationships and have an effect on your business? Think about the email addresses you see coming into your Inbox. Do you have a different impression of a new contact if their email address is @yahoo.com or @hotmail.com or @gmail.com? I know I do. I look twice. Sometimes I delete the email as spam. I also wonder if they really have a business.

When you own a business you need to have a web presence. It gives you credibility. It’s your online brochure. You can even get business directly from your website. At this point most of us know that we have to have a website. Yet, I receive business cards weekly from people that have a website address listed on their business card AND still have their local provider email or free email account. If you own a domain that is part of your business, add an email account and gain credibility.

There are several good reasons to have an email account from your domain:

1. Your professional email can clarify who you are and your business.
2. It gives people a domain to look at for more information about you even if you haven’t given them the web address.
3. Your professional email builds your reputation and legitimacy. When an email comes in from a generic free email provider it is unclear if your business is genuine.
4. Your email address advertises your website. When you see my email address @compassroseconsulting.com, you know that I also have a website at that address. Even if you don’t know me you can check my website and choose to do business with me as a result.
5. Credibility = trustworthiness; integrity; sincerity; reliability. Aren’t these the types of qualities that your company represents? That free email could be dwindling each of these qualities in the eyes of the beholder.

Building a simple, professional web page is achievable with site builder tools, templates and easy to use software programs. Setting up your professional email address is a simple 1, 2, 3 process. First, buy a domain if you don’t already have one. Second, set up a hosting account. Third, set up your new email account with your domain.

Most hosting companies offer a web mail version where you can check your email online or you can set up your email program such as Outlook to receive the email.

Remember, to always add a signature to your emails that includes your contact information, another credibility feature of email. It’s something that people look at to again, determine if the email is legitimate or not. When a business owner is emailing me and wanting me to take some type of action in response to their email, if there is no indication of who they are and their contact info, then my action is “delete”.

Each detail of your business affects your credibility. Look at all the details as you build your business.

Check out my new Free Report: 8 Keys to Business Success at: www.strugglingsmallbusiness.com

All the best,

Donna

Where have I been??

Wow! I can't believe that it is almost the end of February and I have been so out of touch with you!! I have been working on several new projects that I will tell you about. But first I want to share what is included in this newsletter:

1. Effective Small Business Training Available for you
2. Things happening around New Jersey
3. Article: Creating A Breakthrough
4. Next Week
5. Where I’ve been and where I am going!!

Enjoy!

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Effective Small Business Program:
Last year I hosted three tele-classes to celebrate my 4 year in business anniversary. They were great workshops both in person and via tele-class. They are now available to you as a set. Today you can buy the set.

http://www.launchingyourdreams.com/cgi-bin/arp3/arp3-t.pl?l=13&c=2371

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Things Happening Around New Jersey:

I am the President Elect of NJAWBO and we are hosting an incredible Boot Camp.
Here are the details:

2nd Annual Business Boot Camp
Offered by NJAWBO - Sussex-Warren Chapter Saturday, March 29, 2008 - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Open to all business owners, both men and women
Participant Admittance: $69 / for the full day!
We are pleased to host this second annual event with Centenary College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Centenary College's main campus. Join Us on March 29, 2008 for the Sussex-Warren Business Boot Camp!
Location: Centenary College, 400 Jefferson Street, Hackettstown, NJ
Directions: http://www.njawbosw.org/cgi-bin/01Calendar/EventDtls/Bootcamp/05Directions.asp

Once again, we’ve put together a great variety of experienced business experts for you to benefit from at the 2008 Business Boot Camp!

Fill your day with…

Up to three 20 minute private consultations with professionals such as:
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Representative, Business and Management Coaches, NJAWBO's Women's Business Center Director, Human Resources Expert, Accountant, Lawyer, Web Professional, College Learning Center Professional, Sales Consultants, Insurance Agent, U.S Post Office Business Development Manager

What questions will you want answered in your 20 minute private sessions?

Plus take part in an unlimited number of presentation sessions in our multiple one-hour time slots.

Presentation titles include:

3 Steps To 3 New Clients In 30 Days
7 Fatal Mistakes Business Owners Make (*and How To Avoid Them) ABC’s And D Of Starting A New Business
Action: The Blueprint For Success
Boost Your Bottom Line - Marketing Essentials Business Loans For The Small Business Owner Totaling about 30 presentation titles....

Plus
Easy Steps to Complying with Small Business Taxes
(A Three Hour Special Program you can choose to participate in)

And take some time to network and share ideas with other new and seasoned business owners.

To learn more about the Business Boot Camp visit:

• Our website at http://www.njawbosw.org/
(List of Experts and links to their business and individual profiles,
Workshop Details, Presentation Schedule, and more)

* To Register, go to:
http://www.njawbosw.org/cgibin/01Calendar/EventDtls/Bootcamp/01Registration.asp

We accept all major credit cards and payment via PayPal.
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Article:Creating a Breakthrough

How do you create a breakthrough in your business or your life? it's hard to see the possibility, to see that you can create a breakthrough, especially when times feel hard or tough but what it comes down to is getting out of your own way. How do you stop your own success? Do you sabotage yourself? Jinny Ditzler, in her book, "Your Best Year Yet" outlines a process for shifting your paradigm. As a program leader of the Best Year Yet program, I have seen this shift happen over and over. What I have witnessed is people creating break throughs by looking at themselves, their beliefs and their behaviors. How do you do this?

First is understanding:
Beliefs lead to behaviors which produce results.

So often, when we aren't achieving what we want and need we change our behavior. Underlying our behavior are our beliefs. If those beliefs are limiting beliefs then we must shift and change the belief. Since we are in charge of our beliefs we do have the power and the ability to make this change. First, look at your behaviors. What are the behaviors that limit your success? Some limiting behaviors that I see with business owners are: procrastination, not following up with leads, not asking for referrals. The next part of the process is to look at the underlying belief. What do you say to yourself about the behaviors? In essence what do say to yourself: that inner voice; that justifies the behavior: the excuses for the behavior. Now, some of these excuses are things that you believe to be true. Perhaps you are telling yourself -- they are only going to say no, or I'm not good enough, or they won't buy. What are your limiting beliefs?

Shift the beliefs

The key to the breakthrough is to shift the belief. This is more than positive affirmations. This is taking control of your inner dialogue and changing it. Often our inner voice is saying things to us we wouldn't allow people to say to our children. The trick is to replace the inner dialogue with more empowering dialogue and stop the negative talk. if you are telling yourself you aren't good enough, then how will people believe you are? In Jinny Ditzler's book, “Your Best Year Yet” she recommends creating a new empowering paradigm that is positive, short, written in the present tense. A new paradigm for the example we have been working on could be: "I am more than enough".
How do you live the new paradigm: because that is really the key. It is a great first step to identify how you are getting in your own way or sabotaging yourself. It's not enough. Creating the new paradigm is another great step. Living the new paradigm is the real key. Read the new empowering belief everyday, several times per day. Use the new words for your inner dialogue when the old inner chatter appears. Take control of the inner dialogue. Post the new empowering paradigm where you can see it several times per day. You can also write about how it is impacting your life. Journal about how changing your paradigm produces different results. Always write in the present tense, as if those results are happening right now. Practice your new paradigm. You can also create a CD with a brief meditation that talks about your new paradigm and the changes that have taken place.

The bottom line is that you are in control of creating the breakthrough. A coach can help you figure out the paradigm, and keep it on track. Use the tools that you have to create your breakthrough results.

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Next Week:

Next week – I am working really hard to launch a GREAT new program called Accelerated Marketing Mentorship. It is going to fun, easy, affordable and will help you accelerate your business results!! You see I haven’t been just sitting here eating bon, bons! I’ve been working.... I can’t wait to tell you more about it. I am excited about it and think you will be too. It will launch early next week, so watch you in box. The initial launch is a BETA launch and is limited to 100 people. Then it will go into a full phase launch and 200 additional people will admitted BUT the price will increase for the full phase launch. The BETA folks will lock in their charter price and will have opportunities to help in refining the program. That’s it – I can’t say more. Watch your email.


Opportunity # 2: I am so excited about the small business group that is coming together for March. This group is a combination "in-person" and telephone conference call group. We are starting March 15th. There is room for 3 additional businesses. The folks that have signed up right now are ready to take their businesses to new levels. They are motivated, excited and want to be part of a group that will help them succeed. IF, you feel that you are ready to jump into this incredible group then just let me know! I have 3 spaces left. The energy around this group is contagious AND these 3 spots will also fill quickly. Will there be another group if you hesitate? Well...I wouldn't wait to see. The energy in this group is energy you want to be a part of.

http://www.launchingyourdreams.com/cgi-bin/arp3/arp3-t.pl?l=15&c=2371

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What have I been doing?

I have been working on two new books – one a very personal story and the other – business building of course. I am also in the process of revising my book Launching Your Dream. You know, it is based on my story of taking an idea – biking across the country – and living the dream. The book tells bits of the biking story but whenever I present to groups about it, they always have questions about the bike trip. So, I am adding more stories from the bike trip. It is quite fun remembering and writing about it again. I can’t wait to get out and ride!

As you can see I have been busy. I look forward to hearing from you.

Have an incredible day, building your success for 2008.

All the best,

Donna

P.S. I hope you have an incredible day, please let me know if there is an area of your business building that I can help with....


Donna Price
Compass Rose Consulting, LLC
PO Box 615
Branchville, NJ 07826

973-948-7673


Everyday is a good day to live the vision and dream.....

Full Moon on Blue Monday

According to the evening news, today, January 22nd, is Blue Monday. I had never heard of Blue Monday before. What is it? What does it mean? It is a day that experts say is the "unhappiest" day of the year. This is based on a mathematical calculation taking into account the time since Christmas and incoming shopping bills, winter weather, and failed New Year's resolutions. Add these factors altogether and you end up with Blue Monday. As I drove to pick up our car from the mechanic tonight (adding to our piling bills and blueness I guess), our daughter watched the full moon, asking: "why is the moon following us?" She continued, "I've been watching it and first it was on that side and now it is over there. It's following us, how does it do that?" What a wonderful perspective.

How does a following full moon affect us on Blue Monday? I love full moons. For me they represent hope, wonder and potential. Perhaps the Blue Monday is all perspective too. The weather can get you down. I love the snow and am disappointed at each snow storm that doesn't materialize. I dream of snow pack, shovelling, cross country skiing and sledding. If anything it's the weather that's too nice that doesn't fit the season that is depressing, at least for me, in January. Come March, I'm with the rest of you, dreaming of beaches.

Mounting bills, well, that is cause for blueness, or for better planning. Taking control of money, planning can alleviate this blueness. What a great time of year to start planning for next year's holidays. Of course, pay the current bills, and then set up a savings plan. I'm doing this too. We need to be saving each month for next year. This year we set up a budget and a plan. It's part of the coaching program.

New Year's Resolutions are a favorite. We each have such good intentions at the New Year of making this year different. There are some real keys to creating success and follow through with New Year's resolutions and goals. My favorites are:

• Write your goals down
• Post them where you can see them, keep track of your actions.
• Tell people about your goals and vision -- it deepens your commitment AND can build alliances with other resources that will help you.
• Hire a coach to help you stay focused on your plan
• Find a friend or buddy that you can talk to each week about what you are doing.
• Write down your action plan and your accomplishments (big and small).
• Develop a story of vision of the end of the year having accomplished all of your goals. Include as many details as you can. Read it at least weekly.

Blue Monday, with a Full Moon doesn't have to be the most unhappy day of the year. Each of us has the ability to take charge of our lives, our actions and even our perspectives. I say our perspectives because we can't change the weather but we can create our perspective to one of positive optimism.

Create your own healthy Monday.

All the best,

Donna

Optimizing Your Website

Optimizing your website is one of the keys to your success online. I build my own sites and a few others, and I am working on optimizing my site as well. I found a great tool that's free. It's so good I'm looking at the paid versions now to see what other bells and whistles it has. My site jumped in it's ranking from 0 to 3 from using WebCEO. I plan to jump even higher. I hope you consider it!!





Check it out!! It is easy to use and it works.

Donna

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is such a wonderful time to begin reflecting on the year and being grateful that all has been accomplished. Each year, at this time, I begin looking at what I accomplished. What went well. Its a time to celebrate all that has happened and learn from what isn't quite right. It always amazes me what has been accomplished. Often as a small business owner, it can feel like nothing is happening, that the wheels are just spinning with no results. When I look at my list, I realize that much has happened and there is a great deal to be thankful for.

Some of the highlights of my year were:

• celebrated 4 years in business and had a great open house celebration. (I'm taking it virtual in December)
  
• added new clients
• developed an incredible Business and Marketing Mentorship program
• had the opportunity to facilitate leadership development and strategic planning sessions with non profit boards and leadership teams
• joined the Board of Directos of a non profit organization
• enjoyed our first camping trip and biking trip with our girls
• bought a new house and moved just before school started
• and many, many more!

This year at Thanksgiving we have a thanksgiving basket with slips of paper for each person throughout the day and the weekend to add the things they are grateful for.

Taking the time to remember, celebrate and be thankful is the essence of the holiday, but as a business coach I would say that it is also the essence of building a successful business.

Take a few minutes this holiday weekend to reflect on your year! I'm sure you will see great things that have happened.

Virtual Open House

Virtual Open House Scheduled

I am excited to let you know that my company, Compass Rose Consulting, LLC is celebrating 4 years in business as of August 30. I am a bit delayed in the actual celebration due to my recent move to a new house, on that very day!! But we are ready to celebrate now, and you are invited.

I am hosting a Virtual Open House Celebration throughout December.

Last month I held an Open House here in New Jersey. We had a great time. Twenty eight business owners and professionals joined me for a day of workshops, networking and great food. There was lots of learning, connecting and fun. The Virtual Open House offers 3 incredible workshops. Each with a valuable workbook. Register and receive the workbook for all three!! You will receive the call in details for each workshop and come to one or all -- it's your choice. You will also receive info to listen to the workshops later, if you can't make the call.

The Schedule

December 3rd, 2008 12-1:30 PM Eastern

The Marketing Puzzle: You get to put together your own marketing puzzle – learn strategies for filling your marketing funnel.

December 10th, 2008 12-1:30 PM Eastern

Envision: A powerful workshop focused on vision. Your personal vision, your company vision: creating success starts with your compelling vision. If you haven’t looked at your vision in a while this is a great time to revisit it, refine it and get yourself moving in an accelerated way towards it.

December 17th, 2008 12 - 1:30 PM Eastern

Internet Marketing Strategies—is your web presence working? This workshop will give you powerful tools for improving your web presence and using your internet marketing.

To register for the workshops via tele-class visit:Compass Rose Consulting

Hope to see you there!!
Donna

Open House Events

Dear Business Colleague,

I am excited to let you know that my company, Compass Rose Consulting, LLC is celebrating 4 years in business as of August 30th. I am a bit delayed in the actual celebration due to my recent move to a new house, on that very day!! But we are ready to celebrate now, and you are invited.

I am hosting an Open House Celebration throughout the day on November 1st, 2007, from 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM, at Olde Lafayette Village, Town Hall Building (in the center of the mall) Lafayette, NJ. I’ve enclosed your special guest pass and three additional passes for your friends, family, and business colleagues. This is an opportunity for you to introduce them to coaching and the services we offer.

The Open House Celebration is going to be fun-filled and info-filled with 3 mini-workshops, networking, give-aways and of course some food and refreshments.

I’m giving away 20 copies of my book: “Launching Your Dream” and 10 copies of the book that I am a contributing author to, “101 Great Ways to Improve Your Life” as well as chances to win the complete “Launching Your Dream” Multi-Media Kit, and a 3 month coaching package.

You and each of your guests will receive a complimentary coaching session that they can schedule at the event or following the event and you will all receive a program book with info for each mini-workshop!

Join me and many local business people for networking, learning and celebrating!

Please RSVP to: 973-948-7673. I need to have enough materials and food for each person coming!! Thanks.

All the best,

Donna
Donna Price

See the back for the full schedule of events.

Compass Rose Consulting, LLC Open House Celebration

Schedule of Events:

8:30 – 9:00 Registration, Coffee/Tea & Continental Breakfast, Networking

9:00 – 10:00 Mini Workshop: The Marketing Puzzle: You get to put together your own marketing puzzle – learn strategies for filling your marketing funnel.
9:45 – 10:15 Networking

10:00 – 11:00 Mini Workshop: Envision: A powerful workshop focused on vision. Your personal vision, your company vision: creating success starts with your compelling vision. If you haven’t looked at your vision in a while this is a great time to revisit it, refine it and get yourself moving in an accelerated way towards it.

11:00 -11:15 Networking / Refreshments

11:15 – 12:00 Mini-Workshop: Internet Marketing Strategies—is your web presence working? This workshop will give you powerful tools for improving your web presence and using your internet marketing.

12:00 – 12:45 Lunch – Join us for a light lunch of sandwiches, salad....

12:45 – 1:15 Mini-Workshop: Top strategies for Building High Performing Teams– This workshop was developed for leaders that are working with their leadership teams and work teams but aren’t producing the results they need. Learn how to get your team on board and producing.

1:15 – 2:00 Open forum: Questions, answers, networking – with a focus on developing business success – what’s working, what’s not. Join the conversation in this open forum discussion.

As you can see, the day is filled with opportunity for learning, networking and connecting. Join me and the many others that will be there. You will receive a comprehensive program book with note sheets for each workshop, coupons, and lots of great information and business networking.

Space is limited, so make your reservation today. You can come for the whole day or just stop in for a mini-workshop and coffee. Just let me know your plan. I want to have enough materials for you and your guests.


Please RSVP to: 973-948-7673. I need to have plenty for everyone!

Not in New Jersey -- Well I'm offering two of these workshops via teleclass!!! So, don't feel left out. You can be part of the fun. Visit my site for the details: Open House


Sign up today!!

Why Coaching?

As a business and life coach I say of course coaching. But just like you, not that long ago I was new to the idea of coaching. I thought -- why coaching? What I have discovered in my own coaching work with clients and with my coaches is this: coaching works. Clients gain different things from coaching. To distill it down to a few areas they would be: focus, clarity, accelerated accomplishment and follow-through.

I always thought of coaches as baseball coaches or football coaches. Since I don't play sports, what could I possibly work on with a coach and would it really make a difference? The goals that clients work on with coaches run the gamut:

• starting a new business
• business development
• marketing strategies
• achieving life/work balance
• career transition
• achieving something extraordinary

Focus: Coaching assists in gaining focus. We each gain that for ourselves especially around New Year's. A time of year that we take the time to reflect and plan. Having focus involves those two elements, reflection and planning. But with New Year's resolutions they often fall aside as the year goes along. The coach assists to maintain the focus over time. In initial coaching sessions that is much of what is discussed.

Clarity: Clarity actually comes first I think. It comes back to the vision and what that compelling vision is for your life or business or both. I find that vision is at the core of my work all the time. Organizations and individuals need a clear and compelling vision. Creating that vision is at the core of clarity -- where are you trying to go? Vision gives you the map, the destination. Visions can be enhanced and modified along the way, they aren't written in stone. It's yours.

Accelerated Accomplishment: Coaching keeps the you, the client, on track so that projects are accomplished, faster and more efficiently than before. Many call this accountability. Having someone to check in with helps to maintain that focus and follow-through that you need in order to accomplish what you set out to.
Continuous action planning with your coach provides you a framework for moving goals forward quickly.

The results of the coaching relationship are many. Achievement, success, better productivity, and usually feeling good about yourself, which is a great bonus! Lives change with coaching.
Coaches offer coaching in so many different ways. How do you figure out the right path for you? Listen to your inner wisdom and pick the approach that will work best for you.

Individual Coaching -- many coaches offer individual coaching via telephone or in person. Coaching by phone is easy and convenient as it saves time for both the client and the coach. Relationships are built effectively via the phone. Tools such as email also enhance the coaching experience allowing the coach to easily send the client tools they can use for things such as goal planning.

Group Coaching -- some coaches offer group coaching. Groups also meet either in person or via phone using a conference call line. Groups are typically small: 6-8 people.

Individual vs. group -- I love both. I am in a group and have an individual coach. I also love working with groups and individuals. Groups offer the benefit of the members of the group: shared experience; shared learning. You receive input and feedback from the group. Individual coaching provides you with more focused attention and coaching.

Meeting Regularly via phone or in person -- 3 meetings a month is ideal. The progress is accelerated and results happen more quickly.

Monthly meetings-- if they are very targeted and focused will also produce results.

Coaching Gym -- this is a really unique approach. With the coaching gym you get a member's pass and have access to your coach during specified hours one day per week. Calls are typically 15 minutes or less.

Why coaching? Coaching is about action, taking intentional action. A good coach helps you to tap into your own inner coach and produce the results that you want. As the client, you do the work and are in charge of creating your own results.

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Compass Rose Consulting can provide each of these coaching approaches. In addition, we offer a proven coaching curriculum that provides an extraordinary framework for working together.

For more information about CRC's coaching services schedule your complimentary conditional consult today. Seriously, the complimentary session is great. You will receive real coaching for a full half hour. Complete our self coaching form to get started. Because our time is valuable we only schedule 4 complimentary sessions each week. Schedule yours today.

Moving

As the seasons change once again there is change in life as well. Here in New Jersey we have just moved to a new house. A goal we started working on last November. It is quite an accomplishment. We had been trying to buy our new house (actually very old, built in 1800's), since November and we finally pulled the deal together. As we packed and moved last weekend it has given me time to reflect on life. One thing that came jumping out was living simply. We know that our life is not simple, yet compared to many it is quite simple. Yet, in packing there was and is too much stuff. Piles upon piles of things. Overwhelming really. As we loaded the truck again and again I really connected with how much we had accumulated. Amazing really. I biked cross country 12 years ago and all of my things fit in one small room. Not anymore. If you think you are living simply I suggest moving just to check it out.

But as we moved we work to simplify, reduce and make sure that we need all that we have.

Did you make mistakes starting your business??

A friend and colleague emailed me that she's starting her own business and asked for my advice. It made me think about what I did right and what mistakes I made in starting my own business. I came up with my sage advice for her:


Some of the things that I wish I had done better -- were:

Number 1 and the biggest is the books. Right from the start set your bookkeeping up right. use a program like Quickbooks. I think I have every program except Quickbooks and there are many other good ones. I hear most people using Quickbooks. I use Microsoft Small Business Accounting. One of my greatest weaknesses in tracking money. This has been a challenge for me. I have studied the concepts and understand the bookkeeping. I have a couple of great books that I recommend, BUT they are packed for our move! I will add them to my blog once we unpack.

Operationalize! Creating effective and efficient operational procedures from the beginning is a key to success. Once you have them, you can tweak them as you need to. Operational procedures will aid you as you grow. They lay the foundation of how you do business and give your staff a framework to work in. Write down the procedures and keep them all in a centrally located binder. But also important is to follow them!! Many people create systems and then don't follow them, and then they create a new system and don't follow it. Give your systems a chance to work and don't waste all your time creating and recreating.

Build a website. I prefer building my own because I can update it easily. There are some great tools now for building your own site with little knowledge of the HTML code. It's important to have a professional looking site and one that offers great content. Adding content regularly also helps the site to remain interesting for people to revisit and also have a better page rank. the site builder tool that I am using right now is: Site Sell. Part of what I like about it is the extensive training they provide via video tutorials. If you have never built a site this program can really teach you more than the basics. The other feature is the tools for researching and optimizing your site.

Be ready to wear many hats and figure out how to love them all. As a business owner of a small business owner you often are wearing the hats of service provider, marketing director, business development, finance director, janitor, bookkeeper, webmaster, networker, sales manager and more.... So many of the business owners I work with say they hate marketing or sales. You have to find a way to love each part of your business if you don't have the resources to outsource those things. If you do have the resources then by all means outsource!

Work on your marketing plan. How will you get clients? Why you instead of all the other service providers on the corner will people pick you? What's your unique selling proposition? If you are new to business and new to marketing, this could be the most important piece of your planning. Marketing, becasue without clients/customers, you don't have a business!! Develop a complete plan including a comprehensive follow-up plan.

Network everywhere and have a postcard or memorable business card to hand out. My business card is orange and often when I hand it to someone they recognize it and say, oh I have your card and I get your newsletter! Make your materials memorable.

Over deliver to your clients and take care of them when they make referrals to you. We call this "wowing your clients". Go above and beyond what they expect. This will keep them happy and keep them talking about you and your business. When people are "wowed" they will tell their friends and you will increase your business! This fits in with a good customer service approach. And, when they do refer people to you, say "thank you". Don't forget to say thank you. You can also give them a gift, a free service, a significant service discount or other reward for their efforts to help you build your business!

What lessons have you learned? Let me know by emailing me at: info@compassroseconsulting.com

To learn more about each of these lessons join the Business and Marketing Mentorship where I will guide you through developing an effective strategy and marketing approach.

To your business success!
Donna

Are you laughing at work?

I was at a networking meeting last night with a group of women in business. It's a fun, high energy networking group called Are You a B-Girl?. Well, last night the theme was how serious we each are in our work. Children laugh throughout their day, maybe 100 or 200 times each day. As a parent of a three year old and five year old I find that is really true. They laugh alot and we laugh alot together. But adults on average laugh 10 or less times each day. Wow, what a difference.

I know as a coach I talk with clients about life balance. And, I talk about play. It's something that I have had to consiously work at myself lately. It definitely is challenging parenting, running a business, being a significant other, a family member and all of the different roles we each have in our lives. One of my intentions is to create a life that includes play and laughter and is balanced. The question at the the networking meeting about serious we each are was another opportunity to look at how I am doing. Am I living my passion? Am I creating the lifestyle that I intend?

My evaluation of myself is that I have to continue to focus on being intentional. I am creating the business of my dreams, doing great work and constantly learning and expanding. I am playing and laughing alot this summer. Swimming and beaching and taking time off. BUT, I am not laughing enough at "work". That will be my new focus -- being sure that I'm not too serious at "work".

What about you? Do you laugh at work? Are you passionate about the work that you are doing? Do you love going to work or are you dreading it?

Be intentional in how you create your work and figure out how to include play and laughter.

All the best,
Donna

We're Moving!

Wow, what a summer. We have been working to buy a different house since November. We found a great house that we fell in love with. We made an offer and quickly put our house on the market. Well, the market isn't great. People looked but offers didn't come. Well the short version is that we had a contract on our dream house, lost the contract, almost had a second contract, lost that one, and NOW, we have a contract. Still hurdles to jump! Inspections have to happen and a new septic needs to be installed. Meanwhile we are packing.

Packing and moving has been an interesting conversation at our house. We have a three year old and five year old. I find it amazing to watch how children put things together. The questions have revolved around what stays and what goes. It's been hard for them to figure out what is ours to move and what is part of the house that we leave for new owners. Some examples for you:

• "Mom, do we pack the windows?" No, the windows stay. "And the doors?" Yes, the doors stay too"
• "Will we take the cats" Yes, the cats go.
• Panicked: "What about my animals?" (stuffed animals) They all go. We are bringing all of your things.

After getting clearer on moving we have new packing helpers.

We're still trying to sell our house! A beautiful Victorian, that we love and will miss. Check it out: http://www.nj-country-home-for-sale.com/.

As we get closer to the move it becomes more real, more exciting and there is still way too much to pack!!

And in the midst of it all, business goes on. I am excited about the launch of a new mentoring program this fall. It is really a culmination of training, experience and coaching all into one great program of business marketing, business strategies and coaching throughout.

www.compassroseconsulting.com/business-marketing-mentorship.html

Summer is also filled with time at the beach, swimming in the pool, biking, hiking and boating. In the midst of moving, business and daily life there has to be fun. Are you taking time out for play time. Are you creating a work environment that is filled with fun too!

Watch for my next post -- all about laughing.

To your summer success,
Donna