Posted by Beverly on
November 17, 2011
Meet Featured Diva Reba Charleston
What is the name of your business and a description of what you do?
My business is ‘Your Mind and Body Coach’. I help women find their mojo again, whether they are going through a life transition (career change, divorce, empty nester, etc.) or want to find their passion. My sessions are fun and energetic, and I incorporate wellness into my portfolio as a Zumba instructor. I love to offer ‘Grown Folks Recess’ to get people moving!
How much has your business direction changed in the past five years and why?
My professional direction has changed more than my business direction as I’ve worked in corporate all my life and decided to strike out on my own just a couple years ago. The major trigger for me to change directions was after having back surgery; I had a lot of time for reflection during recovery. I realized I was not passionate about returning to the corporate arena and began training as a life coach. I’ve always given to others through mentoring and community service, so I decided to redirect some of that energy into working for myself. I’m still making the transition out of corporate and building my business portfolio.
What advice do you have for women who are trying to grow their businesses?
Never stop learning. Soak up as much information as possible. Marketing isn’t always fun, but it’s necessary – so learn how to use social media, and find ways to bring visibility to your business. Attend networking functions, but have a plan and intentions for an outcome. Follow those who were once in your shoes, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice. Find mentors, build relationships with others business owners, and learn to negotiate and barter services. Embrace your value and don’t undersell yourself.
What do you know now that you wished you knew 10 years ago as it relates to business?
Follow your passion! Have an abundance mindset and get to know more entrepreneurs. While in corporate, I really didn’t network as much outside of my professional environment. Venturing into the entrepreneurial world has really opened my eyes to the opportunities to connect with people, build relationships, and grow personally and professionally.
Connect with Reba on Facebook: Reba Beatty Charleston
Connect with Reba on Twitter: RebaCharleston
Posted by Beverly on
November 5, 2011
Meet Featured Diva Regina Baker
What is the name of your business and a description of what you do?
Computerize U2. I create strategic plans and teach offline small businesses how to merge your business online and help online businesses how to create an offline presence.
How much has your business direction changed in the past five years and why?
Considerably! It was time for me to step out do what I thoroughly enjoy doing — teaching. I was sort of stuck for 6 years doing something I know how to do (to pay the bills), opposed to doing what I LOVE to do.
What advice do you have for women who are trying to grow their businesses?
Align yourself with someone you can relate to, a person who will grab your attention and you feel comfortable ‘learning’ from. Be authentic and focus on the things that are most important to your customer/client. Last but surely not least, sincerely pray for direction and be anxious for nothing! Stand and have faith that you can do it regardless of the way things may appear. God made room for your gift, why else would He have given it to you? :)
What do you know now that you wished you knew 10 years ago as it relates to business?
Wisdom. More wisdom to know what’s right instead of what ‘looks good’ and popular. (Things are not always as they appear.)
Posted by Beverly on
March 4, 2010
Meet Featured Diva Livvie Matthews
What is the name of your business and a description of what you do? Simple Social Media .TV. I’m a social media and Internet marketing consultant and coach with a specialty in Dentistry. Keeping social media simple and easy to understand.
How much has your business direction changed in the past five years and why? I’ve been online since the late ‘90’s and in
the business area of dentistry for over 30 years. I began online with internet marketing and copywriting, however when social media came on the scene, I loved the opportunity and benefits (free to low cost marketing) it presented for all service professionals (and businesses) to capitalize on using social media, because social media IS “word of mouth and social networking”…on steroids!
What advice do you have for women who are trying to grow their businesses? First: Realize you need a marketing strategy and
many tools in your business toolbox. Social media isn’t a marketing strategy, it’s a promotional tool you need to use IN your marketing strategy.
Second: Be genuine, be committed, and be consistent. Social media is all about transparency and authenticity. Start slow and add as you go. Facebook and Twitter offer exceptional ways to communicate and engage your target market especially in the business to customer (client/patient) arena. LinkedIn presents a great platform for business to business. The point is to find where your “eyeballs” are (what platform your viewers are on), start there, and become their ‘go-to’ source for information and services.
Last: Two words - Take Action! So many of us have a tendency to think everything has to be in place and that it all has to be perfect BEFORE we can start or do anything. When in fact, just the opposite is true. Get it out there… someone needs what you know and what you have to offer! You can always “tweak” as you go along. Knowledge is power….BUT Knowledge WITH ACTION is Powerful!!
What do you know now that you wished you knew 10 years ago as it relates to business? How powerful the combination of Internet marketing and building relationships can be to growing your business. Don’t be afraid to try new things: Technology, blogging, social sites, web design, copywriting, online resources, forums, …and it goes on and on. Online marketing offers so many areas for reaching your target market…IF…you take action!
How can someone get in contact with you? E-mail is best Livvie@SimpleSocialMedia.TV – by phone: 704-598-5856, – or Skype Livvie.Matthews Website: www.SimpleSocialMedia.TV
Posted by Beverly on
March 4, 2010
Meet Featured Diva Sharon McMillian
What is the name of your business and a description of what you do?
I operate a business called Write to Type – http://www.writetotype.com – and we specialize in customized web content for businesses.
We “write to type” and equip our clients with content designed to appeal to their target market. Our services include:
- Search Engine Optimized articles and blog posts
- Social Bookmarking
- Article Syndication
- Sales pages
- Website marketing plans
- Website layouts and designs
I like to tell my clients that having a website is just the beginning. A well written and planned website will actually work for you by turning website
visitors into paying customers.
How much has your business direction changed in the past five years and why?
Five years ago I decided to take my long-standing freelance business online and started a custom writing service called Sharon Writes.
This fall I re-launched that business as Write to Type to serve the specific online marketing and communication needs of small business
owners and solopreneurs.
What advice do you have for women who are trying to grow their businesses?
Stay focused on your goals and stay connected with other women entrepreneurs. The practical insight you can gain from those who are actually succeeding as entrepreneurs is invaluable.
What do you know now that you wished you knew 10 years ago as it relates to business?
I could have grown my business faster if I had known about the benefits of outsourcing and working in partnership with other independent
business owners. Balancing motherhood and career commitments with my freelance business was a huge task. I now realize I didn’t have to do it all alone.
You can reach Sharon McMillan at Sharon@writetotype.com or visit her website at http://www.writetotype.com
Posted by Beverly on
March 4, 2010
Meet Featured Diva Sophie Zollmann
What goals did you set for 2010?
Focus on growing my business to bring in more money and have more time for me. Take time for me and self-care as often as needed. Find a way to provide the services I don’t know.
Are you carrying over any New Years Resolutions from 2009 into 2010?
No, I don’t make New Year’s Resolutions.
What advice do you give to others when it comes to completing tasks?
Delegating is the key to success. Delegate the tasks that keep you from doing what you love, making more money, you don’t do well, and don’t enjoy doing.
When someone does business with you what are some things you hope they take away from the experience?
They can do what the love to make more money and know that their business is taken care of on the back end without worry. Therefore, they can do the things that bring in income and take care of themselves and their family. Self-care and family time is important when running your own home-based business.
Where can we connect with you? Website(s)? Blog(s) email address
Website/Blog: SophieZo
Email: sophiez67@gmail.com
Phone: 865-712-7702
Posted by Beverly on
January 17, 2010
Meet Featured Diva Beverly Mahone
Beverly Mahone is a veteran journalist, author, media coach and motivational speaker who writes about issues affecting middle-aged women in her book, Whatever! A Baby Boomer’s Journey Into Middle Age. In addition, she is a Featured Writer for Bonkers Magazine. She also hosts a weekly show on BlogTalk Radio called Passions.
After spening more than 25 years in the news business, Beverly traded it in to write full-time and become a work-at-home-mom. She is now using her media expertise as a consultant to train individuals how to market themselves to radio, television and newspapers professionals. Her Company is BAM Enterprises.
Through her online marketing skills, she has created a Boomer Diva Nation; which consists of women over 40 who represent the baby boomer woman from all walks of life and career endeavors.
Beverly has been classified as a baby boomer expert and appeared on numerous radio and television programs, including MSNBC and FOX News. She was also featured in the New York Times.
Beverly describes herself as a “Baby Boomer Diva on the Move” who has a passion for God and family. Her favorite scriptures are Jeremiah 29:11 and Philippians 4: 4-8.
She may be reached at: Beverly@talk2bev.com or 301-356-6280.
Her Other website: The Baby Boomer Diva
Blogs: BoomerWorld; Talk2Bev; BabyBoomerBev; MenopauseMama;
Posted by Beverly on
July 29, 2009
Meet Featured Diva Debbie Barth
What is the name of your business and a description of what you do?
I am an Independent Associate for Talk Fusion. I consult with business owners and entrepreneurs concerning their video branding needs, as well as their social media and promotional needs.
I am also a co-producer/co-host for a one-hour internet talk show … On The Grid and a co-producer and co-host for a 30 min. internet talk show … Three Wise Girls. I also contract with a local company and help the CEO with his administrative concerns.
How much has your business direction changed in the past five years and why?
As far as Talk Fusion is concerned, my business direction hasn’t changed as much as the company itself has expanded exponentially, and has expanded its video branding tools to include live broadcasting and video conferencing. This of course affords me the opportunity to offer a suite of superior video branding tools not found elsewhere. (as a suite of tools)
I am much more involved in internet talk radio than ever before and intend, with the help of my co-hosts and guests, to expand our listener base greatly due to the professional standards we set and the caliber of the people we have been blessed to have on our show. In fact, we will be offering advertising
opportunities and guest-hosting opportunities in the very near future.
What advice do you have for women who are trying to grow their businesses?
Keep an open mind concerning what others are using to grow their businesses. Don’t underestimate the power of Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and the use of free and more professional video branding tools. Seek out new social media networks (online and offline) and become involved with those groups that appear to suit your personality and time constraints. At the same time, don’t spread yourself too thin. You won’t be as affected.
Don’t be afraid to ask others what they are doing to growing their businesses. I find most professional women are more than happy to share their experiences with you.
What do you know now that you wished you knew 10 years ago as it relates to business?
Know what your passion is … believe in yourself … and follow YOUR dreams, not the dreams others perceive are right for you. Had I realized than then …. I would be ten years ahead now.
How can I reach you to learn more about your business/product/service?
336-471-5686
http://www.trumpnetwork.com/debbiebarth
Posted by Beverly on
July 24, 2009
Meet Featured Diva Walethia Aquil
The best advice I can give anyone going into business is to:
- Decide if you want to be in business, or is it a hobby.
- Have a plan.
- Take your time.
- Have a mentor.
- Define your ideal customer/client.
- Research your market.
- Stay focused.
- Get help.
- Don’t be afraid of making mistakes.
10. Don’t compare yourself to others.
11. Just Do It!
One of the most challenging aspects in the beginning was to define my ideal client. Now the most challenging aspect for me is developing a step by step plan to connect the dots, and staying focused.
My best advice concerning social is to embrace it. You don’t have to be on every platform, choose one and get a good understanding of how it works.
Decide if you are using it for business or social, I don’t recommend mixing the two. In choosing a platform also consider you market, is this the place your idea client/customer hangs out?
Realize it takes time to develop relationships.
Again find a mentor!! A good mentor can save you time, money and frustration.
I have many role models, and I learn something of value from each of them. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to be myself, God created me, I’m unique, people didn’t create me, so they cannot define me.
My E-mail is: info[At]grace-and-charm.com
Facebook: http://profile.to/walethiaaquil
Twitter: http://twitter.com/graceandcharm2
I’m excited about what Beverly is doing and I’m looking forward to getting to know all of you.
Posted by Beverly on
June 21, 2009
Meet Featured Diva Evelyn Kalinosky
What goals did you set for 2010?
My primary goal is to get my book on women navigating through midlife finished and published. I am also looking to continue building my business and will be launching several unique programs targeting the high-level women executive 40 and older. In 2009 I launched my business, created my website, developed my core suite of offers and began to utilize social media as a means to introduce myself and what I do, so I feel pretty good about what I’ve accomplished so far. Now it’s about taking the foundation I’ve built and expanding on it – adding walls, windows, and doors.
In my personal life, I’m anxiously awaiting the birth of my daughter’s baby – due in mid-March. I already have one grandchild – 10 months – and my goal is to totally enjoy being a grandparent this year and beyond.
I don’t play lip service to the phrase “work/life balance” and plan to continually access how I’m doing in terms of creating a life of balance and proportion between my work, my family, my health and my community. That’s an ongoing goal and priority for me.
Are you carrying over any New Years Resolutions from 2009 into 2010?
I don’t make New Year’s resolutions. I believe they put a great deal of unnecessary pressure on people to reach arbitrary goals. Normally at the end of the year I sit back and reflect on all I have to be grateful for, and say a prayer of thanks for the year that’s passed and a blessing for the year to come.
Do you have any unfinished business carried over from 2009? If so, what is it and how do you plan to handle it? If not, what advice do you give to others when it comes to completing tasks?
Oh my, there is always unfinished business, isn’t there?! I am as guilty of procrastinating and putting too much on my plate as anyone, but I choose to reframe it in a positive light. Sometimes things don’t get done because it isn’t the right time for them. Sometimes what we think we need to do isn’t really what’s important, but rather what’s top of mind. It’s not always the same thing. Like a fine wine, sometimes things get better with age.
I began writing my book in 2009 and so that’s a big goal of mine to complete it in 2010 and get it published, but it was important that I take the time I needed to interview a wide range of woman from all across the world in order to make the book as accurate and reflective as possible. As a result, I’ve interviewed more than 60 women and have come away with such tremendous respect for all of them and for how they are living their lives.
When it comes to completing tasks I’m a firm believer in making a list. Lists save my life! Every morning I sit down and make up a list including the top 3 things I absolutely need to complete that day. On occasion that list may change depending on what happens throughout the day, but having it down in concrete form makes me more accountable. I also recommend delegating what you’re not good at or what isn’t important for you to be focused on – especially if you’re an entrepreneur. No one can do it all and I feel it’s a mistake to believe it’s possible. Focus on the things that will build the business and delegate those things that can be done by someone other than you.
When someone does business with you what are some things you hope they take away from the experience?
The most important thing I hope they take away from the experience of working with me is a sense of satisfaction. I want them to feel that the time and money invested in me was worthwhile and they are walking away with whatever tools they need to be successful on their terms.
I help high-level women executives who want to achieve a more sacred kind of success. For these women, the desire to play a bigger game requires a strong profit motive, but making money is no longer the goal. The goal is a search for significance, a journey to uncover the wealth of the self, a rite of passage to their highest purpose, and to a life that is as unique as their fingerprint. I act as a conduit or a safe place for them to explore what this looks like; I help them overcome self-limiting beliefs that might get in the way of their success, but I am merely a passenger on their journey – they are the drivers because it’s truly their destiny.
Where can we connect with you? Website(s)? Blog(s) email address
E-Mail: prophet1958@hotmail.com or evelyn@evelynkalinosky.com
Website: http://www.evelynkalinosky.com
Join me on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/prophet1958
Join Me on Facebook: http://profile.to/evelynkalinosky/
Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/evelynkalinoskyLLC
Join me on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/evelynkalinosky
Posted by Beverly on
June 1, 2009
Meet Featured Diva Shirley Mitchell
What advice do you have for women who want to understand how to make social media work for them?
Networking is great on the Internet. Search the web for the Social Media that fits your needs, personalities and your desires. Learn the techniques of linking your websites to the people who will benefit your business, and you their’s. Write Articles and Press Releases – Post these on your Websites and BLOGS, and place them with Press Release Companies On-Line. I have met many of my Social Networking Friends while going to Author Signings or Speaking Events, and some of them have even been on my Radio Shows. Send E-Mail and make comments on their Social page. Put your Social Site Page links on all your Websites and BLOGS, and in your E-Mail as part of your Signature.
What’s your favorite social media site and why?
I actually have two that are neck and neck – ShoutLife! and Growing Bolder… ShoutLife! is a Christian Social Site full of Faith, and Growing Bolder emphasizes the fact that we are not Growing Older but BOLDER! Their positive spin on aging is contagious. I love the audio and video. Both Sites let you add your Photos, Bio, BLOGS, Events, Audio, Video, E-Mail and more! And the members are Fabulous ! I like Sites that tell the whole story when you first go on them, so that you don’t have to click on something several times or “Sign-In” to view the complete information.
Are their any new projects you’re working on that you’d like the general public to know about?
I am working on 5 new books. My Sixth Book should be out by years end or the first of next year – it will be the “Third Book” in my “Aging Trilogy” for the 70 Year Olds! – it follows “Fabulous after 50®-Finding Fulfillment for Tomorrow” and “Sensational after 60®-Loving Life All Over Again”, and my Second book is being Re-Published as well and should be out in the same time period. I am working on a Children’s book, a Gift book, another type of Aging book, and a Novel. We are expanding our Website System and adding more Stations to our Syndicated Radio Show. We are also getting more venues trademarked.
How can someone get in touch with you?
I am Managed and Represented by Lighthouse Coastal Productions and Lighthouse News Bureau 466 Sardis Cutoff Road Sardis City, AL 35956 tel. 256-281-9399 Agent @ lighthousecoastalliterary.com, Agent @ fabulousafter50.com, Host@agingoutsidethebox.net
Posted by on
May 29, 2009
Meet Featured Diva Becky Williamson
Tell us about your summer. Did you do anything exciting?
No, didn’t take the time to do anything exciting. However, my husband recently won a sales contest at work and the prize is a 7 day trip for 2 to our choice of Cancun, Cabo, New York City or Maui. Soooooo, I’ll be having some fun soon!
Now that summer is over, what plans do you have for the Fall season as it relates to your business and your personal life?
I’ll be launching my boomer exercise and nutrition book: “Ready for Prime Time in LESS Time: The Ultimate Get Slim Guide for Women in Mid-Life”. Very excited about this!
In your opinion, what advice would you give to women who are looking to start a business during these economic times?
Survey your market. Find out what they need and create a product or service to sell to them. Network. Develop mutually beneficial relationships. Be willing to help others out. These are tough times, but if we all support one another and promote each other, we’ll come out stronger down the road.
Instead of trying to sell a large ticket item or service to a few people, consider selling a smaller service/item to a larger audience.
What is the most challenging aspect of your business?
The hours can be long sometimes.
Working alone can be isolating at times
Do you have a role model—if so, how does she/he inspire you in your business or your personal life?
I know several fellow fitness professionals that are extremely successful and work hard to deliver great products and services to their customers. Some of them are half my age. I find their innovation and energy very inspirational and admire that they’re coming from the “right place”. Although I am the “elder statesman” in our profession, I find that they inspire me to be better, work harder and deliver better service to my customers.
What’s the best advice you can offer about social networking?
Pick just one or two social networking sites that work best with the type of business you have. Work them, and work them well, rather than spreading yourself too thin and trying to work them all!
How can I reach you to learn more about your business/product/service?
Email me at becky@beckywilliamson.com
