For those of you who weren't privy to Chris Jones' last visit to Biz Net back in 2010. Here's the video:
Chris is one of our finer public servants and although his duty is to take some of your money, knowing the finer points can make a difference which means his presentation could be worth more than you think. So do your best to make his presentation!
Here's his website!
Escambia County Property Appraiser
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Bob's Excellent Advice on Hiring, Evaluating Staff and Saving Money
Recently Forbes Magazine released a very useful article called Pre-employment testing: A helpful way for companies to screen applicants. Luckily, we have our very own expert on the subject Bob Hawkins of Robert Hawkins and Associates.
Listen to Bob!
There are a great deal of benefits to pre-employment testing. The following videos explain.
Don't Hire a Cat when your looking for a Dog (If you know Bob's associates you'll appreciate this)
Listen to Bob!
There are a great deal of benefits to pre-employment testing. The following videos explain.
Don't Hire a Cat when your looking for a Dog (If you know Bob's associates you'll appreciate this)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The Social Media Revolution of 2011
A little video on the necessity of social media in today's business environment
Saturday, September 17, 2011
The Power of Networking
The professionals of Biz Net represent a wide and diverse group of business professions and businesses with a great deal of experience and potential. Joining a networking group like Pensacola Biz Net can give a business professional the ability to leverage the abilities, knowledge, network and skill of the entire group to further their business.
As a resource here are some articles on the power and importance of networking.
How to Network Effectively
How to Network for Life (and Why You Should)
How to Network like a Pro
How to Start, Grow and Nurture your Network
How to Network
It's not what you Know, It's Not Who you Know, It's What you know and Who Knows YOU KNOW IT.
As a resource here are some articles on the power and importance of networking.
How to Network Effectively
How to Network for Life (and Why You Should)
How to Network like a Pro
How to Start, Grow and Nurture your Network
How to Network
It's not what you Know, It's Not Who you Know, It's What you know and Who Knows YOU KNOW IT.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Cronimet to locate manufacturing facility in Pensacola
A recent article in the PNJ reports a stainless steel recycler will be opening up a facility in Pensacola later this year. It should result in at least 15 new full time positions and a $5 million impact to the local economy over the next 5 years. This story also highlights the local Chamber's Vision 2015 Plan to create 3,000 new high paying jobs in the area by 2015.
Pensacola's Vision 2015
PNJ Article Sept.1, 2011
Cronimet's website
Pensacola Chamber of Commerce
Pensacola's Vision 2015
PNJ Article Sept.1, 2011
Pennsylvania-based stainless steel scrap recycler Cronimet said today it plans locate a manufacturing facility in Pensacola starting in early November. The announcement was made today by Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Jim Hizer and chamber Chairman Collier Merrill. Cronimet's expansion plans will result in the creation of 15 fifteen manufacturing and administrative jobs in the Pensacola Bay area.
Hizer said Cronimet’s capital investment and jobs created will result in a $5 million impact to the Pensacola Bay area over the course of the first five years. This is the first location for Cronimet in the state of Florida. "We're thrilled for Cronimet to join the Pensacola community," Merrill said. "The creation of these specialized jobs will further enhance opportunities for Pensacola residents and potentially bring additional business to our area." read more hereCronimet's website
Pensacola Chamber of Commerce
Thursday, September 8, 2011
County Commissioner Wilson Robertson to speak to Biz Net
Mark your calenders for Thursday September 29th!We're extremely lucky to have another fabulous guest speaker. Escambia County Commissioner Wilson Robertson. Wilson was born in Mississippi in 1940 and moved to Pensacola when he was 24. He and his wife, Ann, have four children and seven grandchildren. Wilson established and operated a contracting and a real estate business in Pensacola since 1964.
Commissioner Robertson has been involved in Escambia County government for many years and brings a unique perspective from a small business viewpoint as well. His talk is entitled "Insight into County Government". Be sure to attend!
Business Expo Saturday, September 17th 9am - 4pm
Come and join us at The Pensacola Small Business Exchange's Business Expo this coming Saturday September 17th from 9 am til 4 pm at the Hampton Inn on Airport Blvd. Even kids with business ideas are welcome! There will be classes/ workshops as well as booths. The theme is "Using Your Talents As Tools"
Some of the Vendors are:
Water's Word, LLC
Royal Threads
Chunkie Chips
Body by Vi
Primerica
Send Out Cards
Team Media Creations
Graphic Grooves Production Company
& many more
Speakers are:
Jennifer Harrison - Gulf Coast Premier Promotions
Keithina Nicole Dixon Small Business Solutions
Marcus Wells Booker T. Washington High School (Youth Speaker)
Leanne Todd Junior Achievement (Youth Speaker)
Dana Burge Market & Career Development Manager at Virginia College
Sherry Ponds Booker T. Washington High School (Youth Speaker)
This going to be a very exciting event. They have vendors from all around the Gulf Coast Area spanning from Pensacola to Destin. If you know someone that would like to come and experience a great atmosphere and network, there will be a number of business owners there.
Some of the Vendors are:
Water's Word, LLC
Royal Threads
Chunkie Chips
Body by Vi
Primerica
Tasha's Treasures
Pensacola Biz Net
Small Business Solutions
Texas Chic ScentsSend Out Cards
Team Media Creations
Graphic Grooves Production Company
& many more
Speakers are:
Jennifer Harrison - Gulf Coast Premier Promotions
Keithina Nicole Dixon Small Business Solutions
Marcus Wells Booker T. Washington High School (Youth Speaker)
Leanne Todd Junior Achievement (Youth Speaker)
Dana Burge Market & Career Development Manager at Virginia College
Sherry Ponds Booker T. Washington High School (Youth Speaker)
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
A visit with Ken Parks
Today, I went to lunch with Ken Parks of Main Street Properties. Then we looked at a model home in the Maple Oaks subdivision by Henry Company Homes. The subdivision is just North of 10 Mile Road and East of Highway 29.
This was also an opportunity to showcase the resources of Youtube, Facebook and Blogger and how easily they can be used to further one's business.
This was also an opportunity to showcase the resources of Youtube, Facebook and Blogger and how easily they can be used to further one's business.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Sheriff David Morgan presentation to Pensacola Biz Net
For those of you that missed it, we had the Sheriff speak to us in August. A great deal was learned and more than a few who were there said it was an exceptional presentation. Although the sound is a bit shallow... you might find his presentation useful.
Pensacola is a great place to conduct business because our public servants are accessible and accountable.
Pensacola is a great place to conduct business because our public servants are accessible and accountable.
Veterans Dive Locker
Several weeks ago Dan Anderson gave our group a presentation on his program to help blind veterans scuba dive. It was quite a interesting presentation. Here is a little more on the subject. A video from their website Veterans Dive Locker.
Dan needs help with several parts of the program, from raising money for a handicap accessible boat to dive buddies to presenting the program to the community. Feel free to contact him through the website.
Dan needs help with several parts of the program, from raising money for a handicap accessible boat to dive buddies to presenting the program to the community. Feel free to contact him through the website.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Sheriff David Morgan speaks to Pensacola Biz Net - August 4th
Monday, July 4, 2011
Capt. Miller's Biz Net Presentation
It was an exceptional presentation! Even people who have lived in Pensacola and visited the Naval Aviation Museum many times learned some facinating new things. In addition we all learned the bright future for the Museum and our area with the new and exciting developments. And all in less than 30 minutes!
Feel free to check it out yourself!
A few links you may be interested in.
The Naval Aviation Museum
Hanger Bay One
The Model of the Enterprise by Gabriel Suranyi
The National Flight Academy
The History of the Battle of Midway - Ensign George Gay
Feel free to check it out yourself!
A few links you may be interested in.
The Naval Aviation Museum
Hanger Bay One
The Model of the Enterprise by Gabriel Suranyi
The National Flight Academy
The History of the Battle of Midway - Ensign George Gay
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Speaker Announcement! June 30th - Captain Kevin Miller of the Naval Aviation Museum.
He graduated from the University of Mississippi and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1983. He flew the A-7E Corsair II and FA-18 Hornet.
In 1998 he commanded the “Gunslingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron One Zero Five aboard USS ENTERPRISE, participating in combat operations Desert Fox and Southern Watch. He subsequently served in the Pentagon on the Navy’s Office of Legislative Affairs staff. After leaving the service he was employed as an associate at two Washington DC defense consulting firms.
Captain Miller earned a Master of Science in Business Management from Florida State University and a Master of National Security Policy and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College. He has accumulated over 3,600 flight hours and 1,000 carrier landings from the decks of 11 aircraft carriers. His personal decorations include the Bronze Star, the Air Medal (with combat “V”), and two strike-flight Air Medals. He serves as Vice President for Legislative Affairs for the Tailhook Association, and lectures on the Battle of Midway.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Pensacola Business Expo 2011
“Bringing Business to the People!”. The Expo will be held inside the Pensacola Interstate Fair Grounds June 11 and 12, 2011 (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM). The Pensacola Business Expo will be sponsored by a partnership of local businesses and media outlets. The Expo will have over 80 exhibitors..., speakers, free workshops, door prizes, and have large attendance. The Event will provide business leaders products, services, and resources needed to remain competitive, gain market share, and move their companies to the next level. The Conference also provides Entrepreneurs community resources that can make their business dreams a reality.
For more information Pensacola Business Expo 2011
For more information Pensacola Business Expo 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Pensacola GE Plant Tour a Success!
Business Net Link's tour of the GE Wind Turbine Plant here in Pensacola was a resounding success!
Not many know what a gem this plant is to the local community and how important it is to the rest of the world. But those who got to tour the plant on Thursday got an education on the importance of the facility and the multitude of value the plant offers.
We would like to thank Blair Simmons, the plant manager and our tour guide, his staff and all the plant personnel who were so gracious in hosting us.
Not many know what a gem this plant is to the local community and how important it is to the rest of the world. But those who got to tour the plant on Thursday got an education on the importance of the facility and the multitude of value the plant offers.
We would like to thank Blair Simmons, the plant manager and our tour guide, his staff and all the plant personnel who were so gracious in hosting us.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Port of Pensacola Tour: May 12
We're happy to announce that our group will be touring the Port of Pensacola on Thursday, May 12th at 8am. There are a couple requirements; One, there is a sign up. Two, those that sign up have to provide a copy of a picture ID prior to the visit so that we can quickly be admitted to the Port. (I will hand deliver those the day prior and they will be returned at the end of the tour to avoid any chance of foul play) The number is limited so be sure to get signed up before we run out of spots!
To sign up send a email here with your full name with "Pensacola Port Tour" in the subject line.
Some information on the Port:
Tracing its history back to the mid-1700s, the Port of Pensacola has evolved into northwest Florida's leading deep-water port. With its eight deep-draft berths and more than 400,000 square feet of covered storage, the Port is located on the Gulf of Mexico just 11 miles from the sea buoy. The 50-acre facility offers a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ #249), an Enterprise Zone (EZ #1702), and stevedoring and marine terminal services for all descriptions of bulk, breakbulk and unitized freight.
Among the Port's leading commodities are bagged agricultural products, cement, paper, aggregate, power plant and power generation equipment, animal feed and animal feed components, construction supplies and materials, and frozen cargo. In addition to its stellar labor force and extraordinary access to international waters, the Port of Pensacola is widely regarded for its attractive rates and expertise in handling project and heavy-lift cargoes.
A deepwater port master plan embraces long- and short-term goals for the Port's growth, as does a recently-completed Port Business Strategic Analysis.
The Port of Pensacola is an enterprise department of the City of Pensacola and is governed by the Pensacola City Council.
Port of Pensacola Website Map
To sign up send a email here with your full name with "Pensacola Port Tour" in the subject line.
 |
| Port of Pensacola 1885 |
Some information on the Port:
Tracing its history back to the mid-1700s, the Port of Pensacola has evolved into northwest Florida's leading deep-water port. With its eight deep-draft berths and more than 400,000 square feet of covered storage, the Port is located on the Gulf of Mexico just 11 miles from the sea buoy. The 50-acre facility offers a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ #249), an Enterprise Zone (EZ #1702), and stevedoring and marine terminal services for all descriptions of bulk, breakbulk and unitized freight.
 |
| The Wharf in Pensacola late 1800s |
Among the Port's leading commodities are bagged agricultural products, cement, paper, aggregate, power plant and power generation equipment, animal feed and animal feed components, construction supplies and materials, and frozen cargo. In addition to its stellar labor force and extraordinary access to international waters, the Port of Pensacola is widely regarded for its attractive rates and expertise in handling project and heavy-lift cargoes.
A deepwater port master plan embraces long- and short-term goals for the Port's growth, as does a recently-completed Port Business Strategic Analysis.
The Port of Pensacola is an enterprise department of the City of Pensacola and is governed by the Pensacola City Council.
Port of Pensacola Website Map
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Event: Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida Open House
The Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida is holding the annual Baby Shower Open House and Supply Drive this Saturday.
Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida is a non-profit organization based in Pensacola, Florida, that works to provide appropriate care to injured or orphaned indigenous wildlife. They receive injured or orphaned wildlife, provide medical care and fostering during recovery, and rehabilitate and release wildlife, if possible. They work in cooperation with local, state, and federal wildlife agencies. They also provide educational outreach and conduct educational programs.
Saturday April 16 noon to 3pm.
105 North "S" Street
Pensacola, FL 32505
(850) 433-9453
Map
105 North "S" Street
Pensacola, FL 32505
(850) 433-9453
Map
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Medical Supplies and Equipment Donations
John Werner of Welker Werner Realty is looking for medical and dental supply donations for MedikCANCUN, a Hospital currently being constructed in Cancun, Mexico.
Donations are sought from hospitals, clinics, doctors, dentists, etc. that he pick up and deliver to Cancun. The hospital needs everything from MRI and CAT Scan machines to medical billing software to bandages, gauze, tongue depressors, stethoscopes, dental and optical equipment, glasses, eye charts, etc.
If it has to do with medical and dental related services and is still usable and still has a reasonable degree of shelf life left, the hospital will make use of it.
Contact John if you have a connection that may help.
Donations are sought from hospitals, clinics, doctors, dentists, etc. that he pick up and deliver to Cancun. The hospital needs everything from MRI and CAT Scan machines to medical billing software to bandages, gauze, tongue depressors, stethoscopes, dental and optical equipment, glasses, eye charts, etc.
If it has to do with medical and dental related services and is still usable and still has a reasonable degree of shelf life left, the hospital will make use of it.
Contact John if you have a connection that may help.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
General Electric Pensacola Wind Turbine Plant Tour
On April 7th 2011 Business NetLinks Members and guests will tour one of the finest manufacturing plants in the World... and it's right here in Pensacola!
GE 1.5Mw Wind Turbine Brochure
GE 2.5Mw Wind Turbine Brochure
We will be meeting in the parking lot off of Scenic Highway at 7:30am. The tour begins at 7:45am.
In order to attend, you must register by Tuesday night; register by sending an email to dbokanyi@cox.net. Plant Security requires a list of attendees to allow entrance; visitors will not be allowed in unless on the pre-approved list. Additionally, GE needs how many will attend in order to arrange for an appropriate number of guides.
No open toed shoes or high heels allowed. Safety glass will be provided by GE, and hard hats will not be necessary.
Map
Background:
GE Wins $1.4 Billion Contract Dec 2009
***Update***
The tour has been limited to 15 people. We had a great deal of interest and some people who registered had to be turned away because this information was not available until Tuesday. For this we apologize. The 15 people who are on the list and those who registered and did not make the list have been notified by email.
GE 1.5Mw Wind Turbine Brochure
GE 2.5Mw Wind Turbine Brochure
We will be meeting in the parking lot off of Scenic Highway at 7:30am. The tour begins at 7:45am.
In order to attend, you must register by Tuesday night; register by sending an email to dbokanyi@cox.net. Plant Security requires a list of attendees to allow entrance; visitors will not be allowed in unless on the pre-approved list. Additionally, GE needs how many will attend in order to arrange for an appropriate number of guides.
No open toed shoes or high heels allowed. Safety glass will be provided by GE, and hard hats will not be necessary.
Map
Background:
GE Wins $1.4 Billion Contract Dec 2009
***Update***
The tour has been limited to 15 people. We had a great deal of interest and some people who registered had to be turned away because this information was not available until Tuesday. For this we apologize. The 15 people who are on the list and those who registered and did not make the list have been notified by email.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Free Workshop - Growth Club - Build a Plan for Q2
Les Austin, one of our outstanding members wanted to let everyone know about a free workshop being put on by Bill Eveleth, one of our area's best business coaches.
The workshop is on Friday March 25th from 8:45am til noon at Pensacola State College. (Room TBD)
As of the time of this writing there is 5 spots still available. Register Here. Hurry!! ...Space is limited!
"As you think, so you will be. You see, it's not what you say you are going to do, but what you believe you will do that really matters. And that's why this quarter we are focusing on building that believable plan that you absolutely WILL implement.
GrowthCLUB is all about you and your business's growth and success. As your coach, I will lead you through the steps necessary to build a great plan. We will also have some dynamic speakers and have some fun too."
The workshop is on Friday March 25th from 8:45am til noon at Pensacola State College. (Room TBD)
As of the time of this writing there is 5 spots still available. Register Here. Hurry!! ...Space is limited!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Express Leadership Seminar
Just as a reminder, the seminar sponsored by Express Employment Professionals featuring Ken Blanchard, Walter Bond and Peyton Manning will be held on Wednesday May 18th from 8am til Noon. The location will be the Icon Center of the First United Methodist Church at 6 E. Wright St. Map
This will be on our Calender. Details on how to register will be upcoming.
This will be on our Calender. Details on how to register will be upcoming.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Governor Scott's speech to the CATO Institute
Governor Scott makes it pretty clear it is his intention to make Florida the number one state in the country for business. 700,000 new jobs in Florida in four years. 0% Business Tax. This is a speech to listen to and hold him to. Because I think every Floridian can get behind this. This is certainly good news for business in Florida.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
One of the most important firearms in all history!!
But there was no fire!! Bob Hawkins of Hawkins and Associates brought this to my attention and it certainly is interesting to know. In 1803, then President Thomas Jefferson sent Lewis and Clark to explore and map the recently purchase Louisiana Territory. How a party of 38 men and one woman made it across the vast landscape of the West and back again still boggles the mind. But here's a little piece of the story.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Fly Fishing Classes Start Soon!
Our very own Paul Lukkar of Gulf Coast Financial wanted everyone to know that the season is near for fly fishing lessons! From March 14th through May 2nd, every Monday night from 6-8 pm, local fishing connoisseurs can learn all the details about fly fishing. The class is sponsored by Fly Fishers of Northwest Florida. It costs $60 and includes a complimentary membership in FFNWF for the remainder of 2011.
Students will learn the principles of fly fishing, equipment selection, fly tying, fly casting and knots.
The classes will be held at Mira Flores Park near 17th Ave and Belmont St. Map
Class sizes are restricted to 15 people so hurry!
For more information contact Russ Shields at 850-983-9515 of by email at rkshields@bellsouth.com.
Students will learn the principles of fly fishing, equipment selection, fly tying, fly casting and knots.
The classes will be held at Mira Flores Park near 17th Ave and Belmont St. Map
Class sizes are restricted to 15 people so hurry!
For more information contact Russ Shields at 850-983-9515 of by email at rkshields@bellsouth.com.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Escambia County Administrator speaks to Business Net Link
Our quarterly featured presentation was by Mr. Charles "Randy" Oliver who has just taken over the reigns in the past six months as the Escambia County Administrator. He gave a well received speech that hit on innovative new ideas, changes that have been made, those in process and some looking to the future that will make county government more efficient. Then he answered some questions.
We had an exceptional turnout and everybody seemed to have enjoyed the opportunity to hear first hand from Mr. Oliver.
We had an exceptional turnout and everybody seemed to have enjoyed the opportunity to hear first hand from Mr. Oliver.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Don't Buy Long Term Care Insurance - Until You Know The Facts.
Randy Tyson of Nautilus Financial Strategies invites you to a...
Free Educational Seminar TBA.
Enjoy a free lunch and learn if Long Term Care Insurance is something you should consider. It is not right for everyone, the question is "Is it right for you?" Learn the questions you need ask in order to answer that question. Attendees will receive a National Association of Insurance Commissioners Shopper's Guide to Long Term Care Insurance.
Seating is limited. Please register to attend by calling 637-1585 or emailing randy@nautilusfinancialstrategies.com
Free Educational Seminar TBA.
Enjoy a free lunch and learn if Long Term Care Insurance is something you should consider. It is not right for everyone, the question is "Is it right for you?" Learn the questions you need ask in order to answer that question. Attendees will receive a National Association of Insurance Commissioners Shopper's Guide to Long Term Care Insurance.
Seating is limited. Please register to attend by calling 637-1585 or emailing randy@nautilusfinancialstrategies.com
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Bob Hawkins' excellent presentation!
For those of you who missed Bob's fabulous slide presentation this past Thursday.
Here it is! Enjoy!
Here it is! Enjoy!
Escambia County Administrator to speak to Business Group.
The new Escambia County Administrator Charles "Randy" Oliver will address the Business Net Links group on February 24th. The man in charge of the county's nearly $300 million budget is an important figure. His role as Administrator began in November of last year after an extensive interview and being chosen by the County Council. He has already made some dramatic changes to streamline the county's business and has some more ideas headed into the future to encourage business within the county. Every business person in the county will be interested in those.
He has quite a resume as well and more than a few experiences to share. He is pretty good at answering questions too. Please join us Thursday February 24th... 7:30 am at Cordova Lanes on Airport Road.
He has quite a resume as well and more than a few experiences to share. He is pretty good at answering questions too. Please join us Thursday February 24th... 7:30 am at Cordova Lanes on Airport Road.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Building productive groups by getting to know people's strengths.
This was the information presented at our meeting this past Thursday.
If you happen to come across Malcolm Gladwell's first book Tipping Point, you will find it an excellent introspective into why things go from a great idea among a very few people into a movement of the masses. The second chapter in the book is called Connectors, Mavens and Salesmen. It's about the people that make it happen. If you haven't read it, your in luck, I'm going to give you a brief overview along with some practical applications to turning the group of people around you into something much more effective. A way tip the scales in your favor. Now I'm not one to put people into boxes and I most certainly put myself at the top of that list but I think what Malcolm has uncovered is important.
Although I read the book, I derived most of my information from the following blogs.
Connectors, Mavens and Salesmen - Mary Jacsch
Connectors, Mavens and Salesman: The Secret to your Success - Pam Slim
Connectors are people specialists.
“These people who link us up with the world, who bridge Omaha and Sharon, who introduce us to our social circles – these people on whom we rely on more heavily than we realize – are Connectors, people with a very special gift of bringing people together.”
Connectors are fantastic at expanding your network. They say things like:
“Oh you should talk to …”
“Have you heard about…”
“Let me introduce you to ..”
They think in nodes, not individuals, and like nothing more than to help you. They see people first, then money.
Think of five common last names, Carter, Gardner, Johnson, Nelson, Smith, for example. Now survey your friends and those around you. Ask them to quickly put a number to the number of people they know with those last names. The one who has the highest number is probably a good bet to being a connector!
Mavens are information specialists.
“A Maven is a person who has information on a lot of different products or prices or places. This person likes to initiate discussions with consumers and respond to requests … they like to be helpers in the marketplace. They distribute coupons. They take you shopping. They go shopping for you … This is the person who connects people to the marketplace and has the inside scoop on the marketplace.”
Mavens will dig deeply into your product and give very specific, detailed and relevant information on how it can fit within the marketplace.They will say things like:
“I was researching that last month, and I noticed a slight discrepancy in ….”
“Your work fits right in the xxx part of yyy’s essay on the zzz topic.”
“You could add videos to this to bring the lessons alive! And you could expand on the content in Chapter 3, Section 2, by listing …”
Think to yourself, who always seems to have an answer? Who do you go to when you need a recommendation or advice? Who do you know that just loves playing Trivial Pursuit, Millionaire or Jeopardy and is good at it? These are probably people to consider as Mavens.
Salesmen are charismatic.
Salesmen: “Mavens are data banks. They provide the message. Connectors are social glue: they spread it. But there is also a select group of people – Salesmen – with the skills to persuade us when we are unconvinced of what we are hearing, and they are as critical to the tipping of word-of-mouth epidemics as the other two groups.”
Salesmen will take the idea that you have been working on for years and help you package it, price it and sell it. They say things like:
“But if you do that, you won’t make any money!”
“Here is how you should position it, and here is the upsell…”
“You have to have an offer. Traffic means nothing if it doesn’t lead to a sale.”
“What is your pricing structure?”
“What specific value will this have to your market? How much is that worth?”
Who do you know that just seems to know how to talk people into anything? Do they have a energetic and charismatic personality? These are certainly possible salesmen.
When you identify your primary “Tipping Point archetype,” you know how to leverage your strengths, and most importantly, you identify the archetypes you lack in spreading your message.
Understanding this with the proper preparation and discussion will lead you and those around you to conclude:
A) They should celebrate who they really are, and ignore advice to change into something they are not.
B) By surrounding themselves with other archetypes, their business will grow to a whole other level.
Translation: We need to work together! We need to know what our greatest assets are to others... and what qualities in others can help us get where we want to go. And finally, we need to celebrate and reinforce the strengths we have and those in others! There might just be more than three!
Do you see the tipping point in the following video?
If you happen to come across Malcolm Gladwell's first book Tipping Point, you will find it an excellent introspective into why things go from a great idea among a very few people into a movement of the masses. The second chapter in the book is called Connectors, Mavens and Salesmen. It's about the people that make it happen. If you haven't read it, your in luck, I'm going to give you a brief overview along with some practical applications to turning the group of people around you into something much more effective. A way tip the scales in your favor. Now I'm not one to put people into boxes and I most certainly put myself at the top of that list but I think what Malcolm has uncovered is important.
Although I read the book, I derived most of my information from the following blogs.
Connectors, Mavens and Salesmen - Mary Jacsch
Connectors, Mavens and Salesman: The Secret to your Success - Pam Slim
Connectors are people specialists.
“These people who link us up with the world, who bridge Omaha and Sharon, who introduce us to our social circles – these people on whom we rely on more heavily than we realize – are Connectors, people with a very special gift of bringing people together.”
Connectors are fantastic at expanding your network. They say things like:
“Oh you should talk to …”
“Have you heard about…”
“Let me introduce you to ..”
They think in nodes, not individuals, and like nothing more than to help you. They see people first, then money.
Think of five common last names, Carter, Gardner, Johnson, Nelson, Smith, for example. Now survey your friends and those around you. Ask them to quickly put a number to the number of people they know with those last names. The one who has the highest number is probably a good bet to being a connector!
Mavens are information specialists.
“A Maven is a person who has information on a lot of different products or prices or places. This person likes to initiate discussions with consumers and respond to requests … they like to be helpers in the marketplace. They distribute coupons. They take you shopping. They go shopping for you … This is the person who connects people to the marketplace and has the inside scoop on the marketplace.”
Mavens will dig deeply into your product and give very specific, detailed and relevant information on how it can fit within the marketplace.They will say things like:
“I was researching that last month, and I noticed a slight discrepancy in ….”
“Your work fits right in the xxx part of yyy’s essay on the zzz topic.”
“You could add videos to this to bring the lessons alive! And you could expand on the content in Chapter 3, Section 2, by listing …”
Think to yourself, who always seems to have an answer? Who do you go to when you need a recommendation or advice? Who do you know that just loves playing Trivial Pursuit, Millionaire or Jeopardy and is good at it? These are probably people to consider as Mavens.
Salesmen are charismatic.
Salesmen: “Mavens are data banks. They provide the message. Connectors are social glue: they spread it. But there is also a select group of people – Salesmen – with the skills to persuade us when we are unconvinced of what we are hearing, and they are as critical to the tipping of word-of-mouth epidemics as the other two groups.”
Salesmen will take the idea that you have been working on for years and help you package it, price it and sell it. They say things like:
“But if you do that, you won’t make any money!”
“Here is how you should position it, and here is the upsell…”
“You have to have an offer. Traffic means nothing if it doesn’t lead to a sale.”
“What is your pricing structure?”
“What specific value will this have to your market? How much is that worth?”
Who do you know that just seems to know how to talk people into anything? Do they have a energetic and charismatic personality? These are certainly possible salesmen.
When you identify your primary “Tipping Point archetype,” you know how to leverage your strengths, and most importantly, you identify the archetypes you lack in spreading your message.
Understanding this with the proper preparation and discussion will lead you and those around you to conclude:
A) They should celebrate who they really are, and ignore advice to change into something they are not.
B) By surrounding themselves with other archetypes, their business will grow to a whole other level.
Translation: We need to work together! We need to know what our greatest assets are to others... and what qualities in others can help us get where we want to go. And finally, we need to celebrate and reinforce the strengths we have and those in others! There might just be more than three!
Do you see the tipping point in the following video?
Monday, January 10, 2011
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Buy Silver?
This past month one of our long time member passed away. Cat was many things along the way but in the past few years his message was "Buy Silver!" The following was a bit of my look into Silver as an investment and I can certainly say he was right! Silver might very well be one of the best investments in the coming few years.
With the governments around the world teetering on financial collapse and in the US, numerous municipalities, states and even the federal government running head long into bankruptcy... this can only boost the run towards something safe. Some are speculating 2011 may be the year we see the end of the EU and the Euro. And with all the secret deals cut behind the scenes between the Fed and the European central bankers, it might not be long after that the US Dollar will also be in dire straights, even with the Chinese kicking in a trillion or two (I tend to believe that's more theatre than reality).
From what I can gather my gut feeling is about March we'll start to get a good picture of all the actions of the governments and the Federal Reserve... and I don't think it's going to be good news. One must also weigh in new regulations (like the idiots trying to regulate the internet at the FCC), the pending Obamacare debacle and the rising Bond interests rates, these all point to further erosion of confidence and hindrances to business growing. In addition, the budget cuts to state and local public services will only increase the drag on the economy... which means either more federal stimulus or QE3. More money printing!
The following graph shows how borrowing has lost its value to the economy... more borrowing is actually reducing output yet the government continues to borrow more!
If you look at the graph below... notice that if one prices the US economy in gold... the drop in real value of the economy becomes obvious. The papering over by the Fed is very apparent. And if one compares this to other charts like US housing starts, the state and local government revenue, or the real unemployment rate, it certainly gives the gold line much more credibility than the government's figures. And this can be repeated in other commodities or currencies and in almost every case it reveals the economy isn't growing, it's sinking.
What this graph should also reveal is the suppression of gold's true value.Which only means another upward indicator for precious metals. We certainly know the economy hasn't been cut in half!
In addition, there is still a rather blatant issue hanging over the commodities market regarding trading practices and paper inflation of the actual physical amounts of gold and silver. There is also a "Buy Physical Silver" grassroots campaign that, with the help of the internet, is gaining momentum. And I haven't even mentioned some of the unique things that make Silver even more valuable. The fact that it is an industrial metal used in many modern applications, the cost to mine an ounce of silver, it's ratio to gold traditionally has been 10-15 to 1 throughout recorded time and it's currently in the 50 to 1 range or, and most importantly, it's a much more appealing commodity for the average individual to purchase in a time of upheaval compared to other commodities. You can't store barrels of oil in your basement very efficiently!
The gold and silver ratio over the past 20 years.
Do you see a trend? And here's a little more historical perspective on the relationship. This has happen before.
I'm saying... silver looks pretty damn good! Here's just a little more information that's important.
And here's some of the "Sell" signs I'd consider. 1) the Fed dramatically raises interests rates in an attempt to save the dollar... 2) a ounce of gold and the Dow come to equilibrium 3) Everybody is buying in... even the average person on the street is trying to get their hands on silver... 4) all the troops come home, they dismantle the interventionist foreign policy and slash government spending.
How likely are these to happen?
In regard to the market manipulation allegations. Here are a few short videos.
Andrew Maguire, the CFTC and GATA in regard to Silver manipulation in the market.
And did you know silver has many other useful characteristics?
Silver in Health
Is there proof Silver works against disease?
It's amazingly simple!
I had to add the article from The Asia Times...near the end of the article... And the best part is that buying gold and silver is so obvious, and so easy, that you laugh in merriment, "Whee! This investing stuff is easy!"
Paul the Brave
And some other articles for reference.
The price of gold and Silver from 1919 to 1923 in the Weimar Republic
An interview with Max Keiser in Paris on market manipulation
NIA's Predictions for 2011
***Update***
Unprecedented buying of Silver in January
With the governments around the world teetering on financial collapse and in the US, numerous municipalities, states and even the federal government running head long into bankruptcy... this can only boost the run towards something safe. Some are speculating 2011 may be the year we see the end of the EU and the Euro. And with all the secret deals cut behind the scenes between the Fed and the European central bankers, it might not be long after that the US Dollar will also be in dire straights, even with the Chinese kicking in a trillion or two (I tend to believe that's more theatre than reality).
From what I can gather my gut feeling is about March we'll start to get a good picture of all the actions of the governments and the Federal Reserve... and I don't think it's going to be good news. One must also weigh in new regulations (like the idiots trying to regulate the internet at the FCC), the pending Obamacare debacle and the rising Bond interests rates, these all point to further erosion of confidence and hindrances to business growing. In addition, the budget cuts to state and local public services will only increase the drag on the economy... which means either more federal stimulus or QE3. More money printing!
The following graph shows how borrowing has lost its value to the economy... more borrowing is actually reducing output yet the government continues to borrow more!
If you look at the graph below... notice that if one prices the US economy in gold... the drop in real value of the economy becomes obvious. The papering over by the Fed is very apparent. And if one compares this to other charts like US housing starts, the state and local government revenue, or the real unemployment rate, it certainly gives the gold line much more credibility than the government's figures. And this can be repeated in other commodities or currencies and in almost every case it reveals the economy isn't growing, it's sinking.
What this graph should also reveal is the suppression of gold's true value.Which only means another upward indicator for precious metals. We certainly know the economy hasn't been cut in half!
In addition, there is still a rather blatant issue hanging over the commodities market regarding trading practices and paper inflation of the actual physical amounts of gold and silver. There is also a "Buy Physical Silver" grassroots campaign that, with the help of the internet, is gaining momentum. And I haven't even mentioned some of the unique things that make Silver even more valuable. The fact that it is an industrial metal used in many modern applications, the cost to mine an ounce of silver, it's ratio to gold traditionally has been 10-15 to 1 throughout recorded time and it's currently in the 50 to 1 range or, and most importantly, it's a much more appealing commodity for the average individual to purchase in a time of upheaval compared to other commodities. You can't store barrels of oil in your basement very efficiently!
The gold and silver ratio over the past 20 years.
Do you see a trend? And here's a little more historical perspective on the relationship. This has happen before.
I'm saying... silver looks pretty damn good! Here's just a little more information that's important.
And here's some of the "Sell" signs I'd consider. 1) the Fed dramatically raises interests rates in an attempt to save the dollar... 2) a ounce of gold and the Dow come to equilibrium 3) Everybody is buying in... even the average person on the street is trying to get their hands on silver... 4) all the troops come home, they dismantle the interventionist foreign policy and slash government spending.
How likely are these to happen?
In regard to the market manipulation allegations. Here are a few short videos.
Andrew Maguire, the CFTC and GATA in regard to Silver manipulation in the market.
And did you know silver has many other useful characteristics?
Silver in Health
Is there proof Silver works against disease?
It's amazingly simple!
I had to add the article from The Asia Times...near the end of the article... And the best part is that buying gold and silver is so obvious, and so easy, that you laugh in merriment, "Whee! This investing stuff is easy!"
Paul the Brave
And some other articles for reference.
The price of gold and Silver from 1919 to 1923 in the Weimar Republic
An interview with Max Keiser in Paris on market manipulation
NIA's Predictions for 2011
***Update***
Unprecedented buying of Silver in January
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