Posted on January 31, 2013 by Brian Loebig

New updates for Meta Tag recommendations!

Brian Loebig's avatarThe Ink Blog

meta tags for seo

A small business should take the time to review their website meta tags and also research the best keywords for their industry and target geographical markets. Meta tags have limited impact on search engine placement, but attention to the top three meta tags; title, keyword and description, will help maximize your SEO strategy.

[This article is reviewed yearly to ensure relevancy with Google algorithm updates and SEO best practices. Last update: 5/22/2015]

Title Tags

  1. Title tags remain the most important meta tags that are used by all search engines. The title tag appears at the top of a browser and is also the default phrase that appears when a page is bookmarked.
    1. Be clear and concise with the wording of each page’s title tag.
    2. It is best to begin with primary keywords that describe the page content, then a secondary keyword/phrase followed by the website name such as “Webinar Training…

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Entrepreneur in Action | Uma Beepat of the Lotus Wellness Center

Posted on January 30, 2013 by Brian Loebig

Uma Beepat, Reiki MasterAlexandra (Uma) Beepat is the owner of the Lotus Wellness Center in Northern Virginia and could easily be dubbed as the poster child for this Entrepreneur in Action – Driven to Succeed interview series! I began working with Uma on an Internet marketing strategy for her business just over a month ago and she has already begun plans that have taken other companies a year to implement! Uma’s drive to succeed is mirrored by her enthusiasm for the wellbeing of her clients. She has an aura of authenticity and a warm personality that makes her a joy to be around. I know these personal characteristics will continue to propel her business and promote the life-affirming qualities of her services.

1) Career Influences:

I like Warren Buffet…his humility, his simplicity and non flashiness. His ability to make a living doing what he loves, helping people and still being peaceful and content within his own life. His life is an exemplary testament of a successful life.

2) Biggest Career Success:

I went to an opening of a metaphysical store and everyone was asked to introduce themselves and what they do. When my turn came, I mentioned my business Lotus Wellness Center and there was a mini uproar at the gathering. People knew of my business and not only that, they were curious about me and wanted to meet me months ago. It was a great feeling knowing that my business was not only known in the community but that it was well known for quality work and service. That day I felt proud to be the owner of such a small, humble but popular studio.

3) Recent lessons learned:

Due to the recession, 2012 was a hard year for my business financially. I was feeling a little down and reading a yoga magazine when I came upon an article written about this yoga teacher in another state whose business was thriving despite the recession. When they asked her what advertising or marketing she did, she simply stated that she did none. All she did was open her doors and showed up everyday. A light-bulb went off for me, consistency is truth and the key. After reading that article, I continued with my services and classes and kept having them consistently. I would teach to a room of 8 people or 1 person, it didn’t matter. I relearned joy in my practice and the clients multiplied. Consistency is Truth and the key was my lesson learned!

4) What inspires and motivates?

Growing up, our home was the hot spot for gatherings, get togethers and parties. My mom is the hostess with the mostest and she has alot of compassion and care for everyone. She is always counseling, advising or lending an ear to listen to people when they were going through tough times. I learned alot from her and she is my inspiration in my day to day work. Many times after a class I am super tired and would like to go to bed, but I stay that extra half hour or hour listening to a student go through their process with me. My mom taught me compassion and selfless service and it keeps me going everyday.

My clients also motivate me everyday. I love to hear their stories and learn how they overcome their personal struggles. It reminds me that all of life is a lesson and learning experience and we are neither better nor worse than each other. We may be a little bit ahead or behind on the path, but we are all on the same path. I truly care about them on a deep level so I am invested in their lives and get to know about the joys (marriages, job successes) and pains (death, divorce) they go through.

5) Share a leadership story:

You have to follow that inner voice within you despite what others think or say about it. If it is truly coming from you, then it is meant to be followed. I started a whole new career when we started to enter into the recession and people were desperately holding on to their jobs. I let mine go easily and followed my heart because I wasn’t doing it for the money or recognition, but for a new way of life. When you have the courage to stand in your own truth, despite what others say or think, you send a sign to the Universe that you mean business. At that point, the Universe has no choice but to conspire to help you on your way. Stand firm in what you believe in. Make your work your personal vision for yourself and everything will be fine.

6) Your Top Two

A great piece of advice given to me from a fellow holistic healer was to give away time not money in times of stress and low clients. Meaning, if I had to offer a monthly special or discount, provide more time not less money. Instead of $20 off a one-hour massage, try instead half hour extra with a one hour massage. This was a good idea because it made the clients and myself happy!

Know as much about your job/trade as you possibly can. Subscribe to journals, attend meetings, watch relevant educational TV programming, and, not just your craft but the industry in general. For example, I am in the massage business, but I also follow up on information concerning healthy eating and lifestyles. They are all interconnected and if I can become knowledgeable in all aspects, I provide better service for my clients.

7) About Uma Beepat

Uma Beepat is a certified massage therapist, yoga instructor (200 hours), Reflexologist and Reiki Master Teacher. Her home studio Lotus Wellness Center, LLC is located in Manassas, VA where she provides intuitive massage, Reiki reflexology as well as classes in yoga, meditation, Reiki and a wide variety of metaphysical topics. Uma is a third generation healer who believes in connecting people to their personal path and sending them on their journey with blessings.

It is her goal to provide healing to her community in an easy, effective and affordable way.

You can follow her on:

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Entrepreneur in Action | Vernetta Holman of Career Essentials, LLC

Posted on January 27, 2013 by Brian Loebig

Vernetta HolmanI clearly recall my first encounter with Vernetta Holman back in the early 2000s. She was teaching a class on leadership and interviewing skills to teens involved with the George Washington H.S. Beacon – After School program. Anyone who can engage an audience of Philadelphia Public High School kids immediately has my respect! I have continued to follow Ms. Holman’s career and have had the opportunity to support several of her business initiatives even recently. Vernetta is a thoughtful, passionate and career-minded business coach that I am pleased to support!

1. Career influences:

I believe I was born with the entrepreneurial spirit.  Both my mother Nancy Ford and father Raymond Ledbetter were both successful entrepreneurs.  I was influenced by their persistence, hard work and love for what they did. My mother owned a lunch truck and my dad was an independent long haul truck driver, as well, they both co-owned  BBQ chicken and rib business together.

2. Biggest career success:

Being able to partner with school districts, higher education, workforce development and    non- profit initiatives, to encourage youth, low income and ex-offenders to establish leadership and entrepreneurial skills, while collaborating with organizations to develop community relations and partnerships for the improvement of local communities, businesses and residents.

3. Recent lessoned learned

A key learning point for me as and entrepreneur, is learning to keep up with ever-changing technology and marketing tools that are available to keep my business visible, alive and profitable.  I am always educating myself on up and coming Internet marketing tools.

4. What inspires and motivates

I am inspired by the Golden Rule, do unto others as you would have them do unto you.  When I provide business training or a consultation to a client, the Golden Rule is the first thing that crosses my mind.

Entrepreneurship is a hard business, but passing on the knowledge and inspiration of others to those who need more help than you, can be just as rewarding.  I’m motivated to see my clients do well and succeed.  I am inspired when people who only know me by name, meet me and say, I’ve heard so much about you, let’s have a conversation. This allows me to continue to love what I do.

5. Share a leadership story

After being laid off several times, I finally decided in January of 2000 to start my own business. I took advantage of an entrepreneurial start up program that was being offered by my local unemployment office.  With persistence and perseverance Career Essentials, LLC was born.

Since the establishment of my business, I have always had people surrounding me who believed in not just me, but the mission of my business as well. Always surround yourself with people who are willing to help you with knowledge and contacts, just because they want to see you succeed.

6. Your Top Two

Do what you love! Find your niche and make it your happy.  Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.  You’ll be a amazed at how excited your are to go to your workplace every day.

Learn to grow your business with less effort via free Internet marketing tools, sometimes the best things in life are free.

7. About Vernetta Holman

Vernetta Holman is the Principle Managing Director/Owner of Career Essentials LLC, a corporate leadership communications and small business consulting firm, located in Elkins Park Pennsylvania.  Career Essentials LLC has been in business since January 2000, with a passion for teaching communications of all types and the entrepreneurial spirit.

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Entrepreneur in Action | Tamara Richardson, The Renew U Coach

Posted on January 24, 2013 by Brian Loebig

tamara richardsonTamara has been an inspiration to me since she was a child! Tamara is a first cousin to my wife Nicole and, like my doctor wife, Tamara has always set her goals high and continues to strive for personal and professional excellence. We also share a favorite management book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. It is an honor to feature Tamara on this issue of Entrepreneurs in Action and she is definitely “Driven to Succeed.” I look forward to supporting and cheering her business development efforts into the future.

1. Career influences

My brother James was very influential in supporting and motivating me to start my business. He was supportive from the very beginning when I feared going into business. He was available at all times to answer questions, motivate, and assist me with all my start-up needs. During my first business meetings, my brother was very instrumental in building my confidence and coaching me in what to say. He even came up with the name Visions (to look ahead) for my business name.

I was also inspired to become an entrepreneur after reading about a successful nurse entrepreneur, Vickie L. Milazzo, the pioneer of Legal Nurse Consulting. Vickie’s messages and success motivated me to believe that nurses have what it takes to be successful entrepreneurs.

2. Biggest career success

My biggest career success so far is starting my consulting business Visions Care Management & Consulting, LLC and my coaching business TMR Coaching4U. When I attended graduate school to obtain my MBA, I was the only nurse in my class. Not knowing anything about business at the time was very challenging. I was able to graduate with honors and follow my dream of becoming an entrepreneur.

3. Recent lessons learned

Lesson #1: Set your fees up front and clearly communicate the cost of your services: I learned this lesson very quickly. I received a request to consult with a client on a project. I never set my fees up front and invested seven hours on this project. Needless to say, it was free service and a big lesson learned.

Lesson #2: Don’t be afraid to set your fees high. I received a referral for a consultation and as soon as I stated my fee, the client immediately and in surprise stated “Really”. The client informed me afterwards that my services are worth a lot more than I was charging.

Lesson #3: Don’t be afraid to say “no”. I have wasted lots of time and energy working on projects when my plate was full and I should have referred the client to another consultant.

4. What inspires and motivates.

I listen to Hay House Radio every day for inspiration and motivation. I listen to motivational CD’s. Les Brown, Anthony Robbins, and Zig Ziglar are some of my favorite motivational speakers. I also read a lot of books. Some of my favorite books are The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey, CEO Material by D.A Benton, and Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. I also surround myself around like minded, goal oriented, and supportive people.

My advice for other entrepreneurs is to always find a network of like minded supportive people. Surround yourself around successful people so you can learn and grow. I always remember this saying “If you know more than everyone else in your circle, you need a new one.”

5. Share a leadership story

I remember my first meeting to obtain a contract. I thought I would be having a 1:1 meeting to discuss my qualifications etc. I walked into a room with a conference table surrounded by people to interview me. I was terrified, however, I walked into the room full of confidence and acted like this was not my first contract. I received a telephone call less than two hours after the meeting and was offered the contract.

My advice is to never let them see you sweat. Feel the fear, but don’t let fear keep you from moving forward.

6. Your Top two ideas or pieces of advice for other entrepreneurs

It is okay not to have all the answers, to make mistakes, and to be wrong. Start before you’re ready. Follow your passion and turn it into a business. Make small action steps every day toward your goal. “A vision without action is a fantasy” (Dr. Michael Bernard Beckwith).

7. About Tamara

Tamara Richardson “The ReNew U Coach™” is a Registered Nurse, Certified Coach, and Consultant. Tamara has over 15 years of nursing experience and has worked in a variety of clinical settings:

  • hospital,
  • nursing home,
  • rehabilitation,
  • community,
  • clinic, and
  • managed care

She has worked in case management for over 11 years specializing in chronic care and geriatric care management.

Tamara is the owner of Visions Care Management & Consulting, LLC and TMR Coaching4U. Tamara works as an Independent RN Contractor and Consultant and provide health/wellness coaching for corporate wellness programs and other organizations. Tamara is passionate about promoting optimal health and wellness and assisting clients in self managing chronic conditions. Tamara is also passionate about empowering women to live their best authentic life. Tamara specializes in chronic care management, stress management, holistic health, self development, divorce recovery, and women’s empowerment.

In her private coaching business, TMR Coaching4U, Tamara coach women in transition due to divorce, separation, or ending unhealthy relationships, who want to improve their health and rebuild their lives.

Tamara received her Associate of Science in Registered Nursing degree from Milwaukee Area Technical College in 1997, her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Cardinal Stritch University in 2001, and her Master of Science in Business Administration from Cardinal Stritch University in 2009. Tamara is a Certified Health Coach and is currently studying to become certified as a Life Coach and Master Spirit Life Coach. Tamara is a proud member of the National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC) and Case Management Society of America (CMSA) and has strong partnerships with professional nurses and other health care providers.

http://visionscm-consulting.com
http://www.tmrcoaching4u.com
http://therenewucoach.wordpress.com
Email: tamara@tmrcoaching4u.com

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Entrepreneur in Action | Robert Dorfman, Marketing Master

Posted on January 21, 2013 by Brian Loebig

Robert DorfmanRobert was first introduced to me by his wife Barbara whom I worked with at Liberty Lutheran Services in Philadelphia in the late 1990s. Barbara found out that I designed websites as a hobby and told me about her boyfriend, Robert, who just parted ways with his contracted web designer. He was looking for a new programmer to assist him on marketing client website projects. That initial introduction and subsequent and ongoing partnership has been the single most important influence in my own technology consulting career! Robert is a passionate, opinionated, kind-hearted and extremely creative colleague and friend. We share a mutual interest in acoustic guitar and meet up consistently for his annual Peregrine holiday party in Warminster, PA. It is my great pleasure to provide him with a brief forum to share his entrepreneurial and leadership expertise.

1. Career influences

My Father and Mother: My dad had his own business when I was quite young and passed on the entrepreneurial spirit. My parents taught me a great deal about dealing with people and treating them fairly and with integrity and honesty. It’s a shame though, much of what my father taught me from a business/technical side took me years to fully understand and accept. Much like what Mark Twain once quoted: “When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be twenty-one, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years.”

Carl Raphael: A long time friend and fellow volunteer in EMS. Carl had a long run in Marketing and was president of a Marketing Research company. While out one day, I pointed to a building and said, I’d love to have my office there. He looked at me and said
“You just may one day”. That simple statement made me realize that you are only limited by your imagination and energy to work towards your dreams. He also taught me not to be afraid to surround myself with folks that know more than I do.

2. Biggest career success

“Success is not measured by where you stand, but rather by the distance you traveled to get there.”

So my career success has been measured by completing my first year of business where 50% fail; surviving my next 5 years where 50 – 90% fail; and now, completing 25+ years of business. I must be doing something right!

3. Recent lessons learned

  • Never stop marketing!
  • Don’t be afraid to have a trusted outsider look into your business – a fresh pair of eyes
  • It’s okay to charge a fair price for your services
  • It’s okay to fire a client

4. What inspires and motivates

  • It may be a cliche’ but it’s true: You have to really like what you do
  • It’s not easy…if it was, every one could do it – don’t be afraid to work hard

5. Share a leadership story

Let me tell you a story about a man named Jed
Who invented a ‘gadget’ that would keep his family fed
He came to Peregrine; “Market this he’d say”
He failed ‘cause I couldn’t get him out of his own way

This is a true story of a client that invented a wonderful new product – the gadget. The best part of this item was that it was not a stand -alone product, it was to be used in conjunction with the ‘widget’. There were already hundreds of thousands of widgets sold with thousands of new ones sold all the time. The gadget protected the widget, saving the owner a great deal of maintenance time and costs. It was a no-brainer! We came up with a marketing plan:

  • Logo and branding designs
  • Website – we’re talking so long ago, dial up service!
  • Print ad in a trade magazine – perfect timing with the season’s editorial section
  • Photo shoot
  • Other print ads

Unfortunately, someone suggested to the client that with the website, folks would ‘flock’ to it so there was no need to advertise in the trade magazine. What? Really? The problem with this theory:

  • Remember, there was no Google at that time
  • Not everyone was web savvy or had internet access back then (hard to imagine that today!)
  • This was a new product – never invented before – IT DIDN’T EXIST!  How do you get folks to do a search for a product they don’t even know is around?
  • Not having an advertisement, about a new product, placed perfectly next to a free Press Release, in a national trade magazine just didn’t make sense

It became the best kept secret–product and the company failed. It is true, sometimes we can’t get out of our own way. Don’t let that happen to you:

  • Check your ego at the door
  • Surround yourself with folks that know more than you do in areas you’re weak
  • It’s all about the marketing

6. Your Top Two

Find a quality mentor who you can trust – then stick with them. Too many times we find new clients that have friends and family that give poor advice. They may mean well, but that won’t make your business grow. And don’t take the advice from your mentor as bad, it’s all constructive criticism. Keep your ego out of it.

Have a plan! – You can’t build a strong foundation ‘flying by the seat of your pant’s’. You have to have a solid business plan and follow it – but remember to stay flexible at the same time. And don’t ever stop working on updating your plan – or you’ll go stale.

7. About Robert

Peregrine AssociatesRobert Dorfman, Owner/Founder
Peregrine Associates
Marketing & Advertising Services
Family run marketing firm started January, 1987!

We provide promotional services from logo design, to creative/design/layout; to printing, to direct mail, to websites and social media and to all the little promotional products you need along the way.

www.PeregrineAssociates.com
Facebook.com/peregrineassociates

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Entrepreneur in Action | Vanessa Carter Cobb, Multi-Business Owner

Posted on January 18, 2013 by Brian Loebig

Vanessa CarterVanessa’s multi-entrepreneurial efforts first became evident to me when I saw her dropping off her son at my own son’s football practice in Richmond, VA. She had a large magnetic sticker on her new Chrysler 200 advertising Another Way Driving School. Shortly thereafter, I began improving her web presence and discovered her many other business efforts. Vanessa is as warm and approachable as she is driven and determined! She has a take charge personality and continually looks for new opportunities. I am proud to help support her many businesses and look forward to what she comes up with next!

1. Career influences

Career influences for me are my 2 boys Anthony and Jayquan. If it was not for them coming into my life I would never have thought of starting my own Daycare Business. Anthony and Jayquan influenced me to start my own daycare business because I had a hard time finding daycare for them! Being a single parent at the time, it was very hard to afford good reliable childcare while I went to work. I made too much money to receive child care assistance, but everyday it seemed like I was working just to pay for childcare. One day I had no one to watch my boys, so I had to stay at home with them. While at home I thought to myself, “there has to be a better way!” I prayed to God asking him to show me what he wanted me to do. A few weeks later, a friend asked me if I had ever thought about doing childcare out of my own home. I said “no” and she said, “I really think that you should. You are very good with children!” I told her that I would think about it. Soon after that conversation, I started going to child development training sessions and on Sept. 9, 2005, I resigned from my job. I didn’t know what I was going to do or how I was going to pay my bills or even feed my boys. I trusted God in his word when he said; “I will never leave or forsake you. Lean and depend on me.” So, I did. I stepped out on faith. On October 5, 2005, Blessing Sent Child Care was formed. I opened my house to care for children on October 17, 2005 starting out with only 3 children not including my own. Today I have a full service Day Care Center with over 65 children enrolled, a State of Virginia certified Driving School & an Office Installation Business.

2. Biggest career success

My biggest career success is being a successful woman in business for herself. I am proud to be an Entrepreneur.

3. Recent lessons learned

A recent lesson learned for me is that I must stay active in my business and not just rely on my staff to make sure that things are done correctly and on time.

4. What inspires and motivates

The things that inspire and motivate me are God, my children, my daycare children and my staff. When I go to the daycare center, the children greet me with excitement and start calling my name and give lots of hugs. That’s a really good feeling and it motivates me to continue to be at the daycare especially when I am not in the best mood. My staff and I are just like family. We are excited to see one another and we care about each other. If one person is feeling down we give words of encouragement or a hug to pick up our spirits.

5. Share a leadership story

The best advice I can give another leader is to set good examples for your employees. When speaking with staff, customers or clients be respectful, polite and take ownership if there is a problem that was caused by you or your employees. When speaking with people  look them straight in the eyes. Direct eye contact displays confidence and encourages honesty.

6. Your Top Two

  • Put God first and make sure that you have confirmation from Him.
  • Love what you do.

My piece of advice for other entrepreneurs is to set goals and go for them. Do not let anyone tell you, or try to convince you, that you cannot do it. The one thing that I have learned is that you are able to do anything that you set your mind to. I am a perfect example. Some of my friends call me a “Jamaican” since I am always trying something new. It doesn’t bother me. I keep going. I love it!

7. About Vanessa

I am Vanessa T. Carter Cobb, 41yrs of age and have been married for 7 yrs to Donald Cobb. I have two children Anthony (14) and  Jayquan (11).

I am the owner of Blessing Sent Child Care Center L.L.C which is located in Eastern Henrico, my position is the Director. Blessing Sent Childcare Center is a licensed Facility by the State of Virginia. We are licensed for 80 children and currently have 65 enrolled. Yes, we are now enrolling! We accept ages 6wks – 12yrs of age. Hours of operation are 6:30am – 5:30pm Monday – Friday.  Blessing Sent Child Care Center has a Facebook page check it out!

The other  business is Another Way Driving School L.L.C. and Another Way Driver Improvement Clinic L.L.C. located in Eastern Henrico. Another Way Driver Improvement Clinic offers 8 hour, Defensive Driving Classes on Saturdays. You may be able to earn 5+ points on your driving record. Another Way Driving School is a school teaches teens and adults how to drive. We offer behind the wheel lessons for teenagers who are eligible to receive their Drivers License.  Another Way Driving School also teaches adults how to drive. www.anotherwaydriver.com & www.facebook.com/anotherwaydriver

The newest business that I have established is  Cubes “R” Us Office Furniture Installations L.L.C. www.cubesrus.biz. I am also a Mobile Notary, Licensed by the State of Virginia, a member of SWaM & EVA as well as The Better Business Bureau.

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Entrepreneur in Action – Robin Renee, Mantra Pop Artist

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Brian Loebig

Robin ReneeI had the pleasure of meeting Robin for the first time when I booked her as a performer for the 5th Street Coffeehouse music venue in Philadelphia several years ago. The coffeehouse featured African-American female, folk-inspired artists and Robin became an instant favorite of mine and the venue patrons. I have continued to stay in touch with Robin over the years and have recently been privileged to work with her on business marketing strategies as well as writing projects. Robin’s entrepreneurial spirit is infectious and her determination is only paralleled by her acute attention to detail. I am pleased to call her a colleague and a friend.

1. Career influences

It may be a bit cliché for a female singer songwriter to claim Ani DiFranco as a big influence, but she really has been one of mine. I interviewed her some years back for Curve Magazine, and was struck by her focus. I got the impression she’d do only what really called her and propelled her work. Remembering that helps me let go of fears and inhibitions that would have me compromise my determination or artistic vision.

2. Biggest career success

A lot of progress has come from increasing my online presence. I was fortunate to have my Live Devotion CD accepted on Pandora. Because of that and other web outreach, I’ve had people come out to shows across the country and I’ve heard from fans as far away as Sri Lanka.

3. Recent lessons learned

Keeping order is incredibly important for me. In the past, I’ve been challenged by feeling overwhelmed and losing track of my daily routine. This year, I am making it a point to create and stick to my schedule for planning shows, writing, travel, and other details. It facilitates clarity.

4. What inspires and motivates

Great songwriting and live performances always inspire me, whether in a coffeehouse or an arena. What else? South Street in the summertime, dancing, a surprise visit from wild turkeys outside my window, lovemaking, running a 5k, and deep silence. When I feel most alive, I am motivated to excel.

5. Share a leadership story

Jenn Phillips of Images Everything is a good friend and she has done most of my recent photography and graphic arts. Networking comes naturally to her. Her ability to find and generate new opportunities that are creative and lead to profit is inspiring. Jenn is a great leader not by setting out to teach, but by doing life well. She is always busy with musicians’ artwork, designing ads, or producing festival entertainment. This year, she is carving out time for a big vacation, reminding me how important it also is to take time away to rest and nurture the soul.

6. Your Top Two

The main reason people fail is because they give up. Perseverance is what brings success.

Write everything down – a dream, a compelling fantasy, an overheard bit of conversation, an idea that seems too crazy – any of it could be significant. Don’t let it get away. Pursue it or file it away.  It could become a significant piece of the puzzle somewhere down the line.

7. About Robin

Robin Renée is Mantra-Pop!  –accessible, lyric-driven alt-folk rock with a spiritual twist.  Conscious and melodic with an edge, think of blending the voices of Chrissie Hynde and Joan Armatrading with the wordsmith intelligence of Elvis Costello and the mystical passion of kirtan chanting.  Her CDs include In Progress, All Six Senses, Live Devotion, spirit.rocks.sexy – mantra-pop headlines from the clairaudient dreams of the evocative Robin Renée, and This. Also a poet, artist, and writer, Robin’s work has appeared in PanGaia, Big Hammer #12, Curve Magazine, Songwriter’s Market, That Takes Ovaries – Bold Females and their Brazen Acts (Random House), and many other publications. She blogs at www.dreambetween.wordpress.com.

www.robinrenee.com
www.facebook.com/RobinReneeFan
www.twitter.com/spiritrockssexy

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Entrepreneur in Action | Serial Entrepreneur Lamar Childs

Posted on January 12, 2013 by Brian Loebig

Lamar ChildsI have worked with Lamar for over six years on several complex web/technology projects. However, we only met in person about three years ago when the technology team we formed with PeregrineAssociates.com and TheWebsiteParkingLot.com held a start-up business brainstorming retreat in Atlantic City. It was immediately clear to me that Lamar had a passion for creative entrepreneurship and an infectious personality that quickly draws others into his vision. I enjoy working with Lamar on tech projects and am impressed with his thoughtful approach to faith, family and  fortune.

1. Career influences

My grandfather was a huge inspiration to me because although he only achieved the equivalent of a 5th grade education and came up from the south to get a job at a grocery store, he managed to have a gas station, a construction company and own his own home.  Certainly, with additional education and resources, he could have gone farther, but he truly made what he had go very far.

2. Biggest career success

Surviving, and in a way thriving, through 4 business disaster events in one year for one of my companies, people advised me to declare bankruptcy.  But, I persevered and it created a steely resolve in me that clearly defined in Whom I trust and a clear understanding of the phrase “that when the going gets tough you keep going”.  I believe just two of the events would have taken the average business down, but surviving them set our firm up to thrive in the upcoming years.  I have already seen the positive results.

3. Recent lessons learned

Many people look at those that have achieved success and just like I did, say, “ I wish I had what they had and were where they are.”  However, these same people, including myself, do not count the cost of the journey and have not thought about what it took those people to succeed.  I have learned to count the cost and not begrudge anyone their success.  First, wishing for what they have does not help me.  Second, time is better served figuring out what they did and making sure I am ready to tackle those challenges.

4. What inspires and motivates

Do what you love.  I’m not saying you won’t have to do things that you don’t love to do.  But, if the end goal is something you love doing then it makes it all worth it.  I have cleaned bathrooms, cleaned dumpsters (literally), worked crazy hours in cold, heat and many other things but my goal was something I always kept in mind.  It says in the bible (yea, I quote it and read it regularly) that without vision the people perish.  As an entrepreneur you will perish if you do not have a clear vision.  As a leader/entrepreneur, if you do not provide a clear vision for your people, i.e. partners, employees, associates, etc., they will not be as productive and will not succeed.  So, define your vision and keep it in front of you while emptying the trash, doing the accounting and any other activity that you may not love to do.  Your vision is what makes those other things worth it.

5. Share a leadership story

One of my businesses is a construction company and this past year I thought it was going out of business.  I am responsible for the livelihood of about 20 to 40 workers at times.  Add the vendors that support us and there are a large number of people who would be negatively affected if our firm went out of business.  I told management that if things did not turn around I would take the responsibility for everything and they would be liable for nothing.  I had no idea how I made that decision, but I made it.  Management stuck it out with me and God blessed my decision.  As an owner, president, CEO or whatever you want to call yourself, the big decisions are your responsibility.  Being an entrepreneur absolutely has its benefits, but responsibility is first and the benefits come second.

6. Your Top Two

Learn to laugh in spite of fear.  It doesn’t mean fear won’t have a run at you, but if you laugh in spite of it you can maintain a proper perspective.

Be careful for nothing but be careful about everything.  HUH?  Let me explain:
Being careful for nothing means don’t worry.  Worry will not solve ANYTHING.  This is important so I will repeat.  WORRY will NOT solve ANYTHING!  Being careful about everything means make calculated decisions.  Too many people leap and make the calculations on the way down, realize they should not have leaped and then worry.  If you have already leaped, don’t start worrying.  Instead take the seconds or minutes you have before impact and make CAREFUL decisions.  It can save your business and save your life.  Many entrepreneurs have died or committed suicide because of stress and worry.  Don’t let yourself be numbered amongst them.

7. About Lamar Childs

I’m a serial entrepreneur.  Most people think I do too many things already and every other month I have another business idea that I put on the shelf until the right time.  With the help of some awesome partners and people, I run five companies.  Three years ago or so I thought, “Ok, I can only run so many companies (the number in my head was between 7-10 with some quality assistants), so I will have to start setting them up and getting someone like me to run them”.  And then I started thinking, I don’t need to own the companies.  Instead I really just want to create environments where people can take a concept and run with it.

I thought back to when I was first starting out and remembered how I yearned for someone to give me a chance to prove myself with the proper resources.  Because I didn’t feel that anyone did, I struck out on my own, under-capitalized and lacking knowledge.  Many people helped me along the way.  So I thought, hmmm, if I can find people like myself with or without ideas, I can set them up and back them.  I don’t need to take all their profits like many venture firms do because I really just love seeing things grow.  They can own it and develop it and I help them navigate the pitfalls I fell into.  So in short, I think I am transitioning from being a serial entrepreneur to an incubator that helps grow the dreams of others.  I do have a bit farther to go in order to “get there” as I am still working to get the kinks worked out of my own companies, but that’s my vision.  What’s yours?

Lamar Childs, Serial Entrepreneur/Business Incubator

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Low Cost Document Management | Google Drive

Posted on January 10, 2013 by Brian Loebig

document managementMany small business clients ask for advice about document management solutions. The only requirements are that it‘s cloud-based, cheap, secure and user-friendly. It sounds like such a simple request, but they often come up empty-handed.

My first recommendation for a comprehensive cloud-based, document management solution is usually Box.net. However, the cost per user for the full features is about $40/mo per user which is often well outside the price range of the majority of my own small business clients. Luckily Google Docs is a very capable alternative that many small to mid-sized businesses still have yet to discover. The following quick overview is based on the top questions my clients ask me about Google’s document management capabilities and limitations. Feel free to ask a followup question or two!

[Note: The information here is accurate as of 1/9/2013]

Storage Space

  1. Google Docs comes with 5 GB of free storage. Documents that are created in or converted to Google Docs format do not count towards storage space.
  2. 25 GB of additional space is available for $2.49/mo. The email account associated with the upgrade will also receive an additional 25GB of storage space. 100 GB of additional space is available for $4.99/mo. Gmail storage space is upgraded to 25GB.

Document Management

  1. Entire folders and even sub folders of documents can be uploaded at one time using a Google Chrome browser. Google will automatically create the folder and sub folder names and upload all the documents into the appropriate folder.
    1. I would recommended that only 2GB of documents be uploaded at one time.
    2. Sub Folders can be created at least to 5 sub levels. I didn’t try creating any deeper than that.
    3. MS Word 97 – 2003 documents can be previewed in Google Docs, but cannot be edited online unless they are converted to Google Doc format
    4. MS Word 2007/2010 docs cannot be previewed in Google docs until they are converted to Google doc format.
    5. MS Excel 97-2010 spreadsheets can be previewed in Google Docs, but cannot be edited online unless they are converted to Google Doc format
    6. Once a document is converted to Google Doc format it can be downloaded as an MS Word Document, PDF, HTML or other format.

Document Collaboration (http://support.google.com/drive/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=2494891&topic=2816927&ctx=topic)

  1. In order to collaborate on Google Documents users will need to have a Google Apps account. Accounts are free, but this extra step is often seen as a barrier for adoption of Google Docs for document collaboration.
  2. Once a file is converted to Google Docs format advanced types of collaboration can be utilized.
    1. Collaborators can make comments on a document that appear when a comment button is selected at the top right side of the browser window.
    2. Text or spreadsheet cells can be highlighted and commented on by a collaborator. Comments are saved as historical information and will not be appear on the document when it is printed or downloaded.
    3. Real time text chatting can occur if multiple people are accessing the document at the same time.
    4. Multi-colored cursors will appear when multiple people are editing the document at the same time. Very Cool.

Document Sharing (http://support.google.com/drive/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=2494886&p=visibility_options)

  1. There are three levels of access for folders and/or documents uploaded to or created in Google Docs
    1. Public on the web
    2. Anyone with the link (no sign in required)
    3. Private (only Google users with explicit permission of the document owner)
    4. Documents can be make private by the ‘owner’ of the document. Whoever created the original document or uploaded it is considered the ‘owner’ but ownership can be transferred.

Document Security (http://support.google.com/drive/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=141702&ctx=cb&src=cb&cbid=15yeyng286n1&cbrank=0)

  1. Document Security is considered very good by sources outside Google. A popular legal blogger, Craig Ball, Trail Lawyer and certified computer forensics examiner wrote an article on this exact subject here: http://ballinyourcourt.wordpress.com/2011/12/31/is-google-docs-secure-enough-to-store-client-files/

If you are looking for a low cost, quick and collaborative document management system. Google Docs should be on your radar. What questions do you have about Google Docs?

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Entrepreneur in Action | Melody Day of Daysong Studio

Posted on January 8, 2013 by Brian Loebig

Melody Day | Daysong Studio

I had the distinct pleasure of getting to know Melody Day by way of her husband, Philip. At that time, Melody was a middle school music teacher in a struggling district with very challenging kids. Educational downsizing and art program cuts resulted in Melody’s decision to start her own private music studio in Charlottesville, VA. I was in attendance at the initial brainstorming and planning sessions that helped kick off her successful venture. Melody’s enthusiasm, deep care for children and tireless work ethic are truly inspiring and have been a solid foundation for her continued success. According to Small Business Administration Statistics forty percent of new small business ventures fail in the first two years so Melody’s ongoing work is a tribute to her faithful determination! I am delighted to feature Melody as the first entrepreneur in this “Entrepreneur in Action | Driven to Succeed”  interview series!

1. Career influences

My pursuit of a home music studio was mainly due to my recent unemployment.  I had never really considered having my own business until I was facing being downsized.  I did have a friend (Janice Mauroschadt) who had her own home music studio who was teaching others about establishing financially successful studios so I did some consulting with her; otherwise, it was survival!

2. Biggest career success

Achieving a name in the community by the uniqueness of my brand for DaySong Studio™.  I advertise “The DaySong Studio™ Difference” — Each student receives personalized notes detailing instruction and activities covered during the lesson via email.  I have parents advertising on my behalf because of this unique approach to communication.

3. Recent lessons learned

I have learned that organization and technology are key in making inroads in the business.  However, loving what you do and allowing that passion and love to shine through will go a long way in building your business.

4. What inspires and motivates

I was determined to have a Christian music studio.  I pray before each lesson for my students, and have discovered that if they are having an issue with their playing or singing to pray specifically for wisdom to work through that issue.  I have taught agnostics,   protestants, Jews — students from all walks of life and they all allow me to pray for them.  I don’t push my beliefs on them, but all so far have been open to being prayed for.  My faith in God is what inspires and motivates me most of all.

5. Share a leadership story

I sought the advice of my husband who was extremely supportive.  He is also extremely creative–he really thinks outside the box–that is one of his top gifts.  He was the one who chose the name of my studio, helped me with my business plan and was the most         encouraging in my pursuit of working for myself.  Find someone like that and listen to them!

6. Your Top Two Top two ideas or pieces of advice for other entrepreneurs

Do your homework–research, research, research!–and do what you love.  It is true that the money will follow.  It doesn’t say a LOT of money, but the money does come!  If you are a person of faith, lean on God for guidance and wisdom in the development of your      business.  It is this more than anything else that has helped me to build DaySong Studio™

7. About Melody Day

DaySong Studio™ is the privately owned home music studio of Melody Z. Day in Charlottesville, Virginia.  Billed as teaching “Beginning Voice and Piano”, she has been in business since September 7, 2010, teaching all ages the joy of music.  Please visit her     studio website at www.daysongstudio.com.  She is also on Facebook and would love to have you like her page! https://www.facebook.com/DaySongStudio.

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