CONVERTING YOUR DREAM INTO A BUSINESS

by Staff on May 4, 2012

Do you have a concept that you believe would be a great product or service? Many times the greatest inventions come from the most unusual places and when you stumble upon an idea – the next question is, “What do you do with it”? Here are a few simple steps to put your concept to the test to see if it can become the business of your dreams!

WILL ANYONE BUY IT? We all like to believe that our friends and family are a reflection of the marketplace, but regretfully their “buy in” is sometimes not a valid market test. To find out if your product or service is “cash worthy” give it to a few friends, but ask that they share it with others outside of your circle. When strangers begin to inquire on where to buy your product, be rest assured you are on the path to a strong opportunity.

CAN I EARN AN INCOME FROM IT? In today’s economy everyone is out for a deal – but do not undervalue your new product. Work to find a balance of both quality and affordability. Remember that in the beginning you may have to set an introductory price to get new customers to test your product, but overtime as your reputation builds so will the ability to increase your money making potential.

CAN I AFFORD TO MAKE THIS PRODUCT? Be frugal by purchasing only what you absolutely need to make and sell your product. Save money with online companies such as www.vistaprint.com for business cards or build an affordable website with companies like www.handzon.com. You do not need a lot of money to build a successful business. Remember the more you save – translates into the more you earn.

HOW DO I KNOW WHEN MY PRICE IS RIGHT? This is where you’ve got to put on your business hat and put your ego in check. If your customers tell you they love the product, but hesitate to buy due to the price you need to find a more realistic price point. However, if your customers are buying multiple pieces without hesitation, then you are probably a bit under priced. This is not a bad problem to have as long as you can keep up with the customer demand. Finding a balance that works for you and the customer is the key to a successful pricing strategy.

AM I DREAMING…IS THIS REALLY POSSIBLE? Every entrepreneur loses sleep over this question and the answer is yes – this dream can come true! You are not unlike those that have gone before you, changing the world one product or idea at a time. Do not fear the unknown – embrace it with gusto, enthusiasm and a clear focus on building the right product for you and your customers!

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KEEPING YOUR SANITY IN A CRAZY BUSINESS WORLD

by Staff on May 2, 2012


It’s a tough job wearing the hat of businesswoman, boo – boo kisser (a.k.a. mom) and military spouse- but trust me it’s possible. I have learned over the years, that with proper planning, you can do it! Here are a few tips to keep it all together when you have to get on the road for your business.

A CALENDAR IS KEY TO SANITY. Post your work calendar up on the fridge so if your spouse is trying to get a feel for the months ahead there are no surprises. Also do not be shy to tell clients and co-workers that, when possible, you prefer a 60-day “heads up” to plan travel needs.

ASK OTHER SPOUSES FOR HELP. The best asset a military spouse businesswoman has are other spouses! They understand how tough it is to manage all that we do and often find it fun to be a part of your business in their own special way.

THROW THE “MOM GUILT” OUT THE WINDOW. Remember that your children are learning a valuable lesson on organization and the importance of a strong work ethic. Involve your children in your business when possible, even if it’s simply putting stamps on envelopes – they love helping and it prevents jealousy!

SNUGGLE NOTES ARE ALL THE RAGE. Before you leave, put notes in your children’s lunch boxes as a surprise, or leave a message in lipstick on their bathroom mirror – they love mommy gifts of this nature! If you’re leaving for a few days, add a recent picture from a family outing that they can sleep with – and do the same for yourself! Those hotel rooms seem lonely at times and a picture goes a long way to making you feel at home as well.

UNINTERRUPTED WORK TIME IS VALUABLE. Work your tail off while you have the time! Schedule an extra day for travel if needed to accommodate all that you need to get done. When you get home, you’ll be able to take a day off without guilt. Your family will see that as a treat and look forward to your next trip – knowing that a day with your full attention will be the reward!

Don’t forget your spouse. Make a few of their favorite meals and put them in the fridge with “notes of love” attached for easy grabs. They will appreciate it and you’ll be able to take the world by storm and get to business – leaving the “momma and spouse guilt” out of the equation.

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It’s all about Communication Baby! (4/4)

April 30, 2012

A weeklong series on how to communicate effectively to get the results you want. This series is sponsored by Roger Pell: MSF Contributor, Entrepreneur and Mentor.   THE POWER OF “THANK YOU” Fourth in a Series of Four   As promised, here is a sample post-interview thank-you letter. Your Name 123 Main Street Any town, [...]

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It’s all about Communication Baby! (3/4)

April 27, 2012

A weeklong series on how to communicate effectively to get the results you want. This series is sponsored by Roger Pell: MSF Contributor, Entrepreneur and Mentor.   THE POWER OF “THANK YOU” Third in a Series of Four   We’re now at the “getting ready to get ready” stage to craft a superior letter as [...]

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It’s all about Communication Baby! (2/4)

April 25, 2012

A weeklong series on how to communicate effectively to get the results you want. This series is sponsored by Roger Pell: MSF Contributor, Entrepreneur and Mentor.   THE POWER OF “THANK YOU” Second in a Series of Four Last time we discussed the benefits of saying “Thank You”. This time we’ll discuss how to go [...]

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It’s all about Communication Baby! (1/4)

April 24, 2012

A weeklong series on how to communicate effectively to get the results you want. This series is sponsored by Roger Pell: MSF Contributor, Entrepreneur and Mentor. THE POWER OF “THANK YOU” First in a Series of Four Every one of us (yes, you too!) want to be appreciated. And in this jet-propelled, sonic-boom era, taking [...]

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Welcome to the Hot Mess Success Blog!

April 18, 2012

Our job at Hot Mess Central™ is to help you take your Career or Business issues from a Hot Mess to a Success! Our team is packed full of seasoned executives, career trainers, and die hard entrepreneurs. We’ll be showcasing a Hot Mess topic each week and we don’t hold back. We’ll discuss the good, [...]

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Build Confidence Through Accomplishment!

September 10, 2011

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful [people] keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit.” – Conrad Hilton As a military spouse, you are faced with the most challenging circumstances. As a young girl, do you remember daydreaming about the charming man you would marry and how you would raise a family together? [...]

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