You’ve poured countless hours into your hobby. Today, you’re a master of your trade. Why not take that skill and turn it into a profitable business? Whether you’re looking for a career change, an encore career, or just some extra pocket money in retirement, turning a hobby into a business lets you do something you’re passionate about while earning a living. However, building a profitable business requires more than putting a price tag on your creations. There’s branding, marketing, financial management, and more involved in running a small business. You also have to test the viability of your ..read more

As the modern workforce continues to shift, more companies are expanding employee benefits packages to show their staff they care and are an essential part of the business. Along with perks such as health insurance, dental coverage, and retirement options, employers are adding more vacation and personal days and extra paid sick time given the ongoing COVID-19 concerns. Below are some additional ways to keep your current workers and attract new talent as you lead your company. Tai Chi Classes Many employees are stressed and overworked. Offering free daily yoga classes can help re ..read more

When it was clear that the COVID-19 pandemic was a serious threat, brick-and-mortar stores across the globe closed to in-person traffic. Only essential businesses remained open and even then, offered modified shopping options. One way that many small business owners in the retail industry coped with these circumstances was to expand their online offerings. From online ordering with curbside pickup to enhanced online stores, these options were vital in staying afloat.  As the pandemic has eased, many of these businesses have kept the features they worked so quickly and diligently to develo ..read more

Are you a freelancer who’s ready to move on to full-blown entrepreneurship? If so, you are already on the right track. Being a small business owner isn’t easy, but you are already used to working for yourself while meeting the needs of others. Keep reading for a few steps you can take now that will help you grow from contract labor to business owner.  Focus on your image.  In business, image is everything. Your face, clothing, and mannerisms are your personal brand, and these must match your capabilities and remain consistent if you want to be successful. I offer image and brand ..read more

Each of us may have the full potential to become a leader…and that includes you.  But what does it actually take to be ready for leadership?  That question has several possible responses, which you may wish to explore further with your employer. Over the years that I’ve owned my coaching business, I’ve had several clients who either were leaders or aspired to become leaders in their organization or community.  First and foremost, leaders have effective communication. A good starting place is asking yourself these 10 questions: How well d ..read more

Do you feel nervous before speaking in front of others? Do you avoid speaking out at meetings? Do you get frustrated because people ignore you when you speak? Do you believe you aren’t presenting yourself in the best possible way? And finally, do you feel this is impacting your success and career? It is frustrating when you don’t believe you are being heard or valued when your opinion is ignored or dismissed. It is irritating when other less talented or experienced DO speak out and get credit for ideas and work.  Failing to take up opportunities to represent your company because you get t ..read more

What is etiquette, and is it still important in today’s society? The answer is a resounding yes. It is important for individuals in their personal and professional lives and in business. Many have forgotten its importance and do not adhere to basic principles of courtesy, manners and acceptable behavior. One of the reasons is the increased use of electronic devices and social media. However, basically it goes back to individuals and whether they pay attention to protocols and the need for good conduct. Social media tips Don’t post offensive material on Facebook or other sites. Don’t be offens ..read more

I have always been asked, what is the difference between personal image and personal branding? Well, they are absolutely two different things. However, as a personal brand strategist, I work with these two components in tandem, and they usually bring out an amazing outcome. First and foremost, an image is what people see of you visually. The way you talk, walk, dress and dine; including your etiquette. On the other hand, personal branding is the depiction of your strengths, passion, values and most definitely skills. In short, personal branding is the whole representation of yourself –the ima ..read more

Closet Inventory Update I admit it. I have a lot of clothes. With years of practicing what I preach  – strategic personal style and image management, and growing a wardrobe of garments and accessories that mix and match to create many looks, I realized I had “bulging closet” syndrome. A few years ago,  it was time to stop and audit my own garments and wardrobe. Using the same techniques I utilize with my clients, I thought through what I actually need weekly and monthly in my closet and dresser drawers. Fortunately, by only buying perfect pieces that fit with my defined personal styl ..read more

How Yoga Can Improve your Communication Skills Let’s face it! I was pretty skeptical when I thought about trying yoga.  I wondered how yoga could ever be a full “workout” without running, biking or doing circuit training and sweating!  But, my friends encouraged me to give it a try and go into it with an open mind.  Just because you are not breaking out into a full sweat doesn’t mean your body isn’t getting a work out, right? So, I headed over to a local yoga and barre studio to learn more about yoga.  I started out with a basic class to learn the poses and terms.  Dow ..read more