Workshop for Canadian Small Businesses

I'm currently in development with two other individuals in developing a workshop for small businesses here in Canada. Our goal is to provide real-world advice and direction, so that business owners can take advantage of resources and strategies that can bring them new and better business opportunities. This is intended to be a full-day workshop with valuable take-aways. It covers the three areas critical to success.

First learn what programs are available to small business to finance their ideas. Many business people have simply no idea what is possible from Government agencies - we intend on bringing these financial opportunities into the light.

Next we intend on showing how branding can bring vigor back into your company by having a positioning strategy that resonates with customers and reinvigorates your sales team as well as the other stake holders in your company.

Rounding off the workshop, we will show you proven sales strategies that take and sell the brand strategy to your audience.

Well, that's the plan so far. I'll update you as time passes and development progresses.

How To Get A Linkedin Testimonial

Does this sound familiar? You'd love some testimonials for your Linkedin profile but feel it's pathetic to ask for one. A solution I use, is to go to people's profile whose recommendation you'd like and leave them a testimonial unsolicited. Most times they will reciprocate with a testimonial to you.

The Relationship Strategy

Brands are built on relationships. People love to do business with people they like. Relationships puts a face and personality on any business situation. A particular friend of mine who is in the insurance industry, pays particular attention to introducing his wife to his business contacts during organized social gatherings. Having his wife involved allows the client (if they're a man) to bring along their wives and interact with his wife. Both enjoy this connection.

It has on several occasions, made him the client favorite among his partners. This favorable attention was particularly beneficial in negotiations with the client.

Sometimes relationships turn into long term friendships. Many of my best friends started out as clients. Now we are considered close family friends. Life is funny sometimes. One thing that must be maintained when entertaining is to keep business with business and personal, personal. This will guarantee a mutual respect. Business should be a pleasure for all.