Andy Greider | Stone Mountain, GA
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How to Write Your Bio - 5 Tips Worth Considering
Writing a bio for a website, online profile or networking site seems to stump or hold up a lot of people from making an online appearance. In some cases, it is just fill in the blank - but for the times when you need something in paragraph form, we'd like to help make 5 suggestions that should help you along the way.
You don't need to be a marketer, a professional author or an editor to create a bio that will explain who you are, what you do and why someone else should care. Keep these five tips in mind and you'll be well on your way to creating a piece of work you can use again and again to support your personal brand and place yourself ahead of the pack.
1. First of all, remember, you don't have to write War and Peace - this is not about making a long dissertation - make your points, share some salient information and then tie it to the things you do via links if possible.
2. Answer Who? What? When? Where? Why? - and How? - answer the simple questions of the journalist or communications Bible - Who are you? What Have You Done? (What Else Do You Like to Do?) When Do/Did You Do It? Where in the World Have Your Worked, Lived, Played? Why is it Relevant to Others (Why Should They Hire You?) and How Do They Connect With or Contact You?
3. Write the piece, then sleep on it. Nothing is best as a first draft. Don't get discouraged if after reading your initial effort, it doesn't seem to flow. Relax. Deep Breath. Now, take a second to think what didn't work? Where did you get "stuck" reading the copy? Revise from there.
4. If you have to stop writing, always stop writing in mid-sentence. This helps avoid writer's block and helps you pick up a thought you had flowing to get started again, instead of trying to form the next thought cold.
5. Remember - this bio is supposed to "toot your horn" a little bit. If you have trouble with writing a bio from that perspective, consider hiring a professional. You need to have some flair and some promotion in the bio - unless you are trying to cure your readers of insomnia. Pick out the two or three things you're the proudest of and mention them in the body of the bio.
Andy “Google Me” Greider is a marketing consultant and new business director with Carroll/White and radio show host of business growth solutions show, Uniqueness is Power. Andy is also Brand Manager with qAlias, plus he is a Self Promotion maven, serial entrepreneur, author, blogger, and inventor of the Gorelephant, first eImpressions and networthing.
Andy's New Cool Tool To Grow Your Business
Hello Friends - Two words for you - "Google Me!" Be found like I am atop the search engines - and check out the video below....
What Others Have to Say...
When you are getting ready to hire someone to help take your company to the next level, you want to be sure the person you are getting has good references and people who trust and have experienced the service you have been promised. That is why I have included this bulletin, with hopes it will help lend re-assurance to those who want to know more.
Manager at qAlias (Self-employed)
“Andy is the consummate professional, combining an insightful, creative, energetic approach, immediate and productive responsiveness, and unquestioned servant leadership. Over the past months, I have found that Andy is well connected with like-minded professionals of high character, proving that you are indeed a reflection of your associations. I enthusiastically recommend Andy to you and look forward to working with him more in the future.” March 28, 2008
Chuck Papandrea, Owner, TEAM Leadership, LLC
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Andy Greider is an individual who knows the power of networking. If they gave a degree, he would have a Doctorate, so I guess we can call him Dr. Greider. He understands that true networking, like true relationships, is about serving. It has been a plesure to work with Andy in the past, and it will be a pleasure to work with him on future endeavors.” March 27, 2008
James Halter - Google Me!!, Owner, TEAM ATL Inc.
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Without exception, Andy Greider is the best connector I have ever been in contact with. He has put me in contact with phenomenal people. He is a considerate and caring business leader and serves first in all he does. I happily endorse Andy!” March 5, 2008
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, Creative
Craig Cushman
hired Andy as a Business Consultant in 2,007
“Andy Greider has a knack for finding the next big thing. As a consummate marketer, he is inherently in touch with both consumer and business market needs and is able to discern a viable market opportunity and turn it into a real business. I invited Andy to be a guest speaker at the Flourishing Forum, a monthly roundtable group for entrepreneurs that my company has created. His presentation was fantastic! It was packed with practical tips and useful advice. Everyone was filled with enthusiasm and ideas that have been ignited within them for how to better market their own business. Andy’s enthusiasm and passion for helping others achieve their goals is second to none. I feel lucky to have him in my rolodex, but even luckier to be able to call him a friend.” February 25, 2008
Elizabeth Gordon, President, Flourishing Business
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Andy is a very energetic and creative marketer. He has helped me with his open minded thinking, and creativity. I would highly recommend working with Andy.” February 5, 2008
Allan Hess, Managing Partner, Co-Founder, Triad of North Atlanta, LLC
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Andy is extremely helpful and a wonderful communicator. Happily helpful in answering questions and providing support!” February 1, 2008
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, On Time
Maria Elena Duron
hired Andy as a qalias in 2,008
“Andy is the most thoughtful business person I know. He has a genuine interest in meeting new people and learning new things. I have worked with Andy mainly through Uniqueness Is Power, and he has become a great referral source as well as a source of great energy.” February 1, 2008
Jason Syzdek, President, Jaymunda
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Andy has an uncanny knack for the strategic and tactical issues that drive ROI-based marketing and networking activities. His wide variety of experiences, along with his aptitude to think strategically, creatively, and tactically make him a valuable addition to your business growth efforts.” February 1, 2008
Mark Butler, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Zertia (www.zertia.com)
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Andy is a critical thinker, and very strategic. He can help you grow your business to the next level using out of the box thinking to take you there. He is also very well connected and can tap into his network that is truly woven together and easily shared. If you want a person that is a true Pro...then Andy is your man.” January 31, 2008
John Damiano, Associate Broker, The Providence Group, in Partnership with RE/MAX Greater Atlanta.
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Andy quickly grasped the fundamentals of our business and was able to recommend programs that helped our business grow and increase profitability. He does what he says he will do, and he does it well.” January 31, 2008
Top qualities: Great Results, Good Value, High Integrity
Phil Davis
hired Andy as a Business Consultant in 2,006, and hired Andy more than once
“Andy Greider is the consummate networker and enthusiastic business professional. He recently granted me the unique opportunity to participate as a guest speaker on his radio show. Andy always seeks opportunities to connect business people with the goal of helping others to grow and evolve their companies. I have personally been introduced to a wide range of professionals whom I only met because of Andy's suggestion. It has been a pleasure networking with Andy through the groups such as the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and Powercore.” January 31, 2008
Carrie Lubus, Business Consultant, Dale Carnegie Training
was with another company when working with Andy at qAlias
“Andy communicated this great tool to me not only in a way I can use it to better my company and myself but I can share this with other companies and people so they too can improve themselves. Unlike myself, who writes n run-on sentences, Andy is a phenomenal communicator.” January 31, 2008
Top qualities: Personable, Expert, High Integrity
Jeffrey Marlowe
hired Andy as a Business Consultant in 2,007
Host, Producer, Writer at Uniqueness is Power (Sole Proprietorship)
“Andy is a superb interviewer. Regardless of industry, he asks insightful questions that allow the guest to really showcase their expertise for the varied UIP audience. An interview with Andy is really a pleasure and I'd come back on anytime he asked me and recommend him and his show to others any chance I get.” June 2, 2008
Stu Lustman, VP Business Development, Southern Lending Solutions LLC
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy is brilliant at bringing people together with Uniqueness is Power. He brings out the best in all of his guests and is a pleasure to work with.” May 6, 2008
Amy Otto, Associate, Otto and Associates
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“It is a rare opportunity and privilege to work with brilliant marketeers such as Andy Greider. Andy and I have worked on projects which have launched powerful technology tools and services and his tireless commitment in helping businesses leverage technology both in his marketing and networking skills are second to none. You can rest assured that if your business is in need of a boost you will want to contact Andy and begin an experience you will never forget. Dedicated to excellence is his main goal, and he never lets people down.” April 23, 2008
Bruce Swartz, Owner, B&C Enterprise
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“I enjoyed being a guest on Andy's radio show, Uniqueness is Power. He is a wonderful host and made the show conversational, informative and fun. Andy's blog and summary of the show really tied it all together and added just the right professional touch to round out his work there.” April 3, 2008
Laura (Gondolfo) Ray, Professional Organizer - Homes and Offices, Laura Ray Organizing, LLC (Owner/Pres.)
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Andy for his program, and I found him to be an intelligent, intuitive host. He had done his homework on our company, and had entirely relevant questions to ask during our interview together. If asked by Andy for an interview, I recommend you jump at the chance.” March 27, 2008
Carter Harkins, Co-Founder, CEO, Intrascopic Media Inc.
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy runs an exceptionally good radio program! He asks very intelligent questions and has a real gift for keeping conversations moving smoothly. His intention is to provide powerful information for the listeners and to help his guests come across exceptionally well. Andy's show is well worth your time!” March 27, 2008
Jan Dahlin Geiger, CFP®, Certified Financial Planner™, LongView Wealth Management
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy is a true believer of "pay it forward". I have been inspired by how hard he tries to help others promote their business, reach success, and get connected with the resources they need.” February 19, 2008
Karen Rands, President, Kugarand Holdings, LLC
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy Greider is one of the most versatile, entrepreneurial minded and connected network alliances that I have had the pleasure of working with. As a guest on his weekly radio show, I was amazed at his incredible knowledge of the business industry and of the contacts & relationships he has formed with so many people of influence. Andy is also very generous and has been able to introduce me personally (as well as my company) so new and synergistic contacts that are so beneficial to both enterprises. Amazingly, just by having a short conversation and guest spot on his show, he was able to connect me with 10+ contacts that share so many synergies with our business concept and model. My endorsement comes with ease. I am so very fortunate and deeply grateful for our business relationship and newly formed friendship. Again, I stand amazed at Andy's incredible giving nature. I would be most honored to provide more information or a reference to anyone who makes such a request. Warmest regards, Nicco Duncan CEO + Founder WND, Inc. A Perfect Plan 678-656-8098” February 6, 2008
Nicco Duncan, Owner, A Perfect Plan
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy is the master at seeing things that nobody else sees, but turn out to be obvious once pointed out. It is talent like this that ends up becoming the next eBay or YouTube. Further, Andy is the type of person who, if you ask him to mow the lawn, he will mow, seed, fertilize and edge. He makes sure you have considered all angles and made the best strategic decision not simply thrown a band-aid on as a temporary solution. He always understands all the implications and the entire process and makes sure you do as well. This attention to detail and unique ability to see the potential where nobody else does gives his radio show a great insight for the listener and leaves the interviewee with many great ideas on how to market or improve their exisiting product. I am always happy to discuss Andy's talents further at emoore@empanelonline.com. -Erick Moore President, EMpanel Online” February 5, 2008
Erick Moore, President, Survey Executives
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy is a superb wordsmith who possesses the uncanny ability to accurately express complex ideas in a manner that can be easily understood. He then uses his production talents to bring these ideas and the words to life. Andy works very hard to grasp the intent of his clients and works harder to make sure they are professionally presented to the target audience. He is pleasant, punctual, professional, and precise in delivering his product and not only will I continue to make use of his unique gifts, but will also continue to recommend him to my closest business associates. Andy makes me look good and turns client’s ideas into profitable outcomes.” February 2, 2008
Byron Lewis, General Manager, Square One Technology
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy has one of the best marketing minds I know. He is also a tremendous networker, always trying to determine how he can help others, something rarely seen in business today. I recently appeared on Andy's show and it was an extremely enjoyable and professional experience. I would highly recommend getting to know Andy and his many talents.” February 1, 2008
Steve Kapusta, Owner, KSI Consulting, LLC
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“An expert networker, Andy's ability to pull together fragments of information to discern patterns and trends - and then tie in individuals with related interests, expertise and resources - is an amazing thing to see. Andy is a gifted communicator who is not afraid to think large - or small. An asset to anyone's professional or personal network.” January 31, 2008
Stacy Land, Director, Performance Enhancement, Senior Business Medical Management, Wellpoint
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy is one of the greatest marketing minds in America. I've been on Uniqueness is Power, and I've seen the professional level of guests on his show. He has the ability to draw out the most unique services and astute entrepreneurs onto his program. I've found that just having side conversations with Andy - I walk away with tremendous valuable ideas for growing my own business.” January 31, 2008
Stephen Jones, Owner, GROWTH STRATEGIES
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“I have had the opportunity to meet Andy recently, and I am amazed by his EXTENSIVE understanding of marketing. He is a consummate marketeer, with his creative attention on the pulse of what's new, what's happening, what applications attract the greatest market attention. Through my short association with Andy I have been exposed to marketing technologies that give us an advantage when dealing with our clients. Very satisfying! Very happy about this!” October 5, 2007
Sherry Wheat, Owner, TeleSales, Inc
worked with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy is a powerfully insightful individual with a knack for making seemingly complex issues easy to understand. His radio show, Uniqueness Is Power, is a fantastic outreach tool as well as being accessible to the average business consumer. Andy's thinking is so far out of the box, it's hard to remember there WAS a box! If you need good ideas and a fresh perspecitve, you should have a conversation with Andy.” October 5, 2007
Blake Watts, Benefits Consultant, Ebenconcepts
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Andy is truly a phenomenal man and extremely talented and knowledgeable in marketing and advertising. He is truly a multi-talented individual. Andy is a true example of leadership through servant-hood and when addressing a crowd they hang on every word because of his down to earth style and genuine interest in people. You will absolutely want him on your team, It is an honor to work along side him in the International Business Academy Limited.” April 2, 2007
Kathleen Smart, CEO President, & Founder, SmarterIdeas Inc.
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
“Wow...Andy really knows his stuff when it comes to marketing. The radio show Andy hosts is a great listen each week. The guests he has on are truly unique and make me think about my business in different ways. Andy also gives great tips for marketing and advice on where to find good marketing/sales resources on the net. Thanks Andy, keep up the great work!” March 8, 2007
Jay Kapp, President, Kapp Koncepts, Inc.
was with another company when working with Andy at Uniqueness is Power
Sr Communications Consultant, New Business at Carroll/White
“Andy was a marvel at putting together various groups and individuals. Through connecting contacts either personally or through business, he was an asset to my business. He could see relationships between groups that formed the synergy needed to make deals.” March 5, 2008
David Moore, CCIM, Land and Industrial Brokerage, Hailey Realty Company
was with another company when working with Andy at Carroll/White
“Having Andy as a business associate would further anyone's success. He is one of the most connected people I have met in all of my working career. What is more, he looks for ways to connect people. Andy is very knowledgeable in numerous areas and wears many hats. He is on the cutting edge of new ideas and products. I would strongly recommend Andy. If you have the opportunity to meet and work with him, you will understand immediately.” February 13, 2008
Jodi Pierce, Owner, AlphaGraphics -- Duluth and Buckhead
worked with Andy at Carroll/White
“Andy is a true middle man, capable of matching quality people with one another from his vast network of contacts. Andy has always gone the extra mile to selflessly help me out and bring new business to the table. I highly recommmend Andy's business acumen, his contacts, and his ability to bring the two together to fuel business growth.” February 11, 2008
David Issa, Owner, XenLogic, LLC
was with another company when working with Andy at Carroll/White
“I have worked with Andy for nearly two years. During that time I have not found anyone who makes it his/her business to connect people in business more than Andy. He always leads with what can I do for you. He is a true communicator and relationship facilitator. In a matter of moments he can get to the heart of what resource you need to improve your business and because of his passion for networking he will have a contact at his fingertips who can help you.” February 5, 2008
Lee Kantor, Marketing, Radio X Internet Radio & Podcast Network
was with another company when working with Andy at Carroll/White
“Andy is considered to be the "Tornado Networker". He has an amazing ability to listen to our business needs and immediately identify 5-10 influential people we need to know. Andy not only identifies them, but within hours has us connected with those individuals. We have had tremendous opporunities for both of our businesses as a result of Andy's massive generosity and network. He is one of the best "Connectors" I have ever met.” February 3, 2008
Jason Tyne, Owner, SalesPartners Atlanta
was with another company when working with Andy at Carroll/White
“Being a small business owner sometimes the task of marketing and expanding your business can seem overwhelming. Andy is like the "Clark Howard" of small business marketing. He has helped me to market my unique service with great results. Andy is an amazing resource for any business that wants to reach a new level of success!!” August 17, 2007
Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, Creative
Dr. Katrina Cryder
hired Andy as a Business Consultant in 2,006
“Andy is a person who can see the big picture and find the best way to get things done. He is a person who has the energy for whatever he meets up with. His enthusiasm is contagious. His work quality is exceptional. His commitment to the success of others is outstanding.” August 14, 2007
Jodi Pierce, Owner, AlphaGraphics -- Duluth and Buckhead
was with another company when working with Andy at Thanks Again
“I have had the privilege of spending time with Andy picking his brain. I have never met a more creative, outgoing, unselfish person in my professional career. It amazes me how 'out of the box' Andy thinks yet explains his ideas in such a way that it always makes sense. It is my privilege to know Andy.” August 13, 2007
Dustin Hansen, Owner, Inxpress
was with another company when working with Andy at Carroll/White
“Andy is a rare talent with the ability to grasp complex concepts quickly and has the vision to see numerous applications and cross functionality into other business applications. Working with Andy has been a pleasure both from a business development standpoint and from the great positive energy and outlook Andy exudes. In 60 minutes with Andy, you can learn more about the latest business and marketing technology than in a month of research. I recommend Andy to anyone who is looking for a great business resource for knowledge and creative development.” August 13, 2007
John Dynes, Principal, Sales Smarts.com Inc.
was with another company when working with Andy at Carroll/White
“Andy is the best networker I have experienced. Specifically, he helped our company (Signature Channels) to connect with Carroll White. Carroll White has been instrumental in our firm transforming our brand (now d/b/a Thanks Again) and clarifying our brand messaging. Andy's intent is always to serve someone else's best interest and not his own. I love that approach as it is very genuine. Additionally, Andy is a critical and creative thinker ... rare these days!” February 7, 2007
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Creative
Eric Gilkesson
hired Andy as a Business Consultant in 2,006
“I met Andy by and incredible "coincidence" that tells me there are no such things. He is the right person, with the right knowledge, and the right contacts to take our idea and our website to dizzying heights. I'm sure I will look back on our meeting and our working with Andy as the launching pad for our success.” July 11, 2006
John Perozzi, Owner, Y Investment Properties, LLC
was Andy's client
“Andy has become a friend and business acquaintance, and easily crosses the line between the two: he is not afraid to "be real" in business! He is also one of the most capable and authentic networkers that I've had the pleasure of meeting, and shares his network with the utmost generosity.” April 25, 2006
Eryn Emerich
was with another company when working with Andy at Carroll/White
“Wow! Andy is always pushing the envelope to make his clients ever more successful. He is constantly searching for new technologies and techniques that can make an impact. I think of Andy as a trusted advisor.” August 15, 2005
David Ridenour
was a consultant or contractor to Andy at Carroll/White
“I've worked with many Marketing Managers over the years, but none have come close to Andy's level of professionalism, genuine friendliness and kindness, along with a surprising degree of marketing and technical savvy. It's been a great pleasure and an inspiration working with him.” June 28, 2004
Collin Stone
was a consultant or contractor to Andy at Carroll/White
Webmaster, external website at MARTA
“Andy is an excellent example of customer and client commitment. Andy took a defunct and poorly designed corporate website and turned it into a fully functioning and valuable asset to both the company and it's riders. Providing fresh content and numerous customer information points on the system and it's routes.” July 27, 2005
Mark Hewatt
worked directly with Andy at MARTA
“Andy is one of the most professional straight shooting and well organized clients that I've had the pleasure to work with. His breadth of knowledge in branding and Web related technical issues adds to his real-world savvy, which makes working with him easy. I would trust him as a go-to person for any project.” May 6, 2004
Collin Stone
was a consultant or contractor to Andy at MARTA
The Daily Flip Can Use This Tool, Jim!
Jim, imagine if everyone found the Daily Flip and your name at the top of Google - and that you could share this service with your readers and make money when they sign up to promote their personal brand. In fact, imagine what will happen when corporations can control image, logo, brand, message and keywords as they relate to the employee's personal brand. Want to know more? Watch the two next videos and then let's talk - Google me - Andy Greider - for more info...
and
Other Networks Make Friends, Salesconx and Sales S
It's really this simple....the internet has made it possible to connect with people you want to know, need to know and should know - easily. Here are two companies I like a lot for what they do:
Salesconx
and
Sales Spider
Check them both out today!
Check out my new blog
http://googleme.wordpress.com/
This is it, finally! A product of my personal, professional and somewhat mixed up lives. From travel to beer brewing on the personal side to high end marketing tactics and technology tools on the professional side, I'm having fun and hard at work helping people learn more, through sharing information.
I look forward to your comments.
Thanks!
Andy
Someone Just Googled You - What Did They Find?
I was stunned to find, during a business meeting, that each of the people at the table from our new potential client had Googled me prior to our meeting. They didn't tell me, but I knew this, because they brought up things they found on my qAlais profile. Wow, were the connections strong ones. One person also went to
When someone wants to know about you - they Google you - believe me - it happens everyday. Since I've been on qAlias (go ahead, Google me - Andy Greider) - I've reconnected with two old friends from college and found three prospective clients who have brought up info that I know came from my online bio. That's in about 8 weeks. The ROI, by the way, is stunning - so far - cost - $30. Return on investment - Client #1 - already signed a deal worth $5,000/mo. Client #2 - in bid for $25,000 project. Client #3 - still to be seen, likely largest of the three. And then there's re-connecting with old friends, which, as they say, is priceless.
Sign up today - and gain control over your first e-pression - that's a cyber impression - and it will likely preceed your entry as a vendor into a client relationship. www.qaliassignup.com today - plus email me and I'll send you a Bio Helper to assist with the "hardest part" of the process.
Thanks!
Andy
6 Networking Tips to Grow With
The other morning I was networking with a kind woman who asked me what the most important things were in networking. As I wrote the email back to her later, I thought I'd make some suggestions on how to best network in general to the bulletin as well - who knows whom it may help?:
(1) Remember to be yourself; speak with people like they are people and not sales subjects. You are simply meeting people, learning who they are, what they do, and then looking for ways in which you may be able to "broker synergy" - intro'ing them to someone who can help them, buy from them, or otherwise.
(2) It isn't about YOU. If you treat networking as a personal showcase, and talk only about you - you'll be mightily unpopular with your "network." If, on the other hand, you be sure to split time with those you meet - you can BOTH effect great results.
(3) Networking takes time and faith - no, I'm not talking religious faith - but more belief that it will work - and along with that patience and time. Rome wasn't built in a day - neither will be your network - conservatively - expect 12 months to see real results. Maybe 6-9 if you try hard to meet and help people.
(4) Never stop networking - keeps eyes and ears open for how you can assist and help others at all times. While on vacation, floating down the river, I met someone I was able to refer a great place to stay to, in the next town they were headed to. You just never know....
(5) Never judge a book by it's cover - you never know (a) who people are and (b) who they may know. A quick anecdote - when I worked for AT&T a gentleman walked into our small business center and was dressed in overalls badly stained. The two women I worked with asked me to handle him as they figured he was a bad prospect by his appearance. Turned out he owned a huge local company with needs for over 200k in phone systems, and that he'd had to work in the one warehouse that day, to cover for a shift manager who was injured. In addition, Ronnie is still someone I network with almost 20 years later.
and
(6) Networking brings out a real chance to better yourself and increase your value to friends, family and others, as you help everyone get ahead and meet each other. It is also a chance to form superb friendships - with people you otherwise never ever would have met.
Cheers and happy networking!
Choosing Inferior Domain Names Can Ruin a Business
A website by any other name, would not be so sweet....or so says the cyber-bard. Many times when we're picking a site url, we fall prey to classic mistakes - here are the most common - and how to avoid them:
1. Buy a .net instead of a .com - and you will most likely send more than 15% of your potential repeat busineess to the .com - most likely a huge competitor.
2. Not buying the .net, .org, .info, etc of your own name - to protect it on down the line. Serious online businesses should own all, and all should point to the .com.
3. Using a number in your domain name, such as FreeAdvice4Life, but not purchasing the freeadviceforlife.com address.
3. Keep it short and sweet - urls of less than 7 letters or digits work well. Others are very forgetable. Phone numbers are 7 digits for a reason - and the world isn't getting any better at paying attention to details or retention.
3.5 Begin to branch out to other countries with a name that doesn't translate well. Nothing worse than being an url that gains traction here and then becoming a whole new entity in another country - it is, after all, the world wide web.
4. Using two different names - one for your company - one for the web address. Consultants R Us as the name, then CRUS.com as the web address...or worse yet - with hyphens consultants-r-us.com.
5. Getting too close to the bone on a new name - or too closely emulating a trademarked name with cache value - and a large legal department. Doing so can crush a young company. Just when you gain momentum, they notice you - and you go away.
6. Trying to come up with a word without a current meaning and then expecting people to recall it without spending millions on new ads.
7. Forgeting that a name online has to "paint a picture" - Sam's Bikes On Main doesn't work online. Trying for something that is online oriented works much better than simply transfering a brick-n-mortar name to the internet.
8. Buy only the singular or plural of bikes.com or bike.com - try for both and stop sending your clients to the competition.
9. Working on a new company name without first checking for the url availability. There is nothing worse than hitting paydirt on a great name to find out the url isn't available. Check all of them before presenting.
10. Not buying potential mispellings - especially if your web address is something easily mispelled. Most people count on the average web surfer to be a deft typist, and it simply isn't the case.
So, there are some tips on choosing an online name. For more info, please feel free to connect with me via phone at 404 516 4204 or via email at andygreider@comcast.net with "naming my website" in the subject line.
Thanks!
Knowing the Whole Story Helps You Succeed
For the past year or more the Secret has been growing in popularity and exposure - from internet buzz to Larry King then to Oprah, the popular "Law of Attraction" film that spans from meta to quantum physics is a hit. According to the website www.thesecret.tv – “The Secret explains with simplicity the law that is governing all lives, and offers the knowledge of how to create—intentionally and effortlessly—a joyful life. This is The Secret to everything—the Secret to unlimited happiness, love, health, and prosperity. “
I love the movie. I love the optimism. I love the undaunted approach to happiness and joy. But, I have another Secret for you…it may be about one law. But it isn’t just about a few simple changes. It is about the hard work that comes along with those mental shifts, those huge leaps most people have to make to move from negative thoughts to positive, from entrapment to enlightenment. For those who believe it is only about a mental shift in beliefs and awakening…well, let’s think about this from another angle, shall we?
Let us liken this process to someone learning to swim in a fast moving river (isn’t life like a fast moving river most of the time?) So, the Secret shows you how to put your foot in the water – and how to wade into the slower current – but showing you how to begin to make the mental changes that enable you to “see the rapids” and not be scared or deterred by them. However, simple positive thought and mental awakening to potential and possibility, even coupled with powerful intentions will not deliver to your door the desired results of crossing the river. It takes more than that to step from the slower side current into the faster water and then into the rapids. You need to actually know how to swim AND know/believe you will make it to the other side.
I have seen a few “Secret devotees” swept into the current, with the shocked look of someone who had all the answers only to find they weren’t even ready to get past round 1. Don’t let that happen to you.
Again, I believe in the Secret as a principle and paradigm shift. As a simple focus, the Secret delivers. As a motivational tool to inspire and call to awareness – it works. But, as a manifesto on how to make the larger changes – it sadly fails. It doesn’t address some of the most important issues. And thus, oftentimes, I hear people discounting the Secret as mumbo jumbo and hokum – and that is a shame.
The Secret is as real as the despair most people face each day with. The Secret truly is the key to happiness – but only once you understand it comes along with hard work, accountability and follow through. It comes from not just thinking big thoughts, but living them, too. It comes from visualizing great results and then creating the pathways for them to be delivered upon. So, trust in the Secret and then change your future by living the Secret through the law of attraction, through positive direction and through hard work. Earn it, don’t just think it, and surely don’t expect it to be delivered to you.
If you would like to discuss this, I’m available at andygreider@comcast.net. Send me an email with “The Secret Debate” in the subject line. Thanks!
Logo and Biz Cards for Under $100
Create Your Own Logo for Under $100 - that’s right, for less than one Benjamin, we have all the tools to scale out your own logo, color palette and even printing your first 500 cards - for your starting business. Remember, with a QAlias profile, you may not need as many, if any, of those printed cards, but you’ll still need a logo. And no, it won’t be the same quality as a pro-shop, but it will be a lot better than clip art or most “friendly freelance” efforts.
A large part of getting the most out of your logo and your new company id is to create a color palette that works well for your business, your product, your brand and your clientele. So, how the heck can someone without a lot of experience begin? What if, like many small business owners, you left corporate
Adobe has developed kuler - and in doing so has taken a huge step in allowing online sharing of created color palettes for businesses to use. It is fun, easy to use, and anyone who wants to learn and experiement with combining colors or creating a color palette is welcome. Kuler is tapping into the social networking idea that top color consultant talents are now present on a “as you need it” basis - and many of the top designs are really superb blendings of colors and generate the feel you want for your logo, backgrounds, accents and more. Now you, the small business owner can tap into these skills and conquer, for free, one of the formerly unbeatable challenges in logo design (at least not until you paid big money.) Cool work Adobe!
Now, let’s move onto Logo Maker where you can create your own logo for free, share it with friends for feedback and then download and use it in a variety of formats for just $49. In just a few minutes, you can be working on a logo that is professional in design and can be enough to get you through to the next level as you begin a business. Not what a pro-shop can pull off, but then again, nowhere near the cost, either. Coupled with Kuler, this is perfect for small startup businesses that can’t afford to hire an agency or firm.
To double check yourself on the logo you create and the color shades you use, check out Color Palette Generator - a very amazing tool to use in conjunction with Kuler and Logo Maker.
Ok, so now you have the logo, and the color palettes. From there, you can take the designs you have created and upload them to Vista Print for fast, inexpensive and solid printing and quick delivery.
A few other words about logo, color palette and design. Colors that are your favorites are not the ones you want to pick. No matter how much they please you, as the owner, they need to resonate with your customer and client. If the clients aren’t feeling warm fuzzies about it, you won’t hear the register ring and those initial warm fuzzies you had will go away faster than a lead against Tiger Woods on the back 9 at
Happy logo-ing!
Uniqueness is Power host Andy Greider guest hosts
Wow! What fun! I was lucky enough to guest host (filling in for Lee Kantor) with Amy Otto on Altanta Business Radio (www.atlantabusinessradio.com) October 3rd, 10-10:30 am. Check out the blog for the full scoop and download the show (http://tinyurl.com/32brly)
Rushing around from the Urban Professionals networking event to the show led to a full morning, but my batteries were instantly re-charged with the energy in the room during the show. Co-hosting a show with Amy Otto was such a delight, as she is the consumate professional and is tremendous at delving deeper into a guest's personality and raison d'etre than most good feature reporters. Be sure to check out her questions as she draws out the inner Jerrilynn Thomas, who was the featured (but not only) guest.
For my part, I was thrilled to be in the studio with 5 such powerful women. WOW! What an amazing conduit of energy, ideas, advice and power networthing all in 30 minutes. Be sure to listen in - and if you want to know more about what you are missing - or want to ability to networth with Jerrilynn, Nicco Duncan, Sandy Lomas, Penny Haynes and other high caliber women business owners, check out www.ivwcc.org
I can say I will be joining up within the coming month - yes, men are allowed, as long as we can play nicely on a field we don't dominate...this network is more about netweaving, networthing and true business alliance than most, if not any, I have ever seen, virtual or in person. And the women in the studio were the reasons why.
Thanks to Amy and to all the guests for having me on the show as co-host - I can't wait for the next time Lee is unavailable.
A Baker's Dozen of Strong Tips to Growing Your Bus
Creator of Uniqueness is Power, host and producer, Andy Greider, compiled this list of a baker's dozen worth of tips for better marketing and sales within your small to medium sized business. Check out the show at www.uniquenessispower.com for more tips and free resources to growing your business, saving bottom line money and making the business thrive. You can hear these tips fleshed out on the show October 4th: http://media.libsyn.com/media/uip/UiP_October_04_2007.MP3
1. When you begin to visit marketing – don’t ask “how do we market or sell this?” Get right to the core – “is what we offer really IT anymore?“ "Does this fit the needs of our consumers and customers?” Oftentimes companies forget the "blocking and tackling" and go straight for the long pass. This leads to all sorts of assumptions and issues.
2. It’s all about positioning – as in, knowing where you stand in the eyes of your customers…and working from there. Position is a passive noun, not a verb. You can make a strong attempt to change your position, but position is all about where your customers see you.
3. Niche, Niche, Niche – be sure yours is as tightly defined as possible – without that type of definition, the world will pass you by. Being in a niche may seem boring, until you see how well it works. Some companies are niche driven by the size of who they work with, others by the vertical they work in, others yet by the specific people they do business with. Cooper Carry, a large architectural, engineering firm who could handle anything, only chooses the top 1% of it’s potential clients – and it works. To gain market share you can either steal clients from competitors, or create your own niche where no one else plays and where you own a compelling reason to choose you.
4. When you are getting ready to design and then market your service or product, don’t design just what they would need – design something they would love. Put yourself in their shoes – and make the best of it from their position.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask - and to know what is wrong. First of all - you can’t fix it, if you don’t know what is wrong. Survey like mad, find out everything your clients are willing to tell you, then accentuate the positive and fix or eliminate the negative. Survey in person or by phone, if possible. Focus groups are ok, if done online and in large numbers, but beware 10-15 person groups.
6. Internal Branding is just as important as, if not more so, than external branding. Everyone is concerned about what the public thinks of them. External branding takes the budget if branding is examined at all. However, I’d argue that internal branding – your people knowing who the company is, why they themselves are there each day and how to best promote the company, is more critical to success than the potential customer knowing it up front.
7. Remember that what you do is simply a box around what you are good at. In other words - the things you are best at should define you - not simply the service you offer. A company who does well in planning but is an architectural firm, may do a side planning business.
8. Starbucks isn’t selling coffee. Despite what it looks like, that isn’t the proposition there. Yes, they do sell it. Yes, it brings you in. But they are in the merchandising and peripheral sales business – selling a lifestyle and all the things that go with it. Games, music, decorations, food and more. Find out what your customers are buying from you…and expand to move yourself out of the mainstream and into your own niche.
9. Be aware that the most viable competitor you have may well be your client. I know that sounds strange at first blush, but be sure to listen well. Oftentimes, companies are right when they say they have little to no competition in a field – but what they forget is that their client is trying to figure out to use them or to do nothing at all. With those variables, the path to close the sale is much different. Know why your customer is looking before you begin to pitch your offer.
10. Make your service or product easy to buy. Selling the darn thing isn’t THAT hard, until it comes to buying it. Make samples available, clear pricing, and clear offers. Sell it to them based on their needs, not your features.
11. In a service industry, be sure you remember that even when you’ve won the business, you have it only for each day you earn it. The day after you win the business is far more important than the day you sign the contract. Make sure you set expectations at a level you can meet – and even exceed – and do it from day #1.
12. In this world of sales and service – your customer hearing thank you, knowing you appreciate them and their trust, only begets more of the same back from them. Be sure your client knows and you will continue to earn their business time and time again – and their referrals.
And lucky # 13. Beat your opponents with a blend of manners, efficiency, technology, care and follow through. Simply put, these factors, if combined – all at 80% or higher to begin, will fuel any company to the top of it’s field. Add in a focused niche and a drive to deliver what has been promised – and to only promise what can be delivered – and you have the #1 in the field.
Name Googling - the Wave of the Future!
What happens when someone Googles your name? Don't think it happens? Think again. From job recruiters to business appointments, from new friends to neighbors, more people turn to Google when they want to know the scoop on you. Do you have a website? Did you ever do anything strange? Is your nickname on MySpace something that doesn't represent a company well?
So, how do you control what people see and find about you online? Owning the top ranking on Google and Yahoo search certainly helps. This may sound cost prohibitive or time intensive - pay per click campaigns can run hundreds of dollars a month for top rankings and they take time and effort to maintain and manage. However, there is a solution that requires very little, if any, of your time outside initial setup, and gets you guaranteed top ranking for $9.95 a month. Yes, as in under $10. Not $100, not $500. $9.95.
Check out QAlias today and post your bio, your business cards and your bulletin entries (a cross between blog and e-newsletter.) www.qaliassignup.com. To find out what a profile looks like and how this works - just Google - Andy Greider. I look forward to hearing from you, having you as a listener for our radio show (www.uniquenessispower.com) and seeing how I can assist you in networking.
Cheers!
Andy
How Do I Name My Company?
| So, what's in a name? As true as it is that a picture is worth a thousand words, a business name, consisting of 1, 2 or 3 words, or perhaps an acronym, has the potential power of a thousand pictures, if chosen properly. However, it also has the serious opportunity to become lost in the morass of poorly developed names. So, what are the critical points to consider when choosing a name? A name needs to do certain things for your business. It needs to be able to position, grab attention, convey worth and engage. Such names aren't easy to come by, and honestly, are why marketing consultants and branding experts are paid well. Here are the nine things that should be considered when naming your business: 1. Achieves Differentiation From Competition - your name should be different from the competition, as should your messaging. When given the chance to be unique, oftentimes businesses end up imitating the successful leaders, instead of carving their own niche - this is true right up to the name. 2. Reinforces Positioning in Marketplace - a name that simply enters the marketplace without making an impact and bringing forth some sense of the company's position is not a strong or appropriate name. This is one reason the owner's last name is often not a strong choice. 3. Engages Customer or Prospect - without this, your name is passed over in the sea of noise, in the massive amount of other companies who are getting some traction with the customer or prospect. The name should be something that causes interest, causes inquiry and causes potential for action. 4. Is unforgettable - or at least, less forgettable. How many times have you seen a great product or company service, and promptly forgotten the name of the company, but recalled what the product or service did? Names need to be chosen that will embed themselves in the collective consciousness, tie themselves to mental signposts in the consumer's brain and help the consumer remember the name when speaking to friends. 5. Has a Life of It's Own - A company name needs to carry a self-sustaining message, something that identifies what the company does or provides, without additional messaging or clarity being added. 6. Evokes Deep Well For Graphical Images - this is important in helping develop a logo, and design for websites, etc. 7. Rises Above the Goods and Services You Provide - the name should not be tied into just the things you provide - it should have a greater, more encompassing edge to it - because if it is tied to services or products, and they change, your name might well need to, also. 8. Has What It Takes to Dominate the Category - this comes from the ideas expressed previously, of timelessness, or not needing to change, of speaking to the consumer in an unforgettable way, but it also goes above and beyond that - evoking the power to dominate by placing barriers to entry to others trying to mimic or copy you. And perhaps the most important issue in today's time and age of the internet: 9. Url MUST Be Available for Registration or Purchase For Web Address- if this is not available, and the name is not protectable under trademark, there is not point in moving forward if you want your company to have a successful future. Also, do not settle for hyphens or abbreviations in your web address. No one will remember them, and you will lose traffic. 10. One other word to the wise re: Taglines and Catchy Slogans- Don't! And if you do, take the slogan, and apply it to three of your top competitors. If it works for them, guess what? It isn't going to do great things for you. Sometimes there are slogans that play well off the both the company name, the mission, the product, etc - but they are rare - and even less likely - is the idea they will stand up across time. Happy Naming, folks! Andy Greider |
| About Carroll White |
| Marketing, Business and Technology Consultancy that does the work, too. Services from branding and naming to websites and DB intergration. We seek to grow your company for the long term and specialize in: (1) Bringing companies to the United States; (2) Franchise work, (3) Bank start up, (4)Residential real estate (builders/developers), (5) Retail ..... and more Because we create solutions from a business fundamental baseline, we are successful in whatever industry we touch. Give us a call for a 90 minute meeting - no dog and pony show - just us solving problems together, and getting the ball rolling. |