Inspire, Instill, Ignite: Be an Example in 2014

In December 2013 I took time to review the past year and set personal and business goals for 2014.  I soon discovered 3 simple words that would become my inspiration for 2014.

Many times as entrepreneurs we try to separate our personal life from our business life.  I've learned over the last 10 years this is virtually impossible.  Whether you are a solopreneur, mompreneur, or entrepreneur with a large staff, embrace the gift that comes with entrepreneurship, melting your two worlds together.  Use this gift to leverage the opportunities that arise to better yourself and those around you.

Because of this I have decided to find ways to:

1. INSPIRE Others to be Better
2. INSTILL Values in Others that I Display, and
3. IGNITE in Others a Passion for Excellence

By doing this one can not only improve who they are personally, but also improve how they handle customers, and this allows for building strong relationships.

What will you do in 2014 to be a better person, better business owner, and better member of your community?

3 Ways Google+ Has Surprised Me

I love social media but I'm not one to jump on the bandwagon of the "next big thing". When Google+ was introduced, needless to say I was skeptical. Over the last few months I've read articles about Google+ and the benefits of using this social network for Search Engine Optimization (SEO).  I've slowly put more effort into my Google+ profile. Here are the  3 ways that Google+ has surprised me so far.

1. SEO for Your Brand
   
   We constantly hear about SEO for your website.  As the Internet changes I am finding that emphasis also needs to be placed not only on SEO for your website, but also on SEO for your entire brand.  If you are utilizing the Internet correctly a potential customer or client should be able to find information about your company throughout the Internet and not just on your website.
   
   I have found that posting on Google+, using targeted keywords, can increase your brand recognition in Google search organic results.  The results will link to the related post that you shared via your Google+ profile.  The benefit to you is that your name and profile photo are linked to the post.  If what you have shared is interesting enough it could very well prompt the web surfer to want to get to know more about you and the brand you represent.
   
   
2. Easy to Share Content
   
   I stay up to date on most news, industry related topics, and general Internet trends by means of popular media websites.  Because of the great benefits of SEO for my brand I have found that clicking the "G+" button next to an article allows me to share relevant content with my circles.  I take advantage of the comment box that appears above the actual post information in the Google+ pop up. Using strategic hashtags can help your posts to place well in the organic search results.
   
   
3. Google+ Took Over My Smartphone
   
   I added my business related Google+ account to my Android Smartphone and was baffled that the contact list on my phone was now "enhanced".  Imagine my surprise when I received a phone call from a potential client, one I never added as a contact on my phone list, and my phone had him saved in my contacts.  His listing was complete with his profile picture and other contact information he shared on his Google+ profile.
   
   When I finished the phone call I scrolled through my "People" app.  I soon realized that most of the people I added in my Google+ circles that have shared their contact details are now nice and cozy in my phone contact list.  It was a definite surprise to go to my contact list and see some of my Google+ circle mates now smiling back at me with their lovely Google+ profile photos.   I'm still trying to decide if I like this or not.

I will continue to post updates and new discoveries that I find while I continue to navigate the world of Google+.

How @Target Made My Monday Better

 It was 26°F when I woke up this morning.  Some reading this post would love to see a 26°F morning at the end of November, but for this California girl living in South Carolina it was a brutal morning to have to get out of bed and take the kids to school.

Work went fairly well for a Monday, and then we got the brilliant idea to visit a fast food restaurant where kids eat free....during peak dinner time.  An hour later I had dealt with tears because the 4 year old couldn't go to the playground.  The 9 year old was torn between keeping her book from her kids meal or getting ice cream; so I was happy to be heading home.

While I waited for the kids to finish brushing their teeth I checked my Pinterest account and was overjoyed when I saw the message "Target Pinned to Brunch for Mommy Friends". I was like a nerdy school girl getting asked to go to prom by the most popular guy in school.  Who knew such a simple message could make this Mommy's day.

How I Got Target to Pin to My Board

I can't recall if it was from a Facebook post or a tweet on Twitter that I learned about Target's latest promotion "Best.Party.Ever. with David Stark".  I quickly followed the steps on the board to participate (promotion ends 11/27/2013). After many anxious hours of wondering 1) would Target really follow me on Pinterest? 2) would they really pin to my board? and  3) would they really offer me great party suggestions catered to my tastes? My wait was over.

By Sunday afternoon I received the answer to my first question, and at the end of a frustrating Monday my last 2 questions were answered.  All with a resounding, "YES".  I simply followed the directions, to the letter, that Target gave participants.  Target delivered on their promise to provide "personalized inspiration to help (me) create (my) Best.Party.Ever."

I LOVE the great suggestions Target & David Stark pinned to my board.  While it is still secret, follow me on Pinterest, and soon I will make the board public for everyone to enjoy great party planning inspiration.

Client Shout Outs (aka A Great Big Thank You) #2

I had to say thank you to some of my latest clients.  As always I appreciate their business and loved working with them on their projects.

Dent's Adult Daycare

http://www.dentsadultdayservices.com

Eric & Bertha Dent were great to work with, and they offer such a needed service to the Columbia, SC community.

• Updated their template based website (last update was in 2008)
• Corrected layout issues
• Added YouTube video
• Fixed issues with contact form

Double Eagle Fine Handcrafted Gifts, LLC 

http://www.doubleeaglegifts.com

I have really enjoyed with the owner, Chris Pittman.  I admire his skill as a woodworker, and am amazed at the products he offers.

• Assisted with migrating his Wordpress website to a new host
• Correct JQuery conflicts with plugins
• Correct image layout issues
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Social Media Optimization 
• Social Media Marketing

Doug Giesler, REALTOR

http://www.searchlakemurray.com

http://www.douggiesler.com

Doug has jumped full force into marketing his business and I was definitely glad to assist.

• Custom graphic design an image to be used for marketing online & print
• Correct website layout issues
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
• Social Media Optimization 
• Social Media Marketing

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

Mud Princess Pottery Online Store Now Open

JMB Designs, LLC is happy to announce the launch of Mud Princess Pottery's new website and online store at www.MudPrincess.net.

Mud Princess Pottery is owned by Eleanor Billian. Her hand-made, museum quality pottery is unique and made for everyday use. We developed the website in a way to showcase the detail of Eleanor's great work and allow each piece to be personalized by her customers.


 You can visit her website at: http://www.mudprincess.net/

10 Great Small Businesses to Check Out

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE being one of the 23 million small businesses that exist in America.  As an #entrepreneur I have met great small business owners over the years that have been a great source of encouragement and motivation.  I wanted to take the time to mention a few small businesses that are near and dear to me for one reason or another.  The owners are either close friends of mine or beloved family.  Enjoy the list and, whenever possible, support their businesses.

(Listed alphabetically)

1. Alicia Bailey for Chloe + Isabel - Fashion Jewelry
   
   
   Website
   
   Description:
   Merchandiser with Chloe + Isabel.  A fashion jewelry lifestyle brand.  "Chloe" stands for the daring trendsetter, while "Isabel” is classic and refined.Whether you're a Chloe, an Isabel, or a Chloe-bel; we should talk!
   
   
   
2. Carolina Soap Company - Handcrafted Bath and Body products
   Website
   
   
   
   Description:
   
   Handcrafted bath and body products. Including Artisian Soaps, Lip Balm, Goat's Milk Lotion, Shea Butter, Solid Colognes, Bath Teas, Olive Oil Glycerin Soaps, Sugar Scrub Cubes, Facial Serum, Dead Sea Mud Mask, Mani Pedi Scrub, Organic Oils, Liquid Soap
   
   
   
3. CC Canvas - Family owned printer
   Website
   
   
   
   Description:
   Located in Tracy, CA.
   
   "Our goal is to provide excellent customer service and beautiful memories on canvas to last a lifetime.  We use 400gsm canvas paper unless requested otherwise. Our banners are printed on either heavyweight scrim vinyl, heavyweight water resistant polyester fabric, or polypropylene film. Posters and/or banners are printed on heavyweight 190, 240 and 300gsm - glossy or satin finish.  Canvas pictures, banners, posters, car magnets."
4. Fit3D - 3D-imaging technology for health and body evaluation
   Website
   
   Description:
   3D-imaging technology designed to help users lose (and gain) weight, evaluate body health, and stay motivated! Fit3D has created a simple non-invasive kiosk, which generates 3D images of the human body in less than 30 seconds. These images are then used as a tool for health and body evaluation, including visual tracking, full body measurements, body volume, and more. Users will have access to all data via the Fit3D.com web application, where they can measure, track and evaluate over time with a variety of intuitive features. For individuals and fitness facilities.
5. Haute Interiors - Full-Service Residential Interior Decorator based in Columbia, SCSpace Planning, Room Redesign, Room Makeovers & Staging
   "Good Design IS Affordable!"
   My specialty is a hand-applied Old World Style wall finish
   Website
   803.546.6090
   Etsy Shop: Visit Shop
   Find us on Facebook
   Location: Inside Ivy House 10511 Two Notch Road, Elgin, South Carolina 29045
   
   
   
   Description: The Boutique of South Carolina Artisan-Crafted works:  Designer Napkin Cuffs, Floral Arrangements & Home Decor
   
   "I've presented my works at the 2011 One of a Kind Show at Merchandise Mart in Chicago, IL, the design mecca of the Midwest."
   
   Vintage Housewares, Home Decor & Gifts
   Ever see items that instantly bring back memories from childhood & growing up?  This shop has a little of everything:  glassware, barware, linens, hardware and furniture just to mention a few.
   Etsy Shop: Visit Shop
   Find us on Facebook
6. MiKel Thompson Rumsey - Hair Stylist and Make-up Artist
   Website
   Location: Bombshelll Beauty Studio - 910 Harden Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29205
   
   
   Description:
   Full time, licensed professional hairstylist and makeup artist at Bombshell Beauty Studio. MiKel's area of expertise is event hair and makeup for fashion shows, photo shoots, weddings, and other special occasions.
   
   "I follow hair and make-up trends religiously, whether on celebrities or in wedding magazines. I enjoy experimenting with a lot of different looks such as modern, classic, bohemian, and retro. My goal is to help you create the perfect style to make you look and feel beautiful!"
7. MoJo City Salon - Beauty Salon · Barber Shop
   Website
   Location: 601 Lady Street Columbia, SC 29201
   
   
   
   Description:
   MoJo City Salon is located in Columbia's Vista. It is a small, intimate salon with a Big City feel and view. You will find we have a warm and friendly atmosphere. Come in and meet all of our stylists today. Ask your friends....they all come here!
8. Nanna's Naturals - Natural Skin Care Products
   Website
   Etsy Shop: Visit Shop
   
   
   
   Description:
   The focus at Nanna's Naturals is to produce and make available the purist natural skin products possible.
   
   "We never use dyes or artificial perfumes that can upset your skins delicate balance. Our skin is the largest and undeniably most complex organ of our body and is exposed daily to a very harsh environment both inside and outside the home, from the release of chemicals to the very atmosphere itself. Nanna's Naturals is designed to soothe, hydrate and calm the skin as it preserves its sensitive characteristics."
9. Rumsey Construction & Renovations -  Custom Residential Building and Renovations
   Website
   
   
   
   Description:
   Rumsey Construction & Renovations specializes in custom residential building and renovations and also are a full restoration company for emergency water, fire, wind, and hail damage.
10. Tucker Travels - Travel Agency
    Website
    
    
    
    Description:
    Tucker Travels is a family owned agency that provides the personalized customer service needed to make your vacation unforgettable!  We specialize in cruises (groups and individual), Disney vacations, and honeymoons.  Call us to plan your next getaway.  At Tucker Travels we make travel easy!

#Entrpreneur to Watch (up and coming)

CrochetByDante - Joyful Crochet Creations

Visit Shop

Description:

An online shop dedicated to the LOVE of #crochet.  Handmade headgear, footwear, Bags, Totes, and Purses, Baby items and gifts.

"My newest venture is the barefoot sandals. I have a few patterns available with more to come! Contact me about special requests."

What Can a One Page Website Do for You?

I have designed and developed one page websites since the mid '90s.  Those websites usually involved taking a printed flyer and migrating the information from the flyer to a very basic brochure style web page.  Times have changed and so have the type of one page websites that I design for my clients.  They range from full graphic websites such as www.eddiemilton.com to basic "flyer" web pages that allow a small business to have an Internet presence, get indexed by search engines, and be found by the 78% of shoppers who use the Internet to research and purchase products and services.* (see an example of a "flyer" one page website at www.eandwcleaning.com)

Why One Page?

1.  A one page websites can allow your business or organization to have a fast, professional web presence.
2. One page websites promote your business, organization, and products by providing potential customers and clients with the most relevant information they need to be motivated to contact you.
3. Are you a start-up company? Home based business? New to promoting your business online?  Your one page website allows you to advertise just like larger companies and it can grow to more pages as your business grows.
4. Many one page websites can be setup in an easy to use website builder to allow you to maintain the website in-house.
5. If you have already purchased web hosting, but have yet to publish a website, a one page website can be easily uploaded to your current web host.
6. One page websites are budget friendly.

Click on the infographic above for information about JMB Designs, LLC One Page Website Design Services or visit www.jmbdesigns.net

*Statistic used with the permission of http://thenetwork.cisco.com/