Helena B
I'm in the process of developing a program specifically designed to help solopreneurs introduce rigor to their strategic planning and business development processes.
I'm testing concepts now with two extremely talented and already successful colleagues and the initial feedback is very positive. Among the topics discussed: strategic planning, the differences between a goal, key results objectives, projects and tasks. And why, as a soloprenuer, you need to start with just one goal -- not 20. And four or five key objectives -- not 20. And two or three projects for each objective -- not 20. Now there might be 20 or more tasks needed to complete each project -- but THAT is fine.
The other thing I drove home with both: The importance of cultivating relationships with the media, and how best to do that. And getting out on the speaking circuit where and whenever possible.
I also talked to both of them about the importance of focus. I took half an hour to explain it, but today's email newsletterlet from Keith Ferrazzi, ("Never Eat Lunch Alone") contained a great explanation of why, which actually came from his advisor, Greg Seal. Greg says, "Unless you focus, you will be eviscerated in today's competitive market. As smart as we all think we may be, there is always someone smarter, tougher and more ruthless out there."
I don't often focus on the fact that there are any number of folks out there that will eat my lunch given the chance, but alas, as I've learned from direct experience, it's true. But in my opinion, getting your lunch eaten actually is not the worst case scenario. If you're not focused, chances are your competition won't come after you because they (and your potential clients) will never have heard of you.
Ouch.
More about this program as things develop, but if you'd like your own 90-minute consultation to get things jump-started, contact me.
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I'm completely enthralled with Twitter. It's is my new micro-classroom. In the past three weeks I have learned about cloud computing courtesy Brian Solis; seen and particpated in Zappos' CEO Twitter promos; and benefited from multiple heads-up on resources from colleagues I'm following.
I suggest you get on right away. Don't follow everyone in the world, as you can imagine, there's also a lot of chaf out there. Follow people who have something to say and share interesting, new ideas. Don't follow people that shamelessly plug their businesses without sharing something not business related on occasion. And don't join Twitter just to promote your business. It's considered spam. And it's just -- icky.
Curious? Click the link "Twitter - hbouchez" at right and follow me.
There, I said it. Business blogs are boring. Most posts don't come close to passing the "Who cares?" test drilled into me by my PR sensei, Sally Saville Hodge. Anyway, writing about business for the sake of getting a post up is a pain. And the post ends up lame. So I'm not going to do that. Relieved?
Me too.
Instead, I'll use this venue to let you know get to know me and to share my discoveries, opinions, experiences, likes and dislikes and why you should care (at least in context of your business).
I hope it will be useful (or at least interesting).
Best,
Helena B
Expertise PR is a niche concentration that focuses on showcasing clients' thought leadership and methodologies through smart and well-written bylined articles, expert quotes, speaking engagements and other media relations activities. It's my business and it's my passion.