I've decided to add an area for businesses that I recommend on my website. I
don't know many businesses that promote other businesses for being great to work with, but I have always been one to share. So if you go to Kreative Touch, look for the Affiliate Websites tab to check them out!
In my networking journey that I started back in May of 2011, I stepped out of my comfort zone, started attending group networking groups, and making independent networking meet-n-greets. During these sessions, I have met an assortment of entrepreneurs with small to big businesses. It is wonderful to meet with new people starting up or pro's at the trade. If I find that their products/services are great, then I'm going to share it with others!
It's just too bad that people don't do this sort of thing more often. If you are in the Brantford or surrounding area and wish to network- let me know! I would love to see how we can help each other out!
*If you would like to show support to blogs and development, please consider a donation. Part of the proceeds go towards fundraising Kreative Touch is currently assisting.*
I use to shy from networking, never thinking I was good enough to be in a room with 'professionals' - they wouldn't take me serious. I didn't know what types of professionals would be there, would they judge me and shrug me off? For me to stand up- even for a short moment- introducing myself, business name, and what I do- would I mess it up? If only they could be one on one, then again, that could have its downfalls too.
My first networking event was quite daunting- at least the parts leading up to my introduction. You see, my dad talked me into going, reassuring me that my schooling, and experience was paying off. He reminded me that if everyone I knew had the faith in my abilities then I needed to do the same. He also mentioned that the group was normally small and easy going. so speaking in front of them shouldn't be too hard.
As is the story of my life, nothing is as simple, or as easy, as one would think. This so called small group (3-5) was at a record breaking number the day I went. Go figure. Two long tables, chairs all around, with a sold 24 people or more. OYE! The part I feared the most of introducing myself, as I mentioned before, came around, but to my surprise my intro just rolled off my tongue and impressed the whole crowd.
It felt good to see the positive reactions, and watch their expressions. My 40 second infomercial was over soon enough and I could sit easy. My future networking meetings have gotten a little easier. I still get that 'anxiety' that bubbles up, but it passes soon enough each time. From these meetings is where the 1 on 1 meetings come into play, and as you have read or seen attached to my website, many of these people are great to work with and thus are displayed for all to see! "Affiliate Websites"
Anyhoo, at least the group networking gives you an introduction to others so you can figure out to whom you wish to meet up with later. This way they are not a complete stranger.
In the end, I have found that networking is the strongest foundation to promoting your business. It will be your greatest advantage. Building those working relationships with others is what will make you memorable. The more you network, the more you get your name out there, and the more your name is out there, the better the job opportunities.
Well, I have been active recently. It's wonderful!
A couple weeks ago I received a Restoration job of 14 photos, then another order of 7 photos. I absolutely love doing this work. It takes a lot of time and patients to do the work I do, not to mention the occasional numb bum I get! Ha ha ha. To me though, it is worth every second! I can try to explain it, but writing only can only take you so far.
When a first time client comes to me to inquire about a job they get that automatic ‘Deer-in-Headlights’ appearance when we discuss the approximate fee for their Photo Restoration/Editing needed. It can be a little tedious explaining over and over like a broken record the same information clarifying the break down to the same client to make them feel somewhat at ease with it. I understand completely though, because, after all, I am the definition of Thrifty. (Look it up, you’ll see Jen Beaul beside it- lol… at least in my family/friends dictionaries).
Most clients have NO IDEA the amount of work I put into their photos to bring them back to life. I take each imagine very seriously, and put a lot of love into the editing of them. Each image is treated as I would treat my own- with the utmost respect and dedication. Each image is someone’s memory or their history, and each new client is like building a new friendship. You need to have trust and respect- both of which are earned.
Family/friends and our history are so extremely precious to me, so when I get a new client- I treat them as a new friend and their memories the same way. Never would I overcharge for any work. I don’t like even having to charge for something I enjoy doing so much, but unfortunately I have bills to pay just like everyone else. At least with my fee, it is minimal to say the least! I’ve done my research and would you believe places charge (per photo) $70-$200 hr. and many don’t even do nearly as good of a job as I do! Why’s that you’re asking??? That’s because they don’t care. It’s just a job. I guess that’s what sets me apart.
Above working on the photos- there’s only one other thing I love even more than fixing them. I thrive on the reactions I get from my clients. After picking their jaw up off the floor- there are times when they cry tears of joy, or give me huge hugs of appreciation. They are astonished that I can bring an old faded image clearer to see, or rid most - all scratches away. They tell little stories as to who the person is or the memories behind them, and I absolutely love family history. In the end, when I give the client the finished product they all agree theirs no price (at least not mine) to restoring their memories! (And my way allows that memory to live on forever!)
*If you would like to show support to blogs and development, please consider a donation. Part of the proceeds go towards fundraising Kreative Touch is currently assisting.*
Well, 2011 was my first year providing fundraising calendars. It was very interesting to work with a couple businesses as well as groups to learn from the different experiences. I found it very fascinating to monitor the sales between businesses that are in sales and compare the progress to the groups that did it strictly to for the purpose to raise funds. I was extremely impressed that the 2 businesses were outsold by the 2 groups.
I found that the 2 groups utilised my advice whereas the 2 businesses didn’t.
One business just didn’t bother with anything other than the 2 signs provided, while the other business used 2 of the 3 recommendations. Unfortunately, they didn’t do the one thing that I would classify as thee most important and would fall under what I call, Sales 101. I plan on creating a video and posting it on my YouTube Channel, kreativetouch22, in the next couple weeks so I can provide it to this year’s fundraisers.
I’m quite excited for the 2012 to seeing what Kreative Touch will get involved in this time around. I have a better understanding, and preparation to strategize in order to reach a broader scope. This time around there will be proper preparation time to enhance the experience for all businesses and groups in order to provide them with a great structured opportunity to raise money in a more meaningful way from their customized calendar. Not to mention it is a lot healthier than a chocolate bar.
At least now I have until May/June before I start contacting new businesses that are already showing an interest and as 2012 starts I will be ensure the prep work is all set to go!
Here’s to a Happy and Successful New Year everyone!
*If you would like to show support to blogs and development, please consider a donation. Part of the proceeds go towards fundraising Kreative Touch is currently assisting.*
I owe my whole networking experience to my very loving and supportive parents- especially my dad for making me do it (literally he took me to them to make sure I went, in the beginning).
My dad has always looked out for our family, encouraged us, and worked hard to provide for us. I have truly been blessed with my whole family and how we are there for each other. Between both my mom and dad they laid a great foundation for my brother and I, allowing us to learn our life lessons while knowing they were there to back us up. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for my family (immediate and extended).
A few years ago I had the notion in my head to set myself a BIG goal; the goal of buying my own house, by myself. Through my First Time Home Buyer’s experience, both my parents were there for me.
In the beginning Mom and I would go look at my $1000,000 ‘pre-approved' price homes. That price would get me worn or should be ‘condemned’ houses, but I would look into the potential, and if I liked it, then my dad would come.
As the economy dropped, and when I went through a different bank, my price went up to $120 and I could finally get a home worth a lot more - for less. My dad always did a very thorough job, after all, his little girl was taking a huge step and he didn’t want me to get in over my head. I told him over and over, house after house that he needed to become a home inspector (as he was seeking a career change). He would just smile and shrug the idea off.
I did eventually get a wonderful home, and I knew exactly what I was getting into thanks to my dad.
Within a year, my dad decided he was officially ready to make a career change, and he decided he would become.... a Home Inspector. Hmmm what a great idea. He made that change, took the programs, received all the certifications, and became an awesome Home Inspector.
He has become the sole proprietor of Final Step Home Inspections. He puts the same dedication into his business and clients as he does with his family. His fees are very competitive so that you can afford to have a professional come and look out for you. He puts the needs of his clients first, encouraging them to come to the inspection so they can learn about their potential home, and ask any questions they have.
I proudly display his business on my website- not because he’s my dad, but because Final Step Home Inspections truly is A Step Above!
My views on promoting businesses come from him, "If they don’t meet your expectations- despite who they are- then don’t promote them," but don’t take it from me, check out his website and read the testimonials from his clients!
Better Yet, Check out Inspectors Corner where he gives home owners tips.
Well, I have been sooo under the weather recently, so I haven't writen any posts. I have had pneumonia and until a month into it- the Dr and I didn't even know it.
Despite my illness, I still was able to keep up the work side of things, but unfortunately lacked the focus to write updates. I just want to let my many readers know that I'm doing better and I have lots to update on this week.
Between restoration jobs, a showcase where I was able to be a sponsor and a vendor- and all the interesting stressful prep, plus I won free advertising with Mompreneurs til Christmas- there is just much to write. So as of this week I will get some of these up and ready for you all to read!
*If you would like to show support to blogs and development, please consider a donation. Part of the proceeds go towards current fundraising Kreative Touch is currently assisting.*
Well, as 2011 has ended and 2012 begins, we all tend to reflect on all that we‘ve accomplished or not, people that are new in our lives & those who have passed through - or on. It is not easy to understand why things happen in this life, and it’s not easy to be patient waiting for things to happen. All you can do is ensure you have a few good people in your life to help you when you do feel down.
I try very hard to stay positive, and for the most part I do. I knew pursuing my passion as a living was going to take time and effort. I’m fortunate to have a wonderful hubby that supports my path, and he’s a great listener when I need to vent.
When I look back on 2011, I have many things to be thankful for. It was the year I took a leap of faith and decided to pursue my passion. I attended networking meetings and met many great individuals who are in the same boat as I was. I widened my scope of talent and continued to inform others of the awesome ways Kreative Touch could help them. I took some risks, and learned some valuable lessons.
On a personal note, I had one thing that occurred that shook me to the core. I experienced a huge loss. I lost the person who was an extremely influential person in my life. This person was the pillar of our large family who taught the importance of family, beliefs, and respect for others. This wonderful, excepting, strong willed, loving person was my grandmother.
She was a no nonsense, God loving, church going, lively woman who was the director of a Christian camp, very active in all the programs at church, and was ‘Grandma Eva’ to thousands. She touched the hearts of every single person she came into contact with, and wouldn't judge others. She was such an amazing woman, and will truly be missed, but never forgotten! Her love, values and legacy lives on in each of us.
She was the ‘North’ to my compass, but now is my ‘North Star.’ I love her, miss her, and will continue her teachings within my own family as we grow.
I created a video to pay tribute my amazing Grandma. I hope you enjoy it, but please forgive the small music error at the end... YouTube made me substitute the original music with theirs....
I am thankful for all my experiences during 2011. I have learned so much, and am grateful for everyone and everything I have encountered along the way. Here’s to 2012!
I've decided to add an area for businesses that I recommend on my website. I
