Lieber Brewster

January: New Year’s Resolutions

2012-01-28T09:46:00.000-05:00

“Cheers to a New Year and another chance for us to get it right.”
– Oprah Winfrey

Confessions of a Clutterholic - Lois Morton
A hilarious song about clutter we can all relate to. (You may need to lower the volume on your computer speakers).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5kbjYkFR58

Have you resolved to finally get organized in 2012?

When it comes to New Year’s Resolutions we all get stuck, rebel, and often throw in the towel. While the top three resolutions are about eating healthy, exercise and not smoking, getting organized is a close fourth.

Small steps

• Get in touch with the “why,” and the “how” will work itself out. Why do you want to be organized? The stronger your reasons, the more motivation you’ll have. Is it so you can walk easily throughout your home? Is it about being more productive so you can increase your income? Or so you can finally quit losing things in your own home? Or stop paying late fees on bills, etc. Being disorganized is stressful.

• Make a commitment. Organization is a process, not an event. It requires daily maintenance. You don’t brush your teeth once and say “there, now they are clean.”

• Small steps lead to big results. You’ve heard me say it. It’s the Japanese principle of Kaizen, a way of life in which every aspect of our life deserves to be continuously improved through gradual changes. Small and gentle improvements are the way to go.

• Keep your eye on the prize. If you want a Zen room, work on it bit by bit. Every improvement, however small, sparks a pleasurable response in your brain-ways, and reinforces your new decluttering habit.

Creative process

• Develop routines to keep you organized without thinking. Morning routine: stretch, make the bed, tidy the house, make breakfast, wash the dishes, etc. Your routine will start your day off right. Some prefer to tidy the house before bed. Find what works for you.

• New habits take time to set in. It’s never a straight path. It’s a journey with twists and turns along the way. Some backsliding is inevitable. The important thing is if you fall off the horse, get right back on.

• Believe in change as a creative process. Reset your brain toward embracing change rather than resisting it and, as the Chinese fortune cookie promises, you’ll experience many rewards.

To get it done, just start ...

If you are overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin, work with a professional. It’s hard going it alone and much more fun with a guide. To finally make your way though the clutter, call on me. Let’s make all your resolutions happen.

In Plain English for the Technophobe

2011-11-04T20:55:00.001-04:00

I love the "In Plain English" series on YouTube. They explain technology platforms so elegantly in animation cartoons. Brilliant, captivating and educational. Perfect for you and grandma too! Check this link for several pages in Google.

http://tinyurl.com/5tevyuh

Success According to Steve Jobs

2011-10-28T19:09:00.001-04:00

I admired Steve Jobs and I'm deeply saddened by his untimely death. Besides being the Thomas Edison of our time (I read that somewhere and it really stuck in my mind), the simple shining wisdom came through when he spoke. He was a marketing genius. He knew what was important. He didn't major in minor things. Here's an interesting article on his "Seven Rules of Success." They bear repeating.

1. Do what you love.
2. Put a dent in the universe.
3. Make connections.
4. Say no to a thousand things.
5. Create insanely different experiences.
6. Master the message.
7. Sell dreams, not products.

To read more:

http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/220515

Less stuff = more happiness

2011-10-06T19:31:00.000-04:00

Check out this video talk by Graham Hill. In under 6 minutes, Hill eloquently shares his extraordinary philosophy of life which we all need to take to heart. More people are opting to live a simpler life. Find out why. Watch it now!

http://tinyurl.com/65897nd

Time Management for Creative Entrepreneurs

2011-09-08T21:09:00.002-04:00

Once again I’m excited to be teaching a seminar course in Time Management at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) on four Saturday afternoons.

By the way, you needn’t be in fashion. We’ve had students who’d like to start a business as well as artists, jewelry makers, technology entrepreneurs, etc. Feel free to forward this to anyone you know who may be interested.

The class is geared to creative entrepreneurs who’d like to improve how they manage their time to boost their productivity. Besides being filled with of readings, videos, information and exercises, personal attention is given to each attendee.

It starts this Saturday but there is still time to register. FIT is easy to get to at 25th Street and 7th Avenue.

CEO 034 Time Management
1.2 CEU
In this highly interactive course, you will evaluate your current time management skills and get busy creating a more time-effective approach to professional and personal goal achievement. Explore your commitment to accomplishing each of your goals and prioritize accordingly.

Sep 10, 17, 24, Oct 1 2 PM-5 PM $145.

To register

The course number is CEO 034. Here is the link. Scroll down to find it:

http://www.fitnyc.edu/3064.asp

February: Stay-at-Home Projects

2011-02-19T13:59:00.000-05:00

“...This year, deep cleaning carries a deeper meaning for many consumers. The troubled economy has prompted a need for empowerment, and they’re finding that the acts of cleaning, organizing and decluttering the home can provide that much needed sense of control. In a survey of our IconoCommunities SM panel, 25% of respondents acknowledge that they’ve been more active and interested in cleaning their homes since the start of the recession.” – blog.iconoculture.com

It’s almost Spring... Well not quite! It’s still frigid but the sun’s out. Not time for Spring cleaning, however the Winter is a great time to declutter because we spend more time at home. Spring Cleaning will be a whole lot easier too. Here are a few ideas:

Bookshelf clutter

• Load music onto the IPod and sell the CDs. Clear your shelves and make some cash too. Or, place the CDs into a CD binder and recycle the cases.

• Books: Keep the best, clear out the rest. Discard novels that aren’t keepers and outgrown interests. Donate them or sell online, which requires delivery to the post office one by one, as they sell.

• Records fetch money from dealers too. If you aren’t listening to them, they’re collecting dust. Do you even own a working turntable? Check online for prices on collectable items like The Beatles, in pristine condition. Watch DVDs and let them go.

Desk disarray

• Recycle plastic trays from berries and tomatoes or use an old cutlery divider tray to divide the desk drawer. Small supplies will be easy to find.

• Use any additional drawers to keep printer paper, pads and envelopes neat and clean. Stackable translucent drawers are an inexpensive, functional solution that provides a minimalist look.

• Write all your web addresses in an address book or a web address book. Store it in a secure place near the computer.

• Empty your wallet weekly and store receipts in an accordion file or a handsome box. If you need to return an item or check a statement, there they are – simple!

• Gather all pens in a pretty metal cup, ceramic mug or a jar on your desk. Recycle a tin can for an industrial chic look once the label is removed. Use several and store stray scissors, markers and pencils also.

Messy medicine cabinet

• Check for expired medications. Toss the pills into the yuckiest garbage. Use a black marker to obscure personal information on the prescription bottle before discarding.

• Toss old makeup and hard nail polish. Mascara, creams and cosmetics go bad quickly. Juice glasses fit into the cabinet to store makeup brushes, emery boards, eye pencils, tweezers, and other small items.

• Find a pretty cup for toothbrush and toothpaste. Nicer than laying it on the sink and more sanitary. Add a pretty dish for the soap bar.

Small projects, easily done, saving money and time. Sort like-with-like and a create a home for everything. I’m here if you need help, as always.

Hear Anna Speak on Time Management

2011-02-19T13:58:00.000-05:00

Hear Anna Speak on Time Management

NAPO-NY Organize with Style Conference

Saturday, March 5, 2011, 10am - 1 pm
The NY Helmsley Hotel

By Feb 15 $75. After Feb 15 $90.

For more Information:

YouTube
http://tinyurl.com/5vhyj2d

NAPO-NY
http://tinyurl.com/4hmcswt

January is Get Organized Month, Part 3

2011-01-24T11:18:00.000-05:00

This week, we’ll conclude with ideas for organizing the bedroom and closets.

BEDROOM

• Create a serene sanctuary for sleep and relaxation.

• Clear out shoes you trip over, laundry, extra clothing, toys, pet products, papers, and cosmetics.

• For each bed, it’s ideal to have three sets of sheets: one on bed, one in laundry, and one on the shelf. To make things easier, use a different color for each bed or family member. Cottons in whites, lights or neutrals are most soothing.

LINEN CLOSET

• Store linens and towels in a utility closet with shelves, or dedicate one shelf in a closet near the bathroom or bedroom.

• Create a shelf for extra toiletries, gift wrap and household items such as light bulbs and batteries. Stacking bins, baskets, turntables and drawers with labels work well for these products.

• Store the vacuum and toolbox on the closet floor.

• For maximum storage, the ironing board and iron can be hung on the door.

CLOTHING CLOSETS

• Review clothing and donate items you haven’t worn In the past two years. Make space for the new.

• Sort everyday clothing so like items are together and safely store special occasion or out-of-season clothing.

• Joan Crawford was right. No wire hangers! Also toss plastic from dry cleaners. It’s not good for the clothes or you.

• Set up convenient shoe storage on racks or shelves.

• Place a hamper for laundry where convenient and box or basket for donations to be emptied when full.

BATHROOM

• Create a clean, serene, spa-like room so you can prepare for the day and recharge in the evening.

• Clear excess toiletries and clutter strewn about. Decant or contain products to create a spa-like atmosphere without advertising.

• Use different color towels for each family member.

Ah, relax! Enjoy better health, productivity and serenity that comes with a beautiful home and workspace. When you need help getting to that Zen zone, please call on me. Organized space works!

.........................................................................................

January is Get Organized Month, Part 2

2011-01-24T11:15:00.000-05:00

By proclamation from New York’s Mayor and throughout the nation, January has been named “Get Organized Month.” So let’s continue our ideas for organizing the home. This week, we’ll cover the kitchen and living room. I hope you are enjoying these tips.

KITCHEN & PANTRY

• Clear out unhealthy foods in cupboard, refrigerator and freezer. Check expiration dates and ingredients.

• Keep a running grocery list and be sure to take it to the store.

• If you have the space, stock up on staples and paper goods to save time.

• Arrange similar cans and other basics together to avoid purchasing items you already have. Always stock newer items in back so you use the oldest first.

• Containerize dry goods in canisters to prevent mess and bugs. If purchasing a set, square stacking containers save space.

• Toss chipped dishes, plastic without tops or bottoms and scratched Teflon pans. Place like items together in cabinets nearest to dishwasher or sink. A pot rack saves space. Donate mismatched items which are still usable.

• Place special occasion dishes and serving pieces on top shelf of cabinets since you don’t need access often.

• Everything in the kitchen must be functional. Evaluate large appliances that hog counter space and gadgets that clog the drawers. Eliminate rarely used items: apple and pineapple corers, egg slicers, etc. A good set of sharp knives safely stored work best.

LIVING ROOM

This is where we read, relax, socialize, watch television and movies, listen to music. Clutter prevents you from being comfortable whether alone or when entertaining.

• Create a comfortable conversation area. Each seat should have a table at arms reach to rest a drink.

• Hide tech equipment and media or simply organize it to your preference and style.

• Sort and purge bookshelves. Edit collections annually. Keep the best and lose the rest.

• Eliminate unnecessary bric-a-brac which tend to collect dust.

• Use a magazine basket to contain magazines currently being read.

• Edit photographs, crafts and memorabilia, storing them in archival boxes or scrapbooks.

Next week, we’ll talk about ideas for organizing the bedroom and closets. If you need help in any of these areas, please call on me. Organized space works!

January is Get Organized Month

2011-01-24T11:14:00.001-05:00

I hope you enjoy these New Year tips ...

January is the perfect time to put your New Year’s resolutions into action. I’m sending a brief guide over the next three weeks to help you get started.

Whether you have a studio apartment or a house, the goal is to eliminate clutter and maximize space. A place for everything and everything in it’s place. It’s tempting to purchase organizing items but until you have sorted, purged and measured, you won’t know precisely what’s needed – and these can become part of the clutter. Daily maintenance for 15 minutes or a half hour will prevent having to spend days or weeks to catch up.

Here are a few ideas to help you create a fresh start for the new year with healthy, calming spaces. Of course, not all ideas apply to everyone.

ENTRYWAY

• In the entry area, place a table or chest with a basket on top to store mail until you process it.

• This “landing strip” should hold a bowl or tray to drop keys in as you enter.

• Use this area to place items you plan to take with you when leaving.

• A decorative container can hold umbrellas.

HOME OFFICE / OFFICE

• Your desk is a work zone. Place items on it which are in regular use, not your entire stash of supplies or other household items.

• Set up and maintain equipment so it functions properly.

• An armoire or shelving system with boxes is a neat way to keep paper, materials and supplies contained.

• A file system is essential for home and business. It should enable you to locate an important document in less than two minutes. Weekly filing eliminates stress.

• Gain control of your financial life. Eliminate late fees by logging bill payment reminders onto your calendar. Your file system helps you store documents and prepare taxes in a timely manner.

• Organize your computer with a set of folders to keep digital files and email easy to file and retrieve.

• Your day planner is an essential time management tool. Whether you prefer digital or paper, use one calendar to keep your daily focus on what matters.

• Place a shredder near the desk and use it to shred financial solicitations and sensitive documents with account numbers.

Next week, we’ll look at organizing the kitchen and living room. If you need help in any of these areas, please call on me. Organized space works!

Stuff

2010-09-24T11:59:00.000-04:00

It's a new day and much needed. "Give Your Stuff Away day" has been announced for September 25th. Anyone have a truck to loan me? I've got stuff – and I bet you do too.

See the Huffington Post article and website:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/09/24/give-your-stuff-away-day-_n_736983.html

http://giveyourstuffaway.com/

Great idea – but not sure how it works. If I brought all my excess stuff to the curb, my building managers would have me arrested.

This is an issue to ponder. Let's take action. I declare every day a "get rid of your excess stuff day."

To motivate you here's a great essay on "Stuff" written by Paul Graham. Highly recommended for paper packrats, clutterbugs, collectors, and all of us shopaholics who suffer from this disease of abundance.

http://www.paulgraham.com/stuff.html

Seriously, hoarders – if you need supportive, hands on help with your clutter in the NYC area, email me quick.

Happy clutterbusting!

Eliminate Busyaholism

2010-04-09T12:07:00.000-04:00

Do you spend your days putting out fires, searching for missing reports, and micromanaging minor tasks? At times we must respond to a fire in our midst: the computer has crashed, or a key employee is out—however, being reactive all the time eats away at our time and creates additional stress. It also doesn’t allow business owners to work on important, but maybe not urgent, tasks that will help grow the business....

Check out the rest of this article at NY Enterprise report

http://www.nyreport.com/articles/74031/eliminate_busyaholism?page=0,0

Why Tweet?

2009-08-13T16:39:00.007-04:00

In business circles I often hear complaints about Social Media. "It takes too much energy. It's a waste of time." They often ask, "Have you gotten any jobs through Twitter or LinkedIn?"

Can I point to specific projects my clients have received as a result of Social Networking? Yes, I can.

But like any other form of marketing, it's often impossible to say which spark ignites the fire. "You've heard the expression: "Half my advertising works, I just don't know which half."

The more marketing activity you participate in, the more awareness you create. The more raving fans you inspire, the more product you sell, and the more consulting assignments you receive. It's about being visible. It's that simple.

If a tweet inspires someone to follow a link to an article you've authored or to check out your website, that's a competitive advantage.

They're now on your turf. They've become a willing participant and you're no longer talking into a void. You've engaged them in a dialogue, motivated them to take action. That's a buying signal.

Now that they have bought you, how can you motivate them to take the next step?

And if you are to meet a prospect and take the time to review their personal LinkedIn profile – you've taken an interest in them as a person. Doesn't that give you an advantage in selling to them?

If you pose a question which engenders discussion, you receive valuable information and perhaps leads directly from your customers. Before Social Media you had no way to obtain this insight without expensive market research campaigns.

Like any other form of networking, business follows when you follow through. Getting people to know, like and trust you. Educating them in your area of expertise.

Be creative, individual and strategic in using Social Media. Create a Social Media plan. The money will follow.

Links Made Easy

2009-06-26T15:48:00.006-04:00

Have you ever received an email with a l-o-n-g link to an article or webinar? You click on the link and all you get is “failed to open page.” So you cut and paste the l-o-n-g link into your browser.

Still can’t get there. Frustration sets in.

Now think what happens when you are sending this long link and your target audience is frustrated and angry. Not your intended result, you say.

There’s a website that solves this problem instantly, elegantly, and seamlessly. Best of all, it’s free.

Tinyurl.com takes a long url and makes it tiny, and gets you to exactly the right page. Don’t know exactly how they redirect you but I love it. Kudos to that! Try it and you’ll be hooked.

Use it for tweets, emails, your blog. How did I ever live without this tool?

Anna Speaks on Social Networking to Grow Your Business June 16th

2009-06-01T13:29:00.010-04:00

Social media has been described as the Holy Grail or a wasteful time suck. Wasn't that how the web was described a few short years ago? It is neither.

Social media is now playing a huge part in business and it's influence is growing daily. Twitter, LinkedIn, blogging and email marketing can connect you to your markets in a more relevant way. Come and find out the truth about social media and how to use it to great advantage.

Join me at The C-Suite Forum, a Peer Group of C-Level Executives, Entrepreneurs and Self Employed Professionals. Networking follows the presentation. Guests are welcome. Check the web site to call in advance.

The C-Suite Forum

www.csuiteforum.com

June 16th 7:45 am -10 am

The Association of the City Bar

42 West 44th St (5th/6th Avenue)

The Cromwell Room

Netiquette

2009-05-07T12:12:00.010-04:00

Here's an update of an article (Part 1) which I published in my ezine, MarketSavvy in 2005. It's still relevant today.

"You've Got Mail" a 1988 comedy starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan parodied email as a fun ride to romance. Fast forward to 2009. Even if we don't carry a "crackberry," we are addicted to email before, during and after the workday. Not so much fun.

Just two minutes each for 100 emails steals over three hours of your day. It's compelling, adrenaline rushing – yet it can be a productivity drain, rather than a gain.

Email is fast but that doesn't give us a license to send a careless message over the wire. Would you send a coffee-stained message through the mail? Email is permanent so edit ruthlessly; never write anything you wouldn't want made public.

Email is an important communication tool but many business owners are still unaware of basic courtesy in email.

Your brand persona is reflected in your email messages so here are some cardinal rules:

• Never send an email with a blank subject line. Use a concise description.

• Avoid using terminology like ... please respond, help, important. These don't describe the subject and can appear as spam.

• Consider the subject a descriptive headline which allows the recipient to file and retrieve it later.

• Keep the context. Cryptic answers are meaningless without prior threads. Explain references to people and items which may not be clear. Include prior messages (at the bottom of your communication).

• Proofread and spell check. Review before you click.

• Never type in all caps. This is screaming. It is also more difficult to read.

• A mix of fancy fonts looks amateurish. Use font and color sparingly, judiciously and appropriately. There are almost no instances when script is appropriate in email.

• When necessary to send a group mailing from your own email address, protect the privacy of people who don't know each other by using the "don't show addresses" button on groups or BCC (blind carbon copy).

• Use "reply to all" and "cc" only when it is useful to everyone.

• Never send chain letters, jokes or warnings. Most warnings are bogus and others may not share your sense of humor. In fact, they may be offended. FYI, you can verify warnings at Snopes.com.

CoolTeaWork

2009-04-01T08:07:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I'm speaking at the first ever CoolTeaWork, an exciting event to introduce entrepreneurs to global markets, such as Shanghai, New Delhi, Hong Kong, Greece, etc.

CoolTeaWork for Today's International Business Leaders

The Evening's Topic of Discussion

"How Can Today's Entrepreneurs Overcome the Challenges of the

Current World Economic Crisis?"

* You are multicultural and/or have strong business relationships in the global market

• You beleive that the present world economic crisis presents challenges but also opportunities

• You know that the era of doing business will be led by those who collaborate with like-minded people for the good of all

Thursday, April 2nd, 2009

5:30-8 pm

By Invitation Only (Use my name when you RSVP)

Admission: $25

Cash Bar

CoolTeaWork New York

W Hotel - Audrey lounge

120 East 39th Street (park/Lex)

More info

http://www.coolteawork.fr/index.php?lang=en

Are You A Warrior or A Worrier?

2009-03-19T11:39:00.016-04:00

I saw an ad recently entitled "Are You A Warrior or a Worrier?" Got me thinking.

Entrepreneurs are by definition risk-takers. I remember early in my career, working as a magazine Art Director and assigning freelancers thinking: "Wow! I could never do that. They are so hungry." Yet, a few years later that's exactly where I was, fire in my belly, excited at the new adventures in my career.

The recent economic roller coaster has surely thinned the ranks. Those of us still standing are in a better position to succeed because we're the best! But the question now is ...

Am I a warrior or a worrier?

Worriers are immobilized.

They batten the hatches and huddle in.

They stop spending and seeking.

They dwell on the past.

Warriors are the opposite

They go where they haven't been before and find new resilience within.

They don't spend – they invest in their business.

They value intangible assets like branding and marketing, not just furniture and computers.

They are not afraid to sell themselves and don't take rejection personally.

They seek new opportunities ... which may be very different from the old ones.

They don't watch news broadcasts fostering fear.

They are eternal optimists and they make a contribution.

They know what they don't know. They find coaches and mentors for support.

They understand that missteps are part of the growth process and move on.

They do whatever it takes!

We are the recovery

The founder of IBM said: "The formula for success is quite simple: double your rate of failure."

It's not up to TARP, TALF, banks, Wall Street or government. It's up to each of us who run a small business – to lead, operate with integrity and fight the fear.

It's going to be different and it's going to be better.

Are you part of the solution?

What the Bleep?

2009-03-16T21:25:00.007-04:00

Still trying to figure out this one ...

Where's the logic? Maybe they know something I don't know!

I've been a marketer for a long time but I know things are strange when I get an offer like this one. Oh, I get the usual financial offers: 0% for a year, 20% off and free this and that. But when I get a free airline companion ticket for trying Travel + Leisure, the world's leading travel magazine – I know the entire world is upside down and under water – never mind mortgages.

If it's the world's leading magazine why do they have to give me a free airline ticket (worth up to $744.) to try two free issues on a $19.99 subscription? Where's the logic?

As an educated consumer, I'm reading the fine print, reading between the lines and holding the paper up to the light. All I can think of is what's the catch? If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Now this is a reputable company the gold standard, not some sleazy spammer. Well, financial companies used to be the gold standard – now they are just below coal.

Still, where's the profit? I've heard of lifetime customer value but it's going to take a lot of lifetimes to get the value. And the airlines are running fewer planes and people get bumped just so the airlines can run economically.

I'm not one to pass up a good deal so will someone, please explain this one to me?

What a Time!

2009-01-28T19:09:00.010-05:00

Now is the time to:

• Pull out your file called "GREAT IDEAS." What else are you doing?

• Learn about ––––, for me it's how my fancy digital camera works. (Note to self: read the manual.)

• Organize your office. So you can work efficiently when the busy blitz hits.

• Add a new skill to your arsenal to keep that competitive edge sharp. Not to mention your brain. No, not Sudoku.

• Do take up dance or yoga to keep the positive vibes flowing.

• Get all those marketing projects going ... while repeating softly to yourself: "This too shall pass."

• Look at the goals you wrote earlier this month. Tape them to the wall and take action.

• Move away from the computer. Then do 12 jumping jacks and pick up the phone to call someone. You still have a phone, right?

I plan to print this list and tape it to my wall. What are you are doing to weather the storm?

Big vs. Small: Fighting the Fear Factor

2009-01-26T11:21:00.016-05:00

We all know it's a tough environment.

Free floating uncertainty creates fear which is contagious and leads to full blown paralysis.

Additionally, some of my colleagues (especially in the real estate industry) say they've seen their prospects gravitating toward big brand name companies. Smaller companies may find this puzzling since corporations are cited in news stories daily as the cause of our economic turmoil.

This is an issue a small business can use to its advantage.

How do we break this cycle?

• Turn off the news.

• Take action. Action gives you control over your destiny.

• Provide the confidence factor. You're good so feel good. People buy from those they know, like and trust.

• Show what you know. Demonstrate your ability. Where can you point to results?

• Give truly personal, excellent service. People care that you care.

• Show them the WIIFM. What's in it for me?

• Add value. Give something extra whenever you can.

• Make your offer irresistible. If it's well priced and promises to give me what I need, I'm more likely to buy.

• Sell what your clients want not what you believe they need. Read this again.

• Finally, most of us give up too soon. As my mentor says, the gold is in the follow up.

Let Them Eat Cake

2008-12-10T14:02:00.010-05:00

I often watch CNBC in hopes of a glimmer of stock market insight. Shows with names like "Squawk on the Street". Today on "Power Lunch" I got insight on ... cupcakes.

Yes, cupcakes.

It seems as the economy erodes, a home baking boom is having growth spurts. People are forgetting their troubles with sweet treats that don't impact their pocketbook.

Speaking of mergers, several trends converge here: not just pinching pennies but the entertaining and stay-at-home trends and the kids learning to cook trend. Our health concerns: if we make it ourselves, we know where it came from. And don't forget the waistline-watching trend: cupcakes are portion-controlled little luxuries.

The updated kitchen trend allows the at-home-chef (another trend) to watch the celebrity chefs reality show trend. I thought chef meant professional cook?

Apparently there's a growth spurt of high quality, bake-at-home mixes. Is watching "Leave It To Beaver" next as we don our aprons?

Seriously, being a trend watcher is fun and profitable. I wonder if Warren Buffett is buying shares of Duncan Hines® next? We're bombarded by trends – online, on television, in our own lives. Which trend can you leverage now in your business?

Is Branding Dead?

2008-12-10T12:52:00.011-05:00

My favorite quote from Steven Howard's "Corporate Image Management: A Marketing Discipline for the 21st Century."

You Are A Brand

I don't know who you are.

I don't know your company.

I don't know what your company stands for.

I don't know your company's customers.

I don't know your company's record.

I don't know your company's reputation.

Now what is it you want to sell me?

I think this is the best argument for building your brand!

Please write a comment and follow me on Twitter!

Starbucks Promise

2008-10-21T12:13:00.007-04:00

Since Starbucks opened I have liked the company: their environments, promotion design, accessibility, coffee and fair practices. They are all about a positive experience and a respite in your hectic day.

Since my last few visits, I'm putting them on notice. Despite poetic signage about daybreak breakfasts, it was not a positive experience.

The restroom mirror had a splash of gunk plastered on it and looked as though it had been there for a while. Don't their employees ever visit the restroom? I know it gets heavy use but cleanliness in a coffee shop is not a frill – it's basic.

Branding is a promise, not just about advertising but every small detail of customer service.

I still like the staff service and love that everywhere I go they are never more than a few blocks away. Their brochures are cool and their drinks are hot. Is that enough?

What's happened to their management? Am I the only one noticing?

The Economy Sucks. My Marketing Sings

2008-10-17T10:13:00.010-04:00

I usually don't comment on the economy. I'm not an expert. And when it comes to stocks, I can't help but hear my dad whispering in my ear ... "hold it." That may not be advice that applies on the street today however I'm still holding on. If Warren Buffet's buying, I'm not selling. I hope it pans out.

But onto more immediate matters and those I have expertise in: marketing and branding.

I'm seeing that companies (both small businesses and our clients) have a huge choice to make. Hunker down and worry – or move forward boldly. Hide – or forge into marketing and brand building as never before. I favor the latter.

After 9/11, my design firm was hit hard. I restructured and never looked back. It was a good decision. My brand was somewhat known and it held up even when I moved from design to the broader spectrum of marketing, where I felt I could have greater impact.

The classic example of Coca Cola always comes up (not that I'm a soda drinker) but if CC were to lose all its production facilities, it could rebuild. If it lost all brand recognition, it would not survive.

It's ironic that many small companies bet the ranch on tangibles (office furniture, computers) without investing in their brands. They say they can't afford it.

I'm all for infrastructure. The computers must work efficiently and the office must look good. That's basic. It's actually all part of your brand . . . employee satisfaction, efficiency and the customer experience. Your brand is infrastructure too – how the world views you, how they experience you.

Differentiate or Die

The truth is you can't afford not to invest in marketing. It's a lesson I learned in the many years of working with Fortune 500s. They spend big time on marketing as we know. You can't cross the street without being bombarded by marketing messages. And they get a huge return on investment.

I'm expanding my marketing right now and I know several of my clients will also. As a result, I'm confident we'll weather the storms. We'll be there when the ranks thin out. And when the upturn comes, we'll be in a great position to mine for gold.

I hope you plan to join me. Be visible. It's a great time for marketing!

Tell us how you plan to survive the economic winds of change.

NY Enterprise Report

2008-09-25T14:36:00.005-04:00

Some of you may not know Rob Levin's excellent publication "The New York Enterprise Report." It is free to qualified small business owners and provides information, columns, articles and case studies in print and online formats.

I have been a contributor. To see my articles online go to:

www.nyreport.com

Use the search for ReportLinks

679

368

The first article speaks to how your employees can build your brand and the second to how your employees pose risks and can take your business down.

Polar opposites: it wasn't exactly planned that way but now that I see them together ....

Welcoming your comments.

Calling All Association Executives

2008-09-24T19:48:00.009-04:00

I will be speaking on Monday, September 29th at 12 noon at the New York Society of Association Executives (NYSAE). We will be discussing Web 2.0 and how nonprofit organizations can take advantage of the new online tools including social networking.

For a description and to register, type this link in your browser:

www. nysaenet.org

Go to events and then to monthly luncheons.

Hope to see you there!

Anna

Marketing During Hard Times

2008-09-15T12:09:00.015-04:00

Just returned from a week at "The World's Greatest Marketing Seminar" in Los Angeles. What a wow!

Incredible to see how top marketers are using technologies, new and old, to become wealthy. I'm personally excited by teleseminars, home shopping TV, membership sites, nonprofit and corporate partnerships, video, and combining SEO tools with your brand. I will be studying these techniques in depth with the masters so I can use in them my own business and channel them to my clients. This isn't MBA learning. It's today's frontier in business.

One finding that reinforces my mission is that entrepreneurs spend 25% of energy on products/services, 65% on operations and 10% on marketing. Not helpful when the going is tough. For a winning ticket, spend 25% on products/services, 10% on operations and 65% on marketing.

The bottom line: show up for your business. Stay fresh. Find new systems to automate marketing and make marketing a daily habit.

Practical Strategies for Managing Risk

2008-09-05T10:01:00.007-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I'm teaching a class at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in the Creative Enterprise Ownership Division, open to all.

You are invited to join me.

4 sessions: October 15, 22,29, November 5

6:20 pm - 9:10 pm. $135.

Practical Strategies for Managing Risk

Entrepreneurs face constant challenges ranging from competition, market trends, technology, finance and management to the political/economic landscape. To succeed, we need to adapt and grow, solve problems quickly, juggle multiple priorities, and satisfy customer demands. Explore ways to turn problems into opportunities through innovative approaches to launching and operating a business today. We examine the warning signs and learn fail-safe factors to help business thrive.

Visit FIT and search for CEO 029

Breville and I Mix It Up: What Can We Learn From A Blender?

2008-06-23T13:17:00.008-04:00

For those who read my last posting (see the entry below), I did get my blender set up immediately due to urgent need. The instructions were simple and readable. No, I'm not being paid by Breville to say all this, honest. I'm just impressed by this innovative Australian company. The blender works great and I've had the best smoothies ever. But I couldn't toss the box because I love the marketing message printed on its side, so here it is.

Breville

Counter thinking.

Breville was founded on a simple philosophy.

Make products that people will use.

And enjoy using. Every day. If possible.

Don't make art.

Don't make showpieces.

Make things better.

Listen to what people say when they like them.

And what they say when they don't.

This thinking led to the first juicer to juice whole fruit.

The first espresso machine that extracted more

crema from every bean.

The first blender that turned ice, into, well, snow.

And an impressive collection of international design awards.

Over 70 years.

More than 200 products.

90 patents.

And a nagging feeling that we can still do better.

We call it Counter Thinking.

Don't you just love it? Real dialogue. Real products. Good design.

Wow! Can't we all use some of this in our business?

Bed, Bath & Beyond – Service With A Smile

2008-06-23T12:55:00.004-04:00

My blender broke last week.

If you don't feel that's earth-shattering news, I completely understand. But let me explain. Some time ago my nutritionist, Dana Reed, recommended a protein shake. At first I resisted but now I'm completely addicted to the perfect shake every morning. So in my world a blender breakdown is a crisis.

It wasn't long ago that I purchased this blender but apparently the appliance wasn't up to my daily smoothie drill and suffered from burnout. Heartbroken, I went to dispose of it (yes, I grow attached to shiny, inanimate objects) when I remembered I had purchased it at Bed, Bath & Beyond.

I trotted down to BB&B, all set to complain about my appliance's short life span. I handed over my machine and the online printout showing the blender's price, noting I didn't have the receipt. No matter – with no questions asked, the customer service rep printed out a credit for $149.99 plus tax. Why would you shop anywhere else with phenomenal customer service like that? Yay! Why can't every store be like Bed, Bath & Beyond?

Triumphantly, I sped to the blender section. Now, what to buy? Common sense dictated not the same brand – although I was fond of its stainless steel look. Why hadn't I read the reviews?

I had a well-known brand in my cart when I noticed the Breville. Its simple, solid design seduced me. After all, I'm a designer at heart (before I became a marketer, I owned a graphic design firm). The Breville was impressive – not just the appliance – but the packaging too. Of course, it was the priciest one $199.99. Isn't that the price of a washing machine in the suburbs? I'm so high maintenance.

I commandeered a salesperson to explain the different machines' features. I was in love. Needless to say, the Breville and I went home together. I also bought a Breville immersion blender for all the soups I will make. Besides I had 20% off BB&B coupons. Shopping is fun! Now the part I hate most – set up.

PS: What can a small business owner learn from this story? Here's the golden nugget. I will patronize the business that makes my life easy. I will buy from the people who give me added value, not just coupons (they were a nice bonus) but more important, unconditional guarantees. BB&B reduced the risk of buying – and I bought twice as much.

They showed me that they value me as a customer. They are not just transactional – for the moment. They are supportive of the relationship. This is a long-term strategy.

They were also "nice". Wouldn't your rather do business with people who are "nice"? That's good customer service. And it's rare today so people who apply these rules stand apart. Ask yourself, how can I make my clients' transactions more comfortable? How can I reduce their risk so they are more likely to buy? Think about what's in it for them and then add more. Create an irresistible offer and watch how people respond.

Tame the Office Beast

2008-03-28T14:01:00.010-04:00

Lately many of my clients confide they are too overwhelmed by clutter to even think about marketing. Think of the business lost, if marketing won't fit into your daily work life.

I'm told executives lose an hour a day looking for lost items – that's a shocking 250 hours a year. Wouldn't those hours go a long way toward new business development? How would your business thrive?

Stop reading if you're perfectly organized ...

Otherwise, it makes sense to set up some basic office systems. Here are some ideas for starters.

Time Management

A computer calendar makes it simple to schedule recurring events (the gym, monthly networking meetings), as well as follow ups for important prospects.

Next, slot in the big rocks (time-eating meetings, work projects, personal business). What's great about the computer calendar is you can view the week's landscape. And you can slice in errands as you schedule travel to various parts of town.

Designating in-the-office and on-the-go days is helpful, as well as project work days and client days. Fill in smaller slots with phone calls and admin tasks. Schedule a half hour for lunch every day to actually take a break (how novel).

A computer calendar helps you log important due dates (estimated taxes) and holidays (so you actually take a day off like other people). One half day for planning each week goes a long way toward eliminating those awful days putting out fires. (What will you actually do when there's no drama?)

The Dreaded To Do List

You all have a Master List (a running list of all projects and tasks) and a prioritized daily To Do List, right? Try working on only one to three major projects each day, scheduling larger chunks of uninterrupted time (I did say uninterrupted time). Greater focus really pays off in knocking out those longer projects. It's more reality-based so you'll feel accomplished, not frustrated, as you check items off.

Clutter Busting

If you create a regular time slot to take care of papers, mail, email, and other routine tasks, they don't pile up so you can actually use your holidays and weekends for relaxation and fun (what a concept). I limit these sessions to one to two hours daily, although when things pile up, it may be worthwhile to schedule a catch-up day.

Those Nasty Financial Chores

I schedule a half-day per month for my bookkeeper who pays my business and personal bills, does tax preparation and reconciles bank statements. It's so worth it. It would take me a full day (she's more efficient than I) and tax preparation is a breeze as it's all done in Quickbooks. We're switching to online bill payment. I use the time she's in my office to do all those annoying administrative tasks and calls. All my bills arrive at the beginning of the month so we never pay late. Credit card companies will gladly move your due dates.

Tickle Me

I've set up an everyday file sorter (sometimes called a tickler file) with days of the month and months of the year (purchased at an office supply store). Great for event notices and time based tasks. I add a note on my calendar for safety.

Put A Little Color into Your Life

I create color-coded hot files for active projects. Particularly good for you right-brain creative types but left-brainers like these, too. Green folders for financial, blue for personal, red for marketing, and purple for NYU teaching. So much nicer than piles of papers everywhere, and folders are less likely to be lost. Oh, don't forget to label the folders with specific project names. I'm just saying ...

We coach and train on Time Management, Work Process and we've added hands-on Professional Organizing to our services. Now marketing fits in daily and it's a happier world, one business at a time.

What's an Unconference?

2008-02-28T13:21:00.007-05:00

A quick word to let you know about Podcamp NYC 2.0, the second annual unconference all about podcasting, taking place in Brooklyn on Friday, April 25th and April 26th. I will be speaking – so stay tuned for more details. But – what exactly is an unconference?

Podcamp is an unconference because the participants call the shots. Attendance is free and any attendee can decide to be a featured speaker. I will be speaking there and hope to see you. You can share your innovative ideas providing value to the audience and visibility to you. Or you can simply attend to listen and learn about podcasting. Be there.

Success Factors for a Retail Launch

2008-02-01T15:09:00.003-05:00

When consulting with an entrepreneur opening a retail shop, I began outlining critical success factors. Many of the strategies here also translate when operating non-retail companies too.

Store Design
• First impressions are extremely important. Is the look and feel upscale or down-home, modern or rustic? Is it inviting, neat and clean. This is especially critical when handling food. Is your shop clutter free, allowing easy passage through the aisles?

• Outdoor signage must be visible from a distance. Does in-store signage direct customers so they can easily find their way around? Are prices clearly visible? You don’t want sales staff constantly interrupted when they are problem solving for customers.

• Make sure the point-of-purchase displays help sell your products tastefully? Do they support the store environment or add to the clutter?

• Create a guest book or a box with preprinted cards so visitors can sign up to be notified of special promotions or events.

Management
• Synergy among partners is essential. It's important that partners divide the work where each takes on an independent role according to their expertise. An example of divisions might be product/vendor dealer, finance/business development director, retail floor/staff manager.

• Align work practices, retail processes, and inventory control through proven systems and software.

• Train your team so everyone is doing things the same way. A staff going in different directions is disruptive to your business and your customers.

• Private label and own-brand merchandise are becoming a greater part of market share. Look for new product opportunities.

Brand Experience
• Create a positive brand experience every time your customer walks in the door.

• Invent a memorable name and an eye-catching brand personality.

• Develop a consistent brand look so all materials (signage, stationery, business card, and promotion) tie together via color, logo, images, typography and style.

Buzz
• Opening party: Wait until all kinks are ironed out and you have proper lead-time to promote the event. Invite influentials, business leaders, media, friends and family. It’s not just who shows up that is important – but how they spread positive word of mouth to the community.

• Take pictures and videotape testimonials to show later in a store video loop.

• Hold periodic store events. Sponsor charity events. Post them on a news box on your home page.

• Get to know the local media. Send them new products and stories.

Marketing & Promotion
• Sourcing and pricing products are most critical. Monitor customer feedback; your customers will tell you what they want.
Collaborate with suppliers. Correct course as you go.

• Marketing is an ongoing process. Outreach never stops. It’s essential to success in the marketplace.

• Know your ideal client and your target markets. Focus on catering products and services to them.

• Research your competition so you can distinguish yourself. Developing a sustainable competitive advantage is the single most important marketing consideration.

• Get clear about your key messages. What are the most important things you want everyone to know about you?

• Leverage referral sources and influentials: cultivate people with authority and expertise in your industry and community, who can direct others to you.

• Use a mix of marketing media campaigns to reach your customers and develop visibility: flyers, direct mail postcards, catalogs, and special promotions to name a few.

• Create an interactive web site to encourage community. An online presence is most effective in tandem with a store (bricks and clicks).

• Become active in forums, blogs, write articles and white papers, and create a newsletter to encourage viral marketing.

• Create your own blog and sell sponsored links to vendors to cover costs of marketing expenses.

• Get close to your customers. Create a reminders program where customers inform you of important birthdays and anniversaries. Send them a postcard in advance so it’s easy for them to remember to buy from you.

Customer Service
• Sales staff are your brand ambassadors. Are they friendly and helpful or snooty and intimidating? Do they know how to cross sell and up sell gracefully, without pressure.

• Repeat business is your lifeline. It’s eight times more costly to get a new customer than to retain a current one. How are you encouraging customer retention?

Being strategic can make the difference between radical success and supreme failure. Opening and operating a retail store is not just a venture, it’s an adventure. Make it a fruitful one. Here’s to your success.

Buzzword Dissected: CRM

2007-11-08T11:08:00.001-05:00

You've heard the words: customer relationship management (CRM), mass customization, data mining, and more. I don't know about you but I don't want to manage my clients, and I know I never will. Relationships, yes. Conversation, yes. Engagement, yes. I can manage my database but not my customers. What I can do – is give them what they want.

We're all customers. We know what we want:
• Authenticity
• Respect
• Value
• Excellence
• Things that work
• Things that help

We want what we want – when we want it. And we are intelligent enough to choose.

We also know what we don't want:
• Voice mail Hell (or web site Hell for that matter)
• Products that don't work
• Services that don't deliver
• Things that hurt us
• Spam
• A vacuum when we need answers

Simple. Give me something that improves my life, my work, my world. Eliminate everything else. That's my customer relationship wish list. What's yours?

Welcome to Anna Lieber's Blog

2007-11-08T09:53:00.002-05:00

I'm opening this spot as a forum for discussion for our clients and community, and all marketers who want updates on marketing and branding.

1) classic marketing issues
2) emerging technologies
3) marketing and branding trends

For more information on how we work with our clients visit www.lieberbrewster.com

Stay tuned!