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Revitalizing Your Brand: Strategies for a Fresh Start

In today’s ever-evolving business landscape, staying relevant and resonating with your target audience is crucial for the success and longevity of your brand or company. As you get ready for the next quarter in the year, consider revitalizing Your Brand Strategies for a Fresh Start. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by refreshing your brand. In this article presented to you by Lucy, for Icy Coaching & Consulting, we will explore eight strategies that can breathe new life into your brand and help you connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Craft a Strong Brand Message Your brand’s message should be a reflection of your company’s values, mission, and vision. Take the time to review and revise your brand’s messaging to ensure it aligns with your current objectives and speaks to your audience’s aspirations and pain points. A well-crafted brand message not only conveys what your company stands for but also creates an emotional connection with your customers, fostering loyalty and trust.

One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by refreshing your brand. Click To Tweet

Harness Social Media Diversify your brand’s online presence by actively engaging with your audience on various social media platforms. Tailor your content to suit each platform’s unique audience and features, allowing you to connect with a broader and more diverse audience. Social media isn’t just about posting content; it’s about fostering two-way communication with your customers, listening to their feedback, and adapting your brand’s approach accordingly. By utilizing the power of social media, you can not only increase brand awareness but also strengthen customer relationships.

Digitally Organize Your Documents Organizing your marketing documents is crucial for efficient business operations, and converting these documents into PDF format is a smart strategy. Using a PDF format ensures that your content remains consistent in terms of formatting and is easily shareable across various devices and platforms. Whether you need to create a PDF online from scratch or convert an existing file, like a Microsoft Word document, into a PDF, a reliable PDF maker tool is indispensable. This approach not only streamlines the sharing process but also enhances the professionalism of your documents.

Remake Your Website Your website is often the first point of contact for potential customers. Ensure it is visually appealing, user-friendly, and up-to-date with the latest information about your products or services. A well-designed website can leave a lasting impression on visitors. Beyond aesthetics, prioritize user experience by optimizing page load times, navigation, and mobile responsiveness. A user-friendly website not only attracts visitors but also converts them into customers, ultimately contributing to your brand’s success.

Partnering with Influencers and Ambassadors Collaborate is the new competition. Collaborate with influencers or brand ambassadors in your industry to promote your products or services. Their authentic endorsements can significantly impact your brand’s credibility and reach, helping you tap into new customer segments. Influencer marketing is a powerful tool for expanding your brand’s reach. However, choose influencers whose values align with your brand to ensure authenticity and resonance with their followers. Establishing genuine partnerships can lead to long-term brand growth.

Outline Your Core Values Clearly define your brand’s core values and communicate them consistently across all touch-points. These values serve as the foundation of your brand’s identity and can create a strong emotional connection with your audience. Authenticity is key when conveying your core values. Make sure your actions align with your stated values, and don’t be afraid to take a stand on issues that matter to your customers. When customers see your brand living its values, they are more likely to trust and engage with you.

Amplify Public Relations Invest in public relations efforts to increase your brand’s visibility and reputation. Engage with media outlets, industry publications, and influencers to share your brand’s story and achievements, building trust and credibility. Effective public relations can shape the narrative around your brand, positioning you as an industry leader and a trusted source of information. Be proactive in seeking out opportunities to share your expertise and experiences, both online and offline.

Innovate Your Approach to Advertising Explore innovative advertising techniques that align with your brand’s goals and target audience. From immersive experiences to different forms of interactive content, staying at the forefront of advertising trends can set your brand apart from the competition. Innovation in advertising not only captures the attention of potential customers but also demonstrates your brand’s willingness to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Embrace creativity and experimentation to create memorable and impactful advertising campaigns.

Refreshing your company’s brand is a strategic move that can reinvigorate your business and capture the attention of both existing and potential customers. By crafting a compelling brand message, harnessing the power of social media, streamlining marketing collateral, etc., you can breathe new life into your brand and thrive in today’s competitive marketplace. Don’t hesitate to embark on this exciting journey of brand revitalization, and watch your company soar to new heights of success.

Lean Launch: The Savvy Entrepreneur’s Guide to Starting Big with Small Funds

You can have a lean launch as the Savvy Entrepreneur in your family. Here is your guide to starting big with small funds. Starting a business is a dream for many of us, but limited capital can often stifle these aspirations. Yet, with the right resourceful strategies, even entrepreneurs with minimal resources can turn their business vision into a reality. In this article by Courtney on our team for  Yetunde Shorters.com, we will explore actionable ways you can launch a successful enterprise without breaking the bank. I started my company to little funds and grew it into a multiple 6-figure business. YOU CAN DO THE SAME& BETTER!

Tap into Available Grants

One overlooked source of initial capital is business grants tailored to help entrepreneurs with limited funds. Conducting thorough research to identify these opportunities is essential. Don’t rush this process; take time to write compelling applications that set you apart from the competition. Local government agencies and industry organizations often offer such grants, providing a lifeline to those who are financially strapped. There is free money out here with people and organizations who want to support your vision, take the time to fill out the paperwork.

bootstrapping involves launching a business through self-funding and frugal financial management. This method compels you to be resourceful and prioritize what truly matters for business growth. Click To Tweet

Leverage Crowdfunding Platforms

Crowdfunding has become a popular way for entrepreneurs to raise capital directly from the public. Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow you to present your business idea and receive small amounts of funding from a large number of people. The key here is to create a compelling campaign that engages potential backers and outlines how their support will contribute to your vision. I used Crowdfunding to raise capital to print my cookbook for Afropolitan Chef. It works. you just have to do it right. If you’re interested in my 1-1 training on it, contact me here hello@yetundeshorters.com

Expand Your Network

Networking is invaluable when you’re starting with limited capital. By building connections with potential investors, partners, and mentors, you open doors to multiple opportunities. Attend industry events, participate in online communities, and leverage social media platforms to connect with like-minded professionals. The connections you make can provide both financial backing and invaluable advice. Be sincere. Connect with people you like and want to get to know.

Use a Document Management System

Implementing a document management system can greatly enhance the efficiency and organization of handling various types of documents in your business. A key aspect of this system is the flexibility to convert documents between formats to suit different needs. For instance, converting a PDF to Excel is particularly useful when dealing with tabular data.

This conversion provides a more versatile and editable format, allowing for easy manipulation and analysis of the data. Excel’s robust features make it simple to edit, sort, and analyze information in ways that aren’t possible within a PDF format. Once your data is updated or reorganized in Excel, you can easily re-save the file as a PDF for secure sharing or storage. For businesses looking to streamline their document management processes and make the most out of their data, check this out as a practical and effective solution.

Offer Customers Pre-Sales and Pre-Orders

One clever way to generate revenue before your product or service officially launches is through pre-sales and pre-orders. This strategy not only brings in some much-needed initial cash but also serves as a market validation tool. If your target audience is willing to purchase before launch, that’s a strong indicator that there’s demand for what you’re offering. Additionally, securing pre-sales and pre-orders can give you the confidence and momentum you need to continue pushing forward with your business plans. So you only need to have/get one sample and sell using that one sample before you get inventory that you can’t get rid of.

Bootstrap Your Business

The concept of bootstrapping involves launching a business through self-funding and frugal financial management. This method compels you to be resourceful and prioritize what truly matters for business growth. With every dollar accounted for and spent wisely, bootstrapping can be a rewarding, albeit challenging, way to start your business.

Develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

Starting small with a minimum viable product can save you money while allowing you to test your business idea in the real world. This stripped-down version of your product or service gives you a low-risk way to gather customer feedback. Use this data for iterative improvements, refining your offering without wasting resources on features that aren’t essential.

Monitor and Build Your Credit Score

Maintaining a solid credit score is crucial when you’re running a business on a limited budget. A high credit score not only increases your eligibility for future financing but also allows you to negotiate favorable terms with suppliers and lenders. Consistently monitoring and building your credit score will provide more financial options as your business grows.

Launching a business with limited funds may seem daunting, but it’s far from impossible. By tapping into available grants, leveraging crowdfunding, expanding your network, monitoring your credit score, investing in a content management system, and more, you can make your entrepreneurial dreams come true. Starting a business on a shoestring budget requires a balanced blend of creativity, meticulous planning, and resourceful execution.

For help creating a purpose-centered, intrinsic plan you can use for impact, attracting an incredible community, and earnings profits confidently, contact Yetunde Shorters  at www.icyconsulting.com today!

From Pennies to Profit: A Guide to Starting Your Business on a Tight Budget

 

I remember launching my company and the level of bootstrapping I had to do to get going. In the entrepreneurial world, resourcefulness is key. A tight budget can be a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block. Here’s a guide to kick-start your business without stretching your finances too thin, shared with you below and written by Lucy one of our writers for ICY Coaching and Consulting

Starting a business on a tight budget is possible and can be a stepping stone to success. You can build a thriving business without breaking the bank by leveraging your expertise, Click To Tweet

Capitalize on Your Expertise Through Consulting

Use what you already know. If you have a specific skill set or extensive knowledge in a particular field, offer consulting services. This approach requires minimal startup costs and allows you to establish credibility while building the foundation of your future enterprise. Additionally, you can leverage your expertise by writing e-books or creating online courses to reach a wider audience. Furthermore, consider speaking at industry conferences or hosting webinars to showcase your knowledge and attract potential clients.

Your Best Ally is Your Credit Score

Your credit score isn’t just a number; it’s your business’s ticket to better loan terms. Keep a close eye on your credit score, make payments on time, and reduce debt to build a solid financial foundation for your business. Moreover, regularly reviewing your credit report can help you identify any errors or discrepancies that may be negatively impacting your score. Furthermore, establish good relationships with lenders and financial institutions to access favorable financing options.

Dream Big, Begin with Baby Steps

Every giant leap begins with a small step. Start your business on a smaller scale, focusing on essential elements first. As profits start rolling in, you can gradually scale up and expand your operations. Moreover, consider setting specific goals and milestones to track your progress and maintain motivation. Furthermore, networking with other entrepreneurs and seeking mentorship can provide valuable guidance and support along your entrepreneurial journey.

The Power of Free Online Resources

The internet is an entrepreneur’s treasure trove. From free online courses to cost-effective software tools, plenty of resources can help you streamline your operations, learn new skills, and manage your business more efficiently. Additionally, joining online communities and forums can connect you with like-minded individuals and provide collaboration and knowledge sharing opportunities. Furthermore, staying updated on industry trends through online publications and newsletters can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Your Low-Cost Publicity Powerhouse

Content marketing is a low-cost yet highly effective way to boost your brand visibility and attract potential customers. Sharing valuable content through blogs, videos, or podcasts can position you as an industry expert and build a loyal audience. Moreover, consider guest posting on other relevant websites or collaborating with influencers to expand your reach. Furthermore, engaging with your audience through social media platforms can foster meaningful connections and drive organic growth. You can click here to start learning more about professional content marketing.

Achieve Optimal Results

As an entrepreneur, you should get radical clarity first on your brand purpose,  then your focus should be on your core business functions. For tasks outside your area of expertise, consider outsourcing. This strategy can save you time and money, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Additionally, building a reliable network of freelancers or contractors can provide you with talent to tap into when needed. Furthermore, regularly evaluating your business processes and identifying areas for improvement can help you optimize your operations and maximize efficiency.

Starting a business on a tight budget is possible and can be a stepping stone to success. You can build a thriving business without breaking the bank by leveraging your expertise, managing your credit score, taking small steps toward your goals, utilizing free online resources, and embracing content marketing. Additionally, outsourcing tasks and continuously evaluating and optimizing your operations will help you achieve optimal results. So, don’t let a limited budget hold you back – dream big, be resourceful, and embark on your entrepreneurial journey with confidence!

Elevate your brand with ICY Coaching and Consulting– ICY Coaching and Consulting specializes in guiding leading Women Entrepreneurs towards purpose-driven success. We transform challenges into milestones, ensuring clarity and confidence for the impact and confident profits they can experience.

Summer Business Boosters: 7 Proven Strategies to Skyrocket Your Success Amidst the Seasonal Slowdown

Get ready for a summer business breakthrough! Unleash these powerful strategies and leave your competitors in awe

Now’s the Time for Growth: Make It Happen

Growing a business can be a challenging process, but there are several steps you can take to maximize your success. Say hello to your Summer Business Boosters: 7 Proven Strategies to Skyrocket Your Success Amidst the Seasonal Slowdown. Implementing these steps in your business will help you continue to grow. In this article one of our writers Courtney explores some of the most effective strategies for business growth.

Spend your summer wisely as an entrepreneur by focusing on boosting your business growth. Click To Tweet Use this time to dive into strategic planning, refine your marketing strategies, and invest in personal development. Embrace the slower pace of the season to implement improvements, explore new opportunities, and fine-tune your operations. Don’t let the summer heat slow you down; let it fuel your ambition and drive. Elevate your business to new heights by dedicating this summer to growth and success

Forming an LLC

One of the best things you can do for your business is to form an LLC (limited liability company). An LLC offers many benefits, including limited liability, tax advantages, less paperwork, and flexibility. By forming an LLC, you can protect your personal assets from business liabilities and save money on taxes. Additionally, the process of forming an LLC is relatively straightforward, and there are many resources available to help you get started.

Maximizing Data Analytics

Data analytics can provide valuable insights into your business operations, customer preferences, and market trends. By analyzing data from your website, social media, and other sources, you can better understand your target audience and make informed decisions about your business strategy. Consider investing in a data analytics platform or hiring a data analyst to help you make the most of your data.

Attending Networking Events

Networking events are a great way to meet potential customers and partners, learn about industry trends, and establish yourself as a thought leader in your field. Attend local and industry-specific events to build your network and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your industry. Be sure to bring business cards and be prepared to talk about your business concisely and compellingly.

Exploring New Products and Services

Expanding your product or service offerings can help you tap into new markets and increase revenue. Consider conducting market research to identify new opportunities, and test new products or services with a small group of customers before launching on a larger scale. Be sure to also consider the costs and risks associated with introducing new offerings and prioritize those that align with your business goals and values.

Updating Marketing Efforts

Marketing is essential for any growing business, but it can be challenging to identify the most effective channels and strategies. Consider investing in social media advertising, content marketing, and SEO to increase your online presence, and track your results to uncover what’s working and what’s not. Additionally, make sure your branding and messaging are consistent across all platforms to build a strong and recognizable brand identity.

Integrating Process Discovery

Implementing process discovery is key to identifying inefficiencies and bottlenecks in business operations. By analyzing and breaking down individual processes, you can easily identify areas that are holding your business back and hindering its growth. With this knowledge, you can reallocate resources, streamline operations, and ensure that everyone in the organization is working towards the same goals. This, in turn, is a key to success, as it allows your business to boost its efficiency while reducing costs and improving customer satisfaction.

Exploring International Markets

Expanding your business internationally can open up new opportunities for growth and increase your customer base. Conduct thorough research on the target country’s economy, business culture, and legal requirements to ensure you’re prepared for the transition. Consider partnering with local businesses or hiring a consultant to help you navigate cultural differences and establish a strong presence in the new market.

 

Growing a business requires dedication, hard work, and an openness to new ideas and strategies. By forming an LLC, attending networking events, exploring new products and services, integrating process discovery, and exploring international markets, you can position your business for sustainable growth and success. Remember to stay flexible and adapt to changing market conditions, and never stop learning and growing as a business owner.

 

For coaching to help you get clarity on your purpose so you can have more impact and earn more confident profits, contact me>>>: Yetunde Shorters today!

How to Get More Customer Referrals for Your Small Business

I literally built a multiple 6 figure business through referrals so when Courtney asked me about writing a blog about How to Get More Customer Referrals for Your Small Business I said yes, so here it is.

Referrals are a powerful marketing tool for small business owners when it comes to gaining new customers. By investing in the right strategies and tactics, you can easily increase the number of customer referrals that your business receives. Read on for some helpful tips on how you can get more customer referrals for your small business.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Search engine optimization (SEO) is a great way to help your business be found more easily online. Investing in SEO will ensure that potential customers find your website more readily when they search for businesses like yours in their local area. This will also help with increasing customer referrals, as those who have already had positive experiences with your business can easily refer others when they know how to find you online.

Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is another great way to reach new customers and get more referrals. Investing in digital marketing means that you can collect data to target potential customers based on their interests, location, or demographics. It also can increase the chance of them finding out about your business and potentially becoming customers. Digital marketing also helps boost visibility so if you’re looking to gain more customer referrals, digital marketing should definitely be part of your strategy.

User Experience (UX) Design

User experience (UX) design is an important factor when creating any website, but especially for businesses that want to gain more customer referrals. UX design ensures that visitors are able to navigate the website easily and find what they need quickly without getting overwhelmed or confused by too much information or graphics. RubyGarage notes that investing in UX design can help increase user satisfaction, potentially leading to increased customer referrals over time as visitors become loyal buyers and recommend others looking for similar products or services.

I literally built a 6 multiple, figure business through referrals only . Click To Tweet

API is Easy and Effective

Raffles can be a great way to attract potential customers and referrals for your business. APIs make setting up raffles easy, as users can simply enter their email addresses or sign up with a social media account in order to participate. Gift cards are also a great incentive, as they can be used right away and give customers an immediate reward. This may be the ideal solution for engaging new customers and increasing sales.

Inexpensive Content Like Blogs

Content creation is an invaluable tool for effective online engagement with customers, as it builds trust around your brand. What’s more, creating content like blogs is an inexpensive way to advertise your business. This can result in more referrals over time, as people share their positive experiences with you. To ensure your content reaches the right audience and stands out from the competition, optimizing for SEO is essential.

Sharing Helpful Tips and Graphics on Social Media

Social media provides an easy platform where businesses can share helpful tips related to their product or service while also connecting with current or potential customers directly. This increases engagement and loyalty which might eventually result in increased customer referrals from current satisfied clients recommending others follow suit.

Additionally, using interesting visuals such as infographics or memes will keep followers engaged over time instead of losing interest after a few posts. Make sure these visuals are optimized for each social media platform accordingly as well.

Getting more customer referrals doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Investing some time and money into strategies such as gift cards, API, SEO, digital marketing and UX design can help any small business owner increase their referral numbers from satisfied clients recommending others join them. With the right investment and effort, small business owners will soon start to reap the rewards of having a strong referral program in place.

 

Shaking It Up: Tips for Acquiring and Adapting an Existing Business

I’ve been exploring what it would be like to buy a company instead of starting from scratch. I was doing research so I could offer that as an opportunity to clients who that would be a fit for. That way, instead of starting from scratch you can start from the middle or the top. Check out Flippa.com for more and also this article for my Blog by Lucy. You don’t always have to start from scratch. Think of buying a ready made company like starting from the middle, or depending on how successful it already is, starting from the top. YOU HAVE OPTIONS. Explore them Click To Tweet

Whether you’re an angel investor, a venture capitalist, or just a savvy entrepreneur, buying an existing business can strengthen your existing portfolio and create new opportunities to profit. Taking on someone else’s venture, however, is by no means straightforward, and you’ll need to carry out plenty of research if you want to adapt it successfully to market – here are a few pointers before you commit.

Acquisition

Requirements

Before you begin your search for a high-potential business, it’s important to first review your own skill-set and capabilities – both as an owner and, if you own other companies, as a conglomerate. An understanding of the industry in question is a must – you should also ensure that you have enough time and capital available to allocate towards the development of a new business. Take the time to work with your CFO, accountants, or consultants and review the resources available to you – understanding this is crucial not just for the researching stage but also for the negotiation stage.

Identifying a High-Potential Business

When it comes to business investment, as a rule, there are far more duds than there are boons, and so, to isolate a strong prospect, you’ll need to develop strict criteria and stick to them. Your criteria can vary depending on budget, industry, personal requirements, and more but, as a rule, you want to take on a business with a willing market (meaning there is preconceived demand amongst customers), high profit margins, and a clear selling point that can be taken advantage of in future.

Due Diligence

A cautious approach can save you time and money in the long run, and nowhere is this more true than when you’re conducting background checks on business prospects. Take the time to review critical documentation, analyze any available data and identify key risks that might cost you in the long term. It might also be necessary to meet with key players within the business itself, members of the c-suite, for example. Finally, you should ensure that your lawyers have read through any financial, legal, and regulatory company documents to ensure that everything is above water and legally sound.

Negotiating

Once both parties have agreed on a valuation provided by an independent source, you can move into the negotiation stage. Ideally, this should be straightforward, with communications taking place amongst yourselves and the company’s top decision-makers. Remember that these individuals may have sunk years into growing this venture and so it’s important to convey a clear understanding, appreciation, and plan for its future.

Adaptation

Structure

As important as the business itself is your strategy upon completing the acquisition. You should aim to review every department and look at larger components like structure – you may decide, for example, that you want to change this entirely. A formation service can help navigate any legalities and there are many options available online for you to compare reviews and prices, such as Rocket Lawyer vs Zenbusiness.

Marketing

If you’re taking the company in a new direction, this should reflect in your brand design and marketing efforts. If you’re working with limited resources, consider saving on designer costs by using online banner makers to design a custom banner for your website or social channels. These can often be customized with text, colors, fonts, and animations.

Business Process Management (BPM)

A company running on outdated processes can be enhanced using BPM strategies. BPM can automate and optimize workflows by analyzing how people, systems, and data interact – by understanding how digital process automation and BPM work, you can use the information gathered through the BPM process to streamline your operation and improve efficiency.

Acquiring an existing business is an arduous process in itself and adapting it to market is even harder. However, with a few adjustments, such as a new business structure or cost-efficient marketing strategies, you can take a struggling venture and bring it up to profitability

 

Thanks to Lucy Reed for today’s article. I appreciate the insight.

Have a purposeful day.

Stop trying to Find Your Purpose. It’s already within you. Look inside.

Hey Purpose Angel. This morning, I want to share with you answers to the following:

Why am I doing this? Why is this important? I remember the day I decided I didn’t want to become an Attorney anymore.
I was in the first month as a Junior in college at Loyola University Chicago Why? 3 reasons

1. As much as I enjoy reading, I was stressed out about how much information I would have to retain as a Lawyer

2. I knew I wanted to help women and build wealth and I didn’t see how I would do that without having to work for the bad guys (They typically have more money than the good guys. Good guys have money too)

3. I am an Empath, so I literally feel other peoples vibes and so I’m hyper-mindful of the energies I allow in my space and the energy I bring to any space. I’m also super intuitive, so I get clear directions on what I need to do for results, safety and success. These are physical and spiritual God-given abilities. We all have them. I’ve simply had a mentor who’s helped me master them and I’m still learning.

I feeeeel the energy of our world. Even as I type this now to you I have tears in my eyes just feeling it. I also feel the love and they are both overwhelming. So when I say I’m RADICALLY CLEAR on what role I need to play to support you in stepping fully into your purpose, It’s because it’s important. I already know we will have a better world when YOU do your part and you get to skip the line cuz I’ve done all the mistakes and spent a lot of money to get you the current best possible blueprint for your own next level.

So in school, I selected a few marketing and pr courses to take. In one of my classes, we were given a mock Ad campaign to work on for Verizon and in a split moment I realized how may millions of people I could reach with one simple yet effective AD. LITERALLY MILLIONS IN ONE GO. I caught the PR BUG and I was sold. I focused on my specialty in Communications.
Everything I have learned and do since then has helped me to be a student and teacher communicator with visuals, words and quality. I get the privilege of doing this for my own personal brand and the over 100+ women I have had the honor of branding overtime.

What you need to know: Your purpose has been and will always be a part of you. It's not something you're out there looking for. It's within already. Click To TweetWhether you discover what that purpose is or not depends on your choice to explore, acknowledge and accept what that purpose is. A good coach can guide you through the discovery.

Why you should care: If you find that you’re not joyful, excited or energized most times about your life or work or situation, It may mean you’re not in alignment with your purpose. And the fact is, you don’t have to stay in this space. It can be more than you ever imagined. I testify to this and so do many of my client.

What you need to do: DM me if you’d like to explore what it looks like to kick off your purpose journey, stress-free, no overwhelm and joyfully. Wanna see Quantum Leap, ask @evatoby She became a bestselling author beating out Lala Anthony’s book even before her book was available, secured over 7 media features in one year national and international. Became a published columnist for rolling out magazine and using my process once raised $900 in 5 hours for a youth organization in Detroit, Michigan.

Get VIP access to the Next level version of you. We kick off our Purpose POWER LAUNCH May 2nd. #radicalclarity #livethroughpurpose #purposepower

Discovering your intrinsic value is simpler than you think

 

Discovering your intrinsic value is simpler than you think.

One day, I was laying down to take a nap on my sectional sofa, I woke up about 45 minutes later and I could NOT get up…I couldn’t move my legs. I was scared. My heart was racing, I could literally taste my anxiety. and I started crying… and at some point my brain signaled for me to get my phone.

luckily it was right next to me and I called one of my Pharmaceutical Dr. friends. And she heard the panic in my voice just from saying hello. I told her I couldn’t move my legs, I started crying again and she told me to calm down, “try wiggling your toes, she said, pinch your legs”.

I did all of that still stressed and anxious and then the feelings in my legs came back.

I got off the phone cried some more, then went back to work.
You would think I would have seen that as a warning.

Months later, I ended up in the hospital from Adrenal Fatigue and my Best friend was with me and as I lay in the hospital bed at the time, I thought to myself, “if I died today, none of this shit would matter. And I thought “hmmmm, my family would cry, eat some rice, have a party and they would move on.

In that moment, after all the blood work, recommendations and everything else from the doctor, when I got home, I made a decision to change my life in 30 days. I stopped watching TV that month, I read a lot of books, I meditated more.
I was present in my life and I can tell you, the level of clarity that came to me once I decided to step FULLY into my purpose was divine.

The blessings and opportunities that came with that choice were astounding. The effectiveness that I was activating now that I had clarity.
Yes, I still had to do the work of mastery, heck, I’m still doing it, But this time, I had a blueprint of how to let my purpose lead my many passions.

Here is what I have learnt and I want to share with you:It doesn’t have to be hard. In fact, the knowing your purpose part is easier. We just expect it to be hard and we’re usually underwhelmed on how easy it seems. If you’re looking for work to do however, don’t worry, The work you feel you… Click To Tweet

It is fully your responsibility to MASTER your purpose.

What are you doing to master the thing you’ve been called for? Are you taking specialty classes, are you feeding your soul, Do you have mentors who can help guide your light, You tap into all of these things, so that your impact is bigger, your joy is bigger, your attraction factor is bigger, your profits are bigger.

You can get to do all the things you enjoy and still live through your purpose.

What you seek is already inside you. Release it and step fully into your purpose.

It’s time to LIVE THROUGH PURPOSE®

3 Incredible Strategies I Learned From Being a BMe Vanguard Fellow (THE MATRIX IS INVOLVED)

This fellowship is the kind that created PARADIGM SHIFTS that have actively changed my thinking. No kidding, it was like being in the matrix and being offered two PILLS. I HAD TO CHOOSE.

On April 26th 2019, I received the offer to take the RED pill or the BLUE Pill. So what happened was ehm… well, I went for the RED pill.

Why? You ask, with the crazy world we live in, getting the privilege to learn from some of the best in their industry was an easy RED pill YESSSS!  Companies like the Raben Group, Caspian Event Science, OpEd Project, Rashad Robinson from Color of Change and so many more.

FACT: I was so sure I wouldn’t be selected. I applied anyway

TRUTH: The passion for serving my purpose matters more to me than whatever I want that is not in alignment. That was apparently why I got selected. YES TO PURPOSE!

Hi. I’m Yetunde Shorters and I am a BMe Vanguard Fellow and I want to share with you 3 Incredible Strategies I learned from being a BMe Vanguard Fellow, strategies that can compel you to apply for the next fellowship and transform your work in our world.

1. How to Navigate Inter-Personal Relationships – One of the mind-blowing sessions was with Dr. Edwin J. Nichols, PhD., a Clinical/Industrial Psychologist. When you meet someone that helps you understand at our core why every race lives and interacts with the world a certain way, it can significantly affect the way you understand yourself and other people in our world

Understanding various axiologies and epistemology gives you an opportunity and the blueprint to speak every cultural language that will get the results you need, for your work anywhere in the world.  In this session with Dr. Nichols, I got to understand who I am as a woman of African decent and knowing how to apply different axiologies to whomever I am dealing with. This knowledge alone is a powerful ability that I have started maximizing. IT FLIPPING WORKS!

2. Asset Framing – Is the innovative practice that we define people by their strengths and by their aspirations and contributions, rather than their challenges and deficits. Understanding and practicing this core value is literally like taking the RED pill and never being able to take the BLUE pill even if you wanted to. Once you understand this practice, it is almost impossible to miss how we (you, and 95% of the world) DEFICIT frame just about everything. This training by Trabian Shorters is its own entire paradigm shift that forces you to step up to the better version of yourself and you’ll find that you start genuinely seeing people differently.  You see people in a way that gives them power to be and bring their own best to the world ORGANICALLY. It’s industry changing stuff! Literally

And if you’re a social entrepreneur, all I can tell you is, prepare to see yourself and those you serve in a light that you probably never even considered. You’ll love it.

3. The Power of a Network- When you get down-to-earth influential and powerful people together, The vibe that happens is a recipe for creating a family you didn’t even know you needed. The caliber of fellows in this fellowship is mind-blowing. The way we bonded so quickly was shocking for so many of us. That’s what happens when you get people who are purpose-centered, loving and excellent in a room. We connect on SOUL-LEVELS. The strategy of giving us the experience of connecting with all kinds of people of African decent was the kind of magic needed to bring us together no matter what part of the world we are located. In watching and experiencing the many depths of these incredible down-to-earth doctors, lawyers, academics, financial gurus, tech leaders, social and philanthropic leaders, I now have connections and access to people who want my success and I theirs. You can’t pay for this kind of network. It’s earned by doing your part for the people of African decent and our world.

The deadline is February 1st 2020. It is a fellowship that I know will transform your life if you’re serious about impacting the lives of people globally, through social change. The application process is easy.  The link is www.bmecommunity.org/apply

This fellowship is for the next generation of thought leaders and you could be it. Past fellows include the owner of the largest black owned bank in America. 2 New York Times Bestselling Authors, The head of the Skillman foundation, leaders in Tech and communications, MSNBC and Today’s Show contributors, Trusted community leaders across our nation and more.

CLASS OF 2019- ACROSS 5 CITIES

I hope you take the RED pill and get ready to see the world differently.

Much Love

 

3 Ways to Maximize Any Publicity You Get

After securing hundreds of publicity features for my clients over the years, I can tell you one media feature can create a new world of opportunities for you.  Getting featured in any media is a great time to bank on that energy to create more like it. There is no such thing as too much noise.  PR is about publicity, so tell the world about it. Below are 3 ways to maximize any publicity you get.

 

#1 MAKE SOME NOISE

Social currency is a powerful thing. But here is the truth: special people like to feel special. Immediately you’ve secured any feature, the first thing you want to do is tell your VIP’s.  Email, phone calls, you can go old-fashioned and make copies of it and mail it to your family so they have a copy to brag about. Attach the image or link of the feature to an email to them. Be sure to let them know they are first in on this news. Let them feel your excitement about sharing this special news with them FIRST. People pay to be insiders, make your list/tribe feel special. And then, 6-12 hours later tell the whole world. Use social media, e-blast, and get 5-10 of your champions to re-tweet the same image or link. Become a trend in your inner circle for the day. Be sure to make noise for at least 2 weeks straight.

 

#2 CONNECT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media is about consistency and connecting to influencers. Once you secure a solid media feature, spend the day engaging with the editor and the publication on social media. Tag them on your announcement of the feature at least 3 times in a day. It will let the writer/publication know you are excited about the feature plus, you’re showing the value of your own social currency. You can also tag other social media influencers or bloggers that compliment your brand. You should also take phrases, sound bites, or key moments of the feature and share it all day using a hashtag that works for your brand. Make sure you schedule them at integral times of day when your fans/followers are known to be online (check your account insights for this.) Create digital graphics of your quotes to share on instagram, record a video of you reading the feature and share it online. Get creative.

 

#3 TELL THE MEDIA ABOUT THE MEDIA

Telling other media you are interested in being featured on about your new media feature, is a good way to stay on their radar. You should have about 5-10 media contacts you’re building relationships with personally. Send an email to each one telling them about the feature and to consider you for a possible story or feature in their upcoming issue. Should you do this, it’s a good idea to have 3-4 fresh story ideas that will be of interest to their own publication. This can get their wheels turning on story angles that could get you even more publicity. Also tag them on instagram or twitter about the feature and use the appropriate industry hashtags.

I look forward to these tips helping you maximize any media exposure you get moving forward. Public Relations is about relating to the public, RELATE and build that relationship. That’s what it’s about. Have fun telling your story.

SEX CHOCOLATE CRY, A NEW BOOK FOR WOMEN

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Press/Media Contact
Yetunde Taiwo
ICY Public Relations
(T): 305.549.3676
press@icypr.com

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEX CHOCOLATE CRY, THE NEW QUICK READ MANY WOMEN CAN LAUGH AT, AVAILABLE IN PRINT AND ON KINDLE, EXCLUSIVELY ON AMAZON BEGINNING AUGUST 8TH

First time authors Taiece Lanier and Yetunde Taiwo share the humor of the roller coaster of emotions during their cycle in this 28-page witty book!

MIAMI, FL (August 2013): – Sex Chocolate Cry, How To Stay Happy During Your Menstrual Cycle is a witty, new quick read by Fashion and Entertainment Entrepreneur, Yetunde Taiwo and Organization and Fashion Expert, Taiece Lanier. This is a book that almost every woman can relate to. The book is for mature women who are most likely sexually active, and who experience all the roller coaster of emotions that comes with menstrual cycle and sex. It provides a great read for women while they are going through their “period days”, sharing with them a good laugh in spite of the pain they will never get used to.

The book has four main chapters: Sex, Chocolate, Cry and Remedies. The short paragraph style writing of the book allows for a quick read and will make a great gift for girlfriends on any occasion. Sex Chocolate Cry, How To Stay Happy During Your Menstrual Cycle will be available for print soon and on kindle on its launch date, August 8, exclusively on Amazon and Kindle. It will be available online at http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EC0ZZVI for $4.99 for the Kindle version and $12.99 for the full color, glossy print version.

Excerpts from the book include:

My goodness, sometimes chocolate is better than sex. Excuse me, what am I saying? CHOCOLATE is better than sex. There is something to be said about eating chocolate during “Aunt FLOW’S” visit that just makes the world look better and feel warm and fuzzy on the inside.

A period is like having a baby, except you never have it. I’ll rather have a baby every 9 months than to go through a cycle every flipping month for the next 40 plus years. DARN IT “Aunt FLOW”

“Sex Chocolate Cry” is simple yet engaging. It’s 28 pages of what men need to read, to understand women just a bit more.” – Dumebi Agabakoba-Ishaku, Editor, Complete Fashion Magazine.

The new authors offer readers who purchase the book exclusively on Amazon Kindle on its launch date, August 8, a special bonus download title ‘9 Natural Remedies To Have A Better Menstrual Cycle’.

Interested readers can log on to www.sexchocolatecry.com and join the VIP list to get the notification of special ‘SEX CHOCOLATE CRY’ events around the globe. Media and bloggers interested in interviewing the authors or reviewing the book can please send an email to press@icypr.com.

SEX CHOCOLATE CRY, How To Stay Happy During Your Menstrual cycle By Taiece Lanier and Yetunde Taiwo
Format 1: 28 pages; eBook
Format 2: 30 pages; Glossy, full color, soft copy
Language: English
Sale Location: Amazon Print: $12.99 |Kindle: $4.99 (subject to change)

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

TAIECE LANIER is a Miami based Organization and Fashion Expert, C.E.O of Closet Editors Agency. She is also known as THE CLOSET EDITOR. Mother of two, certified fitness instructor, and a bona fide Chocoholic. She brings with her 24 years of MENSTRUAL experience.

YETUNDE TAIWO is a Miami based Fashion and Entertainment Entrepreneur. She is the owner of International PR Firm, ICY Public Relations and a bona fide foodie also known as the Afropolitan Chef. She brings with her 21 years of MENSTRUAL experience.

For further information about Sex Chocolate Cry, How To Stay Happy During Your Menstrual Cycle, please visit the following: Facebook: www.facebook.com/sexchocolatecry | Website: www.sexchocolatecry.com | Twitter: www.twitter.com/sexchocolatecry | and Instagram : www.instagram.com/sexchocolatecry
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TAB NYC A LUXURY SHOPPING EVENT WILL PREMIERE DURING NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2013

 

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TAB NYC, a premier Luxury Fashion & Beauty Collective is set to introduce a unique and exquisite showcase of  selections of luxury global fashion & beauty brands during the esteemed New York Fashion Week 2013. The event is scheduled for September 14, 2013. It promises to be a memorable turnout of designers, models, media, beauty pros, buyers, bloggers and lovers of fashion.

The fashion world highly anticipates TAB NYC – NEW YORK FASHION WEEK EDITION 2013 and the presentation of an eclectic mix of Fashion, Entertainment and Beauty products with a wide range of vendors and designers from all over the world including: Hunadi Bespoke -South Africa, House of Versatile Styles-US, DiDi Creations-UK, Sheria Ngowi-Tanzania, DaGashi Hair –US, Madeyya-U.A.E, Make Up by Olabisi of Motives for LALA presented by Olabisi. A fashion retail one-day event that is truly international. TAB NYC also affords a promotional platform for participating beauty brands and fashion houses that will be exposed to a variety of fashion week clientele and fashion industry elites. It’s a worthy fashion experience to look forward to by all fashion enthusiasts.

Show Producer and Fashion Entrepreneur, Bukola Are of House of Versatile Styles is excited about the luxury shopping event and says, “ Having a fashion event that is representative of our world today ‘global’ is very exciting and it gives us a chance to expose the world to fashion they may have never other wise known, right here in New York City. I am thrilled about this event.”

There will be 2 fashion show segments during the event produced by renowned fashion stylist, Kokuhilwa Rosemary of fashionjunkii.com. Fashion and Beauty brands interested in becoming a vendor or showcasing in the TAB NYC Fashion show segment should contact TAB NYC at info@tabnyc.com or vendors@tabnyc.com to request a vendor application. Vendor space is limited. Vendor Application Submission ends on August 22nd, 2013. This is an RSVP only event. Guest will enjoy zico coconut water throughout the day. The media and bloggers interested in attending can email press@icypr.com to get credentials.

ABOUT TAB NYC  TAB NYC is an annual showcase of the finest global fashion & beauty brands during New York Fashion Week. TAB NYC is a dynamic one day fashion and beauty retail collective, featuring independent and established fashion and beauty brands. TAB NYC aims at promoting independent and established companies, with interest of expanding clientele to a global audience during NEW YORK FASHION WEEK. Fashion & beauty enthusiasts can expect an opportunity to shop the latest International Fashions from Canada, USA, UK, West Africa, South Africa, Dubai  and more at TAB NYC. For more information about TAB NYC contact us at info@tabnyc.com. Like us on Facebook : TAB NYC. Follow us on Twitter @tabnyc411. TAB NYC Website –  www.tabnyc.com

For Media/Press and Sponsorship Opportunities at TAB NYC contact info@icypr.com

 

This has been an ICY Report!