NEW Podcast: Master the Art of Strategic Networking

In today's New Normal, you've probably realized that just keeping your head down, doing good work, and hoping that your efforts are noticed will not help you land your next opportunity (whether that's a new job or business lead). Networking -- or perhaps better described, relationship building -- is the "new black" in the New Normal.

So, you know that we're all connected to other people in some way -- through family, friends, neighborhoods, schools or employers. And, you know that if you talk to enough people, you'll eventually meet someone who knows the person you want to meet (and is willing to introduce you). But, in today's New Normal, who has that kind of time??

It's time that you master the art of Strategic Networking -- the process of strategically looking at your connections and creating compelling messages that empower your connections to say: "YES, I know who it is you need to meet, and YES, I want to help you meet them!"

When thinking of who in my network I could ask to shed some additional light on the subject, I could think of no better person than the Queen of Networking -- Executive Recruiter, Paula Marks. Paula, also President of Hire Resources, Inc. has been professionally connecting people to one another for over three decades. Her business network is rooted in a lifetime of successful Human Resource management, executive recruiting, and a vast rolodex of professional contacts.

In our podcast, Paula and I share tips on strategic networking, including how to craft clear, concise communications that make other people listen and want to take action -- which is to help you connect with their connections. We also share some networking pitfalls to avoid so you'll be able to maintain and deepen your most important network relationships.

After you listen to the podcast, let me know what your think -- share your networking success stories and/or lessons learned. How quickly do YOU follow-up after meeting someone new? How do YOU let a connection know that you respect his/her time when reaching out? Comment here on the blog, or tweet me your thoughts on Twitter -- @Coach_Colette.

Focus on Your Vision: Free eBook thru March 12

Did YOU Know -- that 2011 is the 40th birthday of the e-Book? That's right, it's been 40 years since Michael S. Hart created the first "e-Book".

And, March 6-12, 2011 is Read an e-Book Week! First recognized in 2004, the week is designed to educate and inform people of the fun and advantages of reading books electronically -- on your e-reader, on your laptop, or any other "smart" electronic device.

In recognition of Read an e-Book Week, I'm giving away FREE copies of my e-Book, Focus on Your Vision: A Positive, Practical Approach to Achieve Your Biggest Dreams until MARCH 12.

To get your FREE copy, visit the Focus on Your Vision page on Smashwords.com and use code RE100  at checkout. My e-Book is a great introductory tool to jumpstart your personal (or professional) strategic visioning process -- with the help of guided visualizations and insightful exploration questions.

As you know, all Focus on Your Vision e-Book purchasers are eligible to receive a discount on an introductory coaching session with me (via phone). Exact details on the amount and how to claim it are available inside.

Are you wondering what was the first "e-Book"? Visit the ebookweek.com website to find out and get more insight on e-Book libraries and "Project Gutenberg".

After you have read Focus on Your Vision, please submit a review on the Smashwords or Amazon websites to let others know what you learned or discovered. Many thanks, and happy e-Reading this week!

NEW Podcast: Make Your Brand POP in the New Normal

If you're an entrepreneur or "side hustler" in today's New Normal, you know it can be challenging to reach new clients and customers -- to make your message stand out from the constant information overload! Since you're reading this post, you're in luck because I've found a savvy, fashion-forward expert to share tips in a new podcast about how to make your brand POP in today's New Normal!

Meet Melissa Gonzalez, CEO of Lion'esque Media, an entrepreneur who truly grasps the concepts of networking and business. A former Wall Street executive, Melissa has become a force in the fashion world by helping up-and-coming designers to make their brands POP in today's New Normal.

Melissa uncovers emerging artists and designers and helps to grow their brands through media blitz coverage, video interviews, and hosted shopping events. Recognizing the challenge faced by her clients to gain exposure and visibility, she made a bold move -- she approached the Roger Smith Hotel to collaborate and showcase their wares at a storefront on Lexington Avenue between 47th and 48th Street in New York City. Can you say prime real estate??

In our podcast, Melissa shares her "lessons learned," including specific techniques on how you can find the right partners and champions to help make your brand POP -- based on your goals and target audience, and how you can creatively use social media in your business (or self-) marketing campaigns.

Her joint venture, the RS POP Shop, is a unique opportunity for artists and designers to connect online with customers [through the social media infrastructure of Twitter, online PR and blogs] and in-person with curious passersby along Lexington Avenue. Since inception, clients have included Animated Closet, Jensen Martin, LaQuan Smith, Lolli Poppit, Simon Carter London; many of whose designs have dressed a wide array of celebrities and have since collaborated with major brands like American Apparel and Club Monaco.

Designers also benefit from a sponsored, live broadcast opening night event and customized branding videos, like this one created for this month's RS POP Shop designer Patricia Brown for her jewelry collection. All proof that emerging doesn't have to mean invisible!

Listen to the podcast for more ideas to create a buzz about your brand and let us know what you think. What creative strategies have you used to make you or your brand POP in the New Normal? Comment here or tweet me your responses and ideas to @Coach_Colette.

Be Strategic in Your Job Search: Tips from Coach Colette

You've probably already heard that the January jobless rate fell to 9%, the lowest level since April 2009. Yet, if you're someone who is looking for work, this positive trend may not feel connected to your personal experience. And, it's true, we must look behind the numbers to get a sense of our individual experiences.

As someone who was impacted by corporate restructuring twice in my career, I'm committed to guiding and supporting the unemployed, leaders in transition and all working professionals who are seeking to advance their careers. Recently, I was interviewed by Monica Ross-Williams on Reach Out Job Search Radio to share my tips on how job seekers can gain a true competent advantage TM in today's New Normal -- namely, the tight employment marketplace.

Reach Out Job Search Radio provides the latest information on issues that affect unemployed, underemployed and American workers from all industries. I've uploaded my interview to my podcast channel on iTunes; but, thought I'd share my answer to one of Monica's questions here for you.

MRW: Where would you suggest job seekers begin their research of the current marketplace for trends, true opportunities or current issues to address during the interviewing process?

Coach Colette: Every industry and organization has its unique characteristics. Job seekers need to become investigative reporters who explore all of the issues, trends and opportunities for their target industry. Start with the major news and business news outlets (e.g., CNN, CNBC) to find out about general economic trends and growth areas. Media has also gotten very local; for example, Patch from AOL has over 700 sites with local news about specific locations around the country. If your next career move might involve relocation, sites such as these can help provide an inside scoop on job and/or housing opportunities.

Then, research to find the major websites and publications that are specific to your target industry. Become visible and establish yourself as an expert by commenting on industry blogs and websites. Finally, before your interview, visit the website of the company with whom you're meeting, so you can ask a targeted question about what's happening in their world.

Want to hear my full interview? Visit my podcast channel on iTunes to hear more tips on how you can be more strategic in your job search. Let me know which tips resonate most with you, and share your job search questions and success stories! Comment here on the blog or tweet me on Twitter -- @Coach_Colette.

NEW Podcast: Rise of the Sugar Mammas & the SHE-conomy

While you’ve likely heard that women often only earn $0.77 of every male $1.00, did you know that today’s SHE-conomy has also created a rise of 'Sugar Mammas'! Want to learn a NEW definition for this female phenomenon? Tune into my latest podcast with fellow 85 Broads member, Manisha Thakor founder of Women’s Financial Literacy Initiative.

In addition to teaching an online personal finance course about the Money Rules for Women, Manisha is co-author of two critically acclaimed personal finance books for women: On My Own Two Feet and Financially Naked. You've seen her sharing tips for working women on CNN, CNBC Power Lunch or on The Rachael Ray Show.

In our podcast, you'll learn four positive financial characteristics of modern-day 'Sugar Mammas' that will help you take full advantage of the SHE-conomy and get into the driver seat of your financial life! Are you intrigued yet? OK, here's a sneak peek at one of those characteristics:

• 'Sugar Mammas' Always ASK for It. And, by "it," I mean the resources to meet your financial needs and obligations. As an employee, this could be asking for a raise, promotion; or even non-monetary perks such as scheduling or time off. As a business owner, this could be charging (asking for) fees that truly represent what your products and/or services are worth.

Do YOU ask for what you're worth? If so, you're most likely a 'Sugar Mamma'! Tune into the podcast to learn the other three characteristics. Then, comment here or tweet me your thoughts and feedback to @Coach_Colette. Use the hashtag #SugarMamma so we can keep the discussion going!

What 3 Words Will Shape Your 2011?

Two years ago, I was inspired by social media expert Chris Brogan to refine my goals and capture my true intentions by focusing on 3 Words that would shape my year. Here is a link to that post. Each year since, I've used my 3 Words and accompanying affirmations as a daily mantra to keep me focused and forward-thinking.

Here are my 3 Words for 2011:

1. RELEASE: I intend to release negative beliefs, energy and people from my mind and my life

2. ACT: I intend to take concrete, specific actions to fulfill my true intentions, dreams and desires

3. LOVE: I intend to keep my heart open to love in all its manifestations so that I may attract my love partner and soulmate

It's fitting that I write and share this post with you today, as I was able to physically release some "e-waste" from my space (old audio, computer equipment) -- one item, in particular, I was especially glad to let go of. The space is beginning to feel lighter.

In Focus on Your Vision, I write about how reaching a deeper level of awareness of your intentions can help you make choices about what you do, who you want to do it with, and how you respond to people when they make requests of your time.

Your intentions can transcend your personal and professional relationships and encounters. For me, this year, my intentions are blended between the two aspects of my life -- in a more explicit way than ever before. And, I feel that it's important for me to articulate them in this way so that I can be authentic to both my personal and professional goals.

What about you? What 3 Words Will Shape Your 2011? Feel free to comment here on the blog or tweet me your 3 Words on Twitter to @Coach_Colette.

What Are Your 2011 Intentions?

Happy New Year! To welcome you into 2011, I've created a CinchCast (mini podcast) of this post in addition to the article about setting intentions below. It includes an excerpt from my NEW eBook, Focus on Your Vision: A Positive, Practical Approach to Achieve Your Biggest Dreams. Let me know if you like this mixed media approach!

Do you know what it means to have 20/10 vision? It means being able to see things clearly at 20-feet, that other people can only see while standing 10-feet away. It’s literally like having a bird’s eye view of the world.


What would it mean for you to have 20/10 vision in your life? Can you think of how much more you could accomplish with this level of attention and motivation in 2011?

You might be wondering how it’s possible, especially since we’re living in a New Normal. You may feel like you’re running full speed ahead, at 90 mph, 24/7. I often feel like the circus performer who spins plates on those long poles.

But, a New Year is a New Beginning! And, you know I believe you can develop a POSITIVE, PRACTICAL and STRATEGIC mindset to achieve your biggest dreams and feel more fulfilled.

Focusing on your vision will help increase your confidence, so you'll be able to meet your current challenges; plus you’ll learn to anticipate and sidestep new roadblocks that might pop up throughout the year. One way to approach a level of 20/10 focus is by revealing your key intentions for 2011.

The word intention can be defined as: “an act or instance of determining mentally upon some action or result ”. Basically, it’s making a mental choice to act or behave in a certain way, with the hope that you will achieve a desired result. A first step towards revealing and setting your intentions is getting to know yourself better. This may seem easy at face value; but sometimes we’re not always honest with ourselves about what we really want. It’s important to truly contemplate your intentions because they can help motivate you when you encounter challenges or roadblocks.

So, let's start by reflecting back on 2010, and think of 3-5 things you’re most proud that you accomplished:

• What accomplishments made you most proud personally?
• What accomplishments made you most proud professionally?

Now, based on those accomplishments, consider what intentions (or actions, results) would most inspire you to keep moving forward in 2011?

Revealing your intentions can make it easier to choose between competing decisions, requests from others and/or tasks to complete. For example, if you were to have an intention of maintaining a healthy body weight for 2011, it might help you choose healthier food options while grocery shopping or eating out.


Ideally, it’s best when you can choose in favor of your intentions. Typically, when you choose to act according to your intentions, you feel more at ease and less conflicted. It’s because you are being authentic by honoring your true desires and priorities.

Feel free to comment here, or tweet me your thoughts on Twitter; just search for @Coach_Colette.

Here's looking forward to a happy, healthy, intentional New Year!

A Brief Reflection on 2010



Sam Javanrouh, http://wvs.topleftpixel.com/

Today, my daily Enneagram message inspired me to take some time to reflect on 2010. The message had a compelling reflection prompt and a personal exploration question all wrapped into one! So, I thought I'd share them both with you:

• Reflection Prompt: Reflect on 2010 to see how you've grown and what issues still block your way to deeper transformation.
• Exploration Question: Has there been a theme during 2010, and do you see a pattern for your future challenges [and opportunities]?

For me, I believe that I have grown spiritually by committing to and completing the Chopra Center 21-Day Meditation Challenge. Since August, I've been meditating and/or reciting my gratitude list nearly every day. And, I use the mantras I've learned to "flip my script" and counteract any negative self-talk. I believe that this new perspective has continued to motivate me to explore new possibilities for my business and be open to attracting new potential partners.

You know that as a coach I believe in transparency; so I'm choosing to share my personal transformation challenge (of letting go) with you. I believe I'm blocked in allowing certain things to manifest in my personal life. It is a continual process for me to affirm my future vision, set my intentions and LET GO of the exact manner in which these things will manifest for me personally.

The primary theme for 2010 is based on one of my 3-Words for 2010 -- global. You've read about my global library project, plus new global partnerships I formed this year. I do intend to deepen and expand my global relationships in 2011, and do more traveling as well. I need to get out (of my office) to explore the world and continue to expand my horizons.

I'm sharing this small excerpt of my 2010 reflection and 2011 visioning, even as I've been aiming to unplug during my snowy "staycation" this week. I'm still pondering what will be my 3-Words for 2011; and have yet to create my 2011 vision slideshow. But, I didn't want the year to end without a quick message to you. Thank you for reading and for sharing your thoughts and insights with me this past year.

"Each of us is here for a brief sojourn; for what purpose one knows not, though one senses it. But without deeper reflection one knows from daily life that one exists for other people." -- Albert Einstein

Here's wishing you a Fantastic, Fun, Healthy, Happy New Year!

I look forward to interacting with you in 2011.

For What Are You Most Grateful This Year?

"Gratitude is heaven itself." ~ William Blake

Thanksgiving is often a day to reflect on and share the aspects of our lives for which we are most grateful / thankful. This year has been interesting -- sometimes exhilirating, sometimes challenging, sometimes unexpected.

I had an "A-HA!"moment last evening, reminding me to be grateful / thankful for all of my experiences. It can be helpful to remind ourselves that we are shaped by all of our experiences. It can be so easy to focus on the things that haven't worked, or didn't go the way we wished -- and lose sight of the lessons and insights we've gained. On a higher plane, things are the way they're "supposed" to be.

I am grateful / thankful for this opportunity to reflect on this, and ponder my other sources of gratitude. Here are a few:

I'm always so grateful / thankful for my parents, whose unconditional love is an unspoken source of support and comfort. And, I'm grateful / thankful for the ability to still spend time with them.

I'm grateful / thankful for my friends, whether near or far; many fun memories that can be a great pick-me-up on a challenging day.

I'm grateful / thankful for my clients, whose needs I always hope I am meeting.

I'm grateful / thankful for my global travel and encounters this year -- reinforcing my belief in affirmations and mantras ("global" was one of my 3 Words for 2010).

I'm grateful / thankful for my home and all of its comforts -- even if there are things I'd like to change or improve.

For whom / what things are you most grateful this year?

Feel free to share your thoughts here or tweet me on Twitter.

NEW Podcast: Get Paid What You're Worth Even in the New Normal

Has the New Normal impacted your ability to negotiate for money?

The message we're receiving about money in today's economy is that it's TIGHT! Consumers are scrutinizing every purchase; and, managers are still nervous about spending. To get ahead, you must be able to demonstrate the ROI and value-add of any additional resources.

The GOOD news, I've just recorded a new podcast to help you! It's my conversation with Kathleen Kingsbury, founder of KBK Wealth Connection. In this podcast, Kathleen and I discuss how you can master your money psychology, and increase your ability to negotiate for what you're worth.

Whether you're an employee preparing for your year-end performance review, a job seeker getting ready to land your next job, or an entrepreneur planning to close your next deal, this podcast has great tips for you!

Kathleen, a certified professional coach and author of Creating Wealth from the Inside Out Workbook, helps clients to bravely look at their relationship with money and to make lasting financial, behaviorial changes.

One money psychology strategy we discussed on the podcast is to figure out which aspect of your brain you typically use when you're negotiating or discussing money: your emotional mind or your rational mind. This will help you understand how you're responding to the other person. Listen to the podcast for the series of questions Kathleen recommends you ask yourself before these conversation.

As always, I want to hear your feedback about the podcast. Feel free to tweet me your money success stories (or challenges) on Twitter. And, if you'd like to share part of your Dear Money Letter here, please do so in the Comments section!

Here's to all of us gettin' paid in 2011! :-)

Shop 'Small' at InStep on Nov. 27 - Get $25 Back

Did you know: For every $100 spent at a local business, $68 returns to the community?

This year, Saturday November 27th is the first-ever Small Business Saturday -- a day to support the local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy, and preserve neighborhoods around the country.

If you're an American Express cardmember, you have an even better incentive to participate: a $25 statement credit when you spend $25 or more at a small business. To participate, you'll need to register your American Express card by November 27th at http://smallbusinesssaturday.com/.

Then, visit our Online Shop to purchase one of our career development or wellness tools -- either for yourself or as a great holiday gift for a friend or family member! By shopping "small," you'll achieve HUGE results from our practical, holistic resources.

Please help spread the word, and shop online on Saturday, November 27th!

Thanks for your support!
@Coach_Colette

Do You Know What You Don't Know?

Five years ago when I began writing this blog, I told you why I believed focusing on your competent advantage TM was a great way to build and sustain your career. I've since learned that my "attraction" to competence may have something to do with me being a Type 3 according to Enneagram ... but more on that another time.

My fascination with competent advantage TM also comes from my work in Human Resources / Training & Development, observing how managers have used competencies to determine:

• Who gets hired
• Who gets fired
• Who gets promoted
• Who gets training - and on what skills/topics

In today's New Normal, I think there are benefits to "going back to basics" to revisit this theme of competence. One framework about how we learn that has always intrigued me was proposed by renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow - known as the Four Stages of Learning. I've listed the stages below with some insights to help you consider each stage, and how it might relate to your learning and achieving your goals in light of recent challenges/changes:

1. Unconscious Incompetence: "I don't know what I don't know." You don't even recognize that you need to learn how to do something.
2. Conscious Incompetence: "DING! Lightbulb goes on!" Now, you've just realized that you need to learn how to do something.
3. Conscious Competence: "I know that I'm doing it." You've just started to learn how to do it, and you're very aware as you keep practicing to get better at doing it.
4. Unconscious Competence: "It's a no-brainer!" You don't even think about it anymore -- you do it automatically whenever needed.

In today's New Normal, I believe it can be very helpful to use this framework to prepare yourself for new experiences, and figure out the best (and, perhaps, the quickest) ways to learn new things or enter new industries and markets. Here's a brief activity to help you:

Think about one skill or talent -- something that you do very well. Then, ask yourself four questions below to help you recall the four stages (insert your skill/talent in the spaces):

1. How did you realize that you needed to learn how to _____________________?
2. How did you find out what you needed to know/learn about _______________?
3. How did you practice and improve your ability to ___________________?
4. How do you _______________ now -- in ways that you don't even think about?

When I begin a new project, if I feel any anxiety about it, I ask myself similar questions to recall other times that I've been successful doing it. This not only boosts my confidence, but helps me think of tips, techniques and methods that worked before that I may be able to use again. Does this make sense to you?

So, do you know what you don't know? How will you figure out how to learn it? Share your comments, thoughts and reactions here -- or tweet me on Twitter.

What's Your 2011 Success Plan?

Does it seem a bit early to be talking about 2011 goals? Not really, if you think about it. Once the holidays are underway, you'll be thinking about LOTS of different things. So, why not take some me-time now to begin planning your 2011 Success Plan.

Of course, everyone has their own definition of success -- at work and at home. Our team measures its success by the degree to which we help YOU meet (and exceed) your professional and personal goals. You know we believe in offering POSITIVE, PRACTICAL, and STRATEGIC solutions to help you succeed in today's New Normal.

Let's make a deal -- if you tell me more about your 2011 goals, I'll let you know how I can help. I've created a brief survey to get a better sense of your priorities.

Can you put aside 10 minutes this week to answer 10 questions that will jumpstart your 2011 Success Plan? At the end of the survey, you'll find out how you can arrange an introductory call with me to review your plan and see if it's a right "fit" for us to work together on achieving your goals.

I believe it is possible to create a career and life plan that aligns with your interests, talents and values. It just may not be as linear as you'd originally imagined. I think we're all beginning to learn and accept that lesson as we continue to navigate today's New Normal. What do you think? As always, comment here or tweet me your thoughts, challenges and success stories on Twitter.

How's Your Want-To? Get Inspired for FREE through Nov. 30

Have you been looking for a little boost these days? Or, searching for insights to keep you motivated as you continue to navigate today's New Normal? Good news -- right now, there's a FREE online Leadership & Influence Summit happening! Originally scheduled to end today, the event has been extended through November 15th.

This online event features brief, inspirational and informative videos from over 30 of the top experts on business and leadership including: Marshall Goldsmith, Michael Gerber, and Keith Ferrazzi. And, they're all "on-demand" so you can watch them on your own time, at your own pace.

I first learned of the program from my good friend, Kevin Carroll (8/31!!!!), who is also part of the Summit. His presentation is about how we can maximize our Human Potential. The great thing about Kevin, though, is that he keeps it real and shares insights from his lessons on the playground and from his grandparents.

I had the wonderful fortune to meet and travel with Kevin during my work on the Turning the Page leadership development training for public librarians. His keynote presentations inspired me every single time I heard them (over 25 times). And, I must admit, that recently I've had to check my "want to"-- that's his grandfather's expression for passion and drive -- as it's been a little worn down. Yes, even the Coach has to do some soul searching every now and then! Kevin reminded me that I am courageous by staying committed to building my business even in the uncertainty of today's New Normal.

Listening to Kevin on the Summit has helped. I also discovered a new potential inspirer, Jon Gordon, whose video is about Positive Leadership. His soup analogy made me recall my grandma's macaroni and cheese -- it wasn't the type of cheese she used that made it so good, it was all the love that was baked in.

When you have the chance, take a look at the videos on the Summit, and let me know what are your favorites! You can share them here, or feel free to tweet me on Twitter (their hashtag is #landisummit).

NEW Podcast: Meditation-Your Secret to Success in the New Normal

Can meditation change your brain? That's a question that neuroscientists have been seeking to answer for decades - and there appears to be some evidence that it can, in a positive way. In today's New Normal, the pressure to perform can be overwhelming. The good news is that you CAN find tools to relax and release your tension and anxiety. Meditation is one of those stress-releasing tools. And one, I'd suggest, that could become your [peaceful] "secret weapon" to overcome personal or professional hurdles and challenges you may be facing.

This summer, I completed a 21-day meditation "challenge" led by the Chopra Center for Wellbeing. I've been meditating nearly every day since then (even while I was out of the country). I've found that it helps me because I'm more easily able to access a mantra or positive phrase to flip my script when things get stressful.

With my newly-regained interest in meditation, I thought it would be great to create a podcast that would help others learn more about the benefits of regular meditation. And, so my latest podcast is my conversation with Stacey Shipman, creator of the audio CD Let it Flow: Short Guided Meditations and author of Experience Less Stress, More Success: Networking for Business. It was great to chat with Stacey again because she really makes it easy for people to learn how to relieve their stress and boost their personal confidence.

In the podcast, Stacey and I talk about the different types of meditation, and how easy it can be to begin meditating using the type you most enjoy. We share tips to remove distractions (internal thoughts and external things) that can get in your way, and discuss how you can build meditation into your daily schedule to help you focus on your true priorities.

So, you know I'm a curious coach! After you've listened to the podcast, let me know what you think; and share your successes (or challenges) with meditation. Where is the best place, and when is best time for you to meditate? Feel free to share your comments here, or tweet me on Twitter. Until we next connect, Namaste!

NEW Podcast: Find a Business Partner Who Won't BLEEP You

So, you've probably figured out that in today's New Normal you can't do it all alone. Whether you're seeking to advance your professional career, expand your business, or launch your new "side hustle," building relationships is crucial to your future success and sustainability. Your ability to develop strategic alliances and identify new partners will determine how well you're able to enter new markets and industries, find new opportunities, and really stay afloat.

In business (as in life), relationship building can be a tricky process. We know when it works, you can't wait for the next project or opportunity to work together! And, when it doesn't work, you can't wait for the project to end - hoping never to work with that person again! We've all been there - it all sounded great in the beginning ... but somehow, things changed and what you THOUGHT was going to happen, didn't. And, now you're left wondering how you got there in the first [*!#] place.

The trick with business relationships: How can you find a partner who won't [BLEEP] you?! 

In this podcast, you'll hear my discussion with Nina Kaufman, owner of Ask the Business Lawyer, and author of The Entrepreneur's Prenup: How to Choose a Business Partner Who Won't [BLEEP] You. Nina is an award-winning business attorney, sought-after professional speaker and online columnist for Entrepreneur Magazine.

From our conversation, you'll learn how to select the right alliance partners, and when you should have written agreements. You'll also gain some tips on how to avoid the emotional and financial pitfalls of doing business with a friend or family member. In the end, ideally, you each want to be able to benefit from the other's skills, talents, resources and connections. In life, there are no guarantees; but we hope this podcast may help you save some time and aggravation.

Take a listen, and let me know what you think. Have YOU ever been [BLEEPED] by a business/alliance partner? Share your comments and BLEEP experiences here -- or tweet me on Twitter.

When You Assume, You May End Up in Leuven

In some ways, being in Brussels and Paris a few weeks ago was not altogether different than being home in New York City – partly because of the urban environment. I say this not at all to minimize the beauty of the historical landmarks and overall savoir faire of the residents of both cities. While walking around, I felt comfortable and became accustomed to the pace. I almost forgot that I was in another country … almost!


What did I learn? When traveling, don’t assume that things you just “know” how to do will be done in the same way elsewhere. OK, that seems like a no brainer [yes, I know the quote!]; but how often do we do that in our everyday lives – assume that our way of doing things is the only [ahem, best] way? Here are two lessons I learned from my rail travel in Europe – mostly practical tips, but perhaps you may be able to extrapolate some life lessons as well.

ASSUMPTION: How can I, a veteran NYC subway rider, possibly go wrong on the Paris Metro? Try arriving in Paris Gare du Nord on a Friday evening during rush hour with only euro bills, American credit cards, and a long queue of people waiting behind me to buy tickets! Even though I had my hotel destination clearly mapped out by a friend – with all of the transfers – still I ended up waiting in the taxi line for 45 minutes after my third attempt to use the vending machine didn’t work. That’s right; my American credit cards didn’t have the embedded “chip.” [And, I’d already declined the offer for a reserved taxi from the attendant on the Thalys train down from Brussels.] I did manage to make my way around Paris via Metro after that night. On my last day in Paris, I even was able to help another visitor navigate the machine to purchase a carnet (group) of tickets … it was an even trade for their euro coins to change my 5 euro bill.
 
LESSON 1: When traveling by Metro in Paris, keep a stash of euro coins handy (or travel with someone with a French credit card) so that you can purchase tickets.


ASSUMPTION: If I’m riding on Brussels Rail – it has to be like Amtrak, right? Not, so much! While riding the Metro in Paris, I’d noticed the door button – may have even seen someone use it; but didn’t pay it much attention. I learned this lesson while on a Brussels Rail train returning from a day trip to Bruges. Long story short, I stood in the train vestibule waiting for the doors to open, and watched as the train pulled away from the Brussels-Noord and soon gained speed (I quickly figured out it wasn’t just inching forward to be in line with the train platform). This led to a late-night impromptu stop in Leuven (luckily only about 20 minutes further) before re-boarding a train heading back to Brussels. The funniest part was the reaction of the rail conductor when my friend explained to him what had happened. Although you could see the “silly Americans” expression on his face, he was quite considerate and didn’t charge us an additional fare.

LESSON 2: When on a train in Europe, be prepared to push the button in order for the doors to open. It’s not always automatic!

Of course, now I'll have to plan a trip to visit Leuven on purpose! And, I'm going to be more sympathetic to visitors who approach me for directions or guidance on New York City subways.

What assumptions have led YOU in the wrong direction? How did you get back on track? Share your comments here or tweet me your thoughts on Twitter.

NEW Podcast: Need to Save Time? There's an App for That

In today’s New Normal, time is tight – we’re all always “on,” trying to perform at 100%, on a 24/7 basis. And, technology has changed everything we do – the  constant stream of texts, tweets, and emails we receive actually affects the way we think and work. The good news is that we CAN take advantage of technology to save time and be more productive.

Tune into my latest podcast: Need to Save Time? There's an App for That!  It's my conversation with Tai Goodwin, founder of The Brilliant Network, a mastermind group for women entrepreneurs. A passionate coach and writer, Tai is committed to helping ambitious women grow from bright to brilliant by walking in their purpose and passion. Her articles have been published online at Forbes.com, Careerrealism, and EmpowerMe Magazine.

In this podcast, Tai and I discuss five of the top technology tools that can help you manage your time and achieve your goals more efficiently. Many of these tools will be helpful whether you're working within an organization, aiming to launch your "side hustle," or are a full-fledged entrepreneur. As always, if you have feedback on my podcasts -- or if you use other technology tools to help you get things done -- share them here or tweet me on Twitter! [PS - I'm still using TweetDeck ... when you listen to the podcast you'll know why I'm sharing this! :-) ]

Narrowing the Global Digital Divide: One Library at a Time

I’ve been a “card-carrying member” of the Brooklyn Public Library for a long time; but my passion and interest in public libraries truly blossomed as I traveled the U.S. the past two years training public librarians and trustees for Turning the Page: Building Your Library Community. I helped these leaders to build and maintain their project and fundraising teams; develop compelling stories that will motivate local residents to raise funds; and effectively advocate on behalf of their libraries with key funders and decision makers.

NOW, I’m excited to announce that I’ve been asked to facilitate the TTP program for a select group of  Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Library grantees. Next week, I will gather in Brussels with grantees from Botswana, Bulgaria, Chile, Lithuania, Latvia, Mexico, Poland, Romania, Ukraine, and Vietnam to lead this training. Attendees will include library directors, advocacy specialists, library association members and supporters, and government representatives.

One of the Foundation’s goals is to narrow the digital divide by “helping public libraries provide free, quality computer and Internet services to everyone who walks through their doors.” It’s truly an honor to be part of this endeavor to help narrow the digital divide – globally! I’m looking forward to learning more about the local needs and brainstorming strategies to ensure public access to the Internet and technology.

Beyond the software and hardware, our focus is on building sustainability – giving librarians and trustees leadership and communication skills to successfully encourage supporters to invest in library services over the long-term. I’ll continue to share updates and “lessons learned” from my journey. Until then, I’ll see you at the Library!

Coach Colette Offers FREE Strategy Coaching in October

In 2010, I’ve focused on helping you define your key priorities, implement your SMART goals and stay motivated in today’s New Normal. As you know, I’ve offered a series of FREE quarterly events (two teleseminars and one webinar) to help you and your team Bring Your Future into Laser Focus. The next seminar was originally scheduled for Thursday, September 30. Since I know it’s been a challenging year for many of us, I’ve decided to sweeten the deal and give you even more personalized help.

To help you kick start your 4th Quarter results, finish the year and exceed even your own expectations, I’ve decided to replace the September seminar and instead offer FREE one-on-one 30 minute laser coaching sessions! You should sign up if you are a CEO, CFO, Executive Director, Board Chair, or any Team Leader who is responsible for bringing in revenues, setting organizational priorities, or managing strategic projects.

Sign up for your Bring Your Future into Laser Focus individual strategy coaching session so that you can:

• Create a crystal-clear vision for the business results and revenue goals you will achieve in the 4th quarter
• Uncover hidden challenges that may be sabotaging your success in achieving these goals
• Identify ONE task you can execute right after the session that will bring you immediate, positive results
• Leave the session renewed, re-energized and inspired to share your vision, and encourage active participation and ownership by all team members in your collective success

Being clear on your vision will improve your productivity, morale, and motivation so you'll able to pull your team together to meet current challenges (e.g., higher expectations, tighter budgets and fewer resources, increased need to integrate systems and teams).

If you’re serious about making some real headway for you and your team as the economy rebounds in 2011, sign up for your FREE Bring Your Future into Laser Focus individual coaching session TODAY! I have a limited number of spaces for individual coaching sessions that will begin on Monday, October 4, 2010.