Work & Bomb Concerns

With the recent events in France (and around the world) would you know how to handle a bomb scare at work? Many people don't know what to do or how to react. The topic is so uncomfortable that many don't even want to think about it. Well, let me give you the basics. The best defense is an offense, which means thinking about the uncomfortable and knowing how to handle it.

1. First, if you take the call / threat - call 9-1-1- and then notify your boss.
2. Stay away from any specific area or packages. If a caller notes a certain part of a building on the phone, evacuate that area first.
3. Don't bother the first responders. They will provide information on an "as needed" basis. Make sure you give them all the details of the call or received threat and then take care of yourself and your employees. Don't ask questions or pull people away from their jobs.
4. Don't panic. This is easier said than done, but it is important to remain as calm as possible.

I know it is Friday. I know this topic isn't the easiest and by no means are these four steps (above) meant to cover every aspect of a bomb threat. But, if you can remember these basics, you are a lot better off than the people who don't even want to think about this possibility.

Here's a free checklist in the meantime: http://emilms.fema.gov/is906/assets/ocso-bomb_threat_samepage-brochure.pdf

Until tomorrow,
Twyla N. Garrett of HireIMe.com

Defining Disaster w/ Pets

Many of you know what a disaster is. But, do you really know what qualifies as an actual disaster? Disasters include everything from terrorist attacks to traffic accidents, floods to fires. The key to navigating a disaster (with as little loss possible) is to be prepared. Being prepared means having a plan in place for your home, family, business (employment), and your pets.

I know this seems to be common sense, but in a time of crisis simple things can become overlooked.
For pets make sure you have proper identification and that the animal is actually wearing it! Invest in good transport kennels before a disaster hits. Keep a stock pile for extra food and gallons of clean water. If your pets take medication, keep a spare prescription in an emergency kit. If you have a diabetic pet make sure to discuss a pre-disaster plan with your vet at the next appointment.

Never ever evacuate a home or business and leave a pet behind. If you are told to evacuate, leave early and take the animals with you, even if you think you'll be gone just a few hours. It is a good idea to Google in a list of hotels that take animals in your area and two hours outside of your area. Jot down the phone numbers and put them in your wallet. Even if you put the numbers in your phone, keep a copy in your wallet because the disaster could interrupt cell phone service.

In today's world, it is hard to not think about these terrible topics- but it is a reality that we have to live in. We often make plans for ourselves and forget to make a plan for out pets or those we are caring for who are elderly or sick. Take some time today to do this for yourself and others.

Twyla N. Garrett

Stop. Think. Connect. Are You Aware of This Campaign?

Today I want to cover the Stop. Think. Connect. Campaign being run by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Not many people are aware of the campaign, which is counterproductive to why it was initiated in the first place. As a leader on Twitter for being a Homeland Security resource, I thought it would be a good idea to update everyone on what exactly this campaign is.
According to the National Retail Federation, 141 million people spent $57.4 billion dollars during Thanksgiving weekend last year, and consumers spent nearly $600 billion during the 2013 holiday season. The biggest shopping season of the year comes with great deals and benefits to shoppers, but it also comes with certain risks.
Stop. Think. Connect. Is an online security campaign, which ties into how much money people are spending online. The DHS launched the campaign to help consumers shop safely and keep their personal information and financial accounts private. The campaign offers tips on how to do this, some of which I have noted below;
1. Use and maintain anti-virus software and a firewall. Protect yourself against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal or modify the data on your computer and leave you vulnerable.
2. Beware of deals that sound too good to be true. Use caution when opening email attachments and don’t follow web links included in unsolicited email messages. Watch out for extremely low prices on hard-to-get holiday items. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Keep a record of your order. Retain all documentation of your online orders in the event that your purchase does not ship or there are unauthorized charges on your credit or debit card. Also, be sure to review your credit card statement each month for irregularities.
4. Get savvy about Wi‐Fi hotspots. Limit the type of business you conduct when using public Wi-Fi networks. Avoid shopping online when using public Wi-Fi as your information can easily be accessed by hackers on a public network.
5. Shop on reliable websites. Take a look at the website’s trademark or logo to make sure it’s valid. Also, pay attention to the website’s URL. Malicious websites may look identical to a legitimate website, but the URL may use a variation in spelling or a different domain (e.g., .com vs. .net).
Since our social media culture is so 24/7, we often forget that (like the real world) bad people exist. Don’t allow yourself to become vulnerable during this holiday shopping season- or anytime. Follow the tips noted above and connect with the DHS directly for more information on the Stop. Think. Connect. Campaign.
Until tomorrow,
Twyla N. Garrett

Really James Franco?

I can't believe that I have to address the issue of James Franco and Seth Rogan's latest movie scandal- but I do. Homeland Security also had to release a statement about the pair's latest movie project, The Interview, today. Why? Well, the plot of the movie is about killing the leader of North Korea. The Department of Homeland Security said today that it is unaware of any active plot against movie theaters in connection with the hacking of Sony Pictures in spite of many stories circulating the Internet.

That's right, the DHS had to address a James Franco movie because of terrorist plots / rumors online that are making people nervous about heading to the movies on Christmas Day- which is one of the biggest movie days of the year! “We are still analyzing the credibility of these statements, but at this time there is no credible intelligence to indicate an active plot against movie theaters within the United States,” the DHS official said in a statement. “As always, DHS will continue to adjust our security posture, as appropriate, to protect the American people.” The unsigned note, assumed to be from the hackers who breached the computer system of Sony Pictures last month, is the first threat of physical violence in the on-going drama. (Forbes)

If you're concerned about safety during a movie, please follow the steps below and always report suspicious activity You can always connect with me on Twitter too. Let's continue the conversation.

Steps for Movie Safety;

1. Sit in the back row, preferably on one side or the other. This not only gives you a clear view of everything — and everyone — in the theater, but it also gives you easy access to the door.

2. See movies early in the day. There’s no telling when a psychotic person might open fire in a crowded area, but safe to say it’s more likely to happen at a midnight screening than an afternoon matinee.

3. Keep your cell phone handy. It’s polite to stay off your cell phone during a movie. No one likes seeing that flash of blue screen in a dark theater. But keep your phone on and handy, in case you need to make an emergency call.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

Small Fish, Big Pond....

I was recently asked how you compete as a small fish in a big pond. This person owns a retail business within a mall. While he has amazing products (and an even better location), he feels that the other bigger, brighter retail signs are stealing from his business. He asked me how does one compete as a small fish in a big pond. I put a lot of thought into this. Here are my top 3 ideas;

Step 1: Make sure customers can see you and your best-selling products through the retail space's front window. If your cashier is all the way at the back, people will be less likely to shop at your store. They want to see your product, buy it, and then easily get out of the store. It is a statistically proven fact that retailers with a cash register placed at the front of the store do better. Why do you think you can buy perfume as you arrive inside a Macy's store?

Step 2: Tone down the blaring music. Some mall retailers do this to "attract attention". If you are selling to a demographic of 13-20 years of age, this is OK. If not, the music becomes overwhelming and no one wants to stay in your store. Many people shop with a friend or while on the phone. Blaring music can interrupt their conversation and they will leave your store because of this.

Step 3: Offer something unique. More and more nail salons are offering champagne with their pedicures. Other stores provide dog treats. Figure out a way to offer something free that will be memorable to your customers- something the major retails simply couldn't do.

I hope this information is helpful.

Until Tuesday,

Twyla N. Garrett

Can You Be Persuasive?

Part of owning a business, or being in sales, is knowing how to close a deal and be persuasive. Not too many people are masters of this art. You can pitch your product or services all day long, but if you can’t convince people to part with their money- your business will fail!

If you want to become better at selling your products or your services, you have to look to improve upon your convincing skills. I did my research and have developed 3 easy steps to becoming more persuasive. The first step is an easy one. Shut up! That’s right, stop talking. Many people sell themselves out of a sale because they keep talking. Instead, talk about how your product or services solves a problem for the potential client and then zip your mouth. If they’re interested, they will ask the questions and come to a conclusion quickly. If you keep talking, you complicate this process.

You also want to share both positives and negatives. If you promote your products or services as fail-proof, your client will not sign up with you. You want to WOW the audience and promote your product but you don’t want to stretch the truth or over promise. So, briefly touch on the negatives associated with your products and services and then move on. Again, shut up about the negatives after you have covered them.

Finally, slow down. If you talk fast, you have to learn to work on slowing down. Most people distrust a fast talker. This is a proven fact. People buy from people who speak using a regular pace and tone. Talking too fast, swearing, using a high-pitch voice, saying “yes” to everything- these are all red flags for people. If you use these tactics, you will not persuade a single person.

I hope these tips help you improve your sales. If they do, please share your story with me on Facebook or Twitter.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

When Opportunity Knocks…

One of the biggest mistakes I see new business owners make is not knowing when opportunity is knocking. This fundamental cornerstone of business isn’t often taught in business school, but often talked about. You have to know when and where to look for opportunities in order to expand.

The best way to create your own business opportunity is by offering an upgraded version of your products or services. Yes, create your own opportunity. If sales are starting to flat line then take a page out of Apple’s tech book and create a newer, better version of your old products or sales.

You also want to seek out a narrowcast of options. This is a TV term but it applies to business. Don’t try to market your product or services to all of the people, all of the time. Instead, be precise about the group you want to capture and then start seeking out opportunities to network, introduce or promote your product at.

Don’t think advertising alone will create opportunities, either. Long term publicity campaigns are needed in order to layer your brand’s identity in a credible manner. Ads don’t produce credibility, longevity or a huge push in ROI.

Remember, creating your own opportunities are the best ones to take advantage of!

Until next time,

Twyla N. Garrett

3 Sure Fire Ways to Success

Here’s a secret… there is no secret to success. A lot of drive, sacrifice and ambition is required to be successful and sometimes, yes even sometimes, being at the right place at the right time makes all the difference.

After much thought, I wanted to share three tips to push success in your favor. These steps are listed below.

1. Say goodbye to expectations. You will fail to meet many of your own expectations and people will not often live up to your expectations. So, instead of expectations set up milestones.

2. Treat everyone with respect. No one is better than anyone else. Period. Since everyone has something special to offer, everyone is equally worthy and you need to ensure you are treating everyone with the same respect all of the time.

3. Give back. Whether it’s to a charity, a cause you believe in, or a stranger who could benefit from your help, there are immeasurable benefits to thinking of others. For one, you’ll become a better and more attentive listener. You’ll focus less on your own shortcomings. Plus, there are tax benefits involved which is always nice.

These three suggestions seem pretty simple but they are easier said than done. So, for the sake of success, try setting up milestones for people and goals – not expectations. Be sure to treat everyone you meet with respect and give back with joy.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla N. Garrett

When NOT to Delegate!

Here’s the thing, I am often asked about delegation. I am both for and against it. I don’t believe in micromanaging employees but there are certain tasks that shouldn’t be delegated. In fact, these tasks should be micromanaged and handled by you! What are they? Keep reading.

1. How you are spending other people’s money. Yes, this is a subject that is sensitive but if you have business investors then you need to be speaking with them and updating them on the progress of the project and how their money is being spent. It is crass to delegate this tasks to an administrative support position.

2. Leadership. This defines your company brand and your company’s culture. If you delegate leadership to a poor leader or a leader who has a different vision then you- your company will not reflect your vision. Be your own leader. Be your company’s leader. Actually lead!

3. Pitching products or services. Sure, you will need a supportive sales team. However, do not allow this team to decide how things are pitched or how your company is represented. You need to train and check in upon all the people who sell your products and services for you. Again, I believe in delegation – just now when it comes to the above tasks.

Until next time,

Twyla N. Garrett

Top 2 Sins of Entrepreneurs

I should clarify the title of today’s blog post. It really should read the Top 2 Sins of NEW Entrepreneurs. Hopefully, season entrepreneurs are still not making the following common mistakes.

1. A low cash reserve. You have to pay yourself first. If you fail, if you don’t make payroll, if a contract falls through – you need to be able to survive and at a reasonable rate. If you don’t have a cash reserve that can pay you, pay your bills, and float the company’s bills PLUS 5% then you’re ill-prepared.

2. Thinking you are entitled to a day off. Maybe, just maybe, five years from the day you start your business you will be able to take a week off and go on vacation. Even then, you will be mentally tied to your company. But at least you will be mentally tied to it in a vacation spot. It cracks me up when I hear or read about new business owners who are on vacation or taking a day off. Why? Well, there will be plenty of time for days off when you can’t compete because you took too much time away from your company initially and you’re standing in the unemployment line. Either you are working like a dog or you’re failing. There is no in between.

Until next time,

Twyla N. Garrett

Face Your Fear; Know People

There really are two types of smart. There is street smart and there is book smart. The street smart people fear the book smart people and vice versa. Why? They each have something the other wants badly.

When people start their businesses, they often have a common fear regardless of what type of smart they are. What is this fear? People. Every single company needs people to power it. There is no disputing this fact. But how do you engage people to talk about your company, buy your products/services, or even work for you? Especially when you fear getting to know people or pitching to a cold room of investors?

First, start by people watching. There is no better tool to understand people better than watching and observing them over a period of time. If you are in Starbucks and you see a potential client, don’t approach him or her at first. Get to know them by listening in to their order, how other people approach that person or how he or she approaches other people. Really learn a lot about this person before uttering a single word. It will give you an advantage when you do get the courage up to by his or her coffee for them (and using their order).

Next, follow your heart. If something is scary exciting- run with it. Don’t back down from success because you fear people. It your heart is saying yes and your panic button is saying no- go with your heart’s inclination!

Finally, if you are not connecting with people to help improve your company, find new people. Think outside the box of your own expectations and face your fear. You may not like the people you end up catering to, but your company will be in business and you will like the profit line.

Until next time,

Twyla N. Garrett

Yahoo! Says No More Working From Home!

Yahoo!'s CEO Marissa Mayer sent a memo to her employees this week stating there is going to be a ban on working from home. Yahoo! , which always allowed employees to work from home or from the office, made the move stating "more productivity" as the main reason. Angry workers leaked the company memo to the media.

This can be a tough situation for Mayer. I understand her thought process but there are several companies now running their offices from the CEOs home. For example, this article specifically cites the benefits of hiring companies run out of a person's home or keeping employees at home as having many benefits. But, Mayer strongly disagrees. She cited “what is right for Yahoo right now,” The New York Times reports.

There are benefits and negatives to every situation in life, including Yahoo!'s decision to recall employees back into the office. Employees can be watched more closely, especially if they are hourly. And, being in the office allows workers to become closer and brainstorm. But, the negatives can be costly. Having employees too close can lead to unwanted advances and potential legal situations. Also, office gossip is a huge distraction and so is requesting and approving PTO time.

I can see both sides of the argument. I am interested in what you, as a business owner or employee, have to say about this subject. Send me a DM on Twitter!

Twyla