Hey there, fearless entrepreneurs! Brenda, The Soulutionist here, is ready to drop some truth bombs about networking. It is time to Stop the PITCH SLAP. A “Pitch Slap” is a metaphorical term that describes rejection or disinterest when you prematurely launch into a sales pitch or business proposal before establishing rapport or trust with the person you’re talking to, emailing, or messaging. I first heard about it from my friend Laura Morlando, The Stress Commando, as I complained about my experience on LinkedIn and other networking events.
We’ve all been there, that awkward moment when you launch into your pitch, only to be met with a blank stare, a hasty retreat, or an unanswered connection request. It’s like a “PITCH SLAP” to the face! But fear not, my friends. Today, we’re diving into the art of building trust before you make the ASK.
Why Trust is the Secret Sauce
Imagine this: You’re at a networking event and spot someone you’d love to connect with. You stroll over, flash a smile, and immediately launch into your elevator pitch. Record scratch. Not so fast, my friend!
Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship, business or otherwise. Think of it like dating. You wouldn’t propose on the first date, right? (Well, most of us wouldn’t!) The same goes for networking. People need to know, like, and trust you before they’ll be open to hearing your pitch. I invite you to consider this the next time you seek to make a connection:
Action Steps to Build Trust
Be a Human, Not a Salesperson: Nobody likes feeling like they’re being sold to. Instead, focus on building genuine connections. Ask questions, listen actively, and show a genuine interest in the other person.
Find Common Ground: Look for shared interests or experiences. Building on common interests creates rapport and makes people more receptive to what you say.
Offer Value First: Don’t just focus on what you can get out of the interaction. Look for ways to help the other person. Share a helpful tip, make an introduction, or offer a listening ear.
Be Patient: Remember, trust is not built in a day. It takes time and consistent effort. Don’t expect to close a deal on the first interaction. Instead, focus on nurturing the relationship and letting things unfold naturally. This patience will reassure your potential connections and make them feel less pressured, knowing you’re not rushing them.
Follow-Up: After the event, take time to send a personalized follow-up email or message. This simple act shows that you value the connection and are interested in staying in touch, making your potential connections feel important and valued.
Brenda’s Bonus Tips
Be yourself: Authenticity is key. People can spot a fake a mile away.
Have fun: Networking should be enjoyable! Relax, be yourself, and let your personality shine.
Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable: Sharing a personal story or challenge can help build deeper connections.
Practice active listening: Put your phone away and give the other person your full attention.
Be generous with compliments: Everyone loves to feel appreciated.
Remember, building trust is an ongoing process. It’s about creating meaningful connections and showing that you’re invested in the other person’s success. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to building a network of trusted relationships supporting your business for years.
In the meantime, go out there and start building those bridges! And remember, the next time you’re tempted to launch into a pitch, take a deep breath and focus on building trust first. The joy of successful networking awaits you!
Hello, Trailblazers! Have you ever heard the saying, “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree?” Well, when it comes to my entrepreneurial spirit and business savvy, you can definitely blame it on my Momma!
As a child, I often found my mother’s insistence on excellence to be a source of frustration. Even the simple act of making my bed had to be done perfectly. However, as I reflect on these moments, I realize that my mother laid a rock-solid foundation for my future success in business.
You see, our kitchen and dining room tables weren’t just for meals; for my brothers and I, they were a classroom for life. My Momma, with her infinite wisdom and no-nonsense approach, instilled in us kids valuable lessons that have shaped who we are and how we approach life and business.
So, grab a seat at my virtual kitchen table as I share the top five life lessons that turned into my business blueprint:
1. Show Up to Make an Impact:
Momma’s Lesson: “Don’t just sit there talking about it. Go out and do it!”
Business Application: You can have the greatest idea in the world, but if you don’t put yourself out there, no one will know. My Momma was a master at connecting with others. When I started my business, I employed her practices by actively participating in networking events and online communities, which helped me build my brand and create opportunities for myself.
Action Step: Identify one networking event or online community to join this week.
2. Honesty is the Best Policy:
Momma’s Lesson: “If you lie, you will steal. And both are wrong.”
Business Application: Trust is the foundation of any successful business. Be transparent, keep your promises, and always act with integrity. Momma was resolute: Your reputation is your most valuable asset.
Action Step: Review your business practices and identify areas where you can improve transparency and communication.
3. Respectful Disagreement:
Momma’s Lesson: “Everyone’s entitled to their opinion, but that doesn’t mean you have to be rude about it.”
Business Application: Embrace diverse perspectives and be open to feedback, even if you disagree. Handle disagreements with professionalism and grace. I highly value Momma’s advice to agree to disagree without being disagreeable.
Action Step: Practice active listening and seek to understand differing viewpoints before responding.
4. Actions Speak Louder Than Words:
Momma’s Lesson: “Don’t just tell me you’re going to do something. Show me.”
Business Application: Your actions define your brand. Be consistent and reliable, and always strive to exceed expectations. Momma’s words, “No one is looking for a slacker,” remind me to pursue excellence and consistency.
Action Step: Identify one area where you can improve your follow-through and commit to taking action.
5. Authenticity is Key:
Momma’s Lesson: “Be yourself. You are a designer original.”
Business Application: Don’t try to fit into a mold or copy someone else’s success. Embrace your unique personality and let it shine through in your brand. Momma’s “There will never be another you, baby; show them your power. It is God-given” still makes me smile.
Action Step: Brainstorm ways to infuse more of your personality into your marketing and branding efforts.
Bonus Tip:
Momma’s Lesson: “Two heads are better than one.”
Business Application: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek out mentors. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and can offer guidance and support. Momma taught me I did not have to be the most intelligent person in the room. Also, in this Lesson, I learned the power of collaboration, teamwork, and service.
Action Step: Join a community dedicated to your success.
These lessons, straight from my Momma’s kitchen table to your entrepreneurial journey, have been my guiding light. I’m confident they can do the same for you. If you’re hungry for more of my Momma’s wisdom, join the Soulutionist Portal Group Coaching and let her spirit of excellence elevate your business practices.
Remember, success isn’t just about what you know; it’s about how you show up, treat others, and stay true to yourself. These lessons, straight from my Momma’s kitchen table to your entrepreneurial journey, have been my guiding light. I’m confident they can do the same for you. Let’s make your entrepreneurial journey a success together!
Now go out there, apply these lessons, and make your Momma proud!
One Last Thought
If you’re fortunate enough to still have your mother with you, take a moment to hug her for me (I miss mine). And when you get a chance, I’d love to hear what lessons you’ve learned from your mother that have contributed to your success. Share your stories in the comments below.
Hey there, Trailblazers! As we fire up the grills and soak up the last rays of summer sun, let’s not forget the true spirit of Labor Day. It’s a time to honor the hard work and dedication of those who built our nation AND a golden opportunity for us entrepreneurs to recharge, reflect, and strategize for even greater success!
Before we dive into the action steps, let’s take a quick trip back in time. Labor Day wasn’t always about backyard parties and mattress sales. It was born from the sweat and sacrifice of workers fighting for fair treatment and a better life.
As entrepreneurs, we’re part of that legacy. We’re the risk-takers, the innovators, the ones who hustle daily to build something meaningful. Labor Day reminds us to honor that spirit in ourselves and those we work with.
Action Steps to Make the Most of Labor Day:
Here are some actionable steps you can take to make the most of this Labor Day. These steps are designed to help you recharge, reflect, and strategize for even greater success.
Disconnect to Reconnect: Put down the phone, step away from the laptop, and permit yourself to unplug. Spend time with loved ones, immerse yourself in nature, or do something joyous. Remember, a refreshed mind is a creative mind!
Reflect and Realign: Use this break to take stock of your entrepreneurial journey. What’s working? What’s not? Are you still aligned with your core values and long-term goals? Labor Day is the perfect time to course-correct and ensure you’re on the right track.
Plan Your Next Big Move: While relaxation is key, don’t let Labor Day slip by without some strategic thinking. Brainstorm new ideas, revisit your business plan, or map out your marketing strategy for the fall. A little planning now can pay off big time later.
Show Appreciation: Take a moment to express gratitude to your team, clients, and partners. A simple thank-you note, a small gift, or even a heartfelt email can go a long way in building strong relationships and fostering loyalty.
Give Back: In the spirit of Labor Day, consider volunteering your time or donating to a cause you believe in. Giving back benefits others fills your cup, and reminds you of the bigger picture.
Remember:
Rest is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Don’t feel guilty about taking time off. Remember, during these moments of rest, your mind rejuvenates, and you come back stronger and more focused than ever.
Embrace the spirit of Labor Day. It’s a celebration of hard work, a recognition of your dedication, and a reminder to find balance and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You’re not alone. Reach out to fellow entrepreneurs for support and inspiration. We’re all in this together!
So, fire up that grill, raise a glass to the hardworking folks who came before us, and let’s make this Labor Day a springboard for even greater success!
Happy Labor Day, Trailblazers! Now, go out there and make some magic happen!
Hey there, my resilient warriors! On National Forgiveness Day, September 1st, let’s explore a topic many may struggle with FORGIVENESS.
I know, I know. When you’re battling the demons of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the word “forgiveness” can feel like a heavyweight. It might bring up anger, resentment, or even a sense of betrayal. But trust me, forgiveness is not about condoning the actions that hurt you. It’s about freeing yourself from the chains of the past, reclaiming your power, and standing firm in your healing journey.
Why Forgiveness Matters for PTSD Healing:
Living with PTSD is like carrying a backpack full of rocks. Each unresolved hurt, each lingering resentment, is like a stone added to that burden. Forgiveness is about taking those rocks out, one by one, until you can stand tall and breathe freely again.
When you forgive, you’re not saying what happened was okay. You’re simply choosing to release the negative emotions that keep you stuck. This can lead to:
Reduced anger and bitterness
Improved mental and emotional well-being
Better sleep
Stronger relationships
Increased self-esteem
Action Steps for Practicing Forgiveness with PTSD:
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Don’t try to bury your emotions. It’s okay to be angry, hurt, or sad. Acknowledging these feelings is the first step toward healing.
Identify What Needs Forgiveness: This might involve forgiving someone who hurt you or even forgiving yourself for something you did or didn’t do.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Healing takes time, and there will be setbacks. Don’t beat yourself up if you’re struggling.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re having trouble forgiving, a therapist can offer support and guidance.
Focus on the Present: Don’t let the past control your future. Choose to live in the moment and create a life filled with joy and purpose.
Remember:
Forgiveness is a process, not a one-time event.
You don’t have to forget what happened to forgive.
Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself, not the other person.
You are strong and capable of healing.
On this National Forgiveness Day, I encourage you to take a step toward letting go of the past. It won’t be easy, but it’s worth it. Embrace the power of forgiveness as you take time to re-write the story you tell yourself to regain your peace. If you or someone you love has thoughts of harming themselves or others, please call the National Crisis Lifeline at 988 (Veterans Press 1). They are available twenty-four hours a day.
You are a warrior; you deserve to be free and to live your life now—No Opportunity is Wasted. Remember, you are not alone. There are people who care about you and want to support you on your journey. Be Blessed.
Hey there, Trailblazers! Let’s talk about something I wish I had understood when I started this season of my entrepreneurial journey: the power of your story. As entrepreneurs, we’re not just building businesses; we’re living, breathing, rule-bending stories in the making. And trust me, sharing those stories isn’t just good for the soul; it’s essential for success.
Soul-Searching for Success
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Brenda, my story’s messy, full of twists and turns, and doesn’t fit the ‘perfect entrepreneur’ mold.” And you know what? That’s exactly why it matters!
The journey to entrepreneurship isn’t a straight line. It’s full of doubts, failures, and ‘aha!’ moments. Sharing those raw, real experiences connects you with your audience on a deep, personal level. It shows them the person behind the brand, the heart behind the hustle.
Why Rule-Breakers Need to Speak Up
For those of you who color outside the lines, sharing your story is even more critical. Society often tells us to fit in, follow the rules, and play it safe. But you, my friend, were born to stand out!
Your story is a beacon for others who feel trapped in the conventional. It’s not just about you; it’s about the impact you can have on others. It shows them it’s okay to question the norm, break the mold, and create their own path. It’s a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and unwavering belief in oneself.
Sharing Your Story: Where to Start
I know putting your story out there can be scary. But remember, vulnerability is strength. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Start Small: Share snippets on social media, in blog posts, or during networking events.
Be Authentic: Don’t try to sugarcoat your journey. Embrace the messiness.
Focus on Your ‘Why’: What drives you? What impact do you want to make?
Show Your Evolution: Highlight how your experiences shaped your expertise.
Use Your Voice: Write in a way that feels natural and reflects your personality.
Trailblazers Who’ve Shared Their Soul
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful storytelling can be. Take Madam C.J. Walker. Her story of overcoming poverty and discrimination to become the first self-made female millionaire inspires countless women and entrepreneurs of color. Or look at Daymond John of FUBU. His story of starting a clothing line from his living room inspires countless aspiring entrepreneurs. There’s also Sara Blakely(I speak of her often because she is a personal inspiration), the founder of Spanx, who shared her story of how she started her business with just $ 5,000 and a dream. These are just a few examples of how sharing your story can inspire others and make a real impact.
Your Story, Your Expertise
Remember, sharing your story isn’t just about connecting with your audience. It’s about establishing yourself as an expert. Your experiences, lessons learned, and unique perspectives are your credibility. Own it!
So, what are you waiting for? The world needs your story. It’s time to share your soul and inspire others to break free and chase their dreams. Need help sharing your story? Join the Soulutionist Portal Group Coaching to get started writing your story today. Now speak up, share, show, and tell them what you’re made of! I am Brenda, the Soulutionist, and I believe in you. Be Blessed.
