What Are YOU Thankful For?

I am thankful for...

• This beautiful centerpiece my daughter made for me
• The love and support of my family and friends
• My brother James, who is now pain free, R.I.P.
  
• Sunny, our loyal canine companion of 10 years now
  
• A change in government that glimmers with hope and promise

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Did You Receive a Layoff Notice?

Lately it seems just as common as the common cold...people are receiving layoff notices. If this has happened to you, perhaps it is time to re-evaluate your career, and lifetime goals.

Have you thought about being your own boss? How about creating a telecommuting arrangement with an employer? Many opportunities await if you can remain calm, and think outside your usual 3-walled cubicle.

If working virtually appeals to you, learn all you can before taking the leap. Think of new and different ways to make an income. Don't forget to network, let your friends know what you are seeking, or creating.

I Met Someone...

When you go to a networking event, you never know just who you will meet. This is the exciting part for me!

I'm thrilled to share with you the news that at a recent luncheon I met a professional, approachable, and creative web/graphic designer!

We creative types (me the writer), and Ryan, (my new graphic designer friend), may seem shy and quiet by nature. I can tell you that for me it is because I am always in "intake" mode. I'm listening, creating, and developing anything from new ideas to a simple letter composure in my head. It's somewhat compulsive for me.

After meeting Ryan, I went to my home office and took a look at her online portfolio, wow! I have met a creative genius who can provide my clients further assistance...where my words leave off.

Let me know if you would like to make contact with Ryan and I will personally introduce you...it's all about the networking, as you know :)

Get Your Feet Wet!

Chamber of Commerce meetings or luncheons are a great way to introduce yourself and your business to your local community. Check out the meeting schedules in your town and the towns nearby.

Be sure to take your business cards with you as you will shake many hands and be asked for your card. If your moderator asks for any announcements, make one! Even if it is simply a special offer.

Have fun, network, and afterwards take the time to email those you meet. Tell them how pleased you were to meet them.

Angels Among Us

The "experts" say to keep your business blog strictly business and save personal news for your personal blog. Sometimes it's best to allow honesty to prevail in times of sorrow.

Early...in the wee hours of this morning, another angel entered heaven. My brother, at a mere 49 years young, earned his wings after a valiant fight against cancer.

This photo was taken at my sister's wedding, we were goofing off on the dance floor :)

Until next time...hug your loved ones, or at least call them to express your love.

Is Good Help Hard to Find?

Over the years I seem to hear the same complaint over and over again. Employers are having a hard time finding an assistant that truly cares as much about their business as they do.

This really is no surprise to me. I tend to believe that the biggest difference in the attitude of an onsite assistant and a virtual assistant is the sense of being a partner in the success of the business they are supporting.

When hiring a VA, essentially a vendor for your business, the virtual assistant can actually feel like he or she is on an equal level, and in a partnership with the business owner. The success of the business = the success of the virtual assistant, and vice versa, of course.

"People are definitely a company’s greatest asset. It doesn't make any difference whether the product is cars or cosmetics. A company is only as good as the people it keeps."

~ Mary Kay Ash ~

How is Your Pursuit of Happiness Going?

This coming Monday, November 9th, we begin the Pursuit of Happiness Week. So I have to ask you, how are you doing on your pursuit? Are you already there? Or, are you struggling to reach happiness?