I Love a Parade!

It’s summertime.  What are you doing in your community to promote your business? Here’s an idea — get in a parade. That’s right — gussy up that old jalopy and be in a parade.   While you are at it, take a lot of pictures and talk to some other people in the parade.  Meet folks…

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What Is Branding?

Today we had a ground breaking for the new aquatic center in Hampton Iowa.  The mayor, city manager, co-chairs of the aquatic committee and several city council members showed up.  In the pouring rain and surrounded by muddy ground. Everyone had umbrellas.  It got me to thinking.  There’s a perfect opportunity for branding. Look at…

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Sunday Musings

I’m a great aunt – again.  Natalie Anna was born yesterday at 11:55 p.m.  6 pounds 9 ounces and 18 inches long.  Little shit huh?  Life is precious. Have you seen what Amber Naslund is up to?  www.brasstackthinking.com Looking forward to pie and ice cream on June 27th.  Looking even more forward to my friends…

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Got Money?

I do a good amount of fund raising. I live in a county where people are generous and willing to give.  Our churches cook a lot of food and raise funds for many things; roofs, operating expenses, mission trips and such.  They have a method – they’ve been doing it a long time.  Tell the…

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Need a little advice?

Here’s what I know. Surround yourself with things you absolutely love.  It creates an atmosphere ready for accomplishment. I just moved, and gave away everything I didn’t absolutely love.  If I had to think about it, it was gone.  I’ve unpacked and when I look around, I only see the things I love.  Books, art,…

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You Teach People How to Treat You

Today’s post is by guest blogger Christine Kane — as usual, she will make you think. Teach People How to Treat You by Christine Kane There I was in Web Guy’s office. He was overwhelmed and angry. He complained that clients were calling on weekends and late at night. No one was honoring his schedule.…

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Easy Supper on Thursday

Thursday I supported my local businesses. First I went to the After Five at the First National Bank.  I met and networked with other local business owners in town.  I also enjoyed a soft drink and some finger food snacks. Next I headed over the Windsor Theatre.  KLMJ radio station was out front giving out…

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Metrics on a Message

Image by DaveCrosby via Flickr That was a very nice message you sent out regarding vascular screenings~~thanks for your time! Robyn Thanks!!!!  It is wonderful; this is just another great reason why more businesses should be Chamber members!  Keep up the great work. Angela Sometimes it’s about both the message and fulfilling the client’s needs.…

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The Power of Social Media

Let’s talk about social media and what it can do for a small business. One day about two months ago I was on twitter and listening to what other businesses were doing.  I found out that Intuit was awarding grants to small businesses.  I began following @lovealocalbusiness right away. That led me to the site…

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Tell A Story

I’ve got a car to sell. I could run a short ad in the local paper and hope someone gets past the age of the car and calls me.  Or I could list it on Craiglist and make flyers and put around town.  I know I need to tell a story and give this car…

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