Game-Changing Strategies to Survive the Economic Chaos
Three successful business owners gave workshop participants a wealth of practical and inspirational tips on how to have a thriving company when times are tough. Otis Collier, an Atlanta-based personal branding coach and certified Internet recruitment trainer; Dee Robinson Reid, president and founder of Robinson Hill Hospitality Group, Inc. of Chicago; and Tess Snipes, founder and owner of Above & Beyond Consulting, LLC, in Atlanta, which offers aviation management, business development and other services, presented Game-Changing Strategies to Survive the Economic Chaos as part of the conference’s Reunion Track. Essie Mason-Purnell, president of Purnell & Associates, a career management company based in Chicago, moderated the Friday afternoon session. Collier talked about the advantages of what he calls "set it and forget it personal branding": creating an online identity that does not require constant updating. He said every business person should have a domain name, a blog and a LinkedIn profile. In Collier’s view, online marketing and networking are absolutely essential to business success. "If you’re not on the Internet promoting yourself, you are missing opportunities," he said. Reid, who owns several airport concessions, including Ben & Jerry’s, Cheeburger Cheeburger and Hudson News, advocated creating multiple income streams. She also sought to debunk the notion that business success requires developing a unique idea. "I thought I had to create the next pet rock," Reid said. As it turned out, she built her business around buying franchises. Reid also spoke about the importance of obeying the "universal law of giving," which means that you should approach business contacts by offering to do something to help them, instead of asking what they can do for you. Snipes focused her remarks on the concept of transformational thinking, especially curbing fear and doubt. "If left uncontrolled, fear and doubt can take over your mind like kudzu can take over a forest," said Snipes, who recommended using affirmations and visualization techniques to weed out negative thoughts. Snipes also touted the benefits she’s gained from participating in a mastermind networking group with several other women. "It helps you to stay on track," she said. "We really hold each other accountable." |
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