Are you flourishing in life? Part III

We must learn that we cannot travel this road called life on our own.  God created us to be loving and kind towards each other.  He wants to ensure that we have and maintain flourishing relationships with others.  We were created to interact with each other and care for each other.

We cannot live in this world alone isolated from others because as human beings we crave love, affection, and attention.  The first few years of our lives we are nurtured by loving and caring adults.  We are taught in the first five years of our lives the importance of human interaction.  Our parents spend their time caring for us, loving us, and protecting us.  Our parents do this so that we can grow up to be productive members of society.  Also, it prepares us for adult relationships.  Our parents teach us the importance of being in good productive relationships that will make us better people.

You will flourish in life if you learn to build strong and supportive relationships that will give you the strength to make it. Do not be afraid of interacting with others because interaction allows you to flourish as a person.

Part III of III in the “Are you flourishing in life?” Series

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com

Image courtesy of dan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Are you flourishing in life? Part II

There is a battle inside of your mind right now between the “flourishing self” and the “languishing self”.  The “flourishing self” mindset understands that you are a success and you can do anything that you set your mind to.  But, the “languishing self” mindset only sees the current situation and believes that you are stuck where you are.

The main characteristics of the “languishing self” mindset are:

• Feeling discontent, uneasy, and unhappy.
• Pick up bad habits that will sensitize the pain on a temporary basis.
• Spend precious time being fearful and angry.
• Are not productive and are afraid to try new things.
• May feel lonely and worthless.

The main characteristics of the “flourishing self” mindset are:

• Believe in one’s spirit and heart that one can blossom, prosper, and thrive.
• Are being empowered, inwardly by God, to believe in oneself.
• In the mind have consistent thoughts of happiness, joy, peace, and love.
• Being transformed by “the renewing of one’s mind” because loves new knowledge and learning.
• Have no issue with time because understand the importance of gaining knowledge no matter what.

Once you have a true understanding of who God created you to be, you can start the process of flourishing.

Part II of III in the “Are you flourishing in life?” Series

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com

Image courtesy of Mister GC at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Are you flourishing in life? Part I

God has created us to flourish and become better versions of ourselves.  We change as we grow closer to God.  We become more like the person God intended us to be.  We change for the better.  Psalm 100:3-4, “V3 know ye that the Lord He is God; it is He that has made us, and not ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.  V4 enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.”  When we allow God to mold and change us. We are getting restored to the beautiful person God wants us to be.

There is a battle inside of you right now.  The “flourishing self” vs. the “languishing self”.  The “flourishing self” can only beat the “languishing self” if you stay positive, believe in yourself, and maintain a close relationship with God.  To have a close relationship with God you must stay in His Word (the Bible).

How to keep the Word of God in your mind and spirit:

• Digest the Word;
• Breathe the Word; and
• Live the Word.

Psalm 92:12-15, “V12 the righteous shall flourish like the palm tree.  V13 those that are planted in the House of the Lord shall flourish in courts of our God. V14 they shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing. V15 to show that God is upright.”

God wants His children to flourish in their personal lives and their professional lives.  He just wants you to have a close relationship with Him and live the life He intended for you to have.

Part I of III in the “Are you flourishing in life?” Series

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com

Image courtesy of ratch0013 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Age is Nothing But a Number!

The best way to grow old is to allow everything to fall away until those around you see only love.  Do not allow yourself to just exist, do things to better the lives of others.  Ecc 9:4; 10, “V4 for to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion. V10 whatever you find to do, do it with all your might…”  You only live one lifetime, let your lifetime be amazing to someone else.

As we get older, we are given many opportunities to show others how to live a purpose-filled life.  Numbers 13:30-31, “V30 and Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.  V31 But the men that went up with him said, we are not able to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we.”  Sometimes a person will need to see an example of how to live life purposely without fear.

Growing older means that you are wiser and more conscious of the world around you.  Also, as you grow older you are less fearful of trying new things.  As you grow older, you are more open to learning and gaining more knowledge.  Baby boomers are starting to redefine old age because they believe that age is nothing but a number. Baby boomers have the philosophy that you must live life to the fullest and enjoy it.  Baby boomers have taught their children and grandchildren that life does not end at 65 years old.  Life begins when you decide to live it fully and purposely.

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com

Image courtesy of imagerymajestic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Be Open to Constructive Criticism!

You must understand that sometimes you will need to be “called out” for certain behavior or actions that are not becoming of you.  There is nothing wrong with receiving constructive criticism as an adult.  Constructive criticism helps you to grow as a person and will make you a better person.  Some adults have this misconception that because they are grown and no longer under their parents’ care, they do not need to be taught anything new.  But in reality, you never stop growing and learning as a person until the day you die.

Here are four qualities of individuals who have no problem with receiving “constructive criticism”:

• Teachable. They are always listening, love to learn, and are open to being counseled to.
• Available. They are not trying to avoid anyone and are seeking out others for guidance.
• Vulnerable. They have no problem admitting when they are wrong.
• Honest. They love telling the truth and love to be told the truth, even if, the truth may sting a little.

People come into your life to be open and honest with you.  In turn, these individuals will help you grow personally and professionally.  These individuals will ensure that you are successful in whatever you do in life.

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net  

Why you have great success in life?

Your success does not come from your hard work, determination, and accomplishments alone.  It comes from people who have helped you along the way, it comes from you believing in yourself, and it comes from others believing in you as well.  But, most of all, your success comes from your spiritual beliefs.  You are a success because God has ensured that you have everything you need to become successful.  God uses your success as an example for others to the see the importance of obeying Him (God).  You must remember that without God you cannot have “true success” in life.

Genesis 50:20, “But as for you, you thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”  Translated, “God intended it to accomplish the saving of many lives.”

God creates a plan for our lives the day we are born.  God knows exactly how He wants us to bring others to His Kingdom.  God gives us special gifts and talents He expects us to use to spread His great gospel to the world.  You should never feel that your talent or gift from God is not worth anything.  We cannot make it without each other on this journey of life God called us to walk.

Remember that you did not become successful on your own, but you had plenty of help along the way.  Without God in your life, your success is not worth a dime.

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net 

Do not be afraid to take a stand!

Sometimes you have to take a stand against an injustice.  Throughout history there have been brave men and women who have taken a stand against injustices.  These individuals took a stand that helped to make the lives of others better.  Here are a few examples of brave individuals who were not afraid to stand against injustices of the world:

• Moses left the comfort of the Royal Egyptian Family to lead his people to freedom.
• Noah built the Ark.
• Jesus came to earth to teach men and women how live a “Christian” life. Also, Jesus gave His life for our sins to ensure that we received salvation from God.
• John Brown and Harriet Tubman risked their lives to end slavery.
• Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X gave their lives to end the injustices faced by Black Americans under the Jim Crow Laws. Both men taught people how to be proud of who they are.
• Rosa Parks refused to give her seat to a White Man on the bus. This sparked the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement.

The list goes on to how many men and women sacrificed their liberties and personal lives to end injustices of the world.  These heroes and heroines took the initiative to make a change and fight against injustices.

It does not take much initiative to make a change.  As Michael Jackson’s song “The Man in the Mirror” states, “The change starts with you”.  Young people of today (21^st Century), see the importance of changing the status quo.  They understand that if you want to end an injustice, you have to take the first step to do so.  God created us to take care of each other.  He requires that we help each other when there is a need to do so.  We were given the nature of caring and nurturing.

So, take the initiative to change the world and make it a better place.  God created us to be people of action and not just all talk.

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com.

Image courtesy of photostock at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

The Best is yet to come!

God has great things in store for your life, if you allow Him in.  Sometimes God will block certain opportunities from coming your way because He has something better in mind for you. God will block “bad things” from happening to you, but you may not realize this in the beginning.  We must understand that God tries to save us from ourselves.  God wants to ensure that no harm comes to us.  God will allow certain things to happen to us to teach us a valuable lesson.  When God says “no” to our prayer request, He knows the timing is not right for “yes”, and knows that something better is coming along.

Psalm 84:5, “Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them.”  Psalm 84:11, “The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.”

We must learn to say “thank you” to God for the “no” answers because God has blocked something that wasn’t good for us.  We must learn to trust God and put our faith in knowing that God always has our best interest at heart.  In order to save us from ourselves, God is not afraid to interrupt our lives or allow us to suffer a little. The main reason for God allowing us to suffer a little is that God loves us too much to allow us to drown in something we thought was good for us.

God has to say “no” sometimes because He knows what is best for us and has something better in store for us!

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net  

How to Market Your Business on a Shoestring Budget? Part II

This is the second article in the “Marketing Your Business on a Shoestring Budget” Series.

I provided you with the first three inexpensive methods of marketing a business on a “shoestring budget” (in article one):

• Networking.
• Business organizations and social groups.
• Social Media.

Here are the last two inexpensive methods of promoting a business on a “shoestring budget”:

The fourth inexpensive method to market a business is creating a blog page and internet radio show.  Doing a radio show and blog site can be beneficial depending on the type of products and services offered to customers.  When starting out as a newbie entrepreneur, it is good to go with the blog sites and radio sites that are inexpensive.  There are some good blog sites and radio sites that provide their services for free or at a reasonable price. Blogs are a form of “informational articles”, these type of articles provide the audience with information that can be beneficial to them. Also, the blogs provide the reader with insight on the types of services and products the business offers.  Blogs let the audience know that you are an expert in your particular field.  Blogs are a good way to promote a business because the entrepreneur is doing their own advertisement.

With internet radio, entrepreneurs are allowed to discuss topics in their field of expertise. Radio shows allow entrepreneurs to interact with their customer base on a more intimate level.  Also, with internet radio it is a way for entrepreneurs to promote other business owners by having them as guests on the show.  Blogging and internet radio are good resources to promote your business in an efficient and economical way.

The final way to promote your business on a “shoestring budget” is by creating a website for your business.  You can create your own website for a reasonable fee.  Until you are able to afford a web developer who can create a “state of the art” website for your business, it is best to create a website page at a reasonable fee.  Also, you can get assistance with creating your website from friends and family members.

Here are a few reasons why it is good to create a website for your business:

• Keep customers up to date on products and services.
• Keep customers informed of upcoming events and special sales.
• Offer discounts on products or services to subscribers of the website.
• Have informational articles on your website to resolve issues customers may have.
• Website can have testimonies from happy customers.

The key to marketing your business on a “shoestring budget” is the following:

• Preparation;
• Research; and
• Good resources.

Also, it does not hurt to create a marketing plan before spending time and money on promoting your business.  Always think cost effectiveness when planning to spend time and money marketing your business.  Be careful not to fall for marketing scams, especially ones, “that guarantee certain results within a certain amount of time”.  Do not pay for marketing tools that may not be useful for your business.  When marketing your business just use your “sixth sense” and “common sense”, then you will see positive results from your marketing efforts.

Part II of II “Marketing Your Business on Shoestring Budget” Series.

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

How to Market Your Business on a Shoestring Budget? Part I

Small business owners believe that in order to successfully promote and advertise their business, they must spend a lot of money to do so.  But, when first starting a business, one must learn how to create a budget for advertisement.  Small business owners do not realize that are many economical methods to market and promote their business.  There are many ways to promote a business without breaking the bank and it can be done on a “shoestring budget”.

Here are some inexpensive ways to market your business:

The first inexpensive method to market your business is networking. Networking involves going to business and social events to gain knowledge and make the right connections.  By networking you can create strategic partnerships with other businesses that provide products and services similar to your business.  With these strategic partnerships, you can create a great referral source for customers.  Also, creating a business referral list for customers is a good way to ensure that one’s business has a regular flow of customers.  Whenever one attends social events, it is advisable to have business cards to pass out to businesses and potential clients.  Also, ensure that you have your “30 second” sales pitch ready to introduce yourself and your business to others.  Networking is critical to promoting your business because it gives you the chance to hone your skills in selling your business to potential clients, it allows you meet other business owners, and it allows you to create business relationships that can last a lifetime.

The second inexpensive method to market your business is by joining business organizations and social groups geared towards your type of business.  Joining business organizations and social groups is the best way to connect with other businesses.  The membership fees for such organizations are from $0 to $300 per year.

Most business organizations provide the following perks:

• Good events to attend.
• Seminars and workshops.
• Retreat events that focus on relaxation and valuable training at the same time.
• Social mixers where entrepreneurs can mix and mingle with each other.

Social groups and business organizations are a good way to promote a small business and make valuable connections. These business connections can be a good resource for one’s business.  Plus, these business connections can create a good support system to deal with the everyday “pains and headaches” of running a business.

The third inexpensive method to market your business on a “shoestring budget” is by using social media.  With social media, you can create a special page for your business.

Why it is good to create a social media page for a business?

• Can provide valuable information to the public about the business.
• Keep your customers up to date on upcoming business events.
• Provide valuable information that the public can use in their everyday life.
• Allows the business to keep customers up to date on special sales of products and services.

Social media allows a business to connect with other businesses and share valuable information with each other.  To be successful on social media sites, a business has to create a presence.

Here are some good pointers to consider when creating a social media presence for a business:

• Ensure that you have something of value to offer.
• You must have good content.
• Know your audience.
• Know the wants and needs of your audience.
• Share the content of others.
• Do not always have a “sales angle” with your content.
• Ensure that your content can solve a problem.
• You must be present on social media on a regular basis.

These are just a few inexpensive methods of marketing and promoting your business on a “shoestring budget”.

Part I of II “Marketing Your Business on Shoestring Budget” Series.

Donya Zimmerman is a business consultant, mediator, and legal professional with over ten years of experience.  Donya is also a public speaker and aspiring author.  She has a few books in the works that will be published and released in the latter part of 2015. The books will focus on entrepreneurship, small business, and daily devotionals.  She is owner of Family & Community Mediation and Business Consulting (FACMBC) and Powerful Biz Woman (subsidiary of FACMBC). Both are based in Baltimore, Maryland and were established in 2013 and 2014. Services provided by FACMBC:  Mediation and Conflict Resolution Services; Business Registration Assistance (Limited Liability Company, Corporation, S-Corp, Limited Liability Partnership, etc.); Business Plan Drafting Assistance; Business Certification Assistance (MBE, WOSB, 8A, 501(c) (3), Hub Zone, etc.); and Business Organization Assistance.  Services and products provided by Powerful Biz Woman are workshops: Entrepreneurship 101; How to Stay Out of Tax Trouble and Legal Trouble in Small Business; Start up 101; and Female Entrepreneurship 101.  Powerful Biz Woman provides books on the following topics: Entrepreneurship 101; Daily Devotionals for Entrepreneurs/Small Business Owners; Daily Devotionals for Female Entrepreneurs; Small Business Owner Tips; Powerful Biz Tips; and Inner Will Power to Make Your Dreams a Reality.  These books will be available starting September 5, 2015. Donya Zimmerman is also a contributing writer with the Maryland Daily Examiner Newspaper and the Leadership Girl Newsletter. Donya Zimmerman has made article contributions to the Simply Inspirational Women in Business Journal for 2014 published by Dr. Cheryl Cottle.

If you are thinking about starting your own small business or non-profit organization do not hesitate to contact Donya Zimmerman because she can show you how to do so. Contact information: dzimmerman36@gmail.com; www.facebook.com/FACMBC; www.twitter.com/FACMBC; https://dzimmerman36.wordpress.com; www.linkedin.com/in/dzbusconsultantandmediator; www.conflictresolutionandconsulting.com.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net