I have been working on my calendar for next year and I wanted to share a few tips and tricks that I find really helpful to keep your business running more efficiently and hopefully, with less forgotten details. 

1. Enter all delivery/shipping times for the seasons you sell. For example, most accessories and clothing for Fall ships on or around July 30^th every year.
2. Back out when you need to have samples ready for your photo shoot and creating catalogs. * Don’t forget to schedule the photo shoot and book any graphic designers you need to use if any.
3. Now back-out when you need to start your production to make those delivery dates and mark that down.
4. Back up again and note when you need to order your raw materials to start production on time. * Don’t forget to check your inventory of hangtags & labels.
5. Back up again and note when you need to begin your design process. Everyone is different so be sure to give yourself the time you require.
6. Special note: If you need to attend fabric shows, gem shows and the likes, be sure to calendar those as well.

Ok so who doesn't get a bit nervous walking into a room when you don't know very many people, or even worse, not a soul?  I know I do!  Networking events can get a bad wrap just thinking about them right?  I love meeting new people, but do admit that I find it a lot easier (and less nerve wracking) at a dinner party when a seasoned host is a master at mixing and mingling the right guests.  And of course, a cocktail usually helps loosen up the crowd!  I like to think I am fairly practiced at walking up to strangers, and yes, I do sometimes practice in the mirror to polish a few new ice breakers of my own! 

I find that the most boring approach is asking someone what they do……OY already right?  Depending on the event and my purpose for being there, I try to come up with some questions that feel appropriate and will help me attain my goal.  My goals vary from event to event and I might be looking for different outcomes like meeting new friends, scoping out potential JV partners, learning some new techy trick, just gathering business cards, and sometimes just meeting people who can refer a client down the line.  I like to make friends and get to know people to see what happens down the line.

I reached out to my Entreprenette Experts for their tips on awesome Ice Breakers so read on……they have great tips!

1. Come Bearing Gifts

My best Ice Breaker: My top 3 ice breakers when meeting new clients:

1. Come bearing a gift. This can be anything from a gift card to a nice business pen or something practical for any business person. It's hard to go wrong with this approach.

2. Compliment something specific. A tie, a college class ring, etc.

3. Talk up technology. If you notice a client's smart phone, ask them their thoughts on it. Then compare it with your own phone. It's an easy way to find some common ground.

Thanks to: Tony Adams of Electricians Dallas.

2. Ice Breakers When Traveling

My best Ice Breaker: If you travel a lot on business and meet new clients in different cities, here are my top 3 ways to break the ice while on the road:

1. Ask a potential new client for advice on a local restaurant. What do they recommend in the area? An easy way to start talking about food, and who doesn't love food?

2. Do a little research about the city's sports history and current conditions and talk up sports to the locals.

3. Ask a client how long they have lived in the area. It's a natural.

Thanks to: Terry Jones of Houston Tree Trimming Company.

3. Be Yourself!

My best Ice Breaker: I truly believe when it comes to networking, much like the dating game, cheesy lines don't work! It is crucial to be yourself! Before a networking opportunity, I scan newspapers and listen to News Talk Radio to get topical issues for conversation. By simply chatting about current events and asking the other person questions, you will create a warm and friendly environment. After which, you can segway nicely into discussing your business and possible opportunities! Sorry no magic formula!

Thanks to: Christy Cook of Teach My.

4. What Brought You Here Tonight?

My best Ice Breaker: I find that a simple, honest approach is best and often start conversations at networking events by asking "What brought you here today/tonight?" It's an easy open as everyone has a reason for being at that particular event, whether it's a friend's invitation, simple networking or to promote a particular service or product. By approaching someone and giving them a friendly opening to talk about themselves, they then usually reciprocate and we are able to easily start a valuable conversation.

Thanks to: Dawn Mena of Captivating Copy.

5. Don't act like a robot online

My best Ice Breaker: Online networking can be challenging since you risk being ignored. Grab their attention by asking a question. Discuss the ways you can help each other out. Make your message interesting but brief. Feel free to bring up common connections, introduce yourself and always offer the opportunity to continue the conversation over the phone and/or Live Chat. BE REAL. No one wants to read an email or LinkedIn message written by a robot sounding salesperson.

Thanks to: Nancy Essebag of Agendize.

6. Smile and Connect!

My best Ice Breaker: Networking has been a wonderful way for me to meet new friends. I start with putting a smile on my face & then pay a compliment. As a jewelry designer I am always interested in what people like to wear, so I comment on their accessories. It helps to mention the group at whose event you're meeting. It is important to find something in common - a lively exchange usually follows. If you find yourself in an awkward silence gracefully move on. Whatever happens don't forget to exchange business cards!

Thanks to: Joanna Morgan of Joanna Morgan Designs.

7. Networking Ice Breaker

My best Ice Breaker: At networking events, I simply step up to someone who is not deep in conversation and offer a warm smile and a handshake. I say my name and business and ask them to share what they do. I completely focus on what they say because I have found this to be the best ice breaker. Listening and asking clarifying questions helps that person to know that you are really intrigued, not just getting past the formalities to promote your own services. They will typically warm up to you much more quickly.

Thanks to: Jayna Locke of Your Wish Marketing.

8. Be Positive, Perceptive, True

My best Ice Breaker: A simple 5W or H statement which is positive, perceptive and true is an easy icebreaker. Where did you get that stunning scarf? Who cuts your hair, it looks great. Asking about the other person puts them in the position to know the answer. Question + Response = Communication + Listen/Respond = Conversation. Act as a host (even if you're not) to put others at ease, while learning a bit about them which you can use to introduce them to others. Be sincere.

Thanks to: Melinda Mallari of Precision Market Services.

9. Don't be shy ;)

My best Ice Breaker: top 3 icebreakers:

- If I'm at a formal networking event: Smile and walk right up to someone standing alone and say "hi, my name is Tanya, what brings you here?" Its classic, but it works.
- If I'm at a bar or a party, the best thing to do is ask how you know the host, I genuinely like to know anyway!
- When I change it up: when I see someone that really stands out and has great style, I will definitely say something about their outfit that I like. Who doesn't like a compliment?

Thanks to: Tanya Menendez of The Brooklyn Bakery.

10. Engage & Laugh Questions

My best Ice Breaker: You see a friend/client talking with someone you want to know.
Hi "friend" small comment, and this is? extending your hand. They introduce themselves. "So you know "friend", tell me, what is the most exciting thing about "friend"? This moves the focus to "friend", starts the conversation on a positive, tells new person you are a positive person and does things others do not do. Now "friend" owes you one, new person is far more open to conversation.

Risky, not really, landed big accounts

Thanks to: Harlan Goerger of H. Goerger & Assoc dba AskHG.com.

11. Be Positive, Perceptive, True

My best Ice Breaker: A simple 5W or H statement which is positive, perceptive and true is an easy icebreaker. Where did you get that stunning scarf? Who cuts your hair, it looks great. Asking about the other person puts them in the position to know the answer. Question + Response = Communication + Listen/Respond = Conversation. Act as a host (even if you're not) to put others at ease, while learning a bit about them which you can use to introduce them to others. Be sincere.

Thanks to: Melinda Mallari of Precision Market Services.

12. Compliments go a long way

My best Ice Breaker: I am always nervous at networking events. I find that complimenting a person on their shoes, tie etc. breaks the ice for me. I also find that if they have a hand held device in their hands, I will mention something about mines what I love about it, my favorite features that breaks the ice as well. There are people that are just as nervous as I am and is waiting for someone to say something that they are comfortable talking about. Technology usually gets me a great response 95% of the time.

Thanks to: Eula M. Guest, COO of Griot's Roll Film Production .

13. Just Say Hi

My best Ice Breaker: Oldie but goodie! Just say "Hi!" and go from there. I don't know anyone who doesn't like a warm and friendly smile, followed by a "Hello". Make small talk. Ask what products are theirs and about inspiration. The best thing to do is listen and make sure they know you are not just interested in spreading the word about your stuff, you would like to know more about what they do. Made all the difference in my first Handmade Holiday experience!

Thanks to: Jessica Kessel of JKesselDesign.

14. Put the Net in Networking

My best Ice Breaker: Make the most of those holiday parties by finding out beforehand who will be there, then prepare. That doesn't mean buttonholing someone you want to meet and forcing a business card on him. It means making a great impression by having something very interesting to say, and casually mentioning your pitch if the situation presents itself. You'll get that introduction and conversation if you are prepared, arrive early, and put yourself where you can see guests arrive.

Thanks to: Sandra Lamb of www.SandraLamb.com.

15. Awful clients

My best Ice Breaker: I do a lot of networking, so for me it’s not just about business connections—I want to have fun as well. I try to bring up memorable exchanges with people I meet as networking events, like asking about the weirdest request the person has received, or what their most difficult type of client has been. It can be a great way to blow off steam, and an interesting horror story can make your memorable when you do your networking followup.

Thanks to: Heather Sunderman of Law Office of Maribel LaFontaine PC.

16. Don't Be a Networking "Yahoo!"

My best Ice Breaker: 1. Give something of value. NOT your company brochure! I offer a free training video to explain how I, specifically, help my ideal clients solve their problems. This builds trust.

2. When someone asks a question, I quickly answer it and end with, "But tell me about you!" It's all about THEM and when they are talking, you can find a need to help fulfill.

3. If your ideal client begins with, "Anyone who..." it's no good. Drill down so you can leave them with a specific picture of a person.

Thanks to: Vidette Vanderweide of VidetteV.com.

17. Why Lie?

My best Ice Breaker: Just say, "Hi, I'm Steve. What can you do to help my career?"

Thanks to: Steve Silberberg of Fatpacking.

18. Schmooze-a-palooza

My best Ice Breaker: 1- Avoid your buddy! While you may have friends attending the same event, being joined at the hip with your wing-woman will ensure you don't stand out as an individual.
2- Be a good mimic. As you echo back a similar tone of voice and key buzzwords that the other person is using, you start to speak in a way which he/she understands and puts the other person at ease.
3- Be sincere. The goal of networking is to create memorable connections that can build into long-term relationships.

Thanks to: Eileen Schlesier of SleeveShirt Consulting LLC.

19. I'm Timothy. What's your name?

My best Ice Breaker: Look for someone standing alone. Go up and introduce yourself. That person will be happy to have someone to talk to; you won't feel alone either.

Simple questions: What's your connection to this event? What brought you here? People like to talk about themselves. Let 'em talk!

Thanks to: Timothy Yee of Green Retirement Plans, Inc..

20. It's all in the name!

My best Ice Breaker: My name is Tabitha Jean Naylor. Tabitha, like the daughter on "Bewitched." Jean, like "I Dream of Jeanie." It's a unique name that I use to my advantage by always introducing myself by my full name. I joke around and tell people that my parents clearly watched too much TV when they were younger. It's a GREAT icebreaker.

My advice? Be creative in your approach. That uniqueness will set you apart from the rest - which is what will make you memorable out of a sea of other people.

Thanks to: Tabitha Naylor of TabithaNaylor.com.

21. Break the ice-don't fall thru

My best Ice Breaker: Successful icebreaking means being a bit different. Don't ask what everyone else is asking. Instead, personalize your comments: "You seem to fit in, no matter who you're talking to. You must be in sales." Compliments are welcomed ways to get a conversation going.

Successful icebreaking also means asking questions that reflect a thoughtful, insightful, interesting you. To illustrate, "What kind of music would match the event tonight?" Or, "If our host were a tv channel, what would he be?"

Thanks to: Marlene Caroselli of Center for Professional Development.

22. The Gung-HO Events Calendar

My best Ice Breaker: When going to a networking event where you know very few or no people, you can ask one simple question that will get you around the entire room. "Can you introduce me to one person you know?" You avoid the awkwardness of entering in an existing conversation, also people will be more interested in speaking with you when someone they know and trust introduces you. Side Note: If you don't know a soul at the event, call the host ahead of time and ask them.

Thanks to: John Green of Networking-HO.

23. Keep it Simple

My best Ice Breaker: Keep it simple - "Hi, I'm Kane, what's your name?" is as plain and honest as it gets. Everything after that should be focused on learning more about the person (hint: that involves listening). If you're at an event with a speaker then it's easy - you can discuss the presentation. The rest is outlined in "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. Read that before you go to another chamber of commerce mixer.

Thanks to: Kane Jamison of Hood Web Management SEO.

24. Love your necklace

My best Ice Breaker: Or your necktie, suit coat, earrings, shoes — anything that catches my eye. Why? Because if there's something that appeals to me about the way your present yourself, it's a signal that there's a connection. And that makes me want to know more about you and your business.

Thanks to: Hope Katz Gibbs of Inkandescent Networking.

25. Be Real. Be Really Engaged.

My best Ice Breaker: Show up. As you are. Engage. Exactly as you are. Listen more than you speak. Hear what people have to say. Put your agenda last. As in, don't have an agenda. Show up.

What's the actual tip? Imagine the energy in the room like a big white ball that lights up in the hands of whomever is speaking. Watch the big white energy ball bounce around the room, remaining with whomever speaks the most. Be the person who takes the ball and passes it to others, listening when they are one speaking.

Thanks to: Danielle Lanyard of Green Breakfast Club.

26. Always Be Ready!

My best Ice Breaker: Always be prepared to market your brand in the most opportune and inopportune times meaning, anywhere, any time, and to anyone. From the corporate elevator to the produce aisle at the market, always walk through your open door of opportunity. Initiate a natural introduction; you never want to sound like a scripted recording. Always listen to the needs of the people; if you meet their need, you will make a sale! If people remember how much you care, they will remember who you are.

Thanks to: Brandy "BrandyWine" Rankins of Speak Life Ministries.

27. Infomerical intro

My best Ice Breaker: I pitch myself as though I’m in an infomercial: “Do you suffer from repulsive frustration & anger? Plagued with uncontrollable outbursts of rage? You need Janet Pfeiffer’s The Secret Side of Anger! In only 20 minutes a day, you can shed unwanted anger, eliminate unsightly aggression & shape your way to a more serene you. Order now! But wait, there’s more! If you order within the next 10 minutes…” It really gets people’s attention. They always want to know more about what I do.

Thanks to: Janet Pfeiffer of Pfeiffer Power Seminars.

28. A Winning Trifecta

My best Ice Breaker: 1. HAVE A GOOD WINGMAN: I use the "Have you met Ted?" Intro when my wingman and I enter a group. It gives him + you immediate credibility.

2. HAVE ONE FUNNY STORY TO SHARE: It will make you memorable for more than just a business card.

3.OVERTIP THE BARTENDER: A $50 when you first walk in will ensure you and your potential clients NEVER have to wait. Shows them you know how to get things done.

Thanks to: Richard O'Malley of The O'Malley Project.

29. Network Shmetwork!

My best Ice Breaker: We used to call it "meeting people" and "socializing," and it was much more relaxed. "Networking" even has "work" in the name! I try to truly enjoy myself at these functions. I walk in smiling and head to where most people congregate: the food area. I find something yummy, bite in and comment to someone near me. "Have you tried these? They're great!" Ice broken! Just have fun, and people will naturally gravitate to you. Ask people questions & really listen to their answers.

Thanks to: Sharon McRill of The Betty Brigade.

30. Ask, Don't Tell!

My best Ice Breaker: 1. What wish would you like the Networking Fairy to grant you today?

2. If this were your MasterMind Group, what problem would you have them work on for you today?

3. What do you do that makes you different from your competition: unique and worthy of attention?

4. Tell me about how you apply your expertise and valuable experience to your field.

Thanks to: Signe Dayhoff of Effectiveness-Plus Publications LLC.

31. Put the puzzle pieces together

My best Ice Breaker: One of my favorite ice breakers is throwing what I like to call a "problem solving party" I ask each participant to register for the event and list a challenge they are having. The challenges are then posted on the event page. When guests arrive at the event, they are actively looking for someone else to help solve the problem. Saying, "Nice to meet you, I think I can help solve your problem" makes for a great ice breaker!

Thanks to: Michael Roderick of Small Pond Enterprises LLC.

32. Networking for Introverts

My best Ice Breaker: Walking into a networking event filled with people you don’t know can be intimidating. Everyone is laughing and having a good time. Everyone, that is but you. You wish you were home watching TV. When that happens take a minute to scan the room. You’ll always find one or two people standing alone, looking around and hoping someone will rescue them. You be that person. Walk over, smile, hold out your hand and introduce yourself. You’ve just made their night. And each time will be easier.

Thanks to: Annette Richmond of career-intelligence.com.

33. Why break when you can join?

My best Ice Breaker: I have always found it easiest to "break" ice by merging into a natural conversation. If no natural conversations are occurring, a topic relevant to the surroundings, the weather, the season or the upcoming holidays are always ongoing conversations in a person's mind. For example instead of saying "Hi, I'm Dhenu Savla and an immigration attorney," I would rather say "Wow, great crowd here today, right?" and start from there.

Thanks to: Dhenu Savla of SwagatUSA.

34. It's All About Them

My best Ice Breaker: Until you know more about the person you're talking to, you can't know what they need to hear. The most interesting people are the most interested. That's why I break the ice by learning as much as I can about people I meet BEFORE I tell my story. My favorite question to ask: What are you most proud of having accomplished in your work, profession, career? They just light up. If they're a prospect, I make an appointment where I have their full attention and can tailor my message to them.

Thanks to: Susan Bender Phelps of OdysseyMentoring & Leadership.

35. Melt the Ice

My best Ice Breaker: Ask them if they've been to this event before. You might learn something but it's basic conversation that starts the ball rolling! If they don't give you a nice answer, move on- there are plenty of people to network with who will answer questions!

Thanks to: Stefanie Safran of Stef and the City.

36. Catch their attention!

My best Ice Breaker: When asked what I do, I start with “I’m a Food Mood Expert & nutritionist” - this piques their interest “Oh really, that sounds interesting…tell me more”
First I catch their attention with an interesting fact and then I say what I do: “Well, did you know that over 40 million American adults suffer from anxiety and panic attacks, and that the incidence is on the rise? I help women find natural solutions for anxiety using food and nutrients. Hi, I’m Trudy Scott”.

Thanks to: Trudy Scott of The Antianxiety Food Solution.

37. Complement Timing

My best Ice Breaker: When I approach a stranger at a networking event, I use the compliment. I go to the person and say something nice about what they are wearing or a behavior. Excuse me, I noticed your beautiful shoes and I had to ask you about them or Excuse me I couldn't help but notice how popular you are at this event so I wanted to introduce myself. Complimenting a behavior (gracefulness e.g) or an action shows that you are paying attention and engaged. Then simply say your name and go from there.

Thanks to: Angela Betancourt of Ambit Marketing.

38. Know Yourself

My best Ice Breaker: Remember who you are and what you know. Ask questions of others that play to your strengths. For instance, if you’re a runner, ask if they are. Proceed with good energy.

Thanks to: Roshini Rajkumar of Roshini Group.

39. Worst/best ways to network

My best Ice Breaker: Worst tactic: Walk up to someone, look at the name badge, decide if the credentials fit your needs. If not, look over the person's shoulder for a better opportunity and move on.

Best Tactics: Find someone alone, introduce yourself and say, "I haven't seen you here before. Welcome. What brings you here today?"

"I've seen you here before and have been curious to meet you."

Introduce yourself and say, "I noticed we seem to be wearing the same college rings (or tie or shoes, etc)."

Thanks to: Marian Thier of Expanding Thought, Inc..

40. Get Curious!

My best Ice Breaker: Making small talk won't feel awkward if you keep the focus off of you and onto them. Ask if they're a member of the group you're both attending. Or how they know the host. Or if they've heard the speaker before or been to the venue before. Easy-to-answer questions break the ice and provide an opening for additional conversation. Find someone standing alone. They'll appreciate the company and be most receptive to your questions. Finally, relax! We all feel the same way in these situations.

Thanks to: Elene Cafasso of Enerpace Executive Coaching.

41. What Are You Working On?

My best Ice Breaker: Just a little change in phrasing can make a big difference: at networking events, most people ask, 'What do you do?' But by asking 'What are you working on?' you give new contacts an opportunity to talk about current projects, where they need help and other jumping off points that are great for creating an opening that allows you tell that new contact how you can help him. If you're fast at adapting an elevator pitch, this approach makes landing new business easy!

Thanks to: Thursday Bram of Hyper Modern Consulting.

Dear Sarah,

I've recently launched my home-based business, and my sales are inconsistent. Until I can get a steady income flow, what are some ways that I can save money in my everyday life?

Thanks,

Sandi Hochman  Lucky Puppy

Dear Sandi,

Thanks for a great question!  I reached out to my friend Andrew of Money Crashers as he has awesome ideas about how to save money and get ahead!

 Starting a home-based business is a huge challenge, and in the beginning, times can be tough. However, there is no reason to despair as there are a variety of ways to save money everyday to make running your business more manageable.

1. Spend Less on Groceries Many people leave a lot of money on the table when it comes to grocery shopping. The best way to impact this expense is by using coupons and learning how to extreme coupon. Pick up a Sunday paper, scan through the ads for the items that you buy the most, and capitalize on all discounts. Many national grocers will "stack" or "double" coupons, and shopping at multiple grocers will allow you to save even more. Additionally, see if you have a farmers market near your home. They offer the same fresh produce that your favorite grocer has at lower prices.

2. Lower Your Rent/Mortgage If you rent, contact your landlord to negotiate a lower rental price. You can offer up services around the property (e.g. home repair) or you can capitalize on the fact that you have been a loyal tenant. It never hurts to ask. If you own a home, on the other hand, consider refinancing your home mortgage. I have refinanced my mortgage several times over the years to save money, and there are a lot of options at your disposal regarding different mortgage plans. And if you're upside down on your mortgage (i.e. you owe more than your house is worth), see if you qualify to refinance under one of the Making Home Affordable government programs.

3. Adjust Your Discretionary Spending If you are intent on building and establishing your home-based business, temporarily cut back on discretionary spending to free up more capital for your business. Yes, going without your morning latte or favorite cable channels can be annoying for a while, but it's only temporary and the extra cash flow could give your business just what it needs to take off. Once you get established with a more steady income flow, you can resume normal spending activities.

4. Save on the Business Itself There are many ways to save on the business itself. Consider used furniture and computer equipment to outfit your office in the beginning, and investigate all free forms of marketing. Also, make sure you are aware of and take advantage of any tax breaks and write-offs related to your home-based business.

5. Put Investing On Hold I never like to recommend not investing for retirement, but if you need to free up capital to maintain your business, considering scaling back your retirement investment expenditures. If you can get your home-based business to the level that it will generate significant income, you can resume and increase retirement investing. But if you want to tap retirement accounts for business capital and are younger than 59 1/2, be careful! Most of the time you'll be hit with steep penalties. It's best to first consult with a financial planner if you want to withdraw from a previous employer's retirement plan or your traditional IRA.

Andrew Schrage is owner of the personal finance site and business, Money Crashers.

In case you haven't noticed yet, I am all about helping you avoid the legal boo boo's that I made (and there were TONS) while starting and running my first business…….OY were there tons.  I made every mistake under the sun when it came to legal docs, working with investors, and protecting my own personal interests and not only those of the company. There is no reason for you to repeat any of the mistakes I made!  I asked my friend Linda Wang to chat with me about ways you can protect yourself as a start-up and she gives some great advice in this short interview.  Linda works with entrepreneurs to make sure they have the legal side covered and will generously offer advice if you give her a ring!

Check out Linda's packages to help you avoid any boo boo's and be sure to mention Entreprenette to receive 20% off.
If you are not sure exactly what you need, be sure to email Linda for a free 15 minute consult.

DISCLAIMER:The information in this interview is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered.  It is presented with the understanding that neither Cambrian Law nor Entreprenette is engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services.   If legal advice or other professional assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.

I saw a video the other day with my good friend and mentor Mike Michalowcz and it got me thinking…….

How can bootstrapping really make you a better business woman?

A lot of us dream of a big investor coming in (our knight in shinning gold coins) and solving all our problems, bringing a lot of savvy to the table, helping the business run more smoothly, and giving us that long awaited salary……right? Hey, I have been there with you……several times……in fact, I did bring on investors, and did hope they'd do all those things I mentioned above.  But did they?

Not really.  I did get a salary for a short while, and that was fabulous and all, but my business was still in it's terrible state of being mismanaged.  All the money really did was give me a longer leash to keep doing more of the wrong things the wrong way.

If I'd never gotten the money, I know I'd still be in business today!  

Bootstrapping really does keep you thinking on your toes (all the time), and in a different way than you would if the sand wasn't pouring out of the hourglass.  Being honest with yourself, and your bank account, is one, if not the most, important thing about your business.

Bootstrapping doesn't mean you can't grow.  It just means you grow more slowly, which believe me, is usually better.  Being "forced" to be more creative with your money, usually results in you becoming more innovative. Perhaps you are inspired to contact old friends with influence, approach the famous person you see at the drugstore, reach out to the unreachable, take that leap of faith your family thinks you are nuts for doing.

In order to find the things that will work for your company, you must be committed to trying everything.

As a true bootstrapper you will:

Only use the money you have in the bank today
Brainstorm creative sales strategies
Call buyers more than once
Present incentives that a buyer cannot turn down
Create more interesting press releases
Print and package everything yourself
Reexamine your production costs more often
Call the people you can ask for free advice (even if they never offered)
Drive the extra mile to save on your bottom line
Work late into the night
And pay yourself at least 10% of every dollar you make

What are your Bootstrapping tips?

If you want to check out the video with Mike…….It's worth the 3 minutes.

OMG are you as confused as I am at times with blog reviewers and if they are a good idea or not?  I just had to have a chat with my friend Megan over at Blogger Black Book and ask her to share her insider info with me (us) on how to best use bloggers to promote your brand.  As usual, Megan comes through with awesome info on how to find the right bloggers for your brand, how many to work with at a time, and how to get a blogger marketing strategy in place.  The most important thing, is to be clear with your objectives for having the blogger review your product – it is to drive FB fans, build your mailing list or direct sales to a certain retailer…….whatever the objective, be sure they are aware and can fulfill your requirements.  The other big take away for me was a great reminder – that the blogger must mirror your target market in order to be successful in reaching them!  Don't forget to register your blog for FREE at Blogger Black Book.

Megan is generously offering a 50% discount on her Blogger Black Book year long subscription for only $750 to get her monthly updated lists of bloggers.  Or, if you want to get her one-time download today, it's only $500.  Email Megan directly and be sure to mention ENTREPRENETTE for the discount.

When you hear the word press release what is the first thing you think of?  Somebody has great news to report right?  I think the same thing, and sometimes we can even be jealous of them and wish it was us right?  Did you know that the first thing most people feel when hearing the word press release is fear……of writing one.  Well I can relate to that as well can you?  It can be really hard to write about yourself, especially when needing to sing your own praises – you are sooooo not alone in that sister!   That is why god invented copywriters!  Yahooey! 

So what can we do to get ourselves great news to report? 

1. Getting products to celebrities
2. Reviewed in an on-line magazine
3. Mentioned in the newspaper
4. Landing a really big account
5. Portrayed or profiled in a glossy magazine
6. Hosting a trunk show
7. Doing an in-person event
8. Writing a book
9. Being on TV
10. Getting your product into a movie

My Entreprenette Experts give some great ideas on how to write a great press release that will help you get more eyes on it, more interest, and give you a better shot at some action! You will also find tons of leads for free and paid websites to post our release……and even a few places that will do it all for you…….loving that!  Don't be shy – let the world know what a superstar you are.  It's all in the spin.  And like I mentioned earlier, Copywriters are there for a reason……I use them all the time.

As the end of the year rapidly approaches for everyone, I know us product minded people are scrambling to make it the best quarter of the year, and some rely on 4Q sales to make their entire year!  My mind has been working overtime these days coming up with some out-of-the-box ideas for my clients and myself as I'm sure you are too. 

I want to share a few ideas that I have for you along with my Entreprenette Experts who offer some great tips too!  I'd love to hear your ideas too, so please share them in the comments so we can all have a great 2011 and encourage each other.

On-Line offers: I like to create a rush to purchase during the holiday season.  One thing I find to work well year after year, is to offer a different item on sale each day from Black Friday until Christmas.  If you don't carry enough items to cover that many days, you can make up different offers like 2 for 1 or buy one get 50% off on something else…. be creative and cross promote your own products.  You can even find other lines that compliment yours and offer something from theirs, and they from yours – gives you more exposure.

Wholesale Sales:  While stores are offering their own buying incentives to their retail customers, it's a good idea to find ways to entice buyers on your end to help them sell more of your products.   You might offer free shipping with a minimum order, offer a free extra item if the order is over a certain dollar amount, find an inexpensive promotional item that you can include for free with large orders.  If you are feeling really confident, offer a money back guarantee on orders placed by 10/31.

Trunk Shows:  Pick a cool store in your neighborhood and offer to do a trunk show.  Engage the surrounding stores and restaurants in participating as well with raffles, give-a-ways and special offers the same evening making it into your own "Fashion night out".

Home Parties: Everyone wants to give to charity especially at the end of the year.  If you can find a person with a nice big home who has lots of friends (hopefully wealthy ones),  and is passionate about a specific charity, offer to do a sale at their home and donate a percentage to their charity of choice.  They invite their circle, the charity will usually help promote it, and you can invite your list too.  Everyone wins!  This is also a great way to get rid of old samples and slightly damaged seconds……make a basket (or table) of the discounted stuff and watch it fly out the door at super low prices.

Have fun and good luck!