We all have a story. I always ask new customers “what is your story and is it being told?” Many times most businesses, brands, products and services begin with their story and then get caught up and forget how it impacts the value—they forget who the brand is targeting and lay that story to rest. In the “new world economy”, as I like to call it, your story is integral. It’s what draws potential evangelists and creates a connection that gives you permission to share with them. And in turn, they’ll share your story with others.
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In light of the response that I have received from some of my Linkedin Group members about the posts that I have shared—regarding social media—there is still a discomfort in moving ahead for many companies and business people. There are many others that are diving in and can see that this is now the best way to get leverage with their customers in this new soft economy—preparing for the robust but different future. We know that if you create the right strategy to begin with (know what your goals are before you start) you can and will be successful. Better yet, focus on the target market that has the spending and decision making power. Yes…I’m talking about women. They use social media and spend a significant time online. They love to share information and they want to engage with the companies that will fulfill their needs and address their challenges (because they understand). And the end benefit is that your company will gain a brand evangelist and a repeat customer that spreads the word to others like wild fire!
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I am have just finished watching Larry King and yes Larry is now on twitter. His guests were Ashton Kutcher and P Diddy and they were talking about the benefits of twitter and why they tweet. As you all know I write about social media daily - it’s benefits, the  interesting people leading the way and why YOU must get on board and engage your community, customers, clients, friends etc.
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“Our challenge is to see beyond the world and invoke new beginnings.”
~ Marianne Williamson

On the heels of President Obama’s speech last night to congress, he hosted his first lunch for newspeople. I get a feed from a site called mediobistro.com that focuses on media news from various sites. I came across some of the “newspeople”—really news anchor’s blogs—and of course was drawn to Katie Couric’s blog. She calls it Couric & Co.
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Well into his first full week as President of the United States, Barack Obama—with the backing of the US Congress—is signing into legislation equal pay for equal work! Woot as many say on twitter when someone loves something.
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I am definitely a Warren Buffet fan. I have told all of my friends and family as well as business colleagues that I see only success for our company. I have named myself “Nicole Warren Buffet Mckinney” and see only a steady stream of positive opportunities as we approach 2009. With that said many take time to reflect as the last days of the year wind down and come up with resolutions that they set for the incoming year. Most times those resolutions are long forgotten as the New Year arrives and everyone gets into the flow of the holiday season now past.
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