Happy Fourth of July, Everyone!

Well, it's that time again...it's the Fourth of July! I hope everyone is enjoying these hot summer days, and I hope you'll get a chance to relax and enjoy our country's day of independence. I wanted to take the time to write about what this day means to me, and how I've spent past Independence Days.

To me, the Fourth is all about remembering the establishment of our country, and the hopes and dreams our forefathers had when they founded our government. It is about us becoming an independent nation, and one full of possibilities for its people. It's also a celebration of the beauty of our land, which to me is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The land in America is so diverse, so full of cultures brought together from all different nations to become one.

Our country's ideals have evolved as well, but are still based on the same principals. Our people have evolved as well, and our ideas on certain issues have greatly improved. We have become much more integrated, and we are making great strides at becoming fully integrated. There are some towns and counties that aren't, but most are, and that is great progress.

We have yet to find our ways out of this great recession, but the hardships that we've faced have not broken our spirits. If anything, I think we are stronger for it. A lot of us have realized how great we really are at being resilient, and making the most out of our circumstances. We've learned to live better during this difficult time, and how  to be resourceful. I believe Americans are among the most resourceful people on earth. We are true  survivors. I'm proud of my people, and I'm happy to see so many different types of Americans co-existing  with true respect  and appreciation for the differences in each person.

In the past, i.e., while I was growing up, we would always go to a lake, make a lot of food, and visit for the whole day. That was when I was a kid. Life has changed now, and I find that for the last few years, I've worked on the Fourth of July. I fondly remember those days of cooking outside, and swimming in the lake. To be honest, though, the Fourth has more meaning for me now as an adult. I fully understand the meaning of our national holiday now, and it makes me think of all of the people who sacrificed so much so we could have our beautiful homeland.


Thanks for stopping by...CC

One of my favorite nail tutorials...

Don't forget the finishing touches...

How to wear leggings(JulieG Video)

Choosing that perfect outfit for your loved one...

Hi there! I hope all is well with my readers*smiles*. I wanted to touch on the subject of selecting that perfect outfit. Due to a number of recent holidays passing, I thought I would try to make it easier for you to select the perfect gift for your loved ones. I'll be talking about sizing, color, and thoughtfulness. The three basics you'll need in order to choose the best gifts when the time comes. I'll probably be making videos eventually on the same topic, and a number of others, too. I have so many ideas going around in my head right now, I can barely contain myself...

For now, though, I'm going to explain fashion basics, and what you'll need to make your shopping trip successful. The number one rule in shopping for someone is that you need to know the person's size. Don't try to guess on this, because you'd be amazed at how often you could be wrong. And especially if you choose an item that is two sizes too big for a female??! You know what could happen! At the very least, she'll be upset. At the very worst, you could end up in the emergency room. So let's not allow that to happen, alright?

So many times, I've ran into this scenario...

"So, what size does she wear?" I ask with anticipation. And then, I get a blank stare, a lot of fidgeting, and another blank stare. WHAT? Are you joking? Listen, I can't help you find anything if you don't know what size she wears. It's just not possible. And you can't go by looking at me, and saying, "Well, she's a little smaller/shorter/larger than you." Oh, thanks.

That's not going to work this time. I need to know what size she wears. You need to know a few basic pieces of information before you even come in. Now, although guessing has proved to be the most common method of choosing size, it is certainly the least effective. Guessing results in an over 50% chance of her returning the item/items you bought for her. Now, if you rush through the process, guessing her size at the same time, you increase the chances by another 30%. Yes, you could end up with an 80% chance of a return if you don't prepare before you come to meet with me. The good news is that there's a very simple solution to this dilemma...

1) Sizing 101 This is your chance to prove how great you can be at this, so rise up to the challenge! Let's say she's on the treadmill right now. It's your perfect opportunity to get up, and go into her closet with a pen and paper. Write down the sizes of her shirts, trousers, dresses, and shoe size and width. Also, you should take notes on her particular style. Is she a more classic dresser, or does she have more trendy taste? Is she a simple dresser, or does she prefer a look that is more elaborate? You can keep asking questions, and taking notes until you feel confident that you've prepared enough to make your shopping trip successful. Once you've completed your list, set is aside in a safe place. You'll be bringing that in with you when you meet with your fashion consultant...

2) Color 101 What is her season? Her seasonal color palette, that is...now, there's a lot of useful information about this online. I particularly like organicfamilycare.com. Just go the the seasonal color palette link at the top of the home page. They use a lot of celebrity photos as examples of the best colors for a person. No man or woman can wear every single color out there. There are just some colors that a person simply cannot wear. For instance, I love lime green, but I can't wear it because it makes me look like I'm sick. I'm serious. It's not good on me at all, although I love lime green. And I secretly envy anyone who can wear it well. Each person fits into a particular category or two. That would be their primary and secondary color palette. I liken it to how you have a main browser, and a default browser on your computer. If you can't use one, the you fall back on the other. It's the same way with color palettes. I will also be providing information and photos as examples of each color palette, and secondary color palettes for each of them. 

For now, though, I want you to think back to a time when you saw your loved one wearing a color that just made them look great! Maybe it was a navy colored dress that made her look gorgeous, and that will tell you a lot about her color palette, and where she fits on the color spectrum. Navy is actually a part of the Winter color palette, and now we know she fits into the Winter category. We now have a great starting point. Maybe she looks great in terracotta. Terracotta is a part of the Autumn color palette, a great starting point as well. If you're not sure about what her best colors are, you can just ask her. Then use the link on organicfamilycare.com to help you determine what season she is...

3) Take your time. What do I mean by "take your time?" Well, of course, you need to allow yourself one to two hours to make your trip successful. I know that sounds like a lot, but when you're up here, it really goes by quickly. So allow yourself proper time to do this right. But you also need to really take the time to be "thoughtful." Remember when I said you need to take notes? Your list should contain a lot of information that will prove helpful in selecting the perfect pieces to compliment her current wardrobe, and also will provide me with a starting point from which to begin. It is enormously helpful, not only to me, but makes us into a team. It puts us on the same page, and makes the process go a whole lot more smoothly. So, let's get started!

Because you wrote down the sizes of her clothes and shoes, it made the whole process a lot faster, and more effective. We selected a lot of items in less than an hour! A lot faster than we initially thought it would be. We selected a navy dress, along with two layering pieces, a set of earrings and necklace in contrasting, complimentary colors, and a nice pair of neutral colored shoes. Aren't you glad you wrote everything down? The great thing is that we also have gift wrap on site, and it costs the same as if you had done it yourself. And it'll save you valuable time, so by the time you leave, everything will be done. You won't have to worry about anything else, except making your final presentation to her. All the while, you'll have the security of knowing you did your very best. Chances are that she's going to love the items you picked for her, and won't end up returning any of them. See what a little bit of planning can do?

Until next time, take care...CC  

Taking inspiration from other bloggers...

Yes, I must confess I've been reading other blogs lately. One thing that sticks out in my mind is that I see all different types of business philosophies, and all different types of selling. Some are on a small scale, and others are larger, corporate deals. However, the basic premise is the same...it's all selling. I'm interested in learning from other bloggers about their type of sales, and their business style. I've learned a lot about how to make my blog better that way, too!

Mine's still getting off the ground, and I heard it can take a while before anyone really comments. I may never get  the feedback I'm craving, but the truth is that I expect a lot! So, that just goes without saying. If you know anything about me at all, you know this. So why do I continue to write?

Blogging is a way to practice my writing, and to become stronger in language. Yes, it's true, that English is my first language. Right now, it's my only one. I know a lot of Spanish vocabulary, but not enough to hold a fluid conversation. I only know enough to get by. Another truth is that, even in English, we are always learning. Even people with college degrees sometimes make grammatical errors, or spell words wrong. When you're writing a blog, you're presenting yourself as an expert. That means you had better be masterful in describing your unique set of skills, and your use of words has a great deal to do with how your message will be received.

You can never proofread your blog too many times! There are so many possible mistakes that could present themselves when you look at it with fresh eyes. You should even have a friend take a look at it, and a friend who has an incredible grasp of English. It's amazing what you might discover! You thought it was perfect, but then you find out there's no such thing as perfection...

Sometimes, I'll read other business blogs to keep me motivated! Yes, I  keep track of how many times they post, and it helps me make adjustments. I'll ask myself, "Am I posting enough?" There was a time when I would slack off when it came to writing blog posts, and would maybe write one once a month. That's really not enough to see any great feedback, or to get your name out there. You need to post at least once a week to see any significant results. And travelling to other sites enables you to create more traffic to your website, because you're able to leave back links behind that will lead others back to your blog. It's great! I've gained traffic this way as well.

One thing I've learned, if nothing else, is that I really believe in what I'm doing. Otherwise, I would have given it up a while ago. But I still keep writing! I'll continue to do so, and take inspiration from wherever I can. I hope you will, too!

Thanks for stopping by...CC

Oh, the joy of writing blog posts!

Hi everyone! It's been a while since I wrote, and I just wanted to thank those loyal readers out there for your support. It means a lot to me to look at my stats, and then I realize I have new readers from all around the world. Just wanted to let you know how important you are to me, and in helping me to continue to write. Sometimes, it gets to the point where I think no one is reading my blog, and then I'll have a new person stop by. For however long you stay, it doesn't really matter. This blog is meant to be shared with you, for however long you choose to look at it.

There have been many entries so far, so I just wanted to let you know that I've written some pretty good stuff! If you take a look at some of my older posts, you should check out a couple of entries...
1) There is no magic formula, the entry of which I am most proud. There are two parts to it, so make sure to read both of them, alright:)?
2) How listening affects your sales cycle. Another attempt at explaining the value of listening, and of forming a rapport with your clients. This is also a friendly reminder to all salespeople, to put the relationships with your clients first. That's the mainstay of repeat business...

I hope you have a good time reading my posts, and thank you again for your continued readership! Please feel free to leave a comment for me, and I'll make sure to respond. Thanks for stopping by...CC

Good vs. Remarkable

There are a lot of sales people out there who are good at what they do. And there are some who are very, very good! They show up every day, ready to work. And they work hard at what they are good at. They keep themselves busy, never idling on the job. They keep in touch with their clients, and show their appreciation for their business. Their sales managers tell them they are very good sales people. And they are....


If your sales manager tells you you're a very good sales person, it should put a question mark in your mind about what they really mean. You see, in today's world of selling, very good is just not enough. Very good is not excellent. It's not great. It's just very good. It's not enough!


I was watching a video on YouTube with Seth Godin. He was speaking very articulately about being remarkable. Being remarkable is better than being great. It's better than being excellent. It's remarkable. Being unique or special enough for someone to make a remark about you or your abilities. They may not have even liked what you were selling, but took the time to remark on something about their experience with you! And that's when you know....


That's when you know you've differentiated yourself. When someone makes a remark about you, your sales techniques, your style, whatever it may be! That's when you know you've gotten their attention! You are remarkable. Now, take whatever it was that caused that client to take notice, and let it shine for you:)


Thanks for stopping by....CC

Why being "pc" can be bad for business

In this age of political correctness, I've realized that we've gone too far, and this is hurting our chances for success. I start to tell a joke, and someone says, "Shhhh....she might get offended." Then I tell the joke, or say what I wanted to say any way. I then find that the client is delighted by my honesty, and having a clear opinion. Boy, am I glad now that I was true to my method of selling and being....

Since when do we all have to fit into cookie cutter shapes? What's wrong with forming the dough with your fingers? When I talk about dough, I think you probably realize it's a metaphor for your sales pitch! The truth is, we're all selling similar products and services. The way we really set ourselves apart is by using our unique outlook and personalities to put a signature on the entire sales cycle. Sometimes those who oppose uniqueness in selling will want to make you just like them....and I'm sorry, that just won't work! All this political correctness has become a burden, and is making people scared to be themselves....

I really like Justin Beiber. Yes, I said it, and I'll tell you why. And the reason is not because his music is great! To be honest, I don't listen to his music, really. I like that he doesn't censor his opinions on anything. He just says his truth when asked about a range of topics from abortion, to healthcare, to being in love. And I like that. We've been so conditioned to be products of political correctness, that when someone comes up with an opposing opinion to ours, we hem and haw until we've waffled so much that we look wishy washy. And I'm sorry, that is something I will not do! I will not tell you that something looks amazing when it is not the most flattering color choice, or tell a client that a product is a perfect fit for them when it clearly is not.

I will, however, be as honest as possible, redirecting when necessary. And this is all done out of love for my profession, and for that particular client. If I told every client what they wanted to hear, and worried too much about political correctness, I guarantee I would not have the client base that I have. I would not have them in my corner, asking for only me to help them when they come in, because deep down, they have realized that they need my opinions. They need my advice, and they need my friendship.

Don't get me wrong....I do care about how I come across, but I make a conscious decision to take risks that others don't take most of the time. Taking the risk of offending someone, hoping that the end result will be a positive one, that will enable me to connect with them more than if I had not. Mixing an "odd" combination of colors can make a beautiful painting, and if artists censored their art by being afraid to use those particular colors, their work would be dull. No one wants to see a painting made with only beige paint, just like no one really wants to see everyone acting or being the same. 

One person's methods of selling may not work for the next person, and yet another person shouldn't be telling the next individual how to behave, or that they should change. If something is working for you, then evaluate that particular method, and enhance it. And it's not always necessary to get anyone else's opinion about how you should sell, talk, or lead your life. It is your sale, your voice, and your journey. And the footprints you leave are unique to only you.

Thanks for stopping by.....CC

Countdown to swimsuit season 2011...are you ready?

And now, it's almost swimsuit season....

I know, I know! That dreaded time of year, when women start crying and throwing a fit out of the blue. Why is that? Is it because they just found out a family member is sick and dying? No, it's worse. They've come to the realization that they will have to go shopping for a swimsuit! Oh, the horror! Thank goodness we have plenty of tissues around, right? What is it with women and trying on a swimsuit that makes a normally sweet and docile person act like a major you know?;) Why do they take it out on little old me, who is only trying to help? I swear....sometimes, I feel like a therapist/cheerleader/insult dodger. Because if it doesn't work out, then you know what that makes me....I'm the reason she is unhappy with that little bit of extra curve around her backside. I'm the reason she didn't commit to going to the gym, and gained an extra 10 pounds. It's going to be all my fault if I don't fix this, and help these lovely ladies feel good about themselves. I'm going to help them find the perfect swimsuit for their specific body type, curves and all....

I am their "Fashion Godmother", not their fashion foe. I am the friend who will step in, and say, "Enough is enough, sweetie. No matter what, we are going to love our bodies, right? No beating ourselves up, no crying, it's time to be a big girl, and to find a great suit that makes you look great right now, not when you lose that last 10 pounds. And if you wait until then, you might also miss out on all of these great other reasons to wear one of these cute and fun little numbers! You know what? Swimsuits are not only made of state of the art materials, they are fun! It's really not so bad, I swear! If I can do it, you can do it! So, let's get started"....

Remember, swimsuits are made to be functional. Most of them are made for getting wet! Can you believe it? You can have fun in them, even go boogie boarding! We also have some that are just for puttering around in, sunning, and entertaining. I call these fashion suits. Then, there are some that can serve both of these functions!  There are specialty suits as well, such as MiracleSuit, that are designed to make you look 10 pounds slimmer in an instant. No more getting down on yourself about not going to the gym, and eating those extra donuts. It's time to live, and it's time to enjoy life today, not when you lose 10 pounds. The goal is to pick a suit that suits your body type, and that looks great with your particular style. The same one that looks great on your best friend may not look so great on you, and vice versa. You shouldn't be comparing your look to another woman. Just have fun with what you have, and enjoy your day in the sun:)


Thanks for stopping by....CC 

Quality Vs. Quantity

My recent trip to go shopping for household items got me thinking. It made me realize what I, as a consumer, not just a salesperson, look for in a product. And what it is that I look for in a retail chain, that I believe can add value to my busy days. I've always been a sort of quality over quantity shopper. Don't get me wrong, though. I do love a great bargain, but only if it's a product I know I already like, and am satisfied that I'll use it just as much as another one with a higher price. Here's what really got to me about my earlier trip to a famous retail chain. This is a place I have been visiting frequently, and I realized that it is my favorite store! And no, it's not where I work. Although the company I work for is at the top of my list, too! Here's what I have discovered about my shopping habits that I think reflect what most consumers are looking for......

1) Value for the money

A product that's the finest available for the price. This is what a consumer should be looking to achieve. When you're only focused on quantity, you may accumulate more items, but how many of those items will you actually see give you a return for your investment? i.e., if you never use an item you paid $4.00 for, then you are not getting a return on your investment of $4.00, because you would need to use that item at least once to justify spending that amount. On an $80.00 item, you'd need to use that item 20 times to justify spending that amount. Even more so with higher priced items, to make sure you're really going to get your use out of bigger ticket items. 

2) Quality (a product that will last, and will give the consumer their money's worth)

Most of the time, you do get what you pay for. Some folks have to learn this the hard way, when the item they purchased starts to fall apart after just using it a few times. Then, they realize that, if they had only spent a little bit more, they could've gotten the one they really wanted. And, it probably wouldn't be falling apart right now.

3) A one-stop shop

If a retail chain offers a place to buy so many items on one place, this is the way to go for most shoppers. The truth is that most of us are willing to spend a little more on a couple items, if it means that shopping for everything in one place will save us valuable time. The saying, "time is money," has never been so relevant.

4) A quick and reasonably effortless purchase

Don't you just love it when you're ready to check-out, and there's someone available to assist you promptly? I mean, let's face it, when you're ready to go, you're ready to go. You want to move on to the other hundred and one things you need to get done today.....

5) A good return policy

Unfortunately, returns are inevitable. And although I've been on the opposite side of the desk, feeling like someone stuck a knife in my heart when someone returns something I sold to them, I understand that it happens. I love it when a salesperson accepts a return with grace, and offers to help me find something else. And allowing a consumer to return within a reasonable amount of time is always a plus! Ninety days is standard now, and that's more than reasonable.

6) A reasonably priced product 

An item that is within a normal spectrum, while still maintaining quality, will win the customer's business. If you can offer it even a few cents, or dollars lower than your competition, that's even better. But you'd be amazed at how many consumers are willing to overlook an average price if they feel they are getting a better value in some way for that amount. The same applies to the way you sell. What's your differentiator?

7) Good customer service

Or I should say, the higher quality of customer care, the better these days. Whether on a small or large scale, your clients need to know you are taking care of them. That you really care about their needs as consumers. And the aim shouldn't be just to be good, but great!

8) A good location (with security)

 I am absolutely ecstatic that this place has a security guard now, and the solicitors and loiterers keep their distance when I want to enter my favorite store. A big thumbs up!

9) Items in stock

Well stocked shelves, racks, and variety of items available really make a difference. 

Or at least a time frame when the item, or comparable items will be available. Most consumers want to buy what they need as soon as possible, but if a relatively good time frame is available, will be willing to come back again to make a purchase.

10) A quick check-out

Again, any company or individual who values my time will most likely gain my business. I love it when I'm able to pay for my items promptly.

All of this can be found at your local Target store. Oh Target, how I love thee....:)

1) What do you, as a consumer, look for in a retail chain? 

2) What keeps you coming back to your favorite store(s)?

& 

3) What are the qualities that keep you coming back to you favorite salespeople, and continuing to use their products?

Thanks for stopping by......CC

The Power of a Great Question.....

Have you ever found yourself stumped by a great question? Who was it that asked you that particular question that got you thinking? Chances are, you were impressed at the way the questioner was able to break you out of your normal thought process, and wake you up a little. That's right. Sometimes, we let our brains go on auto-pilot, and we need someone to give us a swift shake! Someone to say, "No, I'm not going to let you continue on with your normal dull thought process, because you are not really thinking right now at all. You're just on auto-pilot, and I'm going to ask you an eye opening question that will shake you up a little, but in a good way! I'm going to challenge the way you normally do things, and get you to try something new and exciting!"

And that is what a great salesperson is able to do....
Great salespeople not only ask you what you need, but they already know what your automated response will be, and they're prepared with a way to shake you out of that auto-piloted robot mode of doing things, and re-frame their questioning in a way where you will not only have to engage with them, but you will be impressed! You'll be impressed because they've gotten your attention. They haven't allowed themselves, or you, to just walk by, and miss out on their special way of selling! They've managed to re-frame your responses to their questions, to be able to probe into what you are really seeking.


The Power Re-Frame

We've all heard this one, "Can I help you?" or "What are you looking for today?"
The typical response is, "I'm just shopping around," or, "I'm just looking, just window shopping, or price comparing." The average salesperson would respond with, "Alright, well, let me know if you need anything. My name is so-and-so." That's the typical, average salesperson's response, and I've heard it a thousand times! Why not shake things up a little? Get that customer to notice you, because if they tell you they are just looking, it's a defensive move, and they are not impressed with you yet. That's your opportunity! Don't let it pass you by, because if you do, then you will have to start all over with the next person. And why would you want to do that, knowing that you possess exactly the right response to re-frame, and engage that customer trying to get away from you right now?!

Here's what you say.....
"I understand that right now you're are just looking, price comparing, etc., but what is it that you are just looking FOR? I noticed you are looking at such and such merchandise, and I have more of those. If you want me to show you where they are, I would be happy to do that. Then wait, and see what they say.....chances are, they will respond positively. They will be put in a position where, if they now answer you negatively, they will feel guilty. Yes, guilty. You have showed a caring attitude in trying to understand their needs, and finding out exactly what they are looking for. You've offered to show them more of what they want, and you've gotten their attention with your questioning and listening skills! They are now looking at the merchandise they didn't see before, because they have been conditioned to avoid salespeople, and to defend themselves against us. But now they see something different. You have re-framed their whole perception of you just by being your sweet and generous self. And now they are liking what you're presenting, and you've made a sale! See how easy that was? And it all began with a simple re-frame. It all began with you not giving up on asking important questions to gain that client's trust, and their business.