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checking back here for new content that we'll be featuring. We're
starting off with some book reviews.
12/22/2009
At the end of your roll?
If I were to judge a book by its cover, one that features a dangling roll of toilet paper would not be one my hand would instinctively reach for. I mean, really, toilet paper as a metaphor for business? Well, in his book, "The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur", author Mike Michalowicz takes the toilet paper analogy and makes it work. True, even by the end of the book, I still wasn't thrilled with the cover (eewww) but I was thrilled with some of the ideas that he presented.
While some sayings such as "your success is up to you" and "you can't do anything if you don't have the beliefs to back it up" have been said before, Michalowicz offers straight-to-the-heart advice that any individual with an entrepreneurial spirit can embrace.
It's been said before but it does bear repeating, "Don't start a
business as a way to get rich quick" start a business because you have
a passion for something. The author cautions to "start a business to
get rich 'right' not quick." He is also a believer in the fact that
"one day" will never come, you have to believe and you have to make it
(your business venture) happen.
He says you have to learn to say "no" because in the beginning it will be tempting to say "yes" to everything -- every sale, every job that comes your way -- as a way to pay the bills. With that mentality you will become a master of no particular trade, merely the type of person who will do anything for money in the name of your business. (sure it is tempting to say yes when the bills are coming due, but you need to "focus small to get big," he says.) To do that, find your Area of Innovation: Quality, Price, or Convenience (and stick with it). Your customers will appreciate it and your business will grow.
In addition to offering tips on The Focus Five (a way to evaluate trade offs and find the balance in your business focus), the book is filled with TPE Tips (avenues for low- or no-cost ways to furnish an office, make conference calls or find software).
(Post by Robbi Hess)Want to be your own "Geek Goddess"?
While it's true I have never pumped gas in my life (truly, why should I when there are handsome men willing to do that for me?), but when it comes to gadgets -- let me at 'em.
In her book, "How To Be A Geek Goddess" author Christina Tynan-Woodgives
us wanna-be Goddesses the how-tos to get us on our way. Where men may
worry about specs, speed and price when it comes to buying a new
computer, the author points out that we women want to know how the
computer will fit in with the decor (as well as the specs, speed and
price) She is the only woman to have written regular
columns for PC World and PC Magazine.
In a humorous forward, Tynan-Wood's husband, tech journalist, Dan, (aka pompous ass) explains the difference between men and women when it comes to interacting with technology.
The book (at times laugh-out-loud-funny) offers serious tips for us Goddesses as we navigate our way through purchasing a computer to setting it up, accessories, and trouble-shooting without the interference by the men in our lives. Tynan-Wood breaks down the terminology for computers and their various parts so that when you, a Goddess-in-training, walk into a computer store you buy the computer that will do what you need it to do (and look great doing it)
The chapters cover the ins and outs of buying (and installing) software, getting the most out of the programs you have installed; getting wired (broadband, ethernet, etc) and how to set up wifi connections; protecting your computer from viruses; the dangers of not backing your files up; keeping your children safe as they surf the 'Net; being social network savvy -- from blogging to Face-booking; and there is even a chapter devoted to the sexy goddess complete with the hows and wheres of hooking up whether in real life or virtually.
The book,which comes in at more than 300 pages, offers photos, diagrams and easy-to-read how-to format geared toward the way a woman's mind works -- unique and fascinating.
(by Robbi Hess)
Can We Talk?
You know that feeling of saying something and while you know exactly what you're saying, your co-workers "just don't get it"? Chances are, it's not you (but hold on); chances are it's not them, either. It's both of you and your differing communication styles.
In her book, Why Can't You Communicate Like Me? (How Smart Women Get Results at Work) author/speaker Laura Browne describes the four personalities that you may come in contact with in the workplace: Brainy, Bossy, Bubbly, and Buddy. Which one are you? You can take the test on her website.
"Why Can't You..." explores the four distinct communication styles and offers suggestions on how to make your style mesh with that of your co-workers. Browne also helps you determine what you need to do with your own communication style to become a better fit with the team.
Each communication style is unique (the test was eye-opening for me) and each brings with it its own challenges and benefits. Once you determine which you are, you can tweak those portions of your communication style that may need to be tweaked. She asks, "How do others see you at work?" and, "What does this mean for you?"
Briefly:
1) Bossy communicators -- speak clearly and directly and say what they want to communicate. They appear confident and in-charge.
2) Bubbly types -- are friendly and communicative; they creatively discuss the positive aspects of situations and use their words to motivate others.
3) The Buddy -- is someone who asks about other's feelings; they are good listeners and confidants. They take time to consider all opinions before jumping into a project.
4) Brainy communicators -- are known for being quiet and methodical; they communicate in a structured manner and carefully consider their words before speaking.
Which one are you and where do your strengths (and weaknesses) lie? Take the test and find out. It may help you succeed at work and that's what we all want, right?
(Post by Robbi Hess)
