Friday, June 28, 2013

Small Business Spotlight - Now Featuring EFT Coaching and Consulting!











Judith Wentzel and EFT Coaching and Consulting LLC in this week’s edition of “Small Business Spotlight”!



Judith Wentzel is a Certified Life Coach and owner of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Coaching and Consulting.  Her passion....to empower women by removing the blocks to their success.


Wentzel became an entrepreneur in 1997.  She had been working in real estate (a job she truly loved) with over 30 realtors, managing their listings and closings and creating their brochures, fliers and ads.


Then she was diagnosed with macular degeneration.  With her vision deteriorating, Wentzel could no longer drive.  She found herself in her early 30’s and no longer able to work. (Since then, Wentzel has undergone experimental laser surgery that improved her vision enough to allow her to drive, but with restrictions).


According to Wentzel, she “felt lost and really devastated”.  Instead of continuing to feel sorry for herself, Wentzel decided to “take action” and start her own business.


Initially she decided to offer clerical and marketing services out of her home.  Wentzel contacted the realtors she had been working with and offered them the services she had already been doing for them.  A few hired her on the spot.  Wentzel was in business!


With her confidence renewed, she began to get referrals and more small business owners began hiring her.  Still, something was missing.


Wentzel discovered she found her greatest satisfaction from helping her clients with their personal and professional challenges.  She could relate since many of their issues she had dealt with at some time or another during her own life.  Wentzel developed a real connection to them because of this.


She began passing on the strategies she learned starting her own business to her clients.  When they started to work and her clients found their own success, Wentzel “knew she was on to something”.


Wentzel found a great affinity and passion for helping others.  That was when she realized that what she had been doing was actually “coaching” all along.


She became a certified life coach and added this to her list of services.  Wentzel also discovered and studied EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques).  This became her favorite and most successful coaching tool.


Now Wentzel knew what she had been missing.  It was through coaching that she found her true fulfillment and her business was complete. 



Through EFT Coaching and Consulting, Wentzel offers many services to help small business owners.  She has Coaching Plans to fit any schedule and budget.  Many can also help you discover the most effective ways to market your business.  There really is something for everyone.


To find out more on how Wentzel and EFT Coaching and Consulting can help you, please visit these links:

Website:  http://www.JudithWentzel.com
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/EFTCoachingAndConsulting
LinkedIn:  http://linkd.in/11JkUC2



To continue reading more in the “Small Business Spotlight” series and for tips and information on Small Business, join my blog and visit my website!  Follow Me on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+ too!  Thanks!

Monday, June 24, 2013

Women and Success - Why We Need to Create a System that Works!








"I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved."  B.R. Ambedkar




The success of Women in the workplace speaks volumes about the values and beliefs of our society.  

The truth is, the corporate world only narrowly defines us.  It is a very small part of what we, as women, are and hope to be.  We are made up of parts career, family, friends, hopes and dreams.


No matter our path, our goal is to be taken seriously in our journey.




I put to you that the way for us to achieve our goals is to re-create a flawed system, not try to butt heads with the existing one.

The system as it stands is made up of rules created by men.  These rules are tightly focused and, in many ways, celebrate exclusion.  This is what must change.


What I want to make clear is that this is in no way “man bashing”.  I believe that the system is broken for men too.  In many ways it stresses job above all else.  This serves no one.


It is also true that the current system was born from the way society dealt with the “traditional” roles of men and women.  This no longer holds true.


Growing concern about having a quality life filled with all things that are important to us is universal.


Where I find hope is in our young women and in our young men.






I believe that instead of fighting their way to the top, many are choosing to follow a different path, one of change.  They realize that, currently, women who make it to the top are often asked to sacrifice more than men who do so.


This generation is not willing to accept the status quo.

  Flexibility in the workplace has become their ultimate goal.  They want more, not less, chances to work from home and they simply believe in a different set of priorities.


These priorities are very individual, and this generation celebrates uniqueness.  Allowing everyone to forge their own individual path and reach success on their own terms is important to them.


This is not to say they don’t believe in the power of team work and collaboration.  It simply means that they are not buying into the antiquated definitions of what they should want out of life.


As often happens in a society, and has definitely happened in the past, I believe our younger generation will be the catalyst for this change.  Their refusal to accept traditional corporate roles will help create a new order.


This new order will be developed through the dedication of both our young women and young men to achieving this change.


Consider these words from Plato;

"Every person needs to define success on his or her own terms. Ultimately, for both men and women, the definition of success is deeply personal. At the end of each person's life, only he or she can look back and say, "I was successful." It is also important to realize that what constitutes success to one person may not constitute success to another.  Nothing can be more absurd than the practice that prevails in our country of men and women not following the same pursuits with all their strengths and with one mind, for thus, the state instead of being whole is reduced to half."



Although written long ago, these words define the importance of fighting for a common goal.  Being divisive gets you nowhere.  Definitely food for thought!


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  You can also reach me on my website, www.accessprofiles.com.  Thanks!


Friday, June 21, 2013

Jordan Essentials Bath & Body in this week’s “Small Business Spotlight”!

This “Small Business Spotlight” celebrates Darleen Benoit and her business, Jordan Essentials Bath & Body!


Darleen Benoit became a consultant for Jordan Essentials Bath & Body in November, 2002.  Darleen’s first reason for joining the Jordan Essentials team was to earn some extra income for her family.  However, she soon found that it was a great way to meet new people and make new friends!


Darleen considers it her mission to bring quality products and a “spa experience” to all her clients.

 As a consultant, Darleen loves being able to educate people on healthy skin care.  She is proud that Jordan Essentials offers a wide variety of bath, body, and skin care products, all made with natural and botanical ingredients.


Premier Body Care System


 

Jordan Essentials has everything from full body care systems, to lotion and lotion bars, shower gels and soaps, salts and scrubs, candles, sun care and hair care.  There are even products for men, children, and babies in their line!






Jordan Essentials also features face care products to cleanse, tone, and moisturize and a mineral makeup line that is 100% All Natural.  You can order tinted moisturizers, concealers, powders and bronzers to enhance your lips, cheeks and eyes.


Darleen and Jordan Essentials Bath & Body truly offer everything you and your family need for skin care and mineral makeup products.   There really is something for everyone!

Everyday Body Care System





Jordan Essentials is also an American owned company with American Made products!  That is definitely something to celebrate!






Darleen invites you to visit her website  (www.myjestore.com/darleenbenoit) and Facebook page to view all her products and specials.  You can also check out the opportunity to become a consultant yourself!  

Basic Body Care System

As Darleen states on her website; “Experience Jordan Essentials.....See Smell, and Feel the Difference!”.  She would be happy to serve you.



For more articles in the “Small Business Spotlight” series, please visit my blog and website.  Thanks!

Monday, June 17, 2013

Small Business, Karma, and the “Golden Rule”!

accessprofilesblog.com


I originally wrote this article in honor of "National Small Business Week".  But in closing out the year, and in the holiday spirit, I would like to once again recognize the innovations, successes, and milestones of Small Business.....




Each time I think about Small Business, I reflect on what it means to me to be successful in my own small business.  Every business owner wants and needs to make money.  However, I think it has to be more than that.


For me, True Success goes beyond what I can Get to what I can Give.  I believe it is possible to be generous and giving in our business practices and still have a healthy “bottom line” - in fact, that bottom line may even be better because of it.
Since I am a firm believer in Karma and particularly the “Golden Rule”, I have found how to apply these to my business. I think it all begins by aligning your core beliefs with your business practices, making a strong foundation for your business.


“How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.”      Wayne W. Dyer


Karma is centered on the belief in “cause and effect”.  Much like the “Golden Rule”, “Do Unto Others as you would have them Do Unto You”,  they embody the idea of “what goes around, comes around”.  When you treat people as you would like to be treated, you create a general feeling of good will.


This just makes sense.


So, How can you translate this into your business?



  • Really Listen.   Taking into account your customer’s and employee’s suggestions and feedback shows you care about their opinions.   People that feel acknowledged become loyal.

  • Treat Your Clients Fairly.  Be upfront and truthful in how you do business.  Do what you say you are going to do and stand by your word.  Your clients will appreciate this and come to trust and rely on you.

  • Think of Yourself as a “Helper” and Partner.  Approach your clients in the spirit of what you can do to help them and not by focusing on what you will gain.   With this as your mindset you cannot go wrong.

  • Encourage and Collaborate with other Small Businesses.  Think of yourself as part of a bigger community of Small Business Owners.  Lend your support where you can and find ways to work together.  Creating a community of Small Businesses really strengthens us all. 



Following these 4 tips really helps me incorporate my belief in Karma and the Golden Rule into my own Small Business.   Because of this, I know my business is run ethically and honestly.






I have been able to build upon this and develop a company “mission statement” that makes both me and my clients happy.....and that is the kind of success that means the most to me!


I close with these words from author Debbie Ford;

“Remember, all the answers you need are inside of you; you only have to become quiet enough to hear them.” 


Authored by


Go Small Business!


If you like this article, please Share It!



You can find more tips and information on Small Business by visiting my blog and website.  Thanks!


Thursday, June 13, 2013

“Small Business Spotlight” is now featuring the Steel City Vets Classic!









This week’s “Small Business Spotlight” is going in a different direction.  I would like to promote the Steel City Vets Classic, a charity event sponsored by the Steel City Vets and the Veteran’s Support Foundation!









The Steel City Vets Classic is sponsored by the Steel City Vets (SCV) and the OIF/OEF Veterans and The Veterans Support Foundation (VSF) - a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for deserving veterans and their families.  It is hoped that this will be an annual event on behalf of both organizations.


The Steel City Vets’ goal is to provide support and guidance to Post 9/11 era veterans in the Greater Pittsburgh and Western PA area.  Their support begins throughout the vet’s transition and continues as needed.  The SCV works in conjunction with other nationally based veteran’s groups.


The SCV is a “home grown Post 9/11 Veteran Support group created and run by Post 9/11 Veterans”!  They also provide Pittsburgh and Western PA Veterans with assistance in VA filing and other services.


According to the SCV their goal is “to make sure our Veterans know they are not forgotten”!

The Veterans Support Foundation’s (VSF) goal is to enrich the lives of all veterans and their families.  They help fund nonprofit organizations in support of veteran related projects throughout the United States.


The VSF also assists disabled veterans and provides transitional and permanent housing for homeless and at risk veterans.


The Steel City Vets Classic is a golf outing designed to raise money for the Veteran Support Foundation.  It is the creation of Scott Reed, who now serves as the Director of the event.


Scott wanted to combine his love of golf with his desire to help our Veterans.  As a vet himself, Scott (US Army, OIF Vet/SCV Member) understands the issues that face our returning service men and women.

Scott invites you to join them and come out for the Steel City Vets Classic!


When: July 28, 2013
Where: Quicksilver Golf Club
Cost: $75 per golferCost includes 18 holes of golf, cart, and picnic-style banquet
Make check payable to Veterans Support Foundation.
Deadline to register: July 12, 2013.
Format: 4 man scramble



Co-Host Sponsor - $5000 (1)
8 golfing spots; Banquet underwriter; signage at the beginning and end of the course, on a golf  cart, and at the banquet; team photo, acknowledgement plaque.

Diamond Sponsor - $2,500 (1) Golf Polo Sponsor
4 golfing spots; Company log on SCVC Polos; sponsor a hole; team photo; acknowledgement plaque

Platinum Sponsor - $1,500 (1) Drink Cart Sponsor
4 golfing spots; advertising space on a drink cart; signage at the banquet; sponsor a hole; team photo; acknowledgement plaque

Gold Sponsor - $1,000 (4) Hole-in-One Prize Sponsor
2 golfing spots; sponsor a hole; acknowledgement plaque

Silver Sponsor - $500 (12) Veteran Foursome Sponsor
Sponsor a hole; Certificate of Appreciation

Bronze Sponsor - $100
Certificate of Appreciation


SCV would also welcome monetary donations and items for the players gift bags and the silent auction.


Prizes will be awarded for 1st place, 2nd place, long drive (male/female), closest to pin, and long putt.


There will also be a 50/50 Raffle, Silent Auction, and many more prizes!

All proceeds from the outing will benefit the Veteran Support Foundation (all sponsorships and donations are tax deductible).


You can find a Registration form and more information about the Steel City Vets Classic here:
www.steelcityvets.com/scvclassic.



To find out more about the Steel City Vets and the Veterans Support Foundation, please visit their websites:

www.steelcityvets.com

www.veteransupportfoundation.org


Let’s help our Vets, and have a fun day of golf in the process!!  Thanks!




Please check out my blog and website for more in the “Small Business Spotlight” series and on issues of concern for Small Business!

Monday, June 10, 2013

Privacy and Background Checks - A Balancing Act!

Created by Kimberly Kline, API




“I particularly recognize that reasonable people can disagree as to what that proper balance or blend is between privacy and security and safety.”      John Pistole





There always seems to be controversy when it comes to  background checks and employment.  The importance of personal privacy 
versus the right of employers to hire safely 
is under fire.





Some believe that by requesting a background check, employers are invading their privacy.  Others believe that companies have the right and the responsibility to verify any information provided by the candidate.  In fact, it is their legal obligation to provide a safe environment for their workforce, customers and the public.





I believe a balance between the two 
is both possible and desirable.





First off, there are valid reasons why a company would use Background Checks as part of their hiring process.  (Read "4 Reasons Why Small Businesses Need to Use Background Checks" here).



Background checks provide employers with a powerful tool.  Their purpose is to help a company make a safe hire.  They can also indicate the truthfulness of a candidate.



The reality is that a person’s past does matter.  Your past, both good and bad, shapes your character.  Whether that past includes a criminal record or not, your past experiences mold you into the person you are today.




Employers have a right to be reluctant to hire someone with a criminal history.  Companies are responsible for ensuring a safe work environment for their other employees.  They are obligated to craft policy to guard against violence and bullying in the workplace.  Companies also face legal ramifications for unsafe hires.


There are also positions where a person with a criminal past poses a specific threat.  Someone with a history of embezzlement, for example, would most certainly be unsuitable to have access to company funds.  The same would go for someone with a past drug problem having access to medications.  In cases like these, an employer needs to know the past of their applicants.



However, a criminal record should not automatically disqualify someone from employment.



I truly believe in second chances and the need for everyone to find employment in order to make their way in this world.  That is why it is important to weigh the past offense against the applicant’s ability to safely perform the duties required.




Discover more of my thoughts on this in "Once a Criminal, Always a Criminal ~ Why We Need to Believe in Second Chances"!




My motto:  "Trust but Verify"!




A Background Check can also be used as an indicator of a person’s honesty.  Many employers request one to verify the education and past employment history of their applicants. Knowing that the information listed on a person’s resume is truthful is crucial.



It is also important to know whether the skills listed, either as part of a degree or training, are valid.  Hiring someone with a fabricated or exaggerated skill set is unfair and possibly dangerous for any company.



Now comes the question of privacy.  By its very definition, a Background Check concerns a person’s privacy.  Any research into someone’s history delves into “private” matters.


What is also true is that, 

A Background Check is Not a Violation of Privacy!  "Tweet This"



When a Background Check is conducted legally, an employer fully discloses that an investigation into an applicant’s past will be done and a release form permitting the investigation is signed.


The release and the disclosure statement, by law, must be completely separate from a company’s application.  This ensures that the applicant fully understands that they are waiving their right to privacy in regard to the company’s Background Check process.




It is always good business 
for every company to review their 
policy on background checks 
and make sure it is sound 
and takes the issue of privacy into account.






The key to balancing an employer’s right to know and an individual’s right to privacy is consistency and restraint.



A company needs to be consistent in how they conduct their background checks and practice restraint as to what information they really require.  They need to draft policy that indicates how much information is actually needed to ensure a qualified and safe hire and stick to those parameters for every candidate.


In this way both the company’s rights and the individual’s rights are taken into account.  Practicing true balance between the two goes a long way towards making the entire process as fair as possible - and that is a goal we should all try to achieve.



Authored by









I can help you 
navigate the world of background checks and guide you in making the best hiring decisions .  Please visit my blog or Contact Me 
for more information. Thanks!

Monday, June 3, 2013

4 Lessons Facing my 50s and Insomnia Have Taught Me About Business & Life!











“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I’ve learned, the hard way, that some poems don’t rhyme, and some stories don’t have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what’s going to happen next. Delicious ambiguity.”              Gilda Radner


When I started my business, I thought it was important to work “regular business hours”.  I believed since I worked from home that putting in the traditional “9 to 5” was essential to promoting a professional image for my business.  There was right time for things and schedules were necessary. 


Now I have come to rethink this.


Since turning 50, I have been plagued by the cliche “hot flashes” and insomnia.  I find myself waking regularly in the middle of the night and alternately kicking off or wrapping myself in my covers.


I lie awake, unable to get comfortable or once again find my sleep pattern.


For awhile, this bothered me.  I was determined to try and force myself back to sleep and keep to my set schedule.



Then I had a break through.  I started asking myself “why”?


Why was I so insistent on the notion that I sleep for at least 6 hours and I needed to wake by 7 to start my work day?   


Instead, I learned to let it go.


Once I surrendered to what was, instead of holding on to what I thought should be, I was free - free to find my own way and free to do what was right for me.  



I began keeping a notebook on my nightstand for any “late night inspirations”.  I also kept my kindle handy.  This way I was able to make great use of the times when I couldn’t sleep.  I was amazed by what I was able to accomplish!


During those “middle of the night” hours, I have found subjects for future blog posts and formulated new “plans of action” for my business.  On the personal front, I have been able to enjoy purely recreational reading and have even planned a redesign of my kitchen and bedroom!



So, in the end, having insomnia and hot flashes has taught me something.  It has taught me some important lessons that have changed the way I approach my business, and my life!


This is what I learned:


  • Don’t fight what you can’t change.  You can’t try and force something to be the way you think it should be.  Sometimes you have to go with the flow.

  • You determine your own schedule.   You need to find what works for you and roll with it.  It may not be the norm, but why should that matter?  You are definitely more productive when following your own path.

  • You need to be flexible.  Believing things will go according to plan usually leads to disappointment.  Being able to embrace uncertainty and not fear it will free you.

  • You need a sense of humor.  I have found this to be my most important lesson.  If you can’t laugh at what business and life throws at you, you are doomed.
All these “lessons” have allowed me to approach my business and my life on my own terms.  I am more productive and relaxed than ever before.


So, although I would love to get a full night’s sleep again, I don’t sweat it.  I have actually embraced my erratic lifestyle, read some awesome new books, and am more at peace with myself than ever before.


And I don’t think I would ask for anything different!




If you would like to read more of my views on Small Business, please visit my blog.  I also invite you to check out my website for more information on my company, Access Profiles, Inc. - a Background Check and Due Diligence investigation service.  Thanks!