Friday, December 31, 2010

Celebrate Your Year

As you set goals for the coming year, it’s a good idea to take stock of the progress you’ve made toward your 2010 goals. For many people, this review is unpleasant and even can lead to a downward spiral.

If you didn’t achieve all of the goals you set at the beginning of the year, you may feel like you have failed. Our self-esteem can take a hit, we can become disheartened and discouraged, and our motivation drops. Some people actually become depressed.

If this sounds familiar, it’s time to reframe how you look at success. Zeroing in on accomplishments that didn’t happen puts your focus on what you lack, rather than on what you have (the things you did experience and accomplish). This subtle mental trap leads to a host of negative consequences, which usually lead to attracting more lack.

The answer is not giving up the review of your year. Periodic review is essential to the process of growth and goal achievement. The key is to acknowledge, appreciate and celebrate what you did accomplish, and then to refocus on the goals that you still want to achieve.

The “Win List”

One of the techniques I teach my Platinum Inner Circle Group is to create a detailed “Win List” at the end of the year. Its purpose is to help you acknowledge all of your wins, especially those that didn’t start as a written goal or intention.

This powerful technique takes about 30 minutes to complete. Start by listing all of the goals you set and achieved this year. Then list any other wins you think of – both large and small.

Here are some questions to help identify your successes.

What wins or progress did you achieve in business?
Did you discontinue an old product or develop a new product or product line?
Did you identify a new market to focus on?
Did you create any new marketing pieces or campaigns?
Did you delegate any tasks to become more productive? This could include adding new staff and/or assistants, such as a housekeeper, executive assistant, gardener, errand runner, babysitter, or child care person. It also might include putting new systems into place to increase your efficiency.
Did you buy, use or learn to use any new technology? This includes mental, emotional or spiritual technology, as well as mechanical, electronic and digital technology?
Did you spend more time in nature?
Did you develop any new supportive habits (such as meditation, exercise, sleep, or gratitude)? Did you overcome any non-supportive habits (for example, addiction to alcohol, caffeine, sugar, video games, porn, gambling, or shopping)?
How did you grow in leadership?
Did you deliver any presentations or speeches or develop new programs?
Did you develop any new abilities, skills or competencies?
What success did you achieve in the areas of financial income, investments or debt reduction?
Did you create any new relationships or deepen existing relationships? Consider both business and personal relationships.
Did you make any progress in self-development?
Did you attend any positive events (e.g., seminars, lectures, concerts, theater, or sports)?
Did you experience any positive events with your family?
Where there any positive events in relation to your house or apartment?
Did you take any trips or vacations?
Were there any positive additions to your life?
Were there any positive events in your community?
How about any positive events in your spiritual life (e.g., church services, meditation, retreats, rituals)?
Did you experience any positive events in regards to letting go (e.g., bad habits, negative people, or clutter)?
Did you have any wins in health and fitness (e.g., weight, exercise, cholesterol, sports, or endurance)?
Reduce Mental Friction

Mental “friction” caused by negative thoughts and feelings will slow down your progress as you work to achieve your goals. By using this technique to focus your attention on what you did achieve, you’ll shift into a state of gratitude and joy, accelerating your momentum into the new year.

For 4 more simple steps you can take to wrap up 2010 and prepare for 2011 , visit my blog.

* * *

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Social Networking Strategy: Communication is the key!

In recent months there has been many webinars and websites discussing the value added reasons in combining communications are a key social strategy for your online presence. As internet entrepreneur have utilized key website with great results. Below were going to give you some practical advice on how to use the social networking as a key tool to build your resources and promote your expertise or marketing ideas in easy and effortless way.
LinkedIn
Many professional s are using this simple and effective website to display their resume credentials with picture and interests. Have the ability to join groups and ask questions on different topics.
You can also request referrals and request to speak to professionals in other networks via permission based email. Add people your network and grow you resources with your own social network.
Post updates , search for groups and connect with other in you network through existing connects ( with permission) Ask question to industry experts on different topics and join relative groups online.
Created your own online resume through easy to use template is great benefit you can update at your own convenience. There are also various types of online software that is available to upload presentations you have completed and search for answer by asking industry experts.
Have had the opportunity to locate previous co-workers and friends with easy to use networking addition feature.


Twitter
This social function allows you to type 140 characters of information from daily interests to links and website you may be connected to. Tweeting is simple and easy to do. You can have followers or follow others on the social networking journey. Many CEO, singers and actors can be found twitting on their daily happenings.
Recently many corporations have used the Twitter to keep their customer informed on company news and product and service launches.
You can also post links to other networking sites that you have posted information for followers to learn more about you in the social networking arena.
There are many other enhancement software you can find online to increase the people you want to have follow or have following you.
This is social website has its advantages in being an “connection” website to link people with other social website you are on, from posting links of articles or blog post of interest.

Facebook
Facebook has combination of resources to use. Taking approach of learning it step and step to create profile that is interested and engaging with your friends, make frequent updates and work toward building your profile
Creating your own sub groups within the community where you can promote events to a specified inner circle of entrepreneurs and professionals.
You can add pictures of events you have attended to build you relationship with other and share what your interests. You can tie in your blog address to your profile and attach other blogs that you also read.
Promote events that you are planning to attend and share them with your group who are in the local vicinity.
The environment of friends you create will have an impact on the type of information you give and receive with you profile. Avoid playing games and participating in activities that could have potential to distract you

Connection of networks
Key goal is to combine the networks to create a strategy of interest which will lead to following
Create interest
Share with your networks what you are doing. Do speak regularly or write articles online. Do you associate or promote people of interest who add value to people
Promote Events
What events do you attend in your area and why. Take pictures of events and post them with brief explanation
Create referrals
You have to create an appetite that your potential customer customers need to follow you and learn more about you. In all the above networks you can email and send message to your online professional’s database. Email and ask them what they are doing and how you can assist.

Get Connected-Make it Happen
Get connected with the people who can bring value to you and your group and gradually learn and understand how you can bring value to them. Either by specific information or events of interest and in due time you can make great things happen!

We covered some simple steps to a productive and result oriented social experience is a process to being confident to try influence and understand how you deal with people online within the various social networks available above.

Writer and Speaker in a year- You can do it!

It is with great honor to share this article in appreciation for the Toronto Public Library. It was not long ago that I wrote three articles within a 5 month period which gave me the credibility and leverage to be able to speak to various groups and organizations in the Toronto Region. Let go back in time and tell you the story.
In October 2007in Toronto and the Small Business Seminar was happening sponsored by Enterprise Toronto and Centennial College. There was tradeshow and seminar happening all day with lots of opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs. Had lots of business cards and was prepared with infomercial about myself.
“Bring business cards and have infomercial about yourself”
First stop was the tradeshow where there were vendors from various companies Staples Business Depot, Car Dealership, Graphic Designers and many more. The Toronto Public Library had a booth representing the Small Biz Express Section. Had a brief conversation with the representative and continued network and meet people at the show. There was also various seminars being held by seasoned experts in different fields.
Overall the show was very informative and met some great entrepreneurs whom to this day have contact with. The importance part of networking is the following up with all the contacts that have been made. ( 24 to 48 is the normal time to call back)
Had proceeded to follow-up with participants and exhibitors at the events. One of the tradeshow exhibitors was the Toronto Public Library who had a website call the Smallbizxress which the featured monthly articles on different entrepreneurs and the different expertise. Within the next few months had submitted 3 articles from Mentorship, Effective Networking Skills and How to Market and promote yourself and also had one my mentors Terry Gogna (www.terrygogna) submit two articles regarding his book “ How can I get myself to do what I need to do”.
Having the articles online gave me the opportunity to leverage them to various contacts that I had met networking in the Toronto area with the opportunity for future speaking engagements. Within the next six months had spoken for Enterprise Toronto at City Hall and North York on Do you have a Mentor? to Career Door Inc in Toronto who did IT Job Fair with complimentary speaking seminars as a value added information for the participants.
The most memorable and (nervous) talk was my first day for Career Door in February 2008 at the Marriot Hotel in Toronto. It was a two-day event and was scheduled to speak two times. My first speaking engagement and had to do it twice! Putting together a powerpoint presentation to have some resources to use was ready get this done.
Room was average size with seating for about 50 people with a stage and podium. Going into the first talk I was very nervous until of the hotel caterers gave me water on the house to calm me done and some encouragement sent me of to get start my talk.
Few months early one my mentors had suggested to record myself which was a great way evaluate yourself moving forward to get better, with that had set up my recording device and was ready to speak.
Both talks went well and with the help of Max Haroon (www.sipgroup.org) and Ron Vereggen (www.rapidsucesscoach.com) (who were also speakers that day) were helpful resources to have available on both days.
Having a successfully spoken proceeded to speak to other organizations in Toronto and with few months spoke at Enterprise Toronto, Bloor-Dundas Employment Centre, Skills for Change and numerous time at Career Door Inc over the past year.
Have learned many lesson along the way from importance of audience participation, improving presentation style and engaging with audience.
On your of success you will come many opportunities that you will pursue with the realization that it will open many door for you and allow to get better every day and gain the confidence and persistence to pursue bigger goals and desire.
Get Connected Make it Happen you too can become the best you can be.
Jim Pagiamtzis is writer, speaker and entrepreneur in Toronto. Can be reached payamgis@gmail.com

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

How to Persuade Larger Players to Work With You

As entrepreneurs, we know that working with companies
who are bigger than we are can catapult our businesses.
We strive to win accounts with big name clients and
aspire to collaborate with leaders in our industries
because they have the clout and the cash.

In truth, it really isn’t that difficult to wrangle
larger, more established contacts into your sales
pipeline or support network, but you need to have some
critical components lined up first.

After all, they have more to lose than you do. If they
work with you, partner with you, hire you, or give you
money, there's a risk to that. A big part of your job
will be to decrease the perceived risk to them.

Here are two areas to focus on:

First, showcase your abilities.

When you start contacting prospects or potential
partners, if they don’t know you already, they’re going
to want to check you out before they respond. They want
to read about your background, understand your
experience and get a level of comfort that you can
actually do what you are promising. Are you the real
deal? Will working with you diminish their reputation?

Your website, blog and social networking pages should
be filled with content that puts you in the best light.
You want to show why you’re the best person for them to
be working with, that you have the expertise and the
experience.

Articles you’ve written, interviews of you in the
media, and case studies of your work are invaluable. On
the other hand, an incomplete LinkedIn profile, a
homemade website, or an “About Us” page that doesn’t
include information about you or the other principals
in the company doesn’t help your case one bit.

Second, solicit help from your network.

Nothing sells you better than someone else doing the
selling. Collect client testimonials and post them on
your website. Get permission to use their full name and
company rather than just initials. This lends a lot to
the credibility of your endorsers.

Your network can also be helpful in making
introductions to key people within your target
companies. Use LinkedIn to find which of your contacts
may be connected to decision makers, influencers and
buyers within the companies you want to work with, and
ask them directly if they would be comfortable making a
phone call or sending an email on your behalf.

You want potential clients and partners to be receptive
to hearing from you when you contact them and an
introduction from a trusted mutual contact can go a
long way.

With online communications making it so easy to do
business outside our immediate geographic boundaries,
and often with people we’ve never met face-to-face,
it’s important that you build a strong case for
yourself so you can compete effectively for these
opportunities.

What you share about yourself online, and what others
can say about you can boost your credibility immensely
and help you get through to that larger, more
established players more quickly and more successfully.


© 2010 Liz Lynch. All Rights Reserved


http://www.smartnetworking.com


"Liz Lynch, business development strategist and author
of ‘Smart Networking: Attract a Following In Person and
Online,’ teaches entrepreneurs and professionals how to
get 24/7 networking results WITHOUT the 24/7 effort.
Get her Smart Networking Toolkit at
www.SmartNetworking.com.”

Sunday, December 19, 2010

December 2010 Newsletter

Get Connected
Make (Wealth) Happen!
December 2010 Newsletter

December has arrived time put your goals down on paper, There lots of great
books and articles to read regarding put energy into your goals in 2011. Take
the time to do. No matter what they are. The process is important event more
than the goal. Check out my blog( www.jimpagiamtzis.blogspot.com)
 for a great article by Jack Canfield on how to look what your success are
in 2010 and how to give them momentum.


Wish everyone the all the best this Holiday Season
and a very joyous and wealth creating  New year in 2011

Excited news 2 new books by your truly "How to Attract Mentor" & How to
be come Networking Success"
3rd book coming in late 2011 that will revolutionize networking for the
next decade


Thank you to all entrepreneurs who made this year a successful and
utilizing their unique abilities.
AJ Parl
Barb Sawyers
Phil Taylor
Sue Lacher
Happy Happy
Claudio Rusillo
Richard Dolan
Joe Collins
Anna Nawrocki
Sue Dier
Cheryl Rankin
Tibor Shanto
Bizlanch
Max Haroon
Centennial College
Galini Gravidlou
Canada Job Expo
Enterprise Toronto
Skills for Change
TM Mahdi and CG6
Natalia Kantor
Marc Gordon
Vivienne Gauci
Gary and Kim Coles
John and Angela Amato

Have put together some great "spotlight" feature on
my blog the past few months

Get Connected Make it Happen members on Facebook, LinkedIN, Sprouter.Plaxo,

and many more that I have met.

Stay tuned for the January 2011 Newsletter full of
great information, events,great spotlight stories and much
more.....

Have a wealth creating new year
Jim Pagiamtzis
payamgis@gmail.com

Monday, December 13, 2010

Spotlight: Natalia Kantor

I have had the opportunity to share the stage with many great entrepreneurs this year, with various unique abilities. Natalia Kantor really did share the "Get Connected Make it Happen" moment at InitiativeTO (https://www.facebook.com/InitiativeTO) on November 17. She began with a brief introduction and then came to the crowd to learn more about us and allow us to "choose" one of her cards. I said "she doesn't waste time connecting". after that we were treated to great talk on her Road less traveled of being on entrepreneur

1. What is your definition of an entrepreneur?

Natalia Kantor answer:
Entrepreneurship: "It's not about reducing the world to what it is but rather seeing what it can become!"
Entrepreneurship is a gateway to reinventing business, reinventing culture, reinventing yourself and reinventing the world. Entrepreneurship is about innovation. And innovation can only happen with 'out of the box' thinking! Entrepreneurship is about making and breaking your own rules, testing the grounds and redefining what is possible! Entrepreneurship is about creating and not only filling the demand.

2. You have traveled and seen many parts of the world. What part of the word has made the most impact for you?


I have traveled to many, many places and they all have made a big impact on me. Each place teaches you something different.
In my opinion, travel in general is the greatest teacher because when you travel, you become more receptive. New surroundings sharpen your mind.

Natalia Kantor
Biography

For the longest time I tried to define who I am as an individual and as a professional. I graduated from Ryerson University in 2006 with a new media degree. Initially I worked as a graphic and web designer. Then I moved up to working as a creative director. Later I fell in love with video as a format and worked as a production manager for an online magazine. I found that if you don’t know yourself, someone else is always more than happy to define your role for you. I found it harder and harder trying to fit myself into a box of someone’s design. I made a decision to take some time off and define who I was for myself. I traveled to such places as Burningman and the southern United States, England, Scotland, Ireland, Spain and Australia. Today I can say that I am an entrepreneur. I describe myself as a multi-platform creative producer. Multi-platform because I produce multimedia, web, print, photo and video work for a range of online and offline media platforms. I am the director and founder of We Are Communications, a creative agency focused on integrating creative direction, communication, innovation and entrepreneurship with Web 2.0 applications and social media. I am also a founder of women's network called Co-Inspirers, focused on creative self-development. Currently, I am incubating Roads Less Traveled, a multi-platform host-driven travel series, an online community and an annual conference focused on alternative living and I love what I do.


ROADS LESS TRAVELED.TV
“Imagine the alternative, a different way of life”

FAN PAGE: www.facebook.com/roadslesstravaled
TRAILER: http://vimeo.com/13742301

Jim Pagiamtzis is a published author, writer and entrepreneur who has written for the Toronto Public Library spoken at Universities, Enterprise Toronto, Initiative TO on How to be come a networking Success and How to attract Mentor in Business Life and Success. You can be email payamgis@gmail.com if you interested in being featured in future spotlight articles or have him come and speaking to sales or marketing organizations

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Spotlight: Marc Gordon

Recently had spoken at Initiative TO on "How to attract a Mentor in Business, Life and Success" throughout the day there were speaker who I had shared the stage. Marc Gordon had a presentation that was funny and engaging.

1st. Many of the business you had started were prior to social media of today. You made it work through work ethic and commitment. With the explosion of online videos do you think businesses can still connect with consumer online effectively and create long-term business

Marc Gordon response:
I believe that "connecting" with a client, or market, is done on a level that goes far beyond social media, videos, email, or web sites. The fact is that consumers decide what to buy for so many reasons. And these reasons can change overnight. Something as simple as a celebrity endorsement, bad press, or school yard influences can render the most aggressive online campaigns ineffective. And while video and other types of web marketing tools can have some form of influence, at the end of the day the consumer will buy products for the same reason since mass consumption became a reality: because they fill a practical or emotional need.


2nd. What advise do you have for entrepreneurs looking for business opportunities going into 2011?

Marc Gordon response:
My advice to entrepreneurs would be to focus on the quality and innovation of the product and service first. Great marketing will not compensate for a lousy product. Also, do not get swept up in the belief that social media must be an essential part of a company's marketing program. I have seen many businesses lose business because they have allocated so many resources to keeping their twitter and Facebook accounts active, rather than focus on customer service and product development.

Marc Gordon

Tel: (416) 238-7811

Watch the latest episode of marctv

Follow me on Twitter

Be a fan on Facebook

Learn more about me at marcgordon.ca

See how your business can grow at fourword.biz

Jim Pagiamtzis is a published author, writer and entrepreneur who has written for the Toronto Public Library spoken at Universities, Enterprise Toronto, Initiative TO on How to be come a networking Success and How to attract Mentor in Business Life and Success. You can be email payamgis@gmail.com if you interested in being featured in future spotlight articles or have him come and speaking to sales or marketing organizations

Spotlight: Barb Sawyers

Networking in Toronto have had the opportunity to meet entrepreneur who have expertise in various areas of business, Life and Success.

Currently a friend has been editing two books that are based on my talks that I have been doing the past few years on “How to become a Networking Success” and “ How to attract a Mentor in Business, Life and Success”. She made a comment saying “ Jim, You right like you talk!” I said “What’s wrong with that!”

Below is a review on great book by Barb Sawyer called “You write like you talk only better” 3 steps to turn good talkers into great talkers.

The book is full of great template ideas and exercises to build your writing skills. Going to share briefly on 3 points that I found of interest.

1st When writing email or letter to someone put a picture of them in front of you.

Get Connected Make it Happen-response

This was brilliant idea that you can do with business cards, pictures this will create a stronger “connection” between you and the recipient

2nd The first 30 words should be clear and to the point

Get Connected Make it Happen –response

You see this everyday in newspaper and magazine. First paragraph has just enough information to get you interested in reading the entire articles

3rd First impression count most

Get Connected Make it Happen-response

In the world of networking we go out shake hands with people everyday, online we do the same but we use our words as our way to connect and generate interest in our writing.

Barb Sawyers helps good talkers become great writers so they can connect with more people.

She shows people how to write like they talk, only better, through her book, training, speaking and blog at http://www.stickycommunication.ca. She also writes for clients, transforming a telephone conversation into written words.

Barb sharpened this skill through more than 25 years writing for a wide range of organizations, her master’s degree in journalism and her active involvement with the International Association of Business Communicators.


Jim Pagiamtzis is a published author, writer and entrepreneur who has written for the Toronto Public Library spoken at Universities, Enterprise Toronto, Initiative TO on How to be come a networking Success and How to attract Mentor in Business Life and Success. You can be email payamgis@gmail.com if you interested in being featured in future spotlight articles or have him come and speaking to sales or marketing organization

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Spotlight: Tibor Shanto

During the year have had the opportunity to meet Tibor Shanto through the SOHO events held in Toronto. Few months ago he shared insights on his book Shift "Turning prospects into Customers" at the Toronto Action Summit held by Andrew Skelly.

Recently read the book and found to be very impressive and went through a number of great illustrations that every entrepreneur should follow no matter in dealing with B2B or B2C.

1st>Shift is always happening where we realize it or not. At the beginning he shares a powerful action for you do that illustrates shift and sets up the book for a powerful and learning base read.

2nd>Chapter 4 talks about “Emotional Favorite and how important it is to create a powerful connection with your potential client and customer and specific insights in what to do to strengthen that business relationship.


3rd>Chapter 5 is called “Trigger event Referrals” this is the lifeblood of any business. There are specific types of referrals that are explained and how they have an impact on how they promote you and what you do. Simple and easy to remember applications to give new energy to a great resource.

The book is great example of the Get Connected Make it Happen in action from a step by step point of view.


Tibor Shanto had leveraged 20 years working in various sectors and provided perspective how this information can be used to, shorten sales cycles, increase close rations, create double digit growth. Known as “brilliant sales tactician” Tibor show organizations how to execute their strategy by using the right information to created the perfect combination of what are the tactics to apply and when.

Jim Pagiamtzis is a published author, writer and entrepreneur who has written for the Toronto Public Library spoken at Universities, Enterprise Toronto, Initiative TO on How to be come a networking Success and How to attract Mentor in Business Life and Success. You can be email payamgis@gmail.com if you interested in being featured in future spotlight articles or have him come and speaking to sales or marketing organization

Monday, November 29, 2010

How to Market to your Network and get appreciation

Living the Get Connected Make It Happen lifestyle has created the opportunity to meet great entrepreneurs but also have great success together. Two years ago I had attended a Life Entrepreneur where I met Tm Mahdi form Cg6. At the time he had just published his first large size newspaper called Crossover ( he had personally delivered a copy for me to read after the event)

As time passed we had connected at various events throughout the city from Freelance bootcamp at Ryerson to Small Business Forum at the Metro Convention.

Shortly after that we had a meeting regarding get some speakers for an event called Initiative TO which was happening in Toronto City wide the week of Nov 15-19 celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week. Had sent out an email to my network regarding this event and had a great response (read story below) So great that we had to make some change on how to connect with organizer

The event was a overall success and I had three friend who ended up speaking at the event and one location that I have done some marketing the week before.

Remeber that you meet people everyday and you just don't know when and where you will conneted again. Check out my blog or email for my montly newsletter at payamgis@gmail.com


"I want to personally extend my hand out and share my thank you to Jim Pagiamtzis. Because of you, my voicemail has been so clotted up in interest. Thank You. And many thanks to Marilyn Garshowitz, Cheryl Rankin, Anfernee Chansamooth, Eric Bernhard Kristle Calisto-Tavares, Brent Kobayashi, Dan Hashemi, Kune Hua, Jan Keck, Kenny Santos, Elysabeth Fischer, Vivianne Gauci and Natalia Kantor for making magic really happen." Tm Mahdi

Go out there and Get Connected and Make it Happen!

Jim Pagiamtzis
payamgis@gmail.com

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Be Thankful for Your Blessings

5 Ways to Practice a Daily Appreciation Ritual

The practice of giving thanks is commemorated today in America as a national holiday. But if you want to live an abundant life, appreciation shouldn’t be confined to a solitary day. It should be incorporated into your daily living.

Appreciation is one of the highest emotional states you can be in. It is the state of abundance. The Law of Attraction states that like attracts like. If you are grateful for what you have already received, you will attract more for which you can be grateful.

Many people find that it requires great diligence to cultivate an attitude of appreciation. We are culturally conditioned to focus on what we don’t have, rather than appreciating what we’ve already received.

"There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread."
- Mother Teresa, Winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

Appreciate the Smallest Blessings

Activate your gratitude by acknowledging the gifts most people take for granted.

If you have food in your refrigerator, clothes in your closet and a roof over your head, you are better off than 75 percent of the world’s population.

If you eat three meals a day, you are far better off than the 1 billion people on the planet who eat once a day at most. Celebrate these simple blessings.

Do you have a phone? Be grateful – millions don’t. How about a car that allows you to travel to work or to explore the country? Is your family healthy? Do you have a computer and Internet access to stay in touch with the world, get access to education, and perform work for which you are paid? Do you have clean water to drink?

These daily conveniences are gifts that most people in the world do not enjoy.

Daily Appreciation Habits

Here are five easy ways to make appreciation part of your daily routine:

Take 7 minutes each morning to write down all you appreciate in life. Starting your day this way primes you to be receptive and grateful for everything your day will bring.


Appreciate at least 3 people every day. Most people enjoy receiving verbal appreciation. But written notes are also nice because they can be saved and re-read. (For ideas on expressing appreciation, grab your copy of The Success Principles and review principle 53; Practice Uncommon Appreciation.)


Play the Appreciation Game. As the saying goes, “Every cloud has a silver lining.” Look for the good in all situations. When my wife was in a car accident a few years ago, she could have chosen to berate herself or question her judgment. Instead, she focused on her gratitude for suffering only minor injuries and for the help she received from other drivers.


Carry a physical token of gratitude in your pocket, such as a stone, crystal or some other small item. As you reach into your pocket throughout the day and feel the token, use it as a reminder to stop, breathe and take a moment to fully experience the emotion of gratitude.


Appreciate yourself. We all need acknowledgement, but the most important acknowledgement is what we give ourselves. In addition to celebrating your big successes, acknowledge your small daily successes too.
During this month’s Ask Jack call, I assigned the Mirror Exercise as homework. Your subconscious mind needs positive encouragement to pursue further achievements and to change any negative beliefs you hold toward praise and accomplishment. This powerful exercise requires you to appreciate yourself for the day’s accomplishments while talking to yourself in a mirror. For more detailed instructions about how to use the Mirror Exercise, click here.

It may not feel natural at first to focus on appreciating what you already have. But by faithfully practicing the Daily Appreciation Habits outlined in this article, you’ll begin to change your conditioning.

Giving thanks should be more than an occasional exercise once year. Let it become a daily discipline that allows you to attract more of what you want from life. I invite you to experiment with this discipline over the next 30 days and watch your blessings multiply!

* * *

Are you "stuck" in this area?
Send me your most pressing question about this topic, then join me for our monthly
"Ask Jack Canfield" Tele-Clinic on December 1st!
www.AskJackCanfield.com



© 2010 The Canfield Training Group
All Rights Reserved.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com

Friday, November 12, 2010

Snack Lunches

I put my carry-on in the luggage compartment and sat down in my assigned seat. It was going to be a long flight. 'I'm glad I have a good book to read. Perhaps I will get a short nap,' I thought.

Just before take-off, a line of soldiers came down the aisle and filled all the vacant seats, totally surrounding me. I decided to start a conversation.

'Where are you headed?' I asked the soldier seated nearest to me.
'Petawawa. We'll be there for two weeks for special training, and then we're being deployed to Afghanistan

After flying for about an hour, an announcement was made that snack lunches were available for five dollars. It would be several hours before we reached the east, and I quickly decided a lunch would help pass the time...

As I reached for my wallet, I overheard a soldier ask his buddy if he planned to buy lunch. 'No, that seems like a lot of money for just a snack lunch. Probably wouldn't be worth five bucks. I'll wait till we get to base.'

His friend agreed.

I looked around at the other soldiers. None were buying lunch. I walked to the back of the plane and handed the flight attendant a fifty dollar bill. 'Take a lunch to all those soldiers.' She grabbed my arms and squeezed tightly. Her eyes wet with tears, she thanked me. 'My son was a soldier in Iraq ; it's almost like you are doing it for him.'

Picking up ten snacks, she headed up the aisle to where the soldiers were seated. She stopped at my seat and asked, 'Which do you like best - beef or chicken?'
'Chicken,' I replied, wondering why she asked. She turned and went to the front of plane, returning a minute later with a dinner plate from first class.

'This is your thanks.'

After we finished eating, I went again to the back of the plane, heading for the rest room. A man stopped me. 'I saw what you did. I want to be part of it. Here, take this.' He handed me twenty-five dollars..

Soon after I returned to my seat, I saw the Flight Captain coming down the aisle, looking at the aisle numbers as he walked, I hoped he was not looking for me, but noticed he was looking at the numbers only on my side of the plane. When he got to my row he stopped, smiled, held out his hand and said, 'I want to shake your hand.' Quickly unfastening my seatbelt I stood and took the Captain's hand. With a booming voice he said, 'I was a soldier and I was a military pilot. Once, someone bought me a lunch. It was an act of kindness I never forgot.' I was embarrassed when applause was heard from all of the passengers.

Later I walked to the front of the plane so I could stretch my legs. A man who was seated about six rows in front of me reached out his hand, wanting to shake mine. He left another twenty-five dollars in my palm.

When we landed I gathered my belongings and started to deplane. Waiting just inside the airplane door was a man who stopped me, put something in my shirt pocket, turned, and walked away without saying a word. Another twenty-five dollars!

Upon entering the terminal, I saw the soldiers gathering for their trip to the base.
I walked over to them and handed them seventy-five dollars. 'It will take you some time to reach the base. It will be about time for a sandwich.
God Bless You.'

Ten young men left that flight feeling the love and respect of their fellow travelers.

As I walked briskly to my car, I whispered a prayer for their safe return. These soldiers were giving their all for our country.. I could only give them a couple of meals. It seemed so little...

A veteran is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made payable to 'Canada' for an amount of 'up to and including my life.'

That is Honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand it.'

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Spotlight: Success in Toronto

Get Connected Make it Happen Special Edition

Few months ago I watched an internet radio station and heard a great story of an entrepreneur who has had great networking success in Toronto!
We got connected recently and had an interview regarding his upcoming book being released in early 2011.

1. What inspired you to write the book?

When I migrated to Toronto in 2000 and even when I started writing this book in 2008, I could not find a book on this topic. Every month I came across or heard about one or more new immigrants struggling so I thought I should help them out by writing this very practical book and help them succeed here just like I did. They don’t have to struggle if they know what to do, how to get things done and they can live a great life in Toronto and be proud to be Canadian. Instead of blaming the immigration system, I thought I should try to find solutions and implement them. This book is one solution and I have more solutions that I am planning to implement in the future. Now that I have completed the book, my goal is to let each and every new immigrant to Toronto ( Greater Toronto Area ) know about this book.

2.What do you want people to learn from the book?

The book is very practical and gives solutions to real life problems new immigrants face. As you can see in the detailed table of contents at www.successintoronto.com/table-of-contents , it has a lot of information about many aspects of life. Main principles, What to do in the first 2 weeks, how to find a great job, good things about Canada, finding a place to live, travelling, buying a car, handling the winter, assistance etc. are just some of the topics covered. I would like them to follow the principles I have mentioned in chapter 1 and to take advantage of the valuable information in the other chapters. I would like them to learn how to succeed here in Toronto.

3. There is many book on success written, what makes your different?

I am poised for semi-retirement in 2011 at the age of 33 and the readers can achieve great results by following the principles I have mentioned in the first chapter of the book and by having access to a lot of valuable information that could save them money, make them more efficient and effective etc. This book is very practical and focuses on Toronto ( GTA ) making it more relevant to them. Just as an example, I even explained what the TTC is and how to use it. It would also be a great gift for a new immigrant.

Check out www.successintoronto.com for more details on what the book covers

Stay tuned for more information regarding Success in Toronto in the near future

Jim Pagiamtzis has written for Centennial College and Toronto Public Library. Go to www.jimpagiamtzis.wordpress.com for more information or email payamgis@gmail.com to feature your upcoming book or events.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

5 Steps to the Perfect LinkedIn Invitation

Get Connected Make it Happen Special article. Great information on how to connect with LinkedIN with style!



We all know that when we meet someone at a networking event, we want to put our best foot forward and make afavorable first impression.

That's why we get self-conscious if we feel our palmsare a bit sweaty or there might be a poppy seed stuckbetween our teeth. We know to give a friendly smile anda firm but not crushing handshake. We know not toinvade the person's private space by standing tooclose. And we know to communicate standard pleasantrieslike, "Hello" and "Nice to meet you."

Yet when it comes to networking online, so much of thatawareness of how you might be coming across goes outthe window. Not for everybody, but it happens enoughthat I can't stay quiet any longer.

Yes, the rant you've been waiting for...my personal petpeeve...the sloppy LinkedIn invitation.

How you introduce yourself for the first time tosomeone who doesn't know you sets the stage for therelationship. Not that their impression can't bechanged, but that takes more work than doing thingsright the first time.

When you invite someone to connect with you onLinkedIn, you have the option of including a personalnote with your invitation. Unfortunately LinkedInpre-populates this field with a rather sterileintroduction:

“I’d like to add you to my professional network onLinkedIn.” -- Joe Smith

There's no warmth, no personality, no indication thateven a modicum of time or thought was invested. Itlooks like you were in a hurry, lazy or clueless, noneof which is particularly appealing to people you wantto do business with. Your invitation may still beaccepted, but simply adding another connection to yourLinkedIn profile really isn't the point

The point is to develop relationships. And a stampedout, cookie cutter, impersonal invitation like the oneabove is not a good way to start.

The sad thing is that it doesn't take a lot of extratime or thought to stand out in a positive way. Thereare only five things you need to do. Not a hundred,just five, so there's absolutely no excuse:

1) Say hello You would do it in person, so why not do it here? Addtwo words to the beginning of the note such as "Hi Liz"or "Dear Liz." This makes me feel like you'readdressing the note specifically to me.

2) Add context Your first sentence should be a brief explanation ofwhy you want to connect. Something along the lines of"I saw you speak at last week's event" or "I read yourbook" or "I see that we both know Marvin Jones." Even"I saw your name pop up when I was logged in" is betterthan nothing.

3) Introduce yourself Describe what you do in your next sentence. DO NOT say,"Read my profile to learn what I do." That's just rude.If you're the one making the initial contact, it's YOURjob to give them the basic information. "I'm a systemsengineer at Boeing" or "I'm a blogger and executivecoach in San Diego." Let people know who you are, andif they want to find out more, your profile is just aclick away.

4) Invite them to connect I don't have a big problem with the default sentence"I'd like to add you to my professional network onLinkedIn" IF the other four steps of this formula arefollowed. But while you're personalizing things, whynot personalize this sentence as well? One of my favorite ways is to say, "I'd love to connectwith you on LinkedIn and see how we can help eachother." Think about what would make it appealing forsomeone to accept your invitation

5) Add a closing sign off Before your name, add a closing like "Best regards" or"Sincerely" or "Take care." Something that you wouldinclude in any other note to a stranger whom you aretrying to impress.

So what's the benefit of taking the 10 extra seconds todo this, rather than leaving the default message as is?

First of all, you've stood out among all the otherLinkedIn invitations your contact may have receivedthat day or that week or that month, so you're going tobe remembered.

Second, you've left the impression that you'refriendly, polite and willing to go the extra mile.


And third, you've established that you're interested inbuilding a relationship rather than just increasingyour number of connections. In other words, you'reabout quality rather than quantity.

For a few extra seconds of your time, I'd say that's abig return for your investment, wouldn't you?

What do you think? How do you feel about receiving aLinkedIn invitation with the default intro rather thana customized one? What are your ideas for personalizingyour
messages? Please leave a comment on the SmartNetworking blog. I'd love to hear from you.

http://www.networkingexcellence.com/blogpost

© 2010 Liz Lynch. All Rights Reserved

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Business Card Etiquette for Consultants and Freelancers

Sam Zipursky is a Brand Consultant, Internet Marketer, and aspiring Digital Nomad. He spends most of his time focusing on the connection between internet, branding, design and marketing. He is one of the authors from the become a consultant blog Business Consulting Buzz. He is also a Co-Founder with Advicetap – The place where Canadian marketing and creative professionals find gigs and build connections with other professionals.

Although many (including myself) may argue that the Internet is making traditional business cards almost irrelevant, they still play an important role in business communications and promotion. If we can agree with this, then why do so many consultants, freelancers, professionals, and business owners that I meet do not have any business card etiquette?

After doing business in Japan for many years, I came to see the giving and receiving of business cards in a new way. Today I wanted to share some simple but powerful techniques you can use here in North America when you out and about business networking and meeting people - using your biz cards!

Express your interest
Most people I meet with simply take my card and put it directly in their pocket without even giving it any kind of attention. Others just hold on to it, play with it a bit, bend it, you name it...I know you folks have experienced this and it's just plain rude!

So what you should do when you receive a business card is take a look at it, ask a question about it, compliment the design or logo if you like it, anything to show some respect for the person that just gave you a piece of their brand and promotion.

Put it down
If you go to a meeting at a coffee shop, board room, or anywhere that has a table or counter after you examine the card place it nicely on the table during your conversation. This just adds another element of respect to the person your meeting. You can glance at the card from time to time during your conversations which helps avoid uncomfortable eye contact and once again shows you are interested in that person and his/her card.

Conclusion
The main point I'm trying to make here is to treat business cards with respect when you get them. Look at them, compliment them, don't crunch them, don't stuff them in your pocket. Following these simple tips will take you a long way in your business communications and how people see you – guaranteed!

Submitted by Sue Varty

Source
http://www.wordtree.ca/blog

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Spotlight :Joe Collins

In my speaking on "How to become a networking success" have come across many participants who have pArticipates in what I call " open line communication" where I communicate once a week with individuals who seek either some light accountability or guidance on their success.

Joe Collins has done just that and accellerated his own development in a few short months he proved to that he had the commitment and integrity to meet with with to strategize and do some role playing.

He also came out and volunteered at tradeshow where spoke at and did an excellent in communicating and sharing relative information at the booth

The most proud moment happened at an event where i had been asked to speak to Toastmasters group on talk that I did on arties that had been published in a college magazine.

Near the end of the event they had part where you selected a folded piece of paper and to a short talk on the topic.

As you may have heard number one fear by everyone is public speaking, on this day Joe Collins stepped up a delivered a very funny and memorable talk on "his first crush". He had the crowd engaged and interested.

He continues to learn and grow and is able to take on challenges with the ability to find the solution!

Way to go Mr. Joe Collins

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Networking Success Story

Recently had reconnected with an entrepreneur that I had met at a networking event two years ago. His group has published an interesting paper called the Crossover and have done numerous event in the Toronto area. Had an attended one last month for Freelance Bootcamp at Ryerson University.

I have be given the opportunit to speak at the event this month (www.cg6.com for details) there were still looking for additional speakers and sponsors. I offered to email my newsletter and social networking groups with a brief announcent. Two days later I got a call from my contact advising he got 12 calls in less than two days and his mailbox was full! He was happy but overwhelmed, we made some alterations to the document to ease the communication.

Lesson in this example entrepreneurs do read their email.

Have also got some sponsorship opportunities with college alumni office.

Networking is an ongoing process that yields results in due to time,
treat every connection with respect and you will be suprised where it will lead.

Look forward to my talk on How to attract a Mentor for Business,Life and Success on November 17th at InitiativeTO find on Facebook and Twitter, Sprouter and group on LinkedIn

Look forward to Get Connected Make it Happen!

Jim Pagiamtzis is published author, speaker and entrepreneur. Looking for a guest speaker for your event or writer for your business, product or services to enhance you business email at payamgis@gmail.com for free 1/2 consultation.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Small Business Forum in Toronto 2010

The 10th annual Small busines Forum was held in Toronto at the Metro Convention Center. Featuring 85 business at tradeshow, Digital zone where you could share your insight and thoughts on the event on Twitter.
There were also numerous seminars on various topics from growing your business, social networking and much more.

The morning keynote speaker was presented by Chris Oneil managing director of Google Canada who gave quick and effective talk on where the internet is head. Provided key insights on googles participation and initiatives.

The day was full of great opportunities to network and meet other business owners and entrepreneurs.

The evening end of with a Ingnite our where 5 speakers gave 5 minutes talks utilizing only 20 slides. It was full exciting stories, inspiration and engaging conversation on what success means to different people.

Closing keynote speach was made by Austin Hill who provided storis on his journey of success and shared his stories in a heartfelt and passionate way. He talk about alot about his failures and how it changed him to get better. Having mentor who inspired him on his journey to do better and he has done just that.

Creating and meet new people and developing projects that are meaningful for him and impactfull on society.

Thanks to Enterprise Toronto and all the supporting partners for this amazing event.

Enjoy Small Business Week and remember go out there Get Connected and Make it Happen!

Jim Pagiamtzis Published writer,speaker and enterpreneur payamgis@gmail.com

Friday, October 22, 2010

Is Your Business Card Worth Holding On To?

A virtual extension of your hand shake and small space for your commercial, your business (or calling card) is an essential marketing tool that tells perspective clients who you are; what you do and how you run your business. So whether you’re emerging or established, you must have a professional looking business card that effectively promotes you, your company and your products or services – as well as makes a strong, lasting and positive impression.
Vertical or horizontal, business cards vary in size, shape, colour and design according to the industry or profession you represent. And with inexpensive printing offers available at most business supply stores, specialty papers, do-it-yourself options and plenty of sites like Vista Print providing online tools and templates, today you can easily design your own business card, have it delivered to you in no time and for virtually no cost.
However tempting this sounds (especially when you are in start-up mode and trying to cut costs), nothing beats having your business card professionally designed and printed by a graphic artist or printer who has some experience creating business cards for others in your field.
If you want to your business card to stand out and be held on to, follow these 3 simple tips:
1. Remember that The Exchange of Business Cards is a Sensory Experience - It’s important to remember that the exchange of business cards is a sensory experience. Anyone who views your card immediately looks at it and feels its texture in their hand and judges whether or not they’re impressed with both before they begin asking questions about your business.

2. Be Aware of What Your Business Card Says About You – Professionally designed and printed business cards spark discussion about your business and declare…“I’m a well-established expert worth hiring.” Where as handmade, cheap or free online business cards (such as those with perforated edges) shout…“I’m a beginner with limited funds. If I’m not willing to invest in myself, why should you?” and do a lot to undermine your pitch, pricing and image.
The following scenario illustrates my point:
Roger hands his business card to Jane. Roger’s business card has been professionally designed and printed. There’s a picture of a ticking time bomb on the front amidst a splash of vibrant colours. When Jane holds Roger’s business card in her hands and sees the powerful graphic design, her reaction is, “What’s the bomb about?” Roger replies, “That’s what can happen to your business in case you don’t have the right funds flow strategies in place.” Jane has just opened the door for Roger to tell her more about his business. Now that’s a business card Jane isn’t likely throw out!
3. Know What Type of Business Card Attracts – In addition to the design structure, layout, style, look and feel of your card, most potential customers tend to be attracted and hold on to business cards that are uncomplicated and legible to read. Business cards that evenly display the card holders’ company name or logo with their head shot (depending on the type of business they’re in) as they appear on the cards’ side or background which also balance their name, title, tag line, address, phone number, fax, Skype, e-mail, URL and social media links (on the front or back side of the card) are preferred.
To your success!

Feel free to post a comment on my Blog, share this article with your colleagues on Facebook & Twitter (if you find it beneficial) or give me a call to let me how my marketing advice is working for you!

by Janette Burke
Marketing Expert

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Small Business Forum in Toronto 2010

The 10th annual Small busines Forum was held in Toronto at the Metro Convention Center. Featuring 85 business at tradeshow, Digital zone where you could share your insight and thoughts on the event on Twitter.

There were also numerous seminars on various topics from growing your business, social networking and much more.

The morning keynote speaker was presented by Chris Oneil managing director of Google Canada who gave quick and effective talk on where the internet is head. Provided key insights on googles participation and initiatives.

The day was full of great opportunities to network and meet other business owners and entrepreneurs.

The evening end of with a Ingnite our where 5 speakers gave 5 minutes talks utilizing only 20 slides. It was full exciting stories, inspiration and engaging conversation on what success means to different people.

Closing keynote speach was made by Austin Hill who provided storis on his journey of success and shared his stories in a heartfelt and passionate way. He talk about alot about his failures and how it changed him to get better. Having mentor who inspired him on his journey to do better and he has done just that.

Creating and meet new people and developing projects that are meaningful for him and impactfull on society.

Thanks to Enterprise Toronto and all the supporting partners for this amazing event.

Enjoy Small Business Week and remember go out there Get Connected and Make it Happen!

Jim Pagiamtzis
Published writer,speaker and enterpreneur
payamgis@gmail.com

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Going the Extra Mile Get you event Farther

In life, victory often goes to those who make a 100% commitment to the outcome. They give it their all and put everything they have into getting their desired result... whether it be an Olympic gold medal, the top sales award, a perfect dinner party, or an A in microbiology.

It's a simple concept, yet you'd be surprised how many people don't stick to their disciplines, follow through with their plans, or go the extra mile.

Are you someone who consistently goes the extra mile and routinely over delivers on your promises?

It's rare these days, but it's the hallmark of high achievers who know that exceeding expectations helps you stand above the crowd. Almost by force of habit, successful people simply do more.

As a result, they experience not only greater financial rewards for their extra efforts but also a personal transformation, becoming more self-confident, more self-reliant, and more influential with those around them.

These high achievers stand out from the crowd because of their extra efforts. They are unwilling to give up, even in the face of difficult times.

They get the promotions, they get the loyal customers, they grow their businesses twice as fast, they get financial rewards, job security, and they go home feeling satisfied.

Do you exceed expectations?

Do you surprise people with more than they were expecting from you?

Do you have the opportunity - but also the personal initiative - to go the extra mile?

To be successful you must change your thinking. You can only win by making extra efforts. People who go the extra mile always get payback. You will discover yourself becoming more self-confident, more self-reliant and more influential with those around you.

People notice the special services and all the small touches that make dealing with you so pleasurable. And when they are talking to their friends they will mention you and recommend you because you are the one who stands out.

People will see that you pay attention to detail, that you consider all the small things that really make a business successful, that you care about your image, and that you belong with all the other people who work hard to achieve. You will attract new business and new opportunities.

Listen to any success story and you will hear of someone who worked exceptionally hard to get what they wanted.

You’ll hear how they put in the extra time, did what wasn’t part of their job description, and over-delivered on what was asked of them. You’ll hear how they stuck at it until they broke through, and usually you’ll hear how it only took them a couple of years to do it.

What have you been doing for the past couple of years? Think of what you could accomplish if you made it a habit to exceed everyone’s expectations. Image what doors could be open to you if you decided to be of better service and value.

How are you willing to go the extra mile? What kind of extra service are you willing to provide in order to stand out from the rest? What areas of your life could you be giving more of your effort and time, becoming more valuable, and improving your reputation?

Be willing to treat everyone like you’d treat your dearest friend. Don’t skimp on service. Don’t be mediocre or run of the mill. Show people what you are capable of. Show them that you care about your image and reputation.

When it comes to success, the people who are willing to go the extra mile get there that much faster!

* * *

Are you "stuck" in this area?
Send me your most pressing question about this topic, then join me for our monthly
Ask Jack Canfield Tele-Clinic on November 3rd
www.AskJackCanfield.com

Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Get Connected Make it Happen October 2010 Newsletter

Welcome to all Entrepreneurs. It's October and its time to meet new people and grow your business. There is so many event happening this month! Celebration of Small Business is 2 weeks away. There is few that I will be sharing on here and rest I will be posting on my blog so check regularly at www.jimpagiamtzis.blogspot.com (follow me if you like). Scroll down and read the entire newsletter great events and special surprise :)

*Special event*
Oct 29 Tibor Shanto and Jim Pagiamtzis are speaking on Networking Success! go to
http://networksuccess-linkedJ.eventbrite.com and Discount code: NSJ10 You can use this code with anyone you want, if they enter it into the box when they buy their ticket the will receive a $15 discount from the total price


Future events:

October 16th and 17th Check out the Toronto Action Summit presented by Andrew Skelly and 7 great speakers including Tibor Shanto (co-author of new book "Shift)
More details (use promo code FRIEND25 to save $72 - Pay $25 only)
http://www.seminarinsiders.com/torontoactionsummit


Enterprise Toronto’s Small Business Forum is being held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Tuesday October 19th.

This years event will be the 10th annual Forum that Enterprise Toronto will be hosting. In 2009, we had an excellent turn out with over 1,500 participants and we are expecting no less this year. The objective of the Small Business Forum is to provide information, education and skills development to entrepreneurs and small business owners to help them successfully build and grow their businesses.

For more event details please visit our website at www.enterprisetoronto.com



Business Value:



Want to increase referral in your business or look for a great gift for some early Christmas shopping (sorry i couldn't resist!) email or call me and I can share with you great details regarding an amazing gift and incentive program



Wait I have more... Official launch of "The Business Card Holder for the Pro on the Go" is finally available in Green, Red and Blue with instructions on how to use it. (included a free phone consultation) all for $25!



November event:



Speaking at Canada Job Expo on "NetworkingSuccess" November 23rd at North York Memorial Center. Go to www.canadajobexpo.com for more information on this free event. Please cut and paste link and to your Facebook and LinkedIn Profile.


Great links

www.jimpagiamtzis.blogspot.com
Articles, information and inspiring stories to come.

www.jimpagiamtzis.wordpress.com great resources and much more


Habit for Humanity initiative:
It will promote the project which is to collect 150,000,000 aluminum used beverage cans, commonly referred to UBCs in support of
habitat for Humanity Brampton's build or 10 homes for 10 families by 2010. At 33 cans to the lb that equals 2,272.7 tons.

Asking all donor's to please rinse the can with water, then crush the can horizontally. The first operation insures that the flying insects, Bees, wasps, Hornets and ants will not bother future handlers. that second insures that the can is free from foreign matter and permits the storage of more, 400, cans per 30 gal bag.

If interested in donations please cal Jim Pagiamtzis (contact information below)

Great Website:
Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com

Services:

www.trinitydiversified.com for income tax to asset Asset Management ask for Dave Halford at 1-866-642-3074 or 905-850-6842

Events:
www.bizlaunch.ca for events happening all over Canada

www.enteprisetoronto.com event all around Toronto



Services


Need 1-800 number www.kate4biz.com for information

Business cards online go to www.payamgis.ecardbuilder.com

Check out great blogs below!

http://yourmarketingmagnet.com/


www.jayrosales.wordpress.com great Tim Hortons Story

Special suprise!
Now that you go to the bottom and please go to www.listenfirstselllater.com and download Bob Poole's amazing book. Great read

Jim Pagiamtzis
1-866-407-7601
payamgis@gmail.com


You can also find me on Facebook->Jim Pagiamtzis
Twitter with key word-> Jim Pagiamtzis
Sprouter-- Jiim Pagiamtzis

Friday, October 8, 2010

How to Write a Great Article for the Internet

Have come across great website called www.selfgrowth.com where you can upload articles and much more. Below is a information on how to write a great article for the internet. Enjoy and go out and Get Connected Make it Happen!


Article writing is one of the best ways to get your knowledge out and provide you with great free exposure for your business or your website.
Here are seven simple tips and some examples that will teach you how to write a great article for the Internet:

1) Create a catchy title
Your article's title can be a make or break for readers. A short, attention-grabbing title will pique reader interest and draw them in. Be sure that your title remains relevant to the topic you are writing about.

2) Keep it short
People are reading your article because they want information on the topic at hand. Get right into the meat of the article after a brief introduction. Effective Internet articles tend to be relatively short as people are turned off by seeing too many words on their screens. An ideal article for SelfGrowth.com contains approximately 500-1200 words.

3) Keep it simple and straightforward
Keep in mind your main purpose for writing the article to express your points as clearly as possible. Use language that is easy to understand and conversational in tone. Maintain a clear and organized structure throughout the article, and ALWAYS proofread and edit your article before submitting it.

4) Include a beginning, middle, and end
Every good article has a clear beginning, middle, and end. The beginning should be a short introduction about main focus of your article. The middle, or body, should contain the meat of the article: all of the important facts, ideas, instructions, etc. And an article should always end with a conclusion that wraps up or briefly restates your main points.

5) Write what you know
Be sure to pick a topic that you are knowledgeable about. It is much easier to write about something you are familiar and comfortable with, and your expertise will shine through in your writing. Plus, you will enjoy the writing process!

6) Teach something new or at least teach it in a new way
What point is there in sharing information that has already been brought to the table countless times? Teach your readers something new. Your knowledge is unique: Let your readers see this. If it's a popular topic, try to put a fresh spin on it or explore an area of your topic that is not commonly written about.

7) Include a short bio
Give yourself credit for your work by writing a brief bio. State who you are and what makes you an expert on your topic. You can also use this section to include links back to your website or contact information.

Check out these links to see some examples of quality articles:
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/4_key_tips_for_destressing_the_mind.html
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/10_words_to_delete_from_your_vocabulary
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/where_is_your_money_maker
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/living_in_the_now_0.html

To submit an article to SelfGrowth.com, login to your account and go to "Submit an Article." You can login by going to http://www.SelfGrowth.com/user . If you forgot your password, go to http://www.selfgrowth.com/user/password

Thanks again for being part of SelfGrowth.com!

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Two great events!

Get Connected Make it Happen today Register for these two great event happening this month.
Special offers for Two Exciting Events in October!

I am excited to let you know about two events taking place in Toronto during October. Both offer great opportunities for improvement and growth. Better still, as a subscriber to The Pipeline, you can get special pricing for both events. Act now to take advantage of both events, read details below.


See you there,


Toronto Action Summit
October 16 - 17th 2010 Toronto

Here is your opportunity to see eight dynamic speakers over two days. If you are in sales, running your own business, or thinking about starting one, you need to attend the Toronto Action Summit in Toronto October 16 and 17th.

I of course will be speaking on sales, specifically Execution - The Last Word In Sales! You will also learn about Internet Marketing, Business Networking and more.

As a special promotion to subscribers of The Pipeline, you can attend both days for a SPECIAL price. You can save $72 off the regular price of $97. When you enter the code:
FRIEND25 you pay only $25.

Your Price: $25
List Price: $97
Enter Code: FRIEND25
Please note if you are buying multiple tickets you will need to buy each individually and enter the code separately for each.

Click here for details and to register


Networking Success
October 29, 2010 Toronto

In today's economy, you need to get proactive in making things happen. Whether you are selling, looking for a new career, or starting a business, who you know and how to get to know those that can make a difference is key to your success.

This half day workshop brings together two leading experts on networking and converting those contacts to valuable business relationships. Joining me in this workshop is Jim Pagiamtzis, speaking on networking; I'll be following up with maximizing those new contacts.

As a special offer to The Pipeline subscribers, we are offering a special $35 discount per ticket. Just enter the code PIPE35 when you register.

Your Price: $112
List Price: $147
Enter Code: PIPE35

Click here for details and to register


I look forward to seeing you at both these event.

Sincerely,

Tibor Shanto
Renbor Sales Solutions Inc.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

I Love the Library. Again.

Below is great article by Susan Crossman. Visit her site (link is below) often has great information on various topics. Only thing I would like to add is Toronto has 99 Libraries. Let'use the resourses we have around us.
Get Connected Make It Happen!
Jim Pagiamtzis


I LOVE the Library. Again
August 10, 2010 by crossmancommunicates
I am ashamed to say it but my last trip to a public library occurred almost a decade ago and it ended in tears as my two youngest children, both toddlers, ran through the stacks pulling random books off shelves and laughing loudly as I raced behind them trying to regain control. This was not my finest moment and the trauma ever after lay not so much in the memory of their misbehavior as in the realization that my children might never sit still long enough to learn to read.

The months rolled on and life was busy. With the internet fulfilling my every research need, the library became a background memory that no longer held great relevance.

When a recent business meeting took me to my local public library’s main branch, however, I was astounded at the explosion in resources that’s taken place over the past ten years. It’s not just about friendly books and loaner CDs anymore! The online accessibility of resources surprised me the most: anyone with a library card can access thousands of online databases – reliable ones — on any topic you can imagine and help is available with any research users undertake. The library in my home town of Oakville, Ontario, also offers:

• downloadable eBooks and audiobooks
• free DVD loans
• free wireless internet
• pre-packaged book selections to grab ‘n go
• help with web research for genealogical projects
• an interactive career search reference resource
• FWii Wii for big screen Wii game enjoyment
• a dial-a-story service for children
• resources in numerous languages
• literacy tutoring
• many services for visually and audially impaired people

And so much more! The library offers a wide range of resources for children and teens and online reference help is available via email or instant messaging. In essence, the library has changed from a temple to the written word to a repository of practical resources applicable to almost any aspect of today’s world. If there is any information I need about almost anything, I know I can probably get it through my library.

How did this happen? I suspect that “response to consumer demand” has a lot to do with it and I applaud the Oakville Public Library for doing a terrific job of staying current: it’s an exciting place to go! Even my children – who somehow turned into voracious readers with many interests – are happy in a library now and as a family we’re looking at the library as a destination again, if only, sometimes, on a virtual plane.

If you haven’t been to your own library in a while I encourage you to check it out to find out how it can make your own world a better place. You might be surprised!

~~~~~

Please feel free to share your thoughts or comments here or by email at susan@crossmancommunications.com. And to learn more about the freelance writing services I offer, please click through to my website at www.crossmancommunications.com.

Practice Uncommon Appreciation

A recent management study revealed that 46% of employees leaving a company do so because they feel unappreciated; 61% said their bosses don’t place much importance on them as people; and 88% said they don’t receive acknowledgement for the work they do.
Whether you are an entrepreneur, manager, teacher, parent, coach or simply a friend, if you want to be successful with other people, you must master the art of appreciation.
I’ve never known anyone to complain about receiving too much positive feedback. Have you? In fact, just the opposite is true.
Consider this: Every year, a management consulting firm conducts a survey with 200 companies on the subject on what motivates employees. When given a list of 10 possible things that would most motivate them, the employees always list appreciation as the number-one motivator.
Managers and supervisors ranked appreciation number eight. This is a major mismatch, as the chart below so clearly shows.
10 Ways to Really Motivate an Employee
Employees
Appreciation
Feeling “in” on things
Understanding attitude
Job security
Good wages
Interesting work
Promotional opportunities
Loyalty from management
Good working conditions
Tactful discipline
Supervisors
Good Wages
Job Security
Promotional Opportunities
Good working conditions
Interesting work
Loyalty from management
Tactful discipline
Appreciation
Understanding attitude
Feeling “in” on things


Notice that the top three motivators for employees don’t cost anything, just a few moments of time, respect and understanding.
Keeping Score
When I first learned about the power of appreciation, it made total sense to me. However, it was still something that I forgot to do. I hadn’t yet turned it into a habit.
A valuable technique that I employed to help me lock in this new habit was to carry a 3” x 5” card in my pocket all day, and every time I acknowledged and appreciated someone, I would place a check mark on the card. I would not allow myself to go to bed until I had appreciated 10 people. If it was late in the evening and I didn’t have 10 check marks, I would appreciate my wife and children, I would send an e-mails to several of my staff, or I would write a letter to my mother or stepfather.
I did whatever it took until it became an unconscious habit. I did this every single day for 6 months—until I no longer needed the card to remind me.
Appreciation as a Secret of Success
Another important reason for being in a state of appreciation as often as possible is that when you are in such a state, you are in one of the highest emotional states possible.
When you are in a state of appreciation and gratitude, you are in a state of abundance. You are appreciating what you do have instead of focusing on, and complaining about, what you don’t have. Your focus is on what you have received… and you always get more of what you focus on.
And because the law of attraction states that like attracts like, the more you are in a state of gratitude, the more you will attract, and the grateful you will feel. It becomes an upward-spiraling process of ever-increasing abundance that just keeps getting better and better.
Think about it. The more grateful people are for the gifts we give them, the more inclined we are to give them more gifts. Their gratitude and appreciation reinforces our giving. The same principle holds true on a universal and spiritual level as it does on an interpersonal level.
I challenge you to discover ways to immediately appreciate someone in your life, starting today! Try my "card-in-the-pocket" idea, or come up with something on your own. The important thing to do is do something! Try appreciating on for size. I know you'll see and feel huge results from doing so.
For more tips and suggestions on how you, too, can find ways to appreciate those in your life, read Prinicple 53 in The Success Principles.
* * *
Are you "stuck" in this area?
For more on speeding up your success, I highly recommend picking up a copy of
The Success Principles 30-Day Journey Audio Course.
© 2010 The Canfield Training Group
All Rights Reserved.



Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Email friends about joining Facebook!

1. Got http://facebook and login to your account
2. In the main Search box, type in " Your name here"
3. When my picture comes up, click "Add Friends"
4. Finally, click on the "Add Jim Pagiamtzis as Your Friend button".

If you don't have a Facebook account,
1. Go to http://facebook.com and click on "Sign Up" button
2.Fill in you information, and click "Sign Up Now!"
3. Once you register you e-mail, you can connect to me as a friend on Facebook by doing steps 1 through 3 above.

It's a simple process, and it's well worth it. Here's an example that I got from a Facebook friend

A friend of mine wanted to product her upcoming album of world music with a particular record label, a was unable to connect with anybody at the company. I said to her "try finding one of the executives on Facebook and just message them"

Guess what? It worked

If you're not on Facebook, you're missing business opportunities.
If you're not on Facebook, you're missing in-person social opportunities
if you're not on Facebook, you're losing out on profit.

And if you don't get onot Facebook, you'll miss one of the biggest shifts in communication trends known to humanity.

On Facebook, you can stay in touch with me more often, getting more personal stories about my life transformations, including pictures and videos.

On Facebook , you can get in touch with people I know, I've connected lots of people in my community together , resulting in employment, business, relationships, charities, mastermind teams, and spiritual journeys. Now I let Facebook be the main infrastructure to cultivate the growth of that community.

Remember,

1. Got http://facebook and login to your account
2. In the main Search box, type in " your name here"
3. When my picture comes up, click "Add Friends"
4. Finally, click on the "your name here as Your Friend button".

P.S. if you don't ahve a Facebook account

. Go to http://facebook.com and click on "Sign Up" button
2.Fill in you information, and click "Sign Up Now!"
3. Once you register you e-mail, you can connect to me as a friend on Facebook by doing steps 1 through 3 above.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Great Seminar!

Did a 30 minute seminar at the www.canadajobexpo.com on Sept 21st,2010 below is result participant got the same day! Remember Learn, Do and Apply!
Thank Monique



Hi Jim, I just wanted to thank you for taking a few minutes of your time to speak to me after the seminar you gave at the Memorial Centre in North York today. While I have never had any problems talking with people, networking was never something I pursued very vigilantly. I had applied for a general manager's position for an upscale restaurant downtown and hadn't heard back from a second interview that I had last week. I decided I would call him, which I did this afternoon. He explained that he was so busy and hadn't had a chance to get back to me but that he wanted to offer me the position. The last thing he said to me was 'thank you for following up and pursuing this.....it confirms that I chose the right person for this position'.

My point is, I actually thought I would not hear back from him and had decided to move along. After your seminar, I figured it couldn't hurt to call and that at the very least, I would have a definitive answer as to whether I had the job or not. Thank you for inspiring me today. After only 6 weeks of job searching I think I found something I will really enjoy and can put away my resume for now (*she says as she keeps her fingers crossed*) and hopefully a long time to come.

Again, thanks for taking the time and best of luck with your motivational speaking career.....

Cheers,
Monique Donovan

Networking Success! Friday Oct 29th 2010 Register Today!

Networking Success!

In today's economy, you have to be proactive in making connections and converting them to results for you and your network.

Whether you are looking for a job, upgrade your career, launching a new business, looking to promote your store or just connect with others in business or your market, networking is a must, and networking is a skill. As with any skill, you can only get good and better if you get out there and do it. But first you need to learn and nail down the core skills needed to fully realize Networking Success!


Who Should Attend?

Job seekers

People looking to upgrade their job or career

Sales people

Business Owners

Managers

Service Providers:

Real Estate Agents

Accountants

Web Designers

Financial Advisors

Anyone looking to improve their art of connecting and converting those connections!

There is a lot of noise out there, social media, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook; but it is not about the number of connections or followers you have online. The winner is the one that can engage and make things happen with real people in a real way, and that is what you will take away from this action packed interactive workshop.


Networking Success!

Program Overview:

Networking to Connect

Participants of this workshop will learn a simple and effective system for networking, from meeting new people to building relationships and asking the right questions in order to obtain the results clients want. The P-A-R system will be explained in simple and effective terms, and will combine role-playing throughout the session to practice the techniques that are presented. Subjects Addressed:

Having an effective business card
Attitude how important it is in daily life
Asking key questions to get quality answers
Follow up and follow-through
Social networking vs face to face
Presented By: Jim Pagiamtzis


Engagement: Converting Network encounters to ongoing business

The realities of sales and business are that many opportunities are never fully realized due to insufficient, wrong, or ineffective prospecting habits, sales approach, and first meeting skills. Learn how to best approach and convert contacts to customers by taking a structured approach to selling. Using proven methodology and exercise participants will be introduced to the basics of successful B2B selling that they will be able to use the very next day. Subjects Addressed:

Lead nurturing
Time Allocation
Understanding why people buy
Effective prospect call
Effective first meetings
Presented by Tibor Shanto


About the Presenters:


Jim Pagiamtzis – is a published writer, speaker, entrepreneur, and has written articles for the Toronto Public Library, Centennial College and Corporate newsletters (FedEx Freight Canada). Has spoken for Enterprise Toronto, Skills for Change, Career Door Inc, and has appeared on That Channel.com numerous times. Jim is a passionate and energetic presenter who engages the audience to Get Connected Make It Happen!

Contact:

1-866-407-7601

payamgis@gmail.com

http://ca.linkedin.com/in/jimpagiamtzis



Tibor Shanto - is a recognized speaker, author, and sought after trainer. Tibor is the author of the book Shift!: Harness The Trigger Events That Turn Prospects Into Customers. His article "How to shorten your Sales Cycle?" was voted number one by readers of Top Ten Sales Articles. Tibor has trained Canada's leading sales organizations including Bell Mobility, Imperial Oil, BDC and others. A Director of and a contributor to Sales Bloggers Union, and his work has appeared in numerous of publications and leading sales websites.

Contact:

(416) 822-7781

Tibor.Shanto@SellBetter.ca

www.SellBetter.ca


Register now!

You will be able to take advantage of what you learn in every aspect of your life and business!

Bring a friend, brother, sister, mother, uncle; learn together, save on the entry fee, and help each other achieve Networking Success!


Networking Success!

http://networksuccess-linkedj.eventbrite.com/ (copy and past link)

Ask for discout code prior to registering on Oct 1st

Pass along event information to anyone who may intersted.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Speaking in September

Have had the great opportunity to speak for some great organizations, being invited back is always a great thrill to share the Get Connected Make it Happen motto. Below is where you can see me speaking "Networking Success". Both are free events

Thursday Sept 16,2010 @10:00am-11:30am
Social Services
55 John Street
King and John
Call 416- 338-2749 to register

Tuesday Sept 21,2010
www.canadajobexpo.com
North York Memorial Center
5110 Yonge Street
Event runs from 10:00am-3:00pm
Speaking at 10:45am-11:30 come early to hear my special guests
come early and visit the Get Connected Make it Happen Table

Stay tuned for details on my first paid workshop with Tibor Shanto(recently published book with Craig Eilas called Shift)
I will be doing to hour intensive talk on Networking Succces (new material) and Tibor Shanto will be cover his Sales Cycle.

If you and important question on Networking you need answered email at payamgis@gmail.com

Go out there and Get Connected Make It Happen!

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Phil Taylor, Toronto Mayoral Candidate, Says Politics Need Not be a Blood Sport

By Romy Marquez


TORONTO - With the way mainstream media is portraying the Oct. 25 election, voters don't seem to have much of a choice. As if there's a dearth of qualified people.

The truth is, out of the five candidates getting all the media attention, there are thirty-two others less conspicuous but probably more qualified to run Toronto as mayor.

For the most part they are faceless, no name recall like a Miller or Ford, or a Harper or Ignatief, but just as enthusiastic to change the culture of politics at City Hall.

Consider Phil Taylor, author, public speaker, motivational guru.

Soft-spoken with an immense capacity to bear no malice towards anyone, he refuses to engage in the current muck-racking among the mainstream media's five, namely, in alphabetical order, Rob Ford, Jose Pantalone, Rocco Rossi, George Smitherman and Sarah Thomson.

Every tired word, every irrelevant issue, every little gaffe are magnified a thousand times by these media and re-echoed a hundred times more in cyberspace so long as they are spewed from any of the five mouths of the talking heads.

It is in this context that Phil Taylor is a refreshing sight, perhaps a re-energizing change for all Toronto.

"I choose not to make this politics a blood sport," he declares in an interview with this reporter. It is his belief, he said, that running for a public office need not be that bloody and insulting.

Taylor preaches love, harmony and amity not for the sake of maintaining the status quo, as in the way public affairs are run and managed at City Hall, but as a means of evoking positives from everyone and preserving goodwill inherent in every man.

Asked why he stays quiet amidst the rancour among the candidates, he retorts: "That's not the path I want to go down".

Taylor premises his run for Toronto mayor on the glaring fact that only 35 percent of registered voters have gone to vote in the past elections.

"This means people are discouraged," he explains. "They're not showing up in polls".

He adds: "That also means that people in positions of power and the candidates themselves are not addressing the majority of Torontonians".

"The core is this: People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care," Taylor states, sounding philosophical.

"The real question is: Do they really care? I just want to know if you care about me," he says

Taylor does care enough for Toronto and its 2.48 million population (5.5 million in the Greater Toronto Area) that he wants to roll back taxes if he gets elected, and cut the mayor's salary. At least those two items are high in his agenda.

"Half of their (the population) life is being hijacked by the government through taxes," he explains. "We are not finding solutions by increasing taxes," he adds.
# # #

Friday, August 20, 2010

Use Feedback to Your Advantage

As you begin to take actions toward your goals, your dreams, you’ll soon realize that not every action will be perfect.
Not every action will produce the desired result.
Not every action will work.
Making mistakes, getting it almost right, and experimenting to see what happens are all part of the process of eventually getting it right.
Thomas Edison is reported to have tried over 2,000 different experiments that failed before he finally got the light bulb to work. He once told a reporter that, from his perspective, he had never failed at all. Inventing the light bulb was just a 2,000-step process. If you can adopt that attitude, then you can be free to take an action, notice what result you get, and then adjust your next actions based on the feedback you have received.
There Are Two Kinds of Feedback
There are two kinds of feedback you might encounter – negative and positive. We tend to prefer the positive – that is, results, money, praise, promotion, raise, awards, happiness, inner-peace, etc. It feels better. It tells us we are on course and doing the right thing.
We tend not to like negative feedback – lack of results, little or no money, criticism, poor evaluations, complaints, unhappiness, inner conflict, pain, etc.
However, there is as much useful data in negative feedback as there is in positive feedback. It tells us that we are off course, headed in the wrong direction, doing the wrong thing. This is priceless information!
In fact, it’s so valuable that one of the most useful projects you could undertake is to change how you respond to negative feedback. I like to refer to negative feedback as information for “improvement opportunities.”
Ways of Responding to Feedback that Don’t Work
Though there are many ways you can respond to feedback, some responses simply don’t work.
Caving in and quitting:
How many times have you or someone you know received negative feedback and simply caved in over it? All that this does is keep you stuck in the same place. It’s easier not to cave in if you remember that feedback is simply information. Think of it as “correctional guidance” instead of criticism.
Getting mad at the source of the feedback:
Think about it… How many times have you reacted with anger and hostility toward someone who was giving you feedback and it was genuinely useful? It may temporarily make you feel better to get angry, but it doesn’t help you become more successful in your quest.
Ignoring the feedback:
We all know that people who turn down everyone’s point of view but their own. The sad thing is, feedback could significantly transform their lives, if only they would listen.
Ask for Feedback
Most people will not voluntarily give you feedback. They are as uncomfortable with possible confrontation as you are. So to get honest and open feedback, you need to ask for it and make it safe for the person to give it to you. In other words, don’t shoot the messenger!
The Most Valuable Question You May Ever Learn
In the 1980s, a multimillionaire businessman taught me a question that radically changed the quality of my life. This magical question can improve the quality of every relationship you are in, every product you produce, every service you deliver, every meeting you conduct, every class you teach and every transaction you enter into. Here it is:
“On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate the quality of our relationship (service/product) during the last week (month/semester/quarter)?”
Here are a number of variations on the same question that have served me well over the years...
“On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate the meeting we just had? ... me as a manager? ... me as a parent? ...this class? ...this meal? ...my cooking? ...our sex life? ...this deal? ...this book?
Any answer less than a 10 always gets this follow-up question:
“What would it take to make it a 10?”
This is where the really valuable information comes from. Knowing that a person is dissatisfied is not enough. Knowing in detail what will satisfy them gives you the information you need to do whatever it takes to create a winning product, service, relationship or result.
Is All Feedback Accurate?
Not all feedback is useful or accurate. You must consider the source. Some feedback is polluted by the psychological distortions of the person giving you the feedback. For example, if your drunk husband tells you, “You are a no-good bleep,” that is probably not accurate or useful feedback. However, the fact that your husband is drunk and angry, is feedback you should listen to.
Remember, feedback is simply information. You don’t have to take it personally. Just welcome it and use it. The most intelligent response is to say “Thank you for your feedback. Thank you for caring enough to tell me what you see and how you feel. I appreciate it.”
Look for patterns in the feedback you get, too. As my friend Jack Rosenblum likes to say: “If one person tells you you’re a horse, they’re crazy. If three people tell you you’re a horse, there’s a conspiracy a foot. If ten people tell you you’re a horse, it’s time to buy a saddle!”
For more on Using Feedback to Your Advantage, review Principle #19 in The Success Principles. It’s one of the core principles you can apply to your life.
* * *
Are you "stuck" in this area?
Send me your most pressing question about this topic, then join me for our monthly
"Ask Jack Canfield" Tele-Clinic on September 1st!
www.AskJackCanfield.com
© 2010 The Canfield Training Group
All Rights Reserved.



Jack Canfield, America's #1 Success Coach, is founder of the billion-dollar book brand Chicken Soup for the Soul© and a leading authority on Peak Performance and Life Success. If you're ready to jump-start your life, make more money, and have more fun and joy in all that you do, get your FREE success tips from Jack Canfield now at: www.FreeSuccessStrategies.com