T-Werx Coworking and Entrepreneur Centers

Recession-Proofing Small Businesses: A Guide for Businesses with Fewer Than 5 Employees

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:32:11 GMT

In an increasingly uncertain economic landscape, recession-proofing is gaining more traction. Small businesses, especially those with fewer than five employees, are particularly vulnerable during economic downturns. The margin for error is thin, and the resources are often limited. How do you build a protective financial and operational buffer if you're running a small enterprise? At T-Werx.com, we aim to equip you with actionable strategies to insulate your small business from the negative impacts of a recession.

Focus on Essential Services or Products

Pivot If Necessary:

One of the best ways to make your business recession-proof is by offering essential products or services. If your current offerings are more 'nice-to-have' than 'need-to-have,' consider pivoting your business model.

Market Research:

Conduct market research to identify gaps that your small team can fill. Small groups can often adapt more quickly to market changes than larger operations.

Cash Reserves are Crucial

Importance of a Safety Net:

Cash reserves can mean the difference between staying open and shutting down for small businesses with limited staff. Aiming for a six-month to one-year operational cost reserve could be a lifesaver during lean times.

How to Build Reserves:

Reduce Expenses : Every dollar saved is a dollar earned. Negotiate with suppliers, minimize utility costs, or even consider a co-working space to cut rent expenses.
Invoice Promptly : The sooner you invoice, the sooner you get paid. Maintain a strict invoicing schedule.

Build Strong Customer Relationships

Importance of Customer Loyalty:

In small teams, every customer counts. Loyal customers provide steady income and are more likely to refer new customers.

Strategies:

Personalization : Small businesses often have the advantage of offering more personalized services. Use this to your benefit.
Feedback Loop : Regularly ask for and act upon feedback, making customers feel valued and heard.

Use Freelancers and Contractors

Why Use Contractors:

Hiring full-time employees involves overhead costs like health benefits, paid vacations, and other allowances. In times of uncertainty, freelancers and contractors can be a less costly alternative.

Points to Consider:

Short-term Commitment : Contractors are typically hired for specific tasks over a shorter period, offering more flexibility during downturns.
Expertise : Freelancers often specialize in particular fields, bringing expertise without long-term commitments.

Multiple Income Streams

Diversification:

Relying on a single source of income is a significant risk. The more diverse your income streams, the less impact a downturn in one area will have on your overall revenue. At T-Werx, we converted one of our offices to a Pearson Vue testing center. When we did the math, we almost doubled our revenue for that one office and diversified how we earn our money.

Methods to Diversify:

Online Sales : Besides your physical location or primary service, consider selling products online.
Consulting : Use your expertise to offer consulting services in your field.
Partnerships : Collaborate with complementary businesses to broaden your reach.

Agile and Lean Operations

Stay Nimble:

The smaller the team, the easier it should be to make quick operational changes. Adopt an agile approach to business operations.

Ways to Stay Lean:

Regular Audits : Conduct monthly or quarterly audits to identify inefficiencies.
Adjust Quickly : Be prepared to scale down non-essential projects and focus on core operations.

Invest in Employee Skill sets

Cross-Training:

In a small team, every individual often wears multiple hats. Cross-train your employees in different roles to ensure your business can continue functioning even if someone leaves.

Employee Morale:

Happy employees are more productive and less likely to leave, reducing the risks and costs associated with high turnover.

In Summary

Recession-proofing a small business is no small feat, but it's crucial for long-term sustainability. Concentrate on offering essential services or products, building a cash reserve, establishing strong customer relationships, utilizing freelancers, diversifying income streams, and keeping operations agile. Investing in employee skills is also crucial to maintaining operational stability.

While no strategy can make your business recession-proof, these steps can significantly minimize the impact. At T-Werx.com , we specialize in providing small businesses with the tools they need to succeed, regardless of economic conditions. Equip your business to survive and thrive, even in a recession.

Fall Pumpkin Silverwar holder

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:46:43 GMT

Supplies:

1 Large Foam Pumpkin

Orange Rope

Clear Glass Gem Filler

Knife

Glue Gun

Instructions:

Mark the top of the pumpkin using the vase. Cut into the pumpkin and remove some of the filling. Cut as deep as you think you want your vase to fit into the pumpkin. Wrap the rope around the vase about a third of the way up, glue gun into please. Fill the vase half the way up with the gem filler. Place silverware in the vase and enjoy.

DIY Fall Cutting Boards

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:03:25 GMT

Supplies:

Fall cutting boards (I got mine at Hobby Lobby, but they have cute ones at Dollar Tree)

Fall Flowers

Pumpkins

Apples

Glue gun

Glue Sticks

Floral Tape

String for Hanging

Instrutions:

Mix whatever flowers you like with pumpkins/apples or sunflowers. Tape the pieces together, glue gun on the back of the board. If your board does not have rope for hanging string through the hole. Easy fall decorations.

Coffee Mug Cozy

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 17:45:23 GMT

Supplies:

1 Ball of Yarn (Charisma Loops & Threads yarn from Michael’s )

Size 9 Needles

Tapestry Needle

*If doing the holiday themed you will need needle and thread, and what ever holiday 3D felt (found at Hobby Lobby )

Instructions:

Cast on 32 Stiches

Knit 2, Pearl 2 repeat till end of row

Continue patter until piece measures 3 inches, approximately 14 rows

Cast off

Sew the 2 ends together using a Mattress Stich

Perk or Peril: Why Coffee Shops and Restaurants Are Not The Ideal Office Space

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 18:01:55 GMT

Introduction:

You’re trying to close a million-dollar deal, and the barista yells, “Triple Venti Half Sweet Non-Fat Caramel Macchiato! Is that the soundtrack you want for your crucial business meeting? Here at T-Werx Coworking, we understand the charm of coffee shops. Let’s spill the beans on why they are not the most productive places to work or hold professional meetings.

The Illusion of Coffee Shop Productivity:

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the murmur of people might stimulate creativity. However, the reality can be quite different.

Here’s why:

Distractions Galore:

Your meeting might turn into a live performance when in a coffee shop. Imagine discussing your latest project’s financials while a street musician belts out 80s power ballads right outside. You might unintentionally end up miming your revenue forecast!

2. Privacy? What Privacy?:

As you pitch your next revolutionary idea, there’s always a risk that the mystery person in the hoodie (who’s been nursing the same coffee for hours) is a corporate spy. Okay, that might be a bit dramatic. But still, privacy is as scarce as a unicorn in coffee shops. I remember meeting with a client with a million dollars they were planning to invest. They insisted on meeting at a coffee shop instead of my office. After discussing their goals for over an hour, they left. The gentleman at the table beside me stopped me and said, “I was listening in on your conversation, and I would like to discuss doing the same thing for me.” At the same time, it turned out good for me. Sharing this information in a public place like this could have become a disaster.

3. Noisy Neighbors and Fickle Wi-Fi:

Picture this; you’re in the middle of a Zoom call, and the table next to you transforms into a battlefield over who gets the last piece of avocado toast. As you frantically hit the mute button, the Wi-Fi, which had been working perfectly until now, suddenly decides to nap.

4. Table Wars:

You're set up for a business meeting. The tables need to be bigger or are taken. Your client arrives, and you participate in ‘The Great Table Hunt.’ After an eternity, you settle for a tiny corner with your client, typically near the bathroom or the kitchen (because no one else wanted it).

Funny Examples :

Let’s percolate over some humorous real-life examples.

The Battle of the Latte Art:

John was excited to meet a prospective client in a coffee shop. However, the barista was practicing latte art that day. His potential client became more invested in the coffee art duel with another patron, trying to one-up each other with complex designs. Guess what? The only thing John managed to close that day was the coffee shop door on his way out.

2. Restaurant Reservation Fiasco:

Samantha booked a quiet restaurant for a business lunch. However, she didn’t know it was ‘National Taco Day.’ The place was packed, and her reservation was given away. After an hour, they finally got a table next to the kitchen. They tried discussing business amidst the clattering dishes and overzealous shouting about taco orders.

3. Field the Coffee Spill:

Samantha had her business meeting set up at the Corner Cafe with Mrs. Rodriguez. As she dived into the budget report, the doors swung open and in marched a kids baseball team, covered in mud and giving off an earthy aroma. They’d just finished an intense game and were after victory ice-creams. The earthy smell wafted over to Samantha and Mrs. Rodriguez. The cafe got noisy, and Mrs. Rodriguez seemed amused watching the energetic kids. Samantha quickly realized her reports were no match for the muddy excitement. They decided to reschedule and left the cafe with smiles, as Samantha mentally bookmarked a more serene location for next time.

Why A Professional Space Makes More Sense:

Let’s discuss why opting for a professional space, like T-Werx Coworking, can save you from a latte load of troubles.

A Professional Atmosphere:

First impressions matter. Walking into a well-furnished, quiet space tells your clients you mean business, not just lattes. T-Werx Coworking offers a serene environment that helps set the right tone for your meetings.

2. Cutting-Edge Amenities:

At coworking spaces, you can access high-speed internet, printing services, conference rooms, and coffee that won’t host a latte art competition. These amenities ensure smooth and uninterrupted meetings.

3. Networking Opportunities:

Professional spaces are filled with like-minded individuals. While you might make friends in a coffee shop, a coworking space could help you find your next business partner or client.

4. Flexible Packages:

Whether you need a meeting room for a few hours or a dedicated office space, T-Werx Coworking offers flexible packages tailored to your needs.

Conclusion:

While coffee shops and restaurants have their charm, they can turn your business meetings into an episode of a sitcom. For an atmosphere that’s as smooth as a well-brewed cup of joe, T-Werx Coworking is the ideal solution. Leave the coffee shop theatrics behind and step into a space built for productivity and success.

Visit www.T-werx.com to explore the exceptional workspace solutions waiting for you!

Perk or Peril: Why Coffee Shops and Restaurants Are Not The Ideal Office Space

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 20:15:29 GMT

Introduction

The Illusion of Coffee Shop Productivity:

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the murmur of people might stimulate creativity. However, the reality can be quite different.

Here’s why:

Distractions Galore:

2. Privacy? What Privacy?:

3. Noisy Neighbors and Fickle Wi-Fi:

4. Table Wars:

Funny Examples :

Let’s percolate over some humorous real-life examples.

The Battle of the Latte Art:

2. Restaurant Reservation Fiasco:

3. Field the Coffee Spill:

Why A Professional Space Makes More Sense:

Let’s discuss why opting for a professional space, like T-Werx Coworking, can save you from a latte load of troubles.

A Professional Atmosphere:

2. Cutting-Edge Amenities:

3. Networking Opportunities:

Professional spaces are filled with like-minded individuals. While you might make friends in a coffee shop, a coworking space could help you find your next business partner or client.

4. Flexible Packages:

Whether you need a meeting room for a few hours or a dedicated office space, T-Werx Coworking offers flexible packages tailored to your needs.

Conclusion:

Visit www.T-werx.com to explore the exceptional workspace solutions waiting for you!

Cutting Board Craft Ideas

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Mon, 22 May 2023 20:04:53 GMT

Supplies:

Cutting Board
Fabric
Glue Gun
Scissors

Optional Supplies:

Small Wooden Crate
Flowers / Greenery
Floral Foam
Wooden Words / Shapes
Acrylic Paint
Paint Brush
Rope / Ribbon

Directions:

Cut fabric larger than the cutting board so that you can fold it around the cutting board and glue gun into place, make sure you tighten the fabric as you go.
Customize as you like.

Zucchini Herb Casserole

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Mon, 22 May 2023 20:04:50 GMT

Supplies:

1 Cup Instant Rice
1 Cup water
2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil
1 ½ lb. Zucchini Cubed
½ cup Green Onions Diced
1 Garlic Clove Grated
½ Cup Onion Diced
1 8 oz Mushrooms Sliced
½ tsp Parsley Dried
½ tsp Paprika
½ tsp Oregano Dried
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Garlic Salt
1 tsp Pepper
2 Cups White Cheddar Cheese Shredded
12 Ritz Crackers

Directions:

Preheat Oven 350
Cook rice accord to package directions.
In a large skillet cook over medium-high heat add oil, all the vegetables and sauté until tender.
Season with garlic powder, garlic salt, paprika, parsley, oregano and pepper to taste.
Mix in rice, cheese.
Place in a greased casserole dish top with Ritz crackers and bake for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Serve!

Pumpkin shaped wreaths

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Thu, 11 May 2023 18:36:50 GMT

Supply list:

2 Pumpkin Wreath forms
Zip ties
1 yard of Fabric
Floral rope
Flowers / Greenery
Floral wire
Ribbon for a bow
Glue gun / glue sticks
Scissors
Clothes pins

Directions:

Cut the fabric to fit over the pumpkin form.
Lay the first pumpkin wreath flat, place the fabric over the wreath, place the second pumpkin wreath over the first. Tighten fabric, use the clothes pins to keep the fabric in place while you zip tie the 2 pumpkins together.
Cut a very small hole into the fabric and run the zip tie through both wreaths.
After you have the wreaths, zip tied together glue gun the fabric tight around the inside of the wreath, cut any extra fabric off.
I like my pumpkin stem longer, so I wrapped the floral wire around the stem (you make it as high as you like).
Wrap the floral rope around the stem base and glue gun into place. Glue gun your bow and flowers on. (Use whatever flowers or green you like.)
To finish the wreath, attach some floral wire to the back so that you can hang the wreath up.

Not just for the fall, make them anyway you like!

Snowman Hot Cocoa Jars

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 03 May 2023 20:06:03 GMT

Supplies:

(3) 4 oz jars with black lids
Black & Orange Paint
Paint Brush
Glue
Packing Tape
Holly
Fabric for scarf
Scissors
Peppermint Candies
Mini Marshmallows
Cocoa Mix
Paper, printer, paperclip(s) and a hole puncher for Cocoa Mix instructions (optional)

Directions:

- Using the black and orange paint, take one jar and paint on the eyes, nose and mouth. Let the paint dry.

- Fill the first jar with peppermint candies, second with cocoa mix * , and the third with mini marshmallows.

- To assemble the jars tape the cocoa mix jar to the top of the peppermint candies jar, then tape the mini marshmallow jar to the top of the cocoa mix jar.

- Glue the holly to the top of the marshmallow lid.

- Cut a strip of fabric for the scarf and tie it around the lids.

- Add paper to your printer and print the instructions to make the cocoa mix. Attach the instructions to the scarf with a paperclip.

This is a great holiday gift of stocking stuffer.

* Make sure to figure out how much cocoa mix is in the jar so that you can give instructions on how to make the cocoa.

Decorative Rolling Rins

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 03 May 2023 20:01:09 GMT

Supplies:

Mini rolling pins
Fabric squares or Craft Paper
Scissors
Glue
String – for hanging

Directions:

- Measure the fabric (or craft paper) to the size of the rolling pin, cut and glue fabric (or craft paper) into place.

- Take the string. Starting from the top, leave space for hanging.

- Next wrap the string around both sides of the rolling pins (one at a time), leaving space in between each pin.

- Once you finish the last rolling pin, cut off any extra string.

You can make these easy and fun rolling pins for any season or theme. Have fun!

Fall Scarecrows

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 03 May 2023 16:07:32 GMT

Supplies:

2 Scarecrows (Of your choice. Ours: 1) Holding a pumpkin 2) Holding a coffee cup ** )

2 Large Foam Pumpkins

1 Knife (optional)

Directions:

- Make a hole in the top of the pumpkins using a knife * .

- Take the second part of the scarecrow stick off so that when you put the pole of the scarecrow in the pumpkin it looks like the scarecrow is sitting.

Done!

* Depending on the material of your pumpkins, you may be able to push the pole of the scarecrow through it without using a knife.

** Since my scarecrow was holding a coffee cup, I bought a Pumpkin Spice sticker to put on the cup.

How Small Business Owners Can Stand Out from the Competition: A Comprehensive Guide

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:49:01 GMT

Introduction

In today's competitive business landscape, small business owners need to differentiate themselves from the competition. Standing out from the crowd can help you attract more customers, generate buzz around your brand, and, ultimately , increase your revenue. This comprehensive guide will provide actionable tips and strategies for setting your small business apart from your competitors.

When we first launched T-Werx, we had a completely different idea from what it turned out to be. Initially, we thought we would be the “living room” for small businesses in the community. We learned that many small companies loved us being their living room as long as it was free. That led us to market our services to home-based workers. This occurred mainly during the pandemic and has led us to a more diversified membership base today and less dependent on the whims of small businesses. Throughout our evolution as a company, there have been some consistent things that we have done to adapt to the world. These strategies include:

Define Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) makes your business stand out. The unique combination of product or service features, customer service, and brand personality sets you apart from other companies in your industry. To develop a strong USP, consider the following:

Identify your target market and understand their needs and preferences
Determine what makes your product or service different from similar offerings in the market
Focus on the aspects of your business that are difficult for competitors to replicate

Once you have a clear USP, ensure it's reflected in all your marketing materials, from your website to your social media profiles.

2. Create a Memorable Brand Identity

A strong brand identity can help set your business apart from the competition. Your brand identity includes everything from your logo and color scheme to the tone of voice used in your marketing materials. Here are some tips for creating a memorable brand identity:

Choose a unique and recognizable logo that reflects your USP
Develop a consistent color palette and typography that conveys your brand's personality
Establish a consistent tone of voice for your marketing materials that reflect your brand's values and personality

3. Provide Exceptional Customer Service

Outstanding customer service can be a significant differentiator for your small business. You can create a loyal customer base that will choose your company over competitors by going above and beyond to meet your customers' needs. Here are some ways to provide exceptional customer service:

Respond to customer inquiries promptly and professionally
Offer personalized solutions to customer issues
Train your employees to prioritize customer satisfaction
Encourage customer feedback and use it to improve your products and services

4. Utilize Content Marketing to Showcase Your Expertise

Content marketing is a powerful tool for small businesses looking to establish themselves as industry experts. Creating valuable, relevant, and shareable content can increase brand awareness, drive traffic to your website, and engage with your target audience. Consider the following content marketing strategies:

Start a blog and regularly publish articles related to your industry or niche
Create shareable infographics and videos to provide visual content
Offer free resources, such as eBooks or webinars, to showcase your expertise
Engage with your audience on social media by sharing valuable tips and industry news

5. Foster a Strong Online Presence

In today's digital age, having a solid online presence is essential for any business, regardless of size. Optimizing your website, maintaining an active presence on social media, and taking advantage of online advertising allows you to reach more potential customers and differentiate yourself from competitors. Here's how:

Optimize your website for search engines by focusing on SEO best practices
Create and maintain a robust social media presence on platforms popular with your target audience
Utilize targeted online advertising, such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads, to reach potential customers
Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on platforms like Google My Business or Yelp

6. Develop Strategic Partnerships

Strategic partnerships can help small businesses reach new audiences and expand their offerings. You can leverage their audience and expertise to set your business apart by partnering with complementary businesses or influencers. Here are some tips for forming strategic partnerships:

Identify potential partners who share similar target audiences or values
Offer value to potential partners by sharing resources or cross-promoting each other's products or services
Collaborate on joint marketing campaigns, events, or product offerings
Build relationships with influencers in your industry who can advocate for your brand and help you reach new audiences

7. Focus on Niche Marketing

Targeting a specific niche can be an effective way to differentiate your small business from competitors. By focusing on a specialized market segment, you can tailor your products, services, and marketing efforts to the unique needs of that group. Here's how to embrace niche marketing:

Conduct market research to identify underserved segments in your industry
Develop products or services that cater to the specific needs of your niche audience
Tailor your marketing messages to address the pain points and preferences of your target niche
Network within your niche to build connections and establish yourself as an industry expert

8. Offer Unique Products or Services

Offering a unique product or service can help your small business stand out. By providing a one-of-a-kind offering, you can capture the attention of potential customers and give them a reason to choose your business over others. Consider the following strategies for developing unique products or services:

Research the market to identify gaps or unmet needs that your business can address
Focus on innovation and continuous improvement to keep your offerings fresh and competitive
Collaborate with suppliers, designers, or other industry professionals to create exclusive products or services

9. Prioritize Sustainability and Social Responsibility

An increasing number of consumers are choosing businesses prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility. By integrating eco-friendly practices and supporting social causes, your small business can differentiate itself from competitors and appeal to this growing market segment. Here are some ways to prioritize sustainability and social responsibility:

Implement eco-friendly practices in your operations, such as reducing waste or using sustainable materials.
Develop products or services that have a positive environmental or social impact.
Support local charities or community initiatives through donations or volunteer work.
Communicate your commitment to sustainability and social responsibility in your marketing materials.

10. Encourage Customer Loyalty

By building a loyal customer base, your small business can create a competitive advantage that's difficult for competitors to replicate. Loyal customers are likelier to recommend your company to others, helping you attract new customers and grow your brand. Consider the following strategies for encouraging customer loyalty:

Offer a loyalty program or rewards system to incentivize repeat business
Provide exclusive discounts or special offers for returning customers
Foster relationships with your customers through personalized communications and social media engagement
Continuously gather customer feedback and use it to improve your products and services

Conclusion

Differentiating your small business from the competition is crucial for long-term success. By following the strategies outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can create a unique brand identity, offer exceptional customer service, and, ultimately, set your business apart from the competition. Remember that standing out in a crowded market requires constant innovation and adaptation, so stay focused on your target audience and be ready to evolve as their needs change.

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx LLC, a Coworking and Real Estate Investment company based in Cedar Park, Texas. Jeff is the founder and owner of multiple Real Estate, Finance, and Media Industries businesses. He is the author of 6 books, with the 7th book, Freedom Day: Quit the Job You Hate and Live the Life You Love coming out in the Spring of 2023.

The Essential Role of Email Marketing for Small Business Owners & Top 10 Email Marketing Software

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:15:55 GMT

Boost your small business with powerful email marketing strategies and discover the best tools for your needs.

Introduction

In the digital age, small business owners must adapt their marketing strategies to reach their target audience. Email marketing remains an essential component. We will discuss the importance of email marketing for small business owners and list the top 10 email marketing software that can help you enhance your marketing efforts.

In the early days, we would market via email to our clients infrequently. As with most small businesses, the excuse for not being consistent was that we didn’t want to spam our clients. Let’s just be honest. If you provide good information to your clients, you are not SPAMming them.

One of my favorite examples of effective email marketing is Jeff Walker of “Launch Strategy” fame. Jeff has a unique approach to his email campaigns. He only sells one product, “The Product Launch Strategy” training, with upgrades to coaching programs through one launch per year. The rest of the time, he sends emails about what he is doing in his life when he is going on major outdoor trips (Grand Canyon is a biggie) and what his team is working on. As a result, I sometimes feel like I know Jeff better than some of my best friends (and I have never met the guy). So why should you add Email marketing to your business? Read on McDuff.

The Importance of Email Marketing for Small Business Owners

Cost-effective marketing solution

Email marketing is an affordable and efficient way to reach a vast audience without spending a fortune on advertising. Compared to traditional advertising methods like print, television, or radio, email marketing is relatively inexpensive. Small businesses can leverage this cost-effective marketing solution to promote their products and services, keeping their marketing budget in check.

2. Direct communication channel

Email marketing allows small business owners to communicate directly with customers and prospects. By sending personalized emails, businesses can keep their audience updated on their latest offers, promotions, and news. This direct communication channel helps build a strong customer relationship, increasing brand loyalty and customer retention.

3. Easy to track and measure

One of the most significant advantages of email marketing is its measurability. Small business owners can easily track various metrics, such as open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates, to gauge the effectiveness of their campaigns. These insights can help them fine-tune their email marketing strategies to maximize their return on investment (ROI).

4. Improved customer segmentation

Email marketing platforms enable small businesses to segment their customer base according to various factors such as demographics, purchase history, and preferences. This allows business owners to send targeted and relevant content to specific groups, increasing engagement and conversion rates.

5. Increased brand awareness

Small businesses can maintain a strong presence in their customers' inboxes by regularly sending emails to their subscribers. This helps increase brand awareness and recall, ensuring that your business stays at the forefront of your customers minds when they need your products or services.

Top 10 Email Marketing Software for Small Businesses

Mailchimp ( https://mailchimp.com/ )

Mailchimp is a popular email marketing platform known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features. It offers a free plan for small businesses with up to 2,000 subscribers and 12,000 emails per month. Its paid plans provide additional features such as advanced segmentation, automation, and integration with various e-commerce platforms.

2. Sendinblue ( https://www.sendinblue.com/ )

Sendinblue is a versatile marketing platform that offers email marketing, SMS marketing, and marketing automation tools. It provides a free plan with 300 emails per day, while its paid plans offer advanced features like segmentation, A/B testing, and automation. Sendinblue is ideal for small businesses looking for a platform that can scale with their growth.

3. Constant Contact ( https://www.constantcontact.com/ )

Constant Contact is a well-known email marketing platform that offers a variety of features, including customizable templates, contact management, and automation. Its comprehensive reporting and analytics tools help small businesses track their campaign performance and optimize their strategies for better results. Constant Contact offers a 60-day free trial and affordable pricing plans.

4. GetResponse ( https://www.getresponse.com/ )

GetResponse is an all-in-one marketing platform that offers email marketing, landing pages, webinars, and marketing automation. Its user-friendly interface and extensive features make it an excellent choice for small businesses looking to enhance their marketing efforts. GetResponse provides a 30-day free trial and affordable pricing plans tailored to different business needs.

5. MailerLite (https://www.mailerlite.com/ )

MailerLite is a simple yet powerful email marketing platform that focuses on delivering a user-friendly experience. Its features include customizable templates, automation, segmentation, and analytics. MailerLite offers a free plan for up to 1,000 subscribers and 12,000 emails per month, making it an excellent choice for small businesses on a tight budget.

6. AWeber ( https://www.aweber.com/ )

AWeber is a robust email marketing platform with many features, including customizable templates, automation, and advanced analytics. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for small businesses to create and manage email campaigns. AWeber offers a free plan for up to 500 subscribers, while its paid plans provide additional features and support.

7. ConvertKit ( https://convertkit.com/ )

ConvertKit is an email marketing platform for creators and small business owners. It offers a visual automation builder, customizable forms, and advanced segmentation options. They offer a free plan for 1,000 subscribers and paid programs for larger audiences.

8. Drip ( https://www.drip.com/ )

Drip is an e-commerce-centric email marketing platform that offers advanced automation and segmentation features, making it an ideal choice for small businesses with an online store. Drip integrates seamlessly with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. While Drip does not offer a free plan, they provide a 14-day free trial to test the platform's features and performance.

9. Benchmark Email ( https://www.benchmarkemail.com/ )

Benchmark Email is a user-friendly email marketing platform that offers customizable templates, automation, and advanced analytics. It focuses on delivering a simple and efficient experience for small business owners. Benchmark Email provides a free plan for up to 2,000 subscribers and 14,000 emails per month, with paid plans offering additional features and support.

10. Moosend ( https://moosend.com/ )

Moosend is an email marketing platform that offers a wide range of features, including automation, customizable templates, and advanced reporting. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for small businesses to create and manage email campaigns. Moosend offers a free plan for up to 1,000 subscribers, unlimited emails, and affordable paid plans for growing businesses.

Conclusion

Email marketing is a powerful and cost-effective tool for small business owners to reach their audience, build brand awareness, and drive sales. Small businesses can streamline their marketing efforts and maximize their ROI using the top email marketing software listed above. Choose the platform that best aligns with your business needs and start reaping the benefits of effective email marketing today.

Why Your Small Business Needs a CRM System: Top 10 CRM Solutions for Growth and Success

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 18:06:29 GMT

Introduction

As a small business owner, you always look for ways to improve your processes, increase productivity, and grow your customer base. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are essential for achieving these goals. This article will explain why your small business needs a CRM system and highlight the top 10 solutions tailored to small businesses unique needs.

I have worked on CRM systems for over 20 years in the corporate world and small businesses. As an employee, I remember being told to use the company CRM (most were horrible) and complaining about it. Even as I launched my businesses, we had CRMs but didn’t use them effectively. When I finally gave in and began to use a CRM effectively, I can tell you my businesses grew. A CRM is not just a repository of information; it should also be an Analytic Tool, provide Automation, and help foster the relationship with your customers. After this article, I hope you understand and take some action in your own business.

Why Your Small Business Needs a CRM System

Enhanced Customer Relationships

The primary purpose of a CRM system is to manage customer relationships effectively. Centralizing customer data in one place allows your team to access all relevant information about a customer's interactions, preferences, and history with your company. This knowledge helps you provide personalized service, fostering stronger relationships and improving customer satisfaction.

2. Increased Sales and Revenue

CRM systems streamline the sales process, enabling you to manage leads, track opportunities, and monitor the sales pipeline. By automating tasks and providing real-time insights, a CRM system can increase sales efficiency and help your team close deals faster, ultimately driving revenue growth.

3. Improved Team Collaboration

CRMs break down departmental silos by providing a shared platform for team members to collaborate and communicate. With access to the same customer data, your team can work together to deliver a seamless customer experience, resulting in increased customer loyalty and retention.

4. Time and Cost Efficiency

With a CRM system, you can automate repetitive tasks such as data entry, lead tracking, and customer follow-ups. This automation reduces the time spent on administrative tasks, allowing your team to focus on more strategic activities that generate growth.

5. Data-driven Decision Making

A CRM system provides valuable insights into customer behavior, sales performance, and marketing effectiveness. By analyzing this data, you can make informed decisions about your business strategy and allocate resources more effectively.

Top 10 CRM Systems for Small Businesses

HubSpot CRM ( www.hubspot.com )

HubSpot CRM is a popular, user-friendly solution designed for small businesses. Its free tier offers robust features such as contact management, email tracking, and pipeline management. As your business grows, you can upgrade to one of HubSpot's paid plans for additional capabilities like marketing automation and sales analytics.

2. Salesforce Essentials ( https://www.salesforce.com/ca/solutions/essentials/ )

Salesforce Essentials is a scaled-down version of Salesforce's enterprise CRM solution tailored for small businesses. It provides features like lead management, sales forecasting, and email integration. Plus, Salesforce's AppExchange offers various third-party integrations to help customize your CRM experience.

3. Zoho CRM ( https://www.zoho.com/crm/ )

Zoho CRM is an affordable, feature-rich solution for small businesses. It includes tools for managing leads, tracking sales opportunities, and automating marketing campaigns. Zoho CRM also integrates with other Zoho products, allowing you to create a comprehensive business management suite.

4. Freshsales (now Freshworks CRM) ( https://www.freshworks.com/crm/sales/ )

Freshsales is a comprehensive CRM solution designed for small businesses that need an easy-to-use platform for managing leads, contacts, and deals. Key features include built-in email, phone, and chat, AI-based lead scoring, and visual sales pipeline management.

5. Pipedrive ( https://www.pipedrive.com/ ) - Our Favorite

Pipedrive is a sales-focused CRM solution that emphasizes simplicity and ease of use. Its visual sales pipeline lets you track deals and manage your sales process effectively. Pipedrive also offers robust integrations with popular tools like Google Workspace and Slack.

6. Insightly (https://www.insightly.com/ )

Insightly is a CRM solution that combines powerful features with an intuitive interface. It offers contact management, project management, and workflow automation to help small businesses streamline their operations. Insightly also integrates with popular tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, and Mailchimp.

7. Nimble ( https://www.nimble.com/ )

Nimble is a social CRM designed for small businesses looking to build better customer relationships. By integrating with your social media accounts, Nimble allows you to track customer interactions, identify leads, and engage with prospects. The platform offers contact management, sales pipeline tracking, and email marketing features.

8. Keap (formerly Infusionsoft) ( https://keap.com/ )

Keap is an all-in-one CRM, sales, and marketing automation solution for small businesses. Its key features include lead capture, email marketing, and e-commerce capabilities. Keap also offers customizable sales pipelines and robust reporting to help you optimize your sales process.

9. Nutshell ( https://www.nutshell.com/ )

Nutshell is a user-friendly CRM that offers many features to help small businesses manage their sales and customer relationships. Key features include contact management, sales pipeline tracking, and team collaboration tools. Nutshell also offers a variety of integrations with popular tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, and QuickBooks.

10. Copper ( https://www.copper.com/ )

Copper is a CRM solution designed for small businesses using Google Workspace. Its seamless integration with Google's suite of tools makes it easy to manage your contacts, leads, and opportunities. Copper offers features like email tracking, task management, and sales forecasting to help you stay on top of your sales process.

Conclusion

Implementing a CRM system is essential for any small business looking to grow and thrive in today's competitive market. By centralizing customer data, streamlining sales processes, and facilitating team collaboration, CRM solutions empower your business to build strong customer relationships, increase revenue, and make data-driven decisions.

With the top 10 CRM systems for small businesses listed above, you can find the perfect solution to meet your unique needs and set your company on the path to success. Don't hesitate – to start exploring CRM options today and experience the benefits firsthand.

How to Create a Marketing Funnel for Small Business Owners: A Comprehensive Guide

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 17:42:18 GMT

Discover the Key Steps to Building an Effective Marketing Funnel for Your Small Business

Introduction

Effective marketing is essential for your company's success. Many entrepreneurs overlook the marketing funnel. This step-by-step process helps guide potential customers from awareness to conversion, ultimately increasing revenue. In this article, we'll explore the Marketing Funnel and provide tips on how to create it.

It is interesting to look at funnels from the perspective of owning brick-and-mortar and service-based businesses. As a service-based business, it is a must for you to be able to simplify the buying process for your customers. At T-Werx, as a brick-and-mortar business, we should have used marketing funnels for years. It wasn’t until we started implementing some of the strategies below that we saw a significant uptick in our business. Making it easier for your clients to do business with you, regardless of the type of business, should be your top priority. Let’s get started by explaining what a marketing funnel is.

Understanding the Marketing Funnel

Before creating a marketing funnel, it's essential to understand the concept itself. A marketing funnel is a visual representation of the customer journey, from initial awareness of your brand to making a purchase. It's called a funnel because it narrows down as customers move through each stage, ultimately leading to fewer people converting into paying customers.

The main stages of a marketing funnel are:

Awareness : The potential customer becomes aware of your brand or product.
Interest: The potential customer shows interest in your brand or product.
Evaluation: The potential customer evaluates your brand or product and compares it to competitors.
Decision: The potential customer decides to purchase your product or service.
Purchase: The potential customer completes the transaction and becomes a paying customer.

2. Identify Your Target Audience

You must understand your target audience clearly to create an effective marketing funnel. This means knowing who they are, what they want, and their pain points. Ask yourself the following questions:

What demographic does your target audience belong to? Consider factors like age, gender, and location.
What are their interests, hobbies, and preferences?
What challenges or problems do they face that your product or service can solve?
What are their online behaviors? Which websites, social media platforms, and online communities do they frequent?

You'll be better equipped to create content and marketing strategies that resonate with your target audience by answering these questions.

3. Create Engaging Content

Creating engaging content is a crucial component of a successful marketing funnel. This content should be tailored to each stage of the funnel, addressing your target audience's unique needs and pain points. Here are some content ideas for each stage:

Awareness: Blog posts, social media updates, and videos that offer valuable information about a topic related to your product or service.
Interest: Ebooks, case studies, and in-depth articles that showcase the benefits of your product or service.
Evaluation: Comparison charts, testimonials, and product demos that highlight the advantages of your brand over competitors.
Decision: Exclusive offers, promotions, and free trials to incentivize potential customers to choose your product or service.
Purchase: User-friendly checkout processes, transparent pricing information, and multiple payment options to make the purchasing process as seamless as possible.

Remember to optimize your content for search engines by incorporating relevant keywords, creating compelling meta descriptions, and using proper header tags. This will help to increase your visibility on search engine results pages (SERPs) and drive more organic traffic to your website.

4. Set Up Your Marketing Channels

Once you clearly understand your target audience and have created engaging content, it's time to set up your marketing channels. You'll use these platforms and tools to distribute your content and attract potential customers. Some popular marketing channels for small businesses include:

Your website: Ensure that your website is optimized for both desktop and mobile users, with straightforward navigation, fast loading times, and a visually appealing design.
Email marketing: Build an email list of potential customers and send them personalized, relevant content and promotions to nurture their interest in your brand.
Social media: Choose the most popular platforms among your target audience, and create and share engaging content to build a following and generate leads.
Search engine optimization (SEO): Optimize your website and content to rank higher in search engine results and attract organic traffic.
Paid advertising: Invest in pay-per-click (PPC) ads on platforms like Google Ads and social media to reach a larger audience and drive targeted traffic to your website.

5. Monitor and Optimize Your Marketing Funnel

Once your marketing funnel is in place, monitoring its performance and making data-driven decisions to optimize it over time is crucial. Analyze key metrics at each stage of the funnel, such as:

Website traffic: Monitor the number of visitors to your website and the sources they come from using tools like Google Analytics.
Conversion rates: Track the percentage of visitors who take desired actions, such as signing up for your email list, downloading a resource, or purchasing.
Bounce rates: Assess the percentage of visitors who leave your website without engaging with your content or taking action.
Cost per acquisition (CPA): Calculate the average cost of acquiring a new customer through your marketing efforts.

By tracking these metrics, you can identify areas of your marketing funnel that need improvement and make the necessary adjustments to enhance performance.

6. Implement Retention Strategies

Acquiring new customers is essential, but retaining existing ones is equally crucial for the long-term success of your small business. Implement retention strategies to keep customers returning for more and turn them into brand advocates. Some effective retention tactics include:

Personalization: Send personalized content and offers to your customers based on their preferences and previous purchases.
Customer support: Offer exceptional customer service and support through multiple channels, such as email, phone, and social media.
Loyalty programs: Create a loyalty program that rewards customers for repeat purchases and referrals.
Re-engagement campaigns: Reach out to customers who haven't purchased in a while with special offers and incentives to win them back.

7. Test and Iterate

Creating an effective marketing funnel is an ongoing process. Continuously test different strategies and tactics to see what works best for your small business. This could include experimenting with different types of content, adjusting your targeting and messaging, or trying new channels. Keep track of results, learn from your successes and failures, and iterate on your marketing funnel.

Conclusion

Creating a marketing funnel is a critical aspect of growing your small business. By understanding the stages of the funnel, identifying your target audience, and creating engaging content, you can effectively guide potential customers through their buyer journey. Remember to optimize your marketing channels, monitor your funnel's performance, and implement retention strategies to ensure long-term success. With persistence and continuous improvement, your marketing funnel will become a powerful tool for driving conversions and growing your small business.

The Incredible Benefits of Using a Coworking Space: A Comprehensive Guide

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 17:08:04 GMT

Introduction

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing business environment, traditional office spaces are becoming less popular as more professionals opt for coworking spaces. This flexible, modern approach to work offers numerous benefits for businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs alike. This comprehensive, SEO-optimized article will explore the top benefits of using a coworking space and how it can transform your work life.

I know what you are thinking. “You own a coworking space, so of course, you would say it is good.” One of the things that I will say, it gives me an excuse to put pants on every day (and the other members appreciate it) instead of working in my PJs. Here are some other benefits.

Networking Opportunities

One of the most significant advantages of using a coworking space is the opportunity to network with other professionals. Coworking spaces attract a diverse range of individuals, from freelancers and startups to established businesses. Working in a shared environment allows you to connect easily with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and even form valuable partnerships.

Moreover, coworking spaces often host events, workshops, and seminars, providing additional opportunities to network and learn from industry experts.

2. Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to traditional office spaces, coworking spaces offer a more cost-effective solution for businesses and freelancers. Renting a conventional office can be expensive, especially for startups and small businesses, while coworking spaces provide flexible, affordable membership plans.

In addition to affordable pricing, coworking spaces typically include amenities such as high-speed internet, printing facilities, and conference rooms in their memberships. This all-inclusive approach eliminates additional costs and lets you focus on your work.

3. Flexibility

The modern workforce demands flexibility, and coworking spaces deliver it in spades. With various membership plans, you can choose the option that best suits your needs, whether you require a dedicated desk, a private office, or a few workspace hours per week.

Coworking spaces also provide 24/7 access, allowing you to work according to your schedule, whether an early bird or a night owl. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for freelancers, remote workers, and those who frequently travel.

4. Increased Productivity

Working from home can be fraught with distractions, making it difficult to maintain productivity. Coworking spaces offer a professional environment that fosters focus and efficiency, helping you stay on track and get more done.

Furthermore, being surrounded by other motivated individuals can create healthy competition, inspiring you to work harder and achieve your goals.

5. Collaboration and Creativity

Coworking spaces are designed to encourage collaboration and creativity. With a diverse mix of professionals, you can quickly bounce ideas off of others, gain new perspectives, and even collaborate on projects.

The open-concept layout of many coworking spaces also encourages interaction, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among members. This collaborative atmosphere can lead to increased innovation and problem-solving.

6. Access to Resources and Amenities

In addition to the essential office amenities, coworking spaces often offer a range of additional resources and services to support your work. These may include access to professional development workshops, mentorship programs, and exclusive networking events.

Some coworking spaces also provide members access to onsite services such as gyms, cafes, and wellness facilities, contributing to a healthy work-life balance.

7. Professional Image

Establishing a professional image is essential for businesses and freelancers alike. Working from a coworking space can elevate your professional image, as it provides a dedicated, polished environment for client meetings and presentations.

Coworking spaces also typically offer mailing addresses and receptionist services, adding an extra layer of professionalism to your business.

8. Scalability

As your business grows, a coworking space can adapt to your changing needs. Whether you need to add more team members or require additional office space, coworking spaces offer the flexibility to scale up or down as needed.

This scalability eliminates the need to commit to long-term leases or invest in larger office spaces, providing a more cost-effective solution for businesses in the growth phase.

9. Reduced Loneliness and Increased Mental Well-Being

Working from home or in isolation can be lonely, negatively impacting your mental well-being. Coworking spaces provide a social environment where you can interact with other professionals, combating feelings of loneliness and promoting mental health.

Being part of a coworking community can also help foster a sense of belonging, contributing to overall job satisfaction and well-being.

10. Eco-Friendly Work Environment

Coworking spaces prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices, making them an excellent choice for environmentally conscious professionals. By sharing resources and amenities, coworking spaces reduce energy consumption, waste production, and overall carbon footprint by sharing resources and amenities.

Many coworking spaces also incorporate eco-friendly design elements, such as natural lighting, greenery, and energy-efficient appliances, creating a workspace that aligns with your values.

Conclusion

The benefits of using a coworking space are numerous, making them an increasingly popular choice for businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs in today's fast-paced, ever-evolving work landscape. From networking opportunities and cost-effectiveness to increased productivity and access to resources, coworking spaces offer a range of advantages that can help you succeed both professionally and personally.

If you're considering a coworking space, take the time to research and visit different spaces in your area to find the one that best fits your needs and preferences. With a suitable coworking space, you can unlock new levels of success, collaboration, and well-being in your work life.

4th of July Truck

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 16:08:06 GMT

Supplies:

Metal Truck

Floral Foam

Flowers – I used flowers with the flag in the arrangement

Blue and White flowers

Glue gun

Wire cutters

Directions:

Cut the foam to fit into the truck, glue gun into place. Cut the flowers down to the height you desire. Glue gun the flowers into the foam. Cut the blue and white flowers and stick them into the foam. Enjoy

(2) Easy Easter Bunny Wreaths

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 22:22:12 GMT

Bunny Hiding Welcome Bunny Wreath

Supplies:

Bunny Wreath (Bunny head and/or Full body)
Small Tulips – multicolored
Spring Garland with flowers
Carrot décor
Bunny Face Garland or large puff balls
Bunny door hanger
Felt bunny feet
Glue gun

Directions: Bunny Hiding

If using the bunny face garland cut the string off as well as the ears.
Place the spring garland with flowers around the full body bunny wreath, cut the tulips and place them in the ears.
At the bottom of the wreath place the bunny tail (large puff ball from the bunny face garland) in the center and the bunny felt feet on each side of the tail.
After you have everything the way you want it glue gun the garland into place, then the tail, feet, carrots and the tulips.

Directions: Bunny welcome Wreath

Cut the door hang on the top of the bunny door hanger off.
Place the bunny door hanger in the center of the bunny head wreath with the head on the front side of the wreath.
Flip the hanging part of the bunny door hanger on the back side of the wreath, glue into place.
Glue the carrot to the rabbit’s hand.
Place the tulips into the ears and glue them in place.

Enjoy the wearths!

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent: Strategies for Small Business Success

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 23:40:39 GMT

Acquiring top talent and retaining current employees are essential for small businesses to thrive in today's competitive market. A high-performing, motivated workforce can drive business growth, enhance customer satisfaction, and foster innovation. In this article, we will explore proven strategies that small businesses can use to attract top talent and retain current employees, ensuring long-term success.

Develop a Strong Employer Brand

A strong employer brand can help small businesses attract top talent and set them apart from their competitors. Develop a clear employer value proposition that highlights your company culture, values, and unique benefits. Ensure that your brand message resonates with your target talent pool and is consistently communicated across all recruitment channels, such as your website, social media, and job postings.

Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits

To attract top talent and retain current employees, small businesses must offer competitive compensation and benefits packages. Research industry benchmarks and offer salaries that are commensurate with experience, skills, and the local job market. In addition to monetary benefits, consider offering unique perks, such as flexible working hours, remote work options, or professional development opportunities, to appeal to a diverse range of candidates.

Create a Positive Company Culture

A positive and inclusive company culture can significantly influence a candidate's decision to join your organization and an employee's decision to stay. Foster a culture that promotes collaboration, open communication, and employee recognition. Encourage a healthy work-life balance and prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives to create an environment where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated.

Invest in Employee Development

Providing employees with opportunities for professional growth and development can help small businesses attract and retain top talent. Develop comprehensive training programs, offer mentorship opportunities, and support employees in pursuing certifications or advanced degrees. By investing in employee development, small businesses can enhance their workforce's skills, boost employee satisfaction, and improve overall performance.

Implement Performance-Based Incentives

Performance-based incentives can motivate employees to perform at their best, drive business growth, and encourage employee retention. Design incentive programs that reward high-performing employees with bonuses, promotions, or other forms of recognition. Ensure that your incentive programs are transparent, attainable, and clearly communicated to all employees.

Provide Opportunities for Advancement

Top talent is often attracted to companies that offer clear opportunities for career advancement. Establish a clear career path for each role within your organization, and regularly discuss employees' career goals and aspirations. Promote from within whenever possible, and provide employees with the necessary support and resources to grow within your organization.

Foster Open Communication and Feedback

Open communication and regular feedback can help small businesses identify areas for improvement, address employee concerns, and maintain a motivated workforce. Encourage employees to share their thoughts, ideas, and feedback through regular check-ins, performance reviews, or anonymous feedback channels. Respond to employee feedback promptly and take action to address any concerns or suggestions.

Offer a Supportive Work Environment

Creating a supportive work environment can help small businesses retain employees and maintain high levels of job satisfaction. Ensure that managers and supervisors are approachable, empathetic, and skilled in conflict resolution. Encourage teamwork and collaboration, and provide employees with the resources and support they need to excel in their roles.

Focus on Employee Recognition and Appreciation

Recognizing and appreciating employees for their hard work and achievements can significantly improve employee satisfaction and retention. Implement formal and informal employee recognition programs, such as awards, thank you notes, or public shout-outs, to celebrate employee accomplishments. Make employee recognition a regular part of your company culture and ensure that it is genuine and personalized to each individual.

Leverage Social Media and Online Platforms

Using social media and online platforms can help small businesses reach a wider pool of potential candidates and showcase their employer brand. Create engaging content that highlights your company culture, values, and benefits, and share it on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. Utilize job boards and industry-specific platforms to post job openings and connect with top talent.

Develop a Comprehensive Onboarding Program

A well-designed onboarding program can help new employees feel welcomed, supported, and prepared for success in their roles. Create a comprehensive onboarding plan that includes orientation sessions, training, and opportunities to connect with colleagues. A positive onboarding experience can help new hires acclimate to your company culture and set the stage for long-term employee retention.

Promote Work-Life Balance

Promoting work-life balance is essential for attracting and retaining top talent in today's fast-paced business environment. Offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, or compressed workweeks, to accommodate employees' personal and family needs. Encourage employees to take time off and avoid overworking to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.

Participate in Local Networking Events and Job Fairs

Attending local networking events and job fairs can help small businesses connect with potential candidates and raise awareness about their brand. Participate in industry-specific events, join local business associations, and actively engage with your community to build relationships and showcase your company as an attractive employer.

Foster Employee Referral Programs

Employee referral programs can be a valuable source of top talent, as existing employees are likely to refer qualified candidates who are a good fit for your company culture. Encourage employees to refer friends, former colleagues, or acquaintances by offering incentives such as bonuses or other rewards. Ensure that your referral program is transparent and straightforward for employees to participate in.

Regularly Assess Employee Retention Strategies

To maintain a high level of employee retention, small businesses should regularly assess their strategies and make necessary adjustments. Conduct exit interviews with departing employees to gain insights into areas for improvement, and use employee feedback to identify and address concerns. Continuously evaluating and refining your employee retention strategies can help you create a more engaged, satisfied, and high-performing workforce.

Conclusion

Attracting and retaining top talent is critical for small businesses to achieve sustained growth and success in today's competitive market. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, small businesses can create a high-performing, motivated workforce that drives innovation and contributes to long-term success. Keep in mind that talent acquisition and retention are ongoing processes that require continuous effort, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to creating a positive and supportive work environment for all employees.

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx LLC, a Coworking and Real Estate Investment company based in Cedar Park Texas. Jeff is the founder and owner of multiple businesses in the Real Estate, Finance, and Media Industries. He is the author of 6 books with the 7th book Freedom Day: Quit the Job you Hate and Live the Life You Love coming out in the Spring of 2023.

Time Management Mastery for Small Business Owners: Techniques to Maximize Productivity and Success

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 23:21:08 GMT

Effective time management is crucial for small business owners as they juggle multiple responsibilities and strive to grow their businesses in a competitive market. Mastering time management skills can significantly enhance productivity, reduce stress, and lead to overall success. In this fourth article in our Business Challenges Series, we will explore specific techniques that small business owners can employ to develop their time management skills and make the most of their valuable time.

Set Clear Goals and Priorities

Establishing clear goals and priorities is the foundation of effective time management. Identify your short-term and long-term objectives and break them down into manageable tasks. Prioritize these tasks based on their importance and urgency, focusing on those that contribute most to your business growth and success.

Plan and Schedule Your Day

Creating a daily plan or schedule helps you allocate time for essential tasks and avoid procrastination. At the beginning of each day, make a to-do list, estimating how much time each task will require. Schedule your tasks, allocating specific time slots for each, and ensure that you factor in breaks and buffer time for unexpected interruptions.

Learn to Delegate

Delegating tasks to employees or outsourcing specific functions can free up valuable time for small business owners to focus on high-level strategic activities. Identify tasks that can be effectively handled by others and provide clear instructions and guidelines. Trusting your team to manage certain responsibilities not only saves time but also empowers them and fosters a collaborative work environment.

Implement Time-Tracking Tools

Using time-tracking tools can help small business owners monitor how they spend their time and identify areas for improvement. Implement time-tracking software or apps to track your daily activities, analyze your productivity patterns, and adjust your work habits accordingly. Regularly reviewing your time usage can provide valuable insights into how to use your time more efficiently.

Eliminate Distractions

Minimizing distractions is essential for maintaining focus and making the most of your time. Identify common distractions, such as email notifications, social media, or noisy environments, and take steps to eliminate or reduce them. Establish boundaries with employees or family members, set specific times for checking emails or social media, and create a dedicated workspace to maintain focus.

Utilize the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that involves working in short, focused intervals with regular breaks. Set a timer for 25 minutes and work on a task without interruption. When the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break. After four Pomodoro sessions, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This technique can help maintain concentration, reduce burnout, and increase productivity.

Batch Similar Tasks

Batching involves grouping similar tasks together and completing them in one focused session. This technique can minimize the time spent switching between tasks and help maintain focus. For example, batch tasks such as responding to emails, processing invoices, or updating social media to optimize your time and increase efficiency.

Embrace the Power of "No"

Learning to say "no" to non-essential tasks or commitments can help small business owners protect their valuable time. Evaluate requests for your time and energy, and prioritize those that align with your goals and priorities. Politely decline or delegate tasks that do not contribute to your business growth or personal well-being.

Establish Routine and Structure

Creating a consistent routine and structured work environment can lead to improved time management and productivity. Establish regular working hours, set specific times for breaks and meals, and develop a morning routine to kickstart your day. A structured routine can help you maintain focus, reduce decision fatigue, and make the most of your time.

Leverage Time Management Apps and Tools

Utilizing time management apps and tools can help small business owners stay organized, track their progress, and optimize their time usage. Consider using project management software, calendar apps, task management tools, or note-taking apps to streamline your workflow and stay on top of your priorities.

Set Deadlines and Hold Yourself Accountable

Setting deadlines for tasks and projects can help small business owners stay focused and maintain a sense of urgency. Allocate specific deadlines for each task on your to-do list and hold yourself accountable for meeting those deadlines. Break larger projects into smaller milestones with their own deadlines to maintain momentum and track progress.

Practice the Two-Minute Rule

The two-minute rule is a simple time management technique that involves completing tasks that take two minutes or less immediately, rather than postponing them. This approach can help reduce the accumulation of small tasks and improve overall productivity. If a task will take longer than two minutes, schedule it for a later time or delegate it as appropriate.

Take Regular Breaks and Prioritize Self-Care

Taking regular breaks and prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining focus, reducing stress, and preventing burnout. Schedule breaks throughout your day to rest, recharge, and refocus. Engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Review and Adjust Your Time Management Strategies

Regularly reviewing and adjusting your time management strategies can help you identify areas for improvement and ensure that your techniques remain effective. Reflect on your productivity, assess which strategies are working well, and make necessary adjustments to optimize your time usage.

Attend Time Management Workshops or Seminars

Investing in time management education can help small business owners develop new skills, strategies, and insights to optimize their productivity. Attend workshops, seminars, or online courses to learn about the latest time management techniques and best practices, and apply these learnings to your own work habits.

Conclusion

Developing effective time management skills is crucial for small business owners seeking to optimize their productivity, reduce stress, and achieve success. By implementing the techniques outlined in this article, small business owners can take control of their time, work more efficiently, and create a more balanced and rewarding professional life. Remember that time management is an ongoing process that requires constant assessment, adaptation, and commitment to improvement. Stay proactive and open to change as you strive to make the most of your valuable time.

Top Techniques for Small Business Owners to Attract and Retain Clients: Boosting Customer Loyalty and Growth

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 23:01:37 GMT

Attracting and retaining clients is essential for the success of any small business in today's competitive market. Building a loyal customer base not only drives revenue but also helps create brand advocates who can spread the word about your business. In this third article of our Business Challenges for 2023 series, we will explore the best techniques that small business owners can use to attract and retain clients, boost customer loyalty, and promote business growth.

Offer Exceptional Products or Services

Providing high-quality products or services is the foundation of attracting and retaining clients. Invest in research and development, continuously improve your offerings, and ensure that you meet or exceed customer expectations. Delivering exceptional value will set your business apart from competitors and keep clients coming back.

Develop a Strong Brand Identity

A strong and consistent brand identity is crucial for attracting clients and building customer loyalty. Develop a clear brand message that communicates your unique value proposition and resonates with your target audience. Ensure that your visual elements, such as your logo, colors, and typography, are cohesive and reflective of your brand's personality.

Utilize Digital Marketing Tools

Leverage digital marketing tools to increase your business's visibility and attract new clients. Implement search engine optimization (SEO) strategies, engage in social media marketing, and create email marketing campaigns to reach your target audience. Regularly produce valuable, engaging content that showcases your expertise and helps establish your business as an industry authority.

Create a User-Friendly Website

Your website serves as a digital storefront for your business and plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining clients. Design a visually appealing, easy-to-navigate, and mobile-responsive website that effectively communicates your brand message and showcases your products or services. Include clear calls to action (CTAs) and ensure that your contact information is easily accessible.

Implement a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System

A CRM system can help you manage customer interactions, track leads, and maintain client relationships. Utilize CRM software to monitor client communication, personalize marketing efforts, and identify opportunities for upselling or cross-selling. A well-implemented CRM system can improve customer satisfaction and increase client retention rates.

Provide Outstanding Customer Service

Exceptional customer service is vital for retaining clients and fostering loyalty. Train your employees to be knowledgeable, courteous, and responsive to customer inquiries. Offer multiple channels for customer support, such as phone, email, live chat, or social media, and ensure that your response times are prompt.

Seek and Respond to Customer Feedback

Actively seeking and responding to customer feedback demonstrates that you value their opinions and are committed to meeting their needs. Encourage clients to provide feedback through surveys, reviews, or testimonials. Address any issues or concerns promptly, and use the insights gained to improve your products, services, and overall customer experience.

Develop a Customer Loyalty Program

Customer loyalty programs can incentivize repeat business and encourage clients to refer others to your business. Design a loyalty program that offers valuable rewards, such as discounts, exclusive promotions, or early access to new products or services. Ensure that your loyalty program is easy to understand, join, and participate in.

Personalize Client Experiences

Personalized experiences can help build strong connections with clients, increasing their likelihood of returning and recommending your business to others. Utilize customer data to tailor your marketing efforts, product recommendations, and communication. Send personalized emails, offer exclusive promotions based on purchase history, or celebrate customer milestones, such as birthdays or anniversaries, to make clients feel valued and appreciated.

Network and Build Relationships

Building relationships with potential clients and industry professionals can help attract new business and strengthen your reputation. Attend local networking events, join industry associations, and participate in online forums to connect with your target audience and establish your business as an industry leader. Cultivate strong relationships with your existing clients, as they can serve as valuable sources of referrals and testimonials.

Offer Flexible Payment Options

Providing multiple payment options can make it more convenient for clients to do business with you and contribute to customer satisfaction. Offer a variety of payment methods, such as credit cards, mobile payments, and online payment gateways, to cater to your clients' preferences. Consider implementing installment plans or subscription-based pricing to make your products or services more accessible to a wider audience.

Stay Active on Social Media

Maintaining an active presence on social media can help you attract and engage clients, as well as showcase your products or services. Regularly post content that is relevant, engaging, and shareable, and interact with your followers through comments, likes, and direct messages. Use social media platforms to provide customer support, share promotions, and gather customer feedback.

Invest in Customer Education

Educating clients about your products or services can help them make informed purchasing decisions and increase their satisfaction with your business. Offer resources such as how-to guides, video tutorials, webinars, or blog posts that provide valuable information related to your offerings. By educating your clients, you not only build trust but also position your business as an industry expert.

Monitor and Adapt to Industry Trends

Staying up-to-date with industry trends and adapting your strategies accordingly is crucial for attracting and retaining clients. Regularly conduct market research, analyze competitor activity, and track customer preferences to identify emerging trends and opportunities. Embrace innovation and adjust your products, services, and marketing strategies to meet the evolving needs of your clients.

Maintain Clear and Consistent Communication

Clear and consistent communication is essential for building trust and maintaining strong client relationships. Keep your clients informed about new products, services, promotions, or changes in your business through email newsletters, social media updates, or blog posts. Be transparent about your policies, pricing, and any potential issues that may impact your clients.

Conclusion

Attracting and retaining clients is crucial for the growth and success of any small business. By implementing the techniques outlined in this article, small business owners can foster customer loyalty, drive business growth, and set their businesses apart from the competition. Remember that client attraction and retention are ongoing processes that require continuous effort, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to providing exceptional value and experiences.

Cash Flow Management for Small Business Owners: Tips and Strategies for Financial Success

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Sat, 01 Apr 2023 22:35:47 GMT

Cash flow management is a critical aspect of running a successful small business. Maintaining a healthy cash flow ensures that your business can cover operational costs, invest in growth, and handle unforeseen expenses. In this second article,of our Business Challenges Series, we will explore practical tips and strategies that small business owners can implement to improve their cash flow management and pave the way for financial success.

Accurate Financial Records

The foundation of effective cash flow management lies in accurate financial record-keeping. Small business owners should invest in reliable accounting software or hire an accountant to track income, expenses, and cash flow regularly. Regularly reviewing financial statements such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements will enable you to make informed decisions and identify potential issues before they escalate.

Monitor Receivables

Delays in receiving payments from customers can significantly impact your cash flow. To minimize the risk of late payments, establish clear payment terms, and follow up on overdue invoices promptly. Offer incentives for early payments and consider implementing an automated invoicing system to streamline the billing process.

Manage Payables

Effectively managing your payables is crucial for maintaining a positive cash flow. Negotiate favorable payment terms with suppliers, such as extended payment periods or discounts for early payments. Track your expenses closely and prioritize payments to avoid late fees and penalties.

Create a Cash Flow Forecast

Developing a cash flow forecast is an essential step in managing your cash flow. A cash flow forecast helps you anticipate future cash inflows and outflows, enabling you to make informed decisions about expenses, investments, and borrowing. Regularly update your cash flow forecast and adjust your plans accordingly based on your actual financial performance.

Optimize Inventory Management

Excess inventory can tie up cash that could be used for other purposes. Implement effective inventory management practices, such as just-in-time (JIT) ordering or demand forecasting, to minimize stock levels and free up cash. Regularly review your inventory turnover ratio and adjust your ordering patterns to avoid overstocking or stockouts.

Reduce Operating Expenses

Identifying areas to reduce operating expenses can have a positive impact on cash flow. Review your expenses regularly and consider cost-saving measures such as renegotiating contracts, automating processes, or cutting unnecessary costs. Implement energy-saving measures and explore remote work options to reduce overhead expenses.

Increase Revenue Streams

Diversifying your revenue streams can improve your cash flow and reduce dependence on a single source of income. Explore opportunities to expand your product or service offerings, tap into new markets, or collaborate with other businesses. Consider offering additional services, such as consultations or training, to generate additional income.

Establish a Cash Reserve

Creating a cash reserve can provide a financial buffer for unexpected expenses or fluctuations in cash flow. Aim to set aside a portion of your income in a separate account to serve as an emergency fund. This reserve can help you navigate challenging periods without relying on external financing.

Utilize Financing Options

In some cases, external financing may be necessary to maintain a healthy cash flow. Familiarize yourself with various financing options, such as lines of credit, short-term loans, or invoice factoring. Choose the most appropriate financing solution based on your business needs and repayment capacity.

Improve Payment Processing

Offering customers multiple payment options can help expedite the payment process and improve cash flow. Consider implementing online payment gateways, mobile payment solutions, or point-of-sale (POS) systems to make it easier for customers to pay for your products or services. Faster payment processing can lead to quicker access to funds, enhancing your overall cash flow management.

Review Pricing Strategies

Pricing your products or services appropriately is crucial for maintaining a healthy cash flow. Regularly review your pricing strategies and analyze market trends to ensure that your prices remain competitive and profitable. Adjust your prices if necessary to cover increased costs or to better align with your target market's expectations.

Encourage Recurring Revenue

Recurring revenue can provide a stable cash flow, enabling small business owners to plan and invest with greater confidence. Consider offering subscription-based products or services, memberships, or maintenance contracts to encourage repeat business and generate consistent income.

Invest in Financial Education

Small business owners should invest in their financial education to better understand and manage their cash flow. Attend workshops, seminars, or online courses to improve your financial literacy and stay informed about the latest industry trends and best practices.

Seek Professional Advice

Enlisting the help of a financial advisor or accountant can provide valuable insights and guidance on cash flow management. These professionals can help you analyze your financial situation, identify potential issues, and develop strategies to improve your cash flow and overall financial health.

Leverage Technology

Utilizing technology can streamline your cash flow management and provide real-time insights into your financial performance. Implement cloud-based accounting software, automated invoicing systems, and inventory management tools to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enable you to make data-driven decisions.

Conclusion

Effective cash flow management is essential for the success and stability of any small business. By implementing the tips and strategies outlined in this article, small business owners can improve their cash flow management, make informed financial decisions, and set their businesses on a path to financial success. Remember, maintaining a healthy cash flow requires constant monitoring and adaptation to changes in your business environment. Stay proactive, informed, and flexible to ensure the long-term stability of your small business.

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx LLC, a Real Estate Investment and Coworking company based in Cedar Park Texas. Jeff is the Founder and Owner of 3 businesses in the Real Estate, Finance, and Media Industries. Jeff is also the author of 6 books with his 7th book, Freedom Day: Quit the Job You Hate, Live the Life You Love coming out in the Spring of 2023.

Top 10 Challenges Faced by Small Business Owners Today: Overcoming Obstacles for Success

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 21:56:48 GMT

We as Small business owners face numerous challenges in today's rapidly changing and competitive business landscape. In this first article of our Business Challenges Series, we will explore the top 10 challenges faced by small business owners today and offer valuable insights on how to overcome these obstacles for a successful and thriving business.

Cash Flow Management

One of the most significant challenges faced by small businesses is maintaining a healthy cash flow. Business owners must balance their income and expenses, ensuring that they have enough capital to cover operational costs, invest in growth, and handle unforeseen expenses. To manage cash flow effectively, businesses should maintain accurate financial records, plan for seasonal fluctuations, and seek professional advice when needed.

Attracting and Retaining Customers

Building a loyal customer base is crucial for small business success. To attract and retain customers, business owners must provide exceptional products or services and invest in marketing strategies to increase visibility. Utilize digital marketing tools, such as social media, email campaigns, and search engine optimization (SEO), to create awareness and drive traffic to your business.

Time Management

Small business owners often find themselves juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, making time management a significant challenge. Prioritizing tasks, delegating responsibilities, and utilizing time management tools can help entrepreneurs make the most of their limited time and increase productivity.

Talent Acquisition and Retention

Hiring and retaining skilled employees is a common challenge for small businesses. Offering competitive compensation packages, creating a positive work environment, and providing opportunities for professional development can help attract and retain top talent. Additionally, consider leveraging remote work and freelancing platforms to access a broader pool of candidates.

Competition

Staying ahead of competitors is essential for any small business. To remain competitive, business owners must continuously analyze their market, monitor competitors, and adjust their strategies accordingly. Embrace innovation and invest in technology to streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and differentiate your business from competitors.

Regulatory Compliance

Complying with local, state, and federal regulations can be a challenge for small business owners, particularly as regulations change or expand. Staying informed about relevant laws and industry-specific regulations is crucial for avoiding costly fines and penalties. Seek legal advice and consider hiring a compliance officer to ensure your business meets all regulatory requirements.

Access to Capital

Securing financing is often a significant obstacle for small businesses, especially during their initial stages. Business owners must explore various funding options, such as loans, grants, and investors, to secure the capital needed for growth and expansion. Having a well-prepared business plan and maintaining good credit can improve your chances of securing financing.

Technology Integration

In today's digital age, businesses must embrace technology to stay relevant and competitive. However, many small business owners struggle with technology integration, whether due to cost, complexity, or a lack of expertise. Investing in the right tools and software can improve efficiency, reduce human error, and enhance customer experiences. Seek professional advice to determine the best technology solutions for your business.

Scalability and Growth

Growing a small business can be a challenging endeavor, with numerous factors to consider, such as staffing, facilities, and market demand. Creating a strategic growth plan that includes setting realistic goals, measuring progress, and adjusting as necessary can help guide your business through successful expansion.

Work-Life Balance

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for small business owners' wellbeing and the overall success of their businesses. Prioritize self-care, establish boundaries, and delegate

responsibilities to maintain a balance between personal and professional life. Remember that taking care of yourself enables you to be more productive and focused in your business endeavors.

Conclusion

Running a small business comes with its fair share of challenges. By recognizing these top 10 challenges faced by small business owners today and implementing the suggested strategies, entrepreneurs can successfully navigate the obstacles and set their businesses on a path to success. Remember, persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures are essential qualities for overcoming challenges and achieving long-term business growth.

Spring Flower Arragement

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 17:47:01 GMT

Supplies:

Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
Floral Foam Block
Metal Planter
Tulip Bush – 3 to 4 Different Colors
Ribbon
Spring Garland

Steps:

Glue gun the floral foam block to the inside of the metal planter.
Glue gun the ribbon to the outside of the planter.
Cut the steams of the tulips, arrange the tulips into the foam.
Surround the spring garland around the flowers.

Enjoy!

8 Big Business Errors That Are Killing Your Business

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 15:41:05 GMT

Here’s an interesting notion: Do you realize that there are mistakes you can make at various stages of your business’ growth that can be slowly killing it for months or even years if you don’t watch for them?

Well, these mistakes do exist and they are not just reserved for the rookie companies. Many working businesses, including those you might think, are “successful” because they’ve been around for 10+ years, are often still making them… and are possibly losing money and/or wasting time in the process.

Although some of these big and sneaky mistakes seem aimed more at service type companies, they can occur in almost any type of industry. I’ve done my best with the listings below to give examples to prove it.

1. Underestimating Project/Service Time

This is a big one and it pertains to service companies as well as companies that sell a product. This is a service company’s bread and butter. If you don’t estimate your time to perform each and every service in your repertoire, you will get burned and there is little you can do about it but bite the bullet and learn from it.

The best way to estimate time is to do it once yourself or watch your best employee do the task and then throw in a little fudge factor on top of it. For product companies, time becomes an issue with logistics so beware!

2. Not Knowing YOUR Company Numbers

Notice I emphasized the word “your”. It’s a common mistake to use a competitor as your pricing gauge without actually knowing why they use those numbers. Think about the nightmare you will get yourself into if you take a competitor’s price, cut it by 10% and then start selling. What if the competition has a bad pricing structure and is barely making money or even losing money? What if your costs are more than theirs? You can use a competitor as a starting point but you can’t base your whole strategy on it.

Different industries have their own variables as far as costs go and you need to be aware of them for your project or product pricing.

What you pay for a product you are going to sell is not the only cost to have in your head when you are pricing products. How much your labor and materials cost for a service is only a piece of an hourly rate. Employees cost more than just a salary and not every employee is part of your labor cost. Every company has insurance to pay for. There are tons of overhead expenditures that need to be part of your price. Oh, by the way, the big one that many people forget about in their price is the quality factor.

What you include as “standard services” or “standard product features” as well as job site etiquette or in-store service or warranties all need to go into your pricing. I’ll get to more on why in the next segment.

3. Not Charging for All of Your Time & Costs

This seems like a stupid statement to some but I bet most business owners will admit that they have given away a little too much of the farm at times. Hey, there is nothing wrong with giving a little extra here and there to show you care. But either way, that’s not what I’m talking about here.

What concerns me are those that put a lot of quality into their work or products or stores and do not cover the cost for it. As an example, say you run a service company and your competitors don’t do a certain standard service that you do. You can’t just undercut their price to steal a job; you need to have that cost covered in your rate and advertise the fact that it comes with the price upfront.

Stores undermine themselves, for example, when they put more people on the floor for customer service but don’t charge for it. These things cost you money and when your competitors don’t do them it costs them less money.

Put out better service and then underprice them, and your competition just has to wait a little bit for you to fall on your face so they can swoop back in. If you remember Circuit City, they had far better products and more knowledgeable salespeople than Best Buy, but they put themselves out of business as a result.

As a business owner, you need to believe that you are providing your client’s worthwhile wares that deserve to be paid for. If you get the chance to explain why your prices are higher, then take that opportunity and do it. If they don’t like the fact that you include things that others charge extra for later or that you treat them better, then they are most likely completely price shoppers. You don’t want them as regular customers anyway. Trust me.

4. Not Getting Paid Fast Enough

That’s right, the old cash flow issue. As long as you are actually making enough money to pay the bills, this problem can be solved, prevented or at least made to be not as bad as it could be. Here’s the deal:

First of all, bill customers very promptly. It is very common for a small business to not have the procedures or systems in place to get invoices generated and out the door in a timely fashion (see the next segment for more). Again, this would seem unlikely since that’s the reason why we are doing the work- to get paid. But it is very easy for the people responsible for getting this info to the billing people to be too busy to get it there or not have enough organization to give it to them the right way.

The second part to slowing down or stopping a regular cash flow crunch is to make the quickest payment deals possible with customers and the slowest possible with vendors and employees. If there is any way not to pay employees any more than twice a month, you better do it. Contractors always have an issue with this. If you must pay weekly, then tell them before they are hired that they will be getting the first week held back, essentially buying you a week. It will help, I promise.

Part three involves credit. If your company can get a credit card, then get it. This allows for certain important things to be bought (that you can afford) that might come up during a cash flow crunch. Better yet, especially if you have no choice but to deal with 45+ day customer payments, do your best to get a company line of credit. This is a must if you plan on selling to the government or doing commercial service work. These clients often have 60 to 90 day wait periods.

5. Failure to Have Solid Systems and Procedures in Place

Too many procedures (known as “red tape”) is the reason why many people start their own business in the first place. Unfortunately, having no procedures and systems in place at all is not an alternative. Depending on the type of industry, business owners must come to a happy medium or chaos and the unknown will ensue.

Some basic examples where procedures or systems are needed include billing, collections, payroll, hr (interviewing, hiring, vacations, benefits, job responsibilities, etc.), manufacturing, operating equipment, maintaining equipment, inventory, sales calls/visits, and logistics to name a few.

Even a one-person show needs to have some admin procedures in place. This will make it easier to hire temps and subcontractors and control what they are doing for you. Without at least a watered down version of a system or procedure to do everyday work, you will be to blame for causing many major headaches as your company grows.

I can’t emphasize how important this is for when you bring on new employees. I’m sure you heard this before, but I am also a big proponent of having an employee handbook even for one employee. It’s amazing the trouble people can cause business owners just because they allow you to pay them. This was a lifesaver at the beginning of my current company.

6. Spending Advertising Money Just to Say You Advertise

I would almost rather see my clients not advertise then to spend without regard to tracking the results. There is no point in a marketing campaign if you do not put things in place that allow you to measure how well the plan is working.

The other wasteful part of marketing that many people make the mistake of doing, is not tracking their previously successful campaigns. Why some people think that just because a $400 dollar a month and worked once very well for one busy season, that it will automatically work every year after that is beyond me.

7. Spreading Yourself Too Thin

This is a classic mistake made by every entrepreneur. The key is to figure out when you are at that “wearing too many hats” point and start getting some help. The solution here is to know your strengths and to be able to see when you are not performing the duties that demand these skills.

If you are the best salesperson in the company, you can’t get caught up in day-to-day operations. If you do, sales will slip and eventually you won’t have any operations to worry about. Think about this to help you figure out if you are spread too thin: Did you really go into business for yourself to work 80+ hours a week?

With the ability to work with people around the world, figure out the mundane tasks that you are not good at and hire someone off of Upwork.com. You will be amazed at the quality of people around the world that are highly skilled and $8–10 an hour is a LOT of money for.

8. Not Getting Help Soon Enough

Set goals to know when to hire people to take over where you are light on knowledge. Not getting help or waiting too long can kill a company. Most people who start a business do it because they are good at the technical end of the sales end.

If you know the best way to make a widget, then your strength is in production and that is where your time should be spent. Hire an outside company or consultant to take care of the sales and marketing and then hire inside when you can afford someone full time. Don’t be something to your company that you are not. It will only hold you back.

The three big issues people like to tackle themselves but usually are least knowledgeable about are legal issues, accounting/bookkeeping issues, and daily operations issues. The odds are that these three things are your weakest link so if you don’t have a partner that has the background for these subjects, then be prepared to get help as soon as possible. It’s preferable that you do this before you start a business.

Although looking for these problems at any time is a good idea, the end of a year or season is an excellent business interval to make sure you are not making these errors. Take the time, or make the time, to fix these problems. If you don’t know how to reverse the problems, then get some help. If you really don’t

have enough time to either figure out if you have these issues or know they are there and can’t break away long enough to do it right, then get some help.

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx Coworking and the Host of the popular Freedom Nation Podcast ( www.freedomnationpodcast.com ) .

Jeff is a published author, blogger and in-demand speaker on Entrepreneurship and Profitability. Jeff is the author of 7 books with the most recent

Freedom Day: Quit the Job you Hate, Live the Life You Love being released soon.

Crock Pot Beans and Ham Soup

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 15:16:26 GMT

Supply List:

6 cans Beans (2 of each Northern White Bean, Kidney and Pinto) Or whatever beans you prefer (Drained)
2 lb. Ham or Sausage Diced (I use both 1lb each)
1 Ham Bone (Optional)
2 Qt Chicken Stock
1 large Onion Diced
3 Garlic Cloves Grated
2 Bay Leaves
Salt and Pepper
1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
1 Tbsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Paprika
1 tsp Cayenne
1 tsp Chili Powder

Note: If you are using sausage sauté in a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown.

Add everything into the crockpot and cook for 6 to 8 hours.

Serve with cornbread.

Enjoy!

Entrepreneurial Failure…Get Used To It

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 17:17:12 GMT

To be a successful entrepreneur you are going to have to learn to deal with failure. There is no way around it. Thomas Edison tried over ten thousand different experiments before he finally demonstrated the first incandescent light bulb on October 21, 1879. Bill Gates’ first company, Traf-O-Data, was a failure. Michael Jordan was once quoted as saying: “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” In my short stint as an entrepreneur, I’ve failed more times than I can count. I have also had my share of success, but it’s not even close to equal. The failures far outweigh the successes, and I’m sure I have a lot more failure ahead of me. I’m OK with that because I know that as soon as I stop failing, I have stopped trying to innovate. It’s the nature of the business of being an entrepreneur, and of success in general. If it were easy, everyone would do it. It is naïve to think that every good idea that you have will result in a successful business venture.

I have yet to hear an entrepreneur say, “every single idea I come up with seems to work.” More likely, you hear something like “I failed at my first five businesses before this one took off” (Which I have). Think about that for a second. Five businesses, sometimes the number is three, sometimes it’s 20, but the important point is that most entrepreneurs don’t hit a homerun with their first company. It really does amaze me — how many people have the stones to fail five times and still start a sixth business? You have to be supremely confident and treat those previous five times as a learning experience for the sixth. And if number six fails, you have to do the same and move on to number seven. In my opinion, the most important thing is how you deal with failure. Once you accept that it is inevitable, you can learn from your mistakes and move on. It is easy to let the failure consume you — not so much because you are pessimistic, but more so because it is hard to see something that you poured your heart and soul into being ignored or rejected. As soon as possible you need to come to the realization that your business is what they are ignoring or rejecting, NOT you. The sooner you do that, the sooner you can objectively analyze why you failed and learn the things necessary for improvement in the future. Failure isn’t easy and is extremely frustrating, but it’s a necessary part of success. Don’t believe me? Ask Thomas Edison, Bill Gates, or Michael Jordan! Ok, asking Thomas Edison might be a little tough, but you get the idea :)

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx Coworking and the Founder of Profit Producers an entrepreneur education program designed to help entrepreneurs get to profitability as soon as possible. Jeff lives in the Austin, TX area. Jeff is the host of Entrepreneur Essentials on YouTube and the Profit Nation Podcast on iTunes and most of the major

podcast platforms.

Chicken / Turkey Tortilla Soup

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 16:27:06 GMT

Ingredients:

2 Cups Cooked Diced Chicken or Turkey
1 Cup Diced Onion
2 Grated Garlic
2 Cans Fire Roasted Rotel
6 Cups Chicken Stock
1 to 3 Chopped Chipotle Chili in Adobo
½ tsp Cumin
½ tsp Ground Pepper
½ tsp Each Onion Powder / Garlic Powder / Garlic Salt
½ tsp Each Smoked Paprika and Regular Paprika
¼ tsp Ancho Chili Powder to taste
2 Tbsp Oil of your choice

Garnish:

1 Package of Tortilla Strips (Found in the salad dressing aisle)
1 Avocado cut up
1 Cup Jack Cheese Shredded
1 Lime cut into wedges

In a large pot over medium heat add 2 Tbsp of oil in the bottom of the pot, add onions and garlic and cook until tender about 3 to 5 minutes. Then add the chopped Chipotle Chili in Adobo and about 1 Tbsp of the sauce from the Adobo to the pot and stir. Add the Rotel, chicken stock and add all the seasoning to taste. When the stock comes up to a simmer, add the diced chicken/turkey and simmer on low for 30 minutes. Add your garnishes. Serve immediately.

Aussie Meat Pie

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 21:11:55 GMT

Ingredients:

2 ½ lb. Ground Beef
½ Medium Onion finely diced
1 8oz Sliced Mushrooms
2 Carrots finely diced
2 Celery Sticks finely diced
3 to 4 Garlic Cloves Grated
1 tsp Dried Rosemary finely ground
1 Tbsp Dried Thyme
1 Tbsp Dried Parsley
1 Tbsp Ground Pepper
1 ½ tsp Each Garlic Powder, Garlic Salt and Onion Powder
2 Bay Leaves
1 Tbsp Tomato Paste
2 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
2 to 3 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
3 to 4 Tbsp Beef Bouillon (Better Than Bouillon)
4 Cups Beef Stock
2 to 3 Tbsp Wonder Flour
2 Premade Pie Crust
2 Puff Pastry
1 Egg Beaten
1 Tbsp Water

In a Dutch Oven cook the ground beef over medium high heat until brown. Season meat with garlic powder, garlic salt, and pepper. Stir in the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms cook until tender. Stir the tomato paste and flour and cook for 1 minute. Stir in rosemary, parsley, thyme, and bay leaves. Add beef stock, Worcestershire sauce and beef bouillon bring to a boil. Season the meat mixture. Simmer on low with lid on for 2 hours, stirring every 20 to 30 minutes. To thicken the meat mixture, add the Wonder Flour cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Cool the meat mixture.

Preheat oven 350

Using several 5-inch disposable pie dishes. Spray the pie dish with cooking spray. Place pie crust on the bottom of tin. Using an ice cream scoop 4 oz size, scoop 3 to 4 scoops into the pie tin. Top with puff pastry. Make an egg wash, whisk egg and water together, brush on top of puff pastry. Cut a hole into the puff pastry to vent pie. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from tin and serve.

Be Debt Free Today…Budgeting Solutions for Personal Finance

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 19:30:24 GMT

Do you want to be debt free today? If you have the money in the bank, of course, you can pay off all of your bills. However, for most of us, being debt free today is more of a mentality than a reality.

Being debt free today means no mortgage, no auto loans, and no credit card bills. It means that everything you earn goes into your pocket for spending this month or for saving for the future.

In today’s consumer culture, that doesn’t seem likely for most people. In fact, most Americans dig themselves deeper in debt each and every month.

One of the interesting things that have happened in the most recent decades, is that consumers have been more responsible. For the last 10 years both technology and the economy have caused people to shop more effectively. How many times have you gone into a store and then checked prices on Amazon? With the spike in health care costs with declining coverages, many families now look for ways to reduce costs through online apps for both medical care and prescriptions.

While we have seen an economic recovery over the last decade after the recession of 2008–2010, people have fallen back into some of the bad habits that they did prior to the economic downturn. People are once again assuming that real estate prices will always go up. They are buying houses that stretch their budgets and make them “house poor”.

But it is not just the home market that has seen irrational exuberance. In the last decade, debt levels have been rising at an alarming rate. As people have felt more comfortable with low unemployment and economic recovery they have also been buying more and more on credit.

Source: http://www.aspenepic.org/plummeting-savings-rising-debt-red-flags-household-finances/

We will eventually see another economic downturn that will strain family finances. While the economy is performing well, it is time to get your finances in order and completely eliminate debt from your life.

The first thing you should do is make a budget on two pieces of paper. The first page “A” should include all of the things you have to pay. Be judicious on this page. The “A” page should include non-negotiable items such as your house payment, credit card loans, car loans, etc.

You will also include the things you absolutely need on the “A” page. For instance, you have to have food to live. But, how much do you have to spend on food? In reality, you probably can find ways to feed your family on a lot less money. Eating out is not an “A” item. Steaks are not an “A” item.

Clothing is another area where you can save money. While you need basic clothing, thrift store prices find their way into your “A” budget whereas designer jeans go on the “B” page.

Your “B” page includes all of the extras. You may find that there’s not a lot left over for the “B” page at first when you are trying to live debt free today. But, over time, you will find that you can afford more things on the “B” page.

When you get a bonus at work, you can add it to the items on the “B” page. When you get a tax refund, it can go to “B” items. Any increases in salary or second jobs can fund “B” projects.

If you want some of the items on the “B” page, you can create a side business that can help to fund some of these items, however, the longer that you go without them you may find that they are not as important as you thought.

If you are serious about living debt free today, you will take a careful look at your budget. You don’t have to buy into the consumer culture that plagues America. You can chart your own course. In other words, you can be debt free today.

Jeff Kikel is the Freedom Guide. Jeff has been a Wealth Manager for over 25 years and works with both Individuals and Small Business Owners helping them reach their Freedom Day(™), the first day that they wake up and have a work optional lifestyle. Jeff is a published author, in-demand speaker, blogger, and the host of Freedom Nation Podcast.

Do you need more income?

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 17:01:34 GMT

Almost everyone needs or wants more money coming in, and with this desire, most would like to start some sort of extra income-producing project. Not many of these people seem able to fit “a second job” into their time schedules.

Most people are busy, but extra time for a home-based extra income-producing project can almost always be found. It may mean giving up or changing a few of your favorite pastimes — such as having a couple of beers with the guys or watching TV — but if you score big with your extra income project, you will have all the time you want to do whatever you want to do.

Efficient time management boils down to planning what you’re going to do and then doing it without backtracking. Start by making a list of what you want to do tomorrow each evening before you go to bed. Schedule your trips to the store or wherever to coincide with the other things you have to do and your trips to or from work. Organize your trips to take care of as many things as possible while you’re out of the house. Take stock of the time you spend on the telephone and eliminate all that isn’t necessary.

Whatever chores you have to do at home, set aside a specific time to do them and a specific amount of time to devote to them. For instance, just one hour a day devoted to yard work would probably make your property envy all your neighbors. Don’t try to do a week’s work in one big flurry. Whether painting your house, fixing leaky faucets, or mowing your lawn and trimming your shrubs, do a part of it or one particular job each day and you’ll be amazed at your progress.

Take care of all your mail the day you receive it. Don’t let those bills and letters pile up on you. If you cannot pay a bill immediately, file it in a special place that’s visible, and note on the envelope the date you intend to pay it. Answer your letters the same day you get them.

Once you start listing and planning what to do and then carrying out your plans, you’ll find plenty of “extra time” to handle virtually any kind of home-based income-producing project. People, in general, may not like routines or schedules but without some sort of plan as to what is supposed to be done, the world would be mired in mass confusion. Laws, ordinances, and regulations are to guide people. We live according to an accepted plan or way of life and the better we can organize ourselves, the more productive and happy we become.

The secret of all financially successful people is that they are organized and do not waste time. Think about it. Review your own activities and then see if you can’t find a couple of extra hours each day for more constructive accomplishments.

When you begin planning and become involved in an extra income-producing endeavor, you should work it exactly as you have organized your regular day-to-day activities — on a time basis. Do what has to be done immediately. Don’t try to get done in an hour something that’s realistically going to take a week. Plan out on paper what you have to do — what you want to do — and when you will do it. Then get right on each project without procrastination.

Finally, and above all else, set aside some time for relaxation when you’re organizing your time and your business. Schedule a time when you and your spouse can be together. You must not involve yourself to the extent that you exclude other people — particularly your loved ones — from your life.

Taking stock of the time you waste each day and reorganizing your activities is what it’s all about. It’s a matter of becoming more efficient in using your time. It’s really easy to do, and you will not only account, y ou will accomplish much more, but you will also find greater fulfillment in your life.

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx Coworking, the President/Founder of Freedom Day Wealth Managment, LLC, and the Creator of the Freedom Day Method(™). Jeff is an in-demand speaker and published author. Jeff’s most recent book is Freedom Day: Quit The Job You Hate, Live the Life You Love. Jeff is also the host of Freedom Nation on YouTube and the Freedom Nation Podcast.

5 Key Traits For Being a Business Survivor

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 15:42:19 GMT

One of the things that makes me laugh most is the number of people who know me and say that I am "lucky to be so successful in my businesses." The reason I laugh is that it has absolutely nothing to do with luck.

Business success is not easy. And indeed, it is not assured or has anything to do with luck. The odds are stacked against us as business owners. Preparing for this article, I Googled "Percentage of Business Failures," and the first result was an article by Lending Tree that, in gory detail, went into the failure rate for each year.

( https://www.lendingtree.com/business/small/failure-rate/ )

At one year, 18.4% of businesses are gone; at 5 years, 49.6% are out of business; by year 10, 65.5% of business owners are looking for another job. You almost have better odds going to Vegas at year 10 (and at least you get free drinks!).

So what is the solution? Why do so many businesses fail?

Here are five key traits that I believe every business owner has to have to be able to make their business succeed where others fail.

Financial Responsibility

The key challenge I find with most new business owners (myself included) is that we get excited at the beginning of our business. Typically we have funding from ourselves, family, friends and we believe we need all the things that a "real" company has. We go out and buy new computers, outfit our home office with new furniture and even worse, sign a 5-year or more lease on office space. All of these things are a death knell for a startup.

One of my heroes in business has always been Jeff Bezos. I have a picture of him over my desk at the beginning of Amazon, working out of his garage with a used (and downright crappy) desk and books piled up around him. In 20 years, he became one of the wealthiest people in the world.

We don't need all the best tools to do our job. My first successful business was T-Werx Coworking. When we started, we made all the classic mistakes. We signed up for the most expensive internet available (which almost caused us to go bankrupt), a commercial copier (that our members used like a print shop) and leased a water purification system that I ended up paying for six times over before canceling the contract. These were just a few of the "Stupid Taxes" I paid before wising up. Fortunately, I did that before the business failed.

One of the biggest things I hear from new Entrepreneurs is that "I am just not a numbers person." If you aren't, you need to find financial help immediately. The first hire I made after my epiphany was a bookkeeper that would hold my feet to the fire. She challenged me to eliminate expenses from my business every month (thanks, Venus). One the things my bookkeeper asked me to read was Profit First by Mike Michaelowicz ( https://amzn.to/3A6urNl ) . This book is a must-read for anyone that wants their business to be successful (more on this book later).

Business Structure

Reading the above heading, I am assuming you are considering whether you should have an LLC or S Corp. Nothing can be further from the truth. While this is important, it is not critical at the beginning of the business. By business structure, I mean that from the beginning, you structure your business as a business.

One of the most influential books in my business career has been the Cashflow Quadrant by Robert Kiyosaki ( https://amzn.to/3C60T3J ).

In this book, Robert lays out four quadrants, called the Cashflow Quadrant, where people fall in their working careers. On the left half of the quadrants are the E's (Employees) and S's (Self Employed). These individuals sell their time for money and their incomes are limited by their available time. The other challenge these individuals have is that if they stop working...no more money.

Contrast this with the individuals on the right-hand side of the Cashflow Quadrant, B's (Business Owners) and I's (Investors). The difference between these individuals is that they are not bound by time. A business owner creates systems in their business and then hires people to work on those systems. Think of the McDonald brothers (the founders of McDonald's restaurants). They were geniuses at building systems and shortening the time it took to serve their customers. It took another entreprenuer, Ray Kroc, to realize the potential, take these systems around the world and make one of the largest restaurant chains the world has ever seen.

The other individual on the right-hand side of the quadrant is the Investor. The Investor takes the money they made (possibly as an E or S) and uses it to invest in things that create a return on their investment without much investment of their time. These investments may be into other businesses, real estate and the stock market. The critical component here is that they focus on investing in things that create cash flow and not speculation (sorry, Crypto "investors").

Pay Yourself

One of the biggest reasons I have seen businesses fail is that the owners run a company where they don't pay themselves. Unless you are independently wealthy (which most of us aren't), you can only go so long before you run out of money. In my experience watching small business owners, this tends to happen in year 2, around 18 months in business and probably explains why the failure rate increases from 18% in year one to over 30% by the end of year 2.

People just run out of money before they run out of the month. I credit my business partner at the beginning of our business for setting aside money each month for us to get paid. At the company's inception, we didn't make much but at least it was enough to survive on and then since that point (over the next six years), we have increased our income each month.

Profit and Owner's pay are core tenants of the Profit First Book by Michaelowicz. You must prioritize and set aside money from the business's income in an "Owners Income" account before you begin paying expenses. He has two other accounts you set up and funnel cash to before paying expenses. This forces your business to run lean and ensures you don't live in poverty.

What are you setting aside in your business every money for profit? Start with 1% of your company's income coming in each month and put it into another account that you can't reach right away. Even a $20 profit per quarter is better than many businesses.

Vision

Vision is a critical trait we as entrepreneurs need to have or we will never succeed. I want to stress real "Vision" here and not just Goals. There are way too many people out there selling programs that spout the same useless information about SMART goals. As my friend Jim Cathcart puts it in his book The Power Minute: Your Motivation Handbook for Activating Your Dreams & Transforming Your Life ( https://amzn.to/3BTeUlk ) , "When setting goals, you must stretch (and sometimes scare) yourself and your vision; otherwise, they are just a task list."

Vision is what gets you through the touch times in the first few years of the business. Vision also helps us to stay focused as entrepreneurs. What we do best is find problems that we can fix and find solutions to solve these problems. Unfortunately, what we do worst as entrepreneurs is find problems and try to find answers to fix all of them (regardless of whether we should). Don't get me wrong, I am a major offender. In twelve-step programs, they say that the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem.

"Hello, I am Jeff and I chase squirrels."

I challenge you to set some goals in your business and in life that show real vision. Make them specific and measurable but also make sure that they scare you a bit.

Tenacity

The final trait that every business owner has to have is tenacity. Lack of perseverance is the one thing I have seen watching other business owners over the last eight years as an entrepreneur. When things get hard, it is surprising how many people just quit.

In the summer of 2017, I reached a breaking point in my business and personal life. It was our first summer in the coworking business when I realized that entrepreneurs don't like to work in the summer so they did not need a space to work. That worked great for them but I still had rent and bills to pay. Combined with this, I had just started my financial practice with my partner and we couldn't take any income. My income went to virtually nothing overnight.

I remember coming home to my wife Crystal (who was not yet working in the business) and telling her that I could not figure out a way out of our situation. We had a difficult discussion about shutting down our Coworking space through tears. I realized at that point that we owed allegiance to the people that had taken a risk to join an unproven business and we had to figure out a way to make it.

I started to look for every way I could to generate revenue. I drove Uber, delivered food, did business plans for startup businesses and many other things we won't discuss. Many days I worked from 4 am to 9 pm and every weekend day for at least 8-9 hours a day. Most weeks, this amounted to 80-90 hours a week. I did this for over nine months. During that time, our businesses began to grow enough to replace that income.

What can you learn from my story? If you want something, figure out a way to make it happen no matter how hard it is. In my case, I drew on what I learned as a young paratrooper on road marches, lean into your ruck and take one step at a time.

What can you draw on in your experience to keep your tenacity up when things get tough?

Conclusion

While there may be other things that can make you a business survivor, I believe every business owner must have these five traits to succeed. You should address these things at least once a month in your personal life and business. I challenge you to be the survivor statistic instead of the small business victim.

Jeff Kikel is the Founder and CEO of T-Werx Coworking and the Founder of the Freedom Day Method (™). Through his Podcast (Freedom Nation) and YouTube Channel, Jeff shares his wisdom on reaching Freedom Day (™) and an optional work lifestyle. He is the author of 6 books on Retirement, Identity Theft and Entrepreneurship. Jeff's 7th book Freedom Day: Quit the Job You Hate and Live the Life You Love, is due out in September 2022.

Fall Yarn Wreath

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:51:24 GMT

Supply List:

14-inch Wire Wreath
2 Balls of Loop Yarn – Brown, Grey, and White
2 – Fall Floral Bouquet Branch about 12 inches
1 - Fall Floral Bouquet Branch about 12 inches (Different from the other 2)
1 – Small Pumpkin
2 – Fall Berry Picks – Red & Orange
1 – Sunflower
2 – Fall Leaves
Fall String
Glue Gun/ Glue Sticks

Step 1:

Wrap the ball of yarn around the wreath until it is covered. Flip the wreath over and tie the string for hanging.

Step 2:

Arrange the 1 different floral bouquet at the bottom of the wreath, then add the other 2 floral bouquet on either side. If needed add the small pumpkin to the bottom of the wreath. Arrange the fall berry picks on either side, going up the wreath.

Step 3:

Arrange the sunflower at the the top of the wreath, then add the leaves on either side. Once you have the wreath the way you like it glue gun into place.

Enjoy!

Santa Claus Ornaments

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:49:06 GMT

Supply List:

2 – 2-inch Clay Pots
2 – Each Santa Hats and Hollies (You can find them on Amazon)
2 – 1 ½ inch Wooden Balls flat on one side
Acrylic Paint – Red, White, Black, and Pink
String for hanging
White Doll Hair
Glue Gun / Glue Stick
Drill

Step 1:

Paint the body of the clay pot red, let dry. Apply the second coat.

Step 2:

Paint the rim white, let dry. Apply the second coat.

Step 3:

Tie a knot on the inside of the clay pot. Glue gun into place.

Step 4:

Drill a hole through the wooden ball make a loop for hanging. Pull the sting through the hole of the clay pot. Glue gun the flat side of the wooden ball to the bottom of the clay pot. Then tie a knot on the inside of the pot and glue gun into place.

Step 5:

Glue gun the hollies to the hat and cut a small hole in the hat for the hanging string to fit through. Glue gun the hat into place. Cut the hair into about 1 ½ to 2-inch-long strips. Glue gun the hair for a beard as well as hair in the back.

Step 6:

Paint eyes black and pink for a nose. You may have to apply two coats of paint.

Enjoy your Santa Claus Ornaments!

Santa Claus Wine Bottles Center Pieces

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:46:22 GMT

Supply List:

2 – Clear Wine Bottles
2 – LED Fairy Lights
2 – Each Santa Hats, Hollies, and Scarfs (You can find them on Amazon)
Acrylic Paint – Red, White, and Black
Sticker Rhinestones
Black Ribbon
Glue Gun / Glue Stick

Step 1:

Paint the body of the wine bottle red, let dry. Apply the second coat .

Step 2:

Paint the bottom part white leaving about a half of inch clear. Apply the second coat.

Step 3:

Glue gun the ribbon on for the belt. Stick the rhinestones on the ribbon for a buckle. Apply individual rhinestones for buttons.

Step 4:

Glue gun the holly to the Santa hats. Tie the scarf around the neck of the bottle. Insert the fairy lights into the bottle. Top with hat.

Enjoy your Santa Claus Wine bottle center pieces!

Chocolate Chip Cookie with Dried Cherries and Sea Salt

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:43:26 GMT

Ingredients:

½ Cup Unsalted Butter (1 stick)
¾ Cup Packed Brown Sugar
¾ Cup Sugar
2 Large Eggs
1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
1 12oz Bag Semisweet Chocolate Chips or Chunks
2 ¼ Cups All-Purpose Flour
¾ tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp Salt
1 5oz Bag Dried Cherries
1 to 2 Tbsp Flake Sea Salt such as Maldon

Preheat Oven 375

Put butter in a microwave safe dish and melt, cool slightly. In a large bowl whisk in butter, eggs, sugars and vanilla until smooth.

In a medium bowl mix 1 Tbsp of flour and stir in the chocolate chips and dried cherries. Set aside

In another bowl mix together the remaining flour, baking soda and salt. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients with a spoon, take care not to over mix. Stir in the chocolate chip mixture. Place dough in the refrigerator and chill for about 20 to 30 minutes.

Scoop cookies onto a lined baking sheet, using a 1 ½ Tbsp ice cream scoop. If cooking in batches keep dough in refrigerator until next batch . Place in oven and bake for 10 to 14 minutes or until golden brown. As soon as the cookies come out of the oven sprinkle with flaked sea salt on each cookie, cool slightly before transferring cookies to wire rack.

Small Scarecrow Straw Hats

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:58:48 GMT

Supply List:

2 6 – Inch Straw Hat
Fall Leaves
2 Fall Berry Pick – 1 Green & Brown, 1 Red & Orange
Fall Flowers Small – Mums Different Colors
Raffia
Floral Wire
Small Sunflowers – Yellow & White
Fall Ribbon
Twine
Felt – Black, Orange, and Pink
Glue Gun

Step 1:

For hanging use twine, secure the twine by making a hole on each side of the hat brim from the inside and tying a knot, glue into place to secure. Measure the raffia for the hair and using the floral wire tie together. Poke a hole in the middle of the crown with the floral wire to secure the hair. Tie the wire and glue gun.

Step 2:

Tie a bow and secure at the bottom of the crown, by poking a hole into the hat and tying it in the back of the hat, glue gun into place. Place 2 small sunflowers on each side of the bow and glue gun.

Step 3:

Arrange the 2 mums different colors and 1 stem of berries as you like, glue gun into place.

Step 4:

Cut out the eyes, checks, nose, and lips. Glue gun into place. Cut the raffia for the hair to the desired length. Enjoy your scarecrow hat wreath.

Fall Floral Wine Bottles

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:58:24 GMT

Supply List:

2 Clear Wine Bottles
2 LED Fairy Lights
2 Fall Floral Bouquet Branch 12 – Inch
2 Mums
Fall Ribbon
Glue Gun

Step 1:

Arrange floral bouquet and mum how you like it, glue into place. Add ribbon to the bottom of the bottle and glue gun. Add the fairy lights into the bottle. Enjoy

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Zucchini & Country Bread Lasagna

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:58:13 GMT

Ingredients:

4 – 5 Zucchini Sliced ¼ inch thick
½ lb. Ham thinly sliced
2 Cups Mozzarella
1 Cup Grated Parmesan
2 Cans Crushed Tomatoes
12 – 14 Slices Day Old Bread
2 – 4 Tbsp Water
½ tsp each Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Garlic Salt, and Ground Pepper
1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
1 tsp Spaghetti Seasoning Mix

Slice the zucchini with a mandolin.

Spray your baking dish with pam, sprinkle with about 2 Tbsp of grated parmesan. Cover the bottom with a single layer of bread slices. Trim the slices and cut them in pieces so they fit close together and lie flat (you don’t have to fill every small crack). Sprinkle a layer of parmesan and mozzarella. Then make a layer of zucchini, cover sauce over the zucchini, next layer with ham. Sprinkle both cheeses on, repeat zucchini layer. Pour a few small spoons of sauce on top of zucchini. Using the remain bread layer the lasagna. Pour the remaining sauce over to cover, top with the remaining cheese.

Cover and place in the refrigerator to rest for up to 4 hours.

Preheat oven 400

Bake covered with foil for 45 minutes, remove foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes.

Clay Pot Santa Candy Dish

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:57:29 GMT

Supply List:

Clay Pot
Clay Pot Saucer
Round Wood Bead 1-inch
Fishbowl Vase
Silver Rhinestone Stickers
Acrylic Paint – Black, Red, and White
Foam Paint Brush
Paint Brush

Step 1:

Paint clay pot and saucer red, let dry and add a second coat. Paint wooden bead white.

Step 2:

After the paint is dry paint a black belt on the body of the pot, apply a second coat.

Step 3:

After the paint is dry glue gun the fishbowl to the bottom of pot and glue gun wooden bead to the bottom of saucer. Apply the rhinestone to the belt to make a buckle. Enjoy your Christmas candy dish.

Scarecrow Straw Hat Wreath

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:57:22 GMT

Supply List:

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Fall Scarecrow Wine Bottles

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:57:02 GMT

Supple List:

4 Clear Wine Bottles
Raffia
Acrylic Paint – Black, White, and Orange
Twine
Burlap Cut into 4 – 6x4 inch squares
Paint Brushes of different sizes
Fall Leaves
Small Sunflowers – Yellow and White
2 Fall Berry Pick – 1 Green & Brown and 1 Red & Orange

Step 1:

Fill each wine bottle with raffia. Wrap 1 piece of burlap around the neck of the bottle to make the hat. Tie into place until you can glue gun. Flip the bottom of the burlap to make a lip in the hat.

Step 2:

Place 1 leaf, sunflower and one small piece of fall berries, into the lip of the hat. After you have them all laid out glue gun the hat into place and then glue gun the rest.

Step 3:

To make the faces for the scarecrows, use a marker to outline the face. I suggest Googling or Pinterest scarecrow faces to get ideas. Paint the outline of the face, then fill in the face. You will need to put 2 coats of paint on. Let dry and enjoy.

Clay Pot Scarecrow

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:56:50 GMT

Supply List:

Select the size pots according to the size you want the scarecrow to be.

4 Clay Pots in different sizes

1 large – Body for Scarecrow
1 Medium – Head for Scarecrow
2 Small – Feet for Scarecrow
2 Extra Small – Hands for Scarecrow
Burlap
Twine – Small enough to go through the hole of pots
Acrylic Paint – Black, White & Orange
Paint Brushes in different sizes
Raffia
Glue Gun

Step 1:

Cut a piece of burlap to fit around the medium clay pot for the head (Refer to picture). Glue gun in place.

Step 2:

Paint face on the front of the burlap, let dry.

Step 3:

Cut 4 long pieces of twine for the legs and hands, you will trim down later. Run a piece twine through each of the feet and tie a knot on the inside large enough so that it will not come out. Then tie another large knot on the top of each foot to prevent the feet from moving. Do the same with the hands.

Step 4:

Run the twine for the feet through the large pot for body of the pot and then through the head. Run the twine for the hands between the body and head and run the twine through the head hole. Once the twine for the feet and head are through make a lose knot just to secure the twine.

Step 5:

Cut the raffia into about 3-inch pieces enough for the hands, feet, and neck of the scarecrow. Glue gun the raffia to the neck portion of the scarecrow. After you have done that do the same thing to the inside of the hands and feet.

Snow Cabin Yarn Christmas Wreath

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Wed, 11 May 2022 18:25:51 GMT

Supply List:

14-inch Wire Wreath
2 Balls of Loop Yarn White
1 Small Metal Candle Holder House
Spray Paint Red Flat
2 Small Christmas Trees
1 Small Christmas Wreath
Glue Gun/ Glue Sticks
1 Small Tea light
2 - Christmas Berries Picks - Red
2 - Christmas Holly Bouquet Branch

Step 1:

Start by spray painting the metal house red.

Step 2:

While that is drying wrap the balls of yarn around the wreath until it is covered (you can tie the loops in a knot to secure to the wreath). Flip the wreath over to add the hanging ribbon to the wreath.

Step 3:

Once the paint is dry. Glue gun the small Christmas wreath to the house. Then glue gun the bottom of the house to the wreath. Then glue gun the trees on both sides of the house (you may have to cut the trees down to fit.) Then add the small tea light to the house. Enjoy the Christmas wreath.

Easy Ham & Asparagus Recipe

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 21:35:44 GMT

Ingrediencies:

4 Deli Slice Ham Thickly Sliced (I have them cut the ham on a 5 and an 8 for my husband)
1 Bunch of Thin Asparagus
2 Tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese
½ tsp to 1 Bologna Aromatic Herbal Salt *
½ tsp Ground Pepper
½ tsp Butter
½ tsp Olive Oil

Cut the ends of the asparagus. In a large skillet, add the olive oil, butter and asparagus and season with herbal salt and pepper. Cook on medium high heat until the asparagus is tender. Remove the skillet and set it aside.

Add the ham steaks over medium high heat just too warm on both sides.

Add the asparagus evenly over the ham and divide the parmesan cheese evenly over the asparagus. Place a lid over the skillet and remove from the heat, let the cheese melt a little. Serve immediately.

*You can purchase the Bologna Aromatic Herbal Salt on Amazon or World Market

Sheet Pan Chicken, Potatoes and Asparagus Bake

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 21:19:25 GMT

Ingrediencies:

4 Chicken Cutlets
6 Yukon Gold Potatoes cut into quarters
1 lb. Asparagus trimmed
2 to 3 Tbsp Olive Oil
½ tsp Ground Pepper
1 ½ Tbsp Lemon Rosemary Sea Salt *
Juice of 1 Lemon

Preheat oven to 375F

To begin par-cook the potatoes in a large pot. Put the cut potatoes in the pot and cover with water, season with salt and bring to a boil. Cook until almost tender and then drain the potatoes.

On a large sheet pan covered with foil, divide the seasonings and oil into thirds. Coat the chicken on both sides with the olive oil and season with the lemon rosemary salt and pepper. Toss the par-cooked potatoes with olive oil, lemon rosemary salt and pepper. Place the chicken on half of the pan and the potatoes on the other. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is done.

Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Place the oven rack to the top of the oven and turn the oven on broil. Toss the asparagus with the remaining seasonings and oil. Flip the potatoes and the chicken over then put the asparagus in the middle of the baking sheet and broil for 7 to 10 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and the asparagus is tender. Juice the lemon over everything and serve immediately.

*You can get the Rosemary Sea Salt on Amazon or substitute for a seasoning of your choice

Homemade Roasted Garlic Olive Oil

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 20:48:10 GMT

Ingrediencies:

3 Cups Olive Oil
10 to 12 Whole Garlic Bulbs
5 to 6 Sprigs Fresh Thyme

Preheat oven 300F

Cut the tops off the garlic and remove some of the outer papery layer. Pour the olive oil into a large casserole dish. Place the garlic cut side down into the olive oil and add the sprigs of thyme. Bake for 45 minutes.

Take the casserole dish out of the oven and let cool for a few minutes before removing the garlic. After the dish is cool, place the garlic on a paper towel to drain.

Strain the olive oil with a cheese cloth or coffee filter and keep it in an oil jar.

Squeeze the garlic out of the bulb and use as desired. I usually put the garlic in snack size bags and freeze them until I need them.

Enjoy!

Spicy Pimento Cheese Spread

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 20:20:43 GMT

Ingredients:

10 ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 cup pickled jalapenos, chopped
6 ounces piquillo pepper, chopped (regular pimentos can be substituted)
5 cups shredded Cheddar (approximately 1 1/4 pounds

Combine all ingrediencies and season to taste. Chill before serving.

Enjoy!

Lemon Chicken with Croutons Recipe

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 18:50:50 GMT

Ingredients:

4 to 5 lbs. Whole Chicken
1 Large Onion Quartered
Roasted Garlic Olive Oil *
Kosher Salt and Pepper
2 Lemons Halved
4 Cups Bread Cubed such as Sour Dough or any Crusty Bread cut into ¾ inch
¼ Cup Chicken Stock

Preheat Oven 425

Clean chicken and pat dry. In a large casserole dish or roasting pan, place cut onions on the bottom of the pan and add chicken stock. Season chicken with salt and pepper on the inside of the chicken, then squeeze (1) lemon quarter on the inside of the chicken; place lemons inside of the chicken. Rub chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Let chicken set for 15 to 20 minutes, re-season chicken with olive oil and salt and pepper. Tie legs together and tuck wings under the chicken. Place in the oven and bake for 1 ¼ to 1 ½ hours or until the chicken internal temperature reaches 165.

While the chicken is resting add 2 tablespoons of roasted chicken olive oil in a large skillet heat over medium-high heat. Add bread and toss until bread is coated. Toss frequently until bread is golden brown about 8 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. On a large plater place croutons on the bottom, cut up the chicken and onions place on top of croutons discard lemons. Drizzle with drippings from the pan. Serve with mashed potatoes.

*If you can’t find Roasted Garlic Olive Oil you can make it. See recipe.

Jean Ribbon Flag

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 17:48:40 GMT

Supplies List:

This project will make (2) Flags if you like.

1 Pair of old Jeans
36 – inch Round Dowel (cut in half)
13 Felt White Stars (If making 1 or 26 for 2 flags)
5 Red Ribbon – Different width and types
5 White Ribbon – Different width and types
Ribbon for Hanging
Glue Gun / Glue Sticks
Scissors
Ruler

Step 1:

Cut the pockets out of the old pair of jeans, leave about 2 inches above the pocket to loop over the dowel.

Step 2:

Start by leaving 1 inch on either side of the dowel for the hanging ribbon. Lay out the cut jean pocket over the dowel on the left side. Glue gun the pocket to the dowel.

Step 3:

You will need to figure out how many strips of ribbon you will need to go under the pocket (you will need anywhere from 5 to 9 ribbons depending on how wide your ribbons are). Cut the ribbon for under the pocket into 10 inch in length strips. Starting with the red ribbon and alternating with the white. To secure the ribbon to the pocket glue on the back side of the pocket.

Step 4:

Finish laying out the remaining ribbon on the dowel to figure out how much more ribbon strips you will need. Cut the ribbon that loops over the dowel to 18 inches in length. Once you have everything laid out the way you want it, glue gun the strips in place by looping one end of the ribbon around the dowel.

Step 5:

Arrange the 13 stars to the pocket in a circle and glue gun them in place.

Step 6:

Tie the hanging ribbon to both ends of the dowel and glue gun. For an extra touch you could add lights to the pocket.

*This flag is best used indoors

Enjoy!

Flip Flop Summer Wreath

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 15:30:27 GMT

Supplies List:

12 sets of Flip Flops (with designs on them)
14-inch Metal wreath ring
Floral Wire
Glue Gun / Glue Sticks
4 Butterflies
1 Bunch each Yellow and White Mini Daisies
Wire Cutters

Step 1:

Arrange the flip flops on the wreath alternating the flip flops one on top the other on bottom all the way around. Flip the wreath and flip flops upside down and tie the floral wire around the toe loop and cross over to the foot hold on both sides, repeat until all flip flops are secure. Glue gun the flip flops to the wreath ring. Tie the ribbon around one side of the wreath and secure the other end of the wreath. Glue Gun the ribbon (or Rope) and let dry.

Step 2:

After the glue has dried flip over. With the 4 Butterflies wrap the wires around the toe loop to secure, then cut 2 flowers per flip flop one of each color. Place the flowers on either side of the toe loop. Glue gun the butterflies and the flowers to the toe loops to secure.

Enjoy our Flip Flop Wreath all summer long.

4th of July Wand

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Tue, 10 May 2022 14:38:40 GMT

Supplies List:

12 Wooden Dowels 12 inches
Craft paint Blue
Foam paint brush
Ribbon (Red, White & Blue) you will need about 24 yards which should be about 4 spools each.
Glue gun/glue sticks
Scissors
Ruler

Step 1:

Paint ¾ of the stick blue, let dry in a box with holes in the bottom or a jar standing upright. While the paint is drying cut the ribbons into 20-inch strips, set aside.

Step 2:

Fold one of the blue ribbons in half and loop around the end of the dowel that is not painted blue. Repeat a total of 3 blue ribbons, then alternate from red to white for a total of 3 times. Glue gun the ribbon to the dowels. Let dry and have fun with the kids.

Step 3:

Alternate from red to white for a total of 3 times. Glue gun the ribbon to the dowels. Let dry and have fun with the kids.

Bandana Wreath Flag

Crystal@t-werx.com (Crystal Kikel) — Mon, 09 May 2022 17:49:06 GMT

Supply list:

1 14-inch Wire Wreath
5 Red Bandanas Cut in Half
4 White Bandanas Cut in Half
4 Blue Bandanas Cut in Half
13 White Felt Stars (Different sizes)
Glue Gun/Glue Sticks
Ribbon for hanging

Step 1:

Cut the bandanas in half down the middle crease.

Start with a red bandana roll the bandana longways and create a loop around the wire wreath and then pull the ends through the loop you just made. The ends of the bandana will be facing the outside of the wreath. Step shown below. Alternate between red and white until you have 9 red bandanas and 8 white bandanas.

Step 2:

Add the blue to finish. Once you have all the bandanas on flip the wreath over and glue gun the bandanas together, as shown in picture below. Attach the ribbon to the wreath.

Step 3:

After the glue dries flip the wreath over and glue gun the stars on. Enjoy your Bandana Flag Wreath. If you want to add flare, you can attach fairy string lights. I suggest hanging this inside due to the bandana is not weatherproof.

Monthly Project: Flip Flop Welcome Sign

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 18:35:22 GMT

The Supply List (From the Dollar Tree)

5 Sets of Flip Flops different colors (solid colors)
1 Bunch of Gerbera Daisies (Yellow and White or Multicolored)
Glue Gun and sticks
36-inch Square Wooden Dowel
Ribbon or rope for hanging
Wooden or Foam Letters
Floral Wire
Wire Cutters

Step 1:

Arrange the flip flops how you want them on the dowel. Place the flip flops upside down and tie the floral wire around the toe loop and cross over to the foot hold on both sides, repeat until all flip flops are secure. Glue gun the flip flops to the wooden dowel.

Step 2:

Tie the ribbon around the ends of the dowel. Glue Gun the ribbon (or Rope) and let dry.

Step 3:

After the glue has dried, flip over and cut the end of the flowers so they fit in the in the toe of the flip flop. Glue gun the flowers in place.

Step 4:

Arrange the WELCOME letters on the heal of the flip flop and glue gun them on

Step 5:

Find a nice place to hang your new project.

Send us a photo when you are done at Crystal@T-Werx.com

12 Great Jobs for Retirees

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 17:40:28 GMT

Today many retirees are moving back into the workforce. Is this because they need money to counteract inflation? In some cases, yes, but many of those going back to work look for ways to fill their lives, feel valued again, and have a sense of purpose.

Many people have a mistaken belief that retirement is all about travel and rest. They don't realize that you can only do that for a while and then run out of things to do. What are you going to do to fill your time if you retire and spend the next 20-30 years. If you are healthy and able, that is a lot of years to fill.

My dad was one of these people. After working hard for over 40 years, he and my mom retired. For almost 10 years, they traveled to all the places that they wanted to. They have traveled to virtually every continent on cruises. They have traveled around the United States on car trips. The problem is, you can travel every day. What do you do in your downtime. For my dad, after he finished his never-ending "honey-do" list, he was getting bored. So at 78 years old, he went to work at Home Depot. He has done everything from building grills and wheelbarrows to watering plants in the garden area.

If you're a retiree looking for another job to help shore up your bank accounts or buy something extra, or just to be around people, these options might work for you. Remember that you can change your entire direction if you want to leverage what you learned working and become a consultant. Not everyone wants to work that hard. These twelve great jobs for retirees will make you want to get started now.

1. Photographer – You can become a photographer in a few ways. Many companies that need someone to take school pictures offer equipment and training for people. But you can learn to become an adequate photographer on your own today by taking a class through LinkedIn Learning, Udemy.com, or even locally.

2. Temp Event Staff – In your local area, there are probably events requiring people to handle many setup, teardown, and organization such as parking. You can sign up for these types of jobs through various temp agencies in your town or go directly to the venue that puts on the events to ask. My parents have done this several times, including the Superbowl that occurred in their hometown a few years ago.

3. Substitute Teaching – Even if you have never taught or have a degree, you can become a substitute teacher in some locations. They make from $50 and up per day and are in high demand. A good sub can work full-time in a large district. This is an excellent opportunity to share your experience with another generation.

4. Child Care Provider – Another way to be around kids and make some money in a job for retirees is to work at a daycare center or start your own daycare in your home. If you work at a center, you're likely to make minimum wage, but you can often arrange to work only a couple days a week in the room you want to work in, such as the infant room.

5. Freelancer – Another way to work is to become a freelancer. You can work online as a virtual assistant, content writer, graphic designer, and other positions as a freelance contractor for various business types. There are many sites, such as www.upwork.com and www.fiverr.com, where you pick up work on your own time.

6. Drivers and Delivery Drivers – Rideshares and personalized delivery are prevalent right now. They give you an excellent opportunity to make money in your retirement, working only on the days you want to work. Sign up with Instacart.com, Uber.com, Lyft.com, and others to find out more.

7. Life Coach / Consultant – There is a massive opportunity for you to use the experience you already have to help others. You can become a business consultant if you have that experience. You can become a life coach assisting others in succeeding at something you did. If you have extensive business experience, you can become a business coach.

8. Pet Sitter and House Sitter – Do you love pets, and you want to choose your own hours? You can start this as a side business if you want flexibility. You can also find plenty of jobs run by others who need help and make about $18 to $20 an hour. One of my friends who owned a dog training business continues to board small dogs in her home instead of her clients having to board them at a kennel. Her tagline for her business is "where your dogs get to hang out with me on my couch".

9. Author / Writer / Blogger – If you've ever dreamed of becoming a writer, there is more opportunity than ever today. You can write your book and publish it on Amazon. Their Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing is free. You can publish straight to Kindle, and with just a little bit more work Amazon will also publish your books in print. You can also write for the internet as a blogger or for clients who need website content.

10. ESL Teacher – Companies like VIPKid.com allow those with teaching experience of any kind to sign up and teach English to children all over the world. Teachers make about 20 dollars per hour. You do need a college degree.

11. Real Estate Sales / Property Management – There are many opportunities in real estate, from sales to property management. You can even manage other people's rentals; it's up to you what you want to do.

12. Insurance Sales – It's relatively easy to get a license to sell life, health insurance, or liability insurance. Another area of insurance sales that you can use your personal experience in is Medicare sales. An added benefit, insurance companies pay residuals. Many retirees like getting involved in this second career, which is very helpful for building a better portfolio.

These great jobs for retirees are fantastic opportunities that you may not have considered. Before you run out and get a job, consider the lifestyle you want to live first. It'll help you make a good decision about the job.

Jeff Kikel is the President and Co-Founder of BKA Wealth Consulting and the CEO/Founder of T-Werx Coworking and Entrepreneur Center. Jeff is the author of 6 books on Finance and Entrepreneurship. Jeff is an in-demand speaker and is the Host of the Money Trekker podcast (www.moneytrekker.com).

Why You Need a Google My Business Account

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 18:34:22 GMT

Not sure if you need a Google My Business accounts? Here's why you may want to consider one. Well, you do. Unless your business is online only and people are not buying from a brand, every other business can take advantage of the power of a Google My Business account.

Be discoverable

Search is digital. Even if you run an old-fashioned brick-and-mortar shop, your customers and prospects are online. And that's where they'll typically start their search for your company, products, or services.

Whether you're looking for foot traffic or web traffic, Google is the ultimate search referrer. A Google My Business account ensures that when someone looks your company up on Google Search and Google Maps, they find it. Once they do, your listing shows searches where and how to visit your shop, whether you have a web or physical address.

Google My Business accounts also improve your local SEO. So when someone searches for you, you show up on page one—not page two or worse.

Even if you already have a web presence, a Google business account ensures you get top results. Accounts also provide access to analytics, allowing you to fine-tune your paid and organic advertising strategies.

Keep customers informed

Don't leave customers guessing about your business's essential details. Or leave them up to Yelp, Trip Advisor, and other review sites over which you have no control. Make sure that when someone searches for your business, they find legitimate information straight from the source.

Your Google My Business listing includes contact information, business hours, and other essential details. You can post updates to share that you've expanded services, temporarily closed, or fully reopened (a handy feature during emergency situations like COVID-19). Google business accounts have local solid SEO, so the information you share will rank above other sites.

Misinformation can lead to bad customer experiences and missed opportunities. Imagine the letdown a customer feels when they make a trip to your store only to find that it's closed. Or maybe you are open, but a prospective customer chose a competitor because they weren't sure.

A Google My Business account lets you keep customers informed.

Boost consumer confidence

This is one of my biggest pet peeves. When I meet a new business owner, I will often look them up on Google to see what shows. It is shocking to me how many small businesses (and even larger ones) are not taking advantage of this fantastic (and free) tool. Google My Business profile lends credibility to your company. Need proof? Customers are 70% more likely to visit businesses with a Google My Business listing.

Another study found that businesses with complete listings on Google are twice as likely to earn trust from customers. Trust is a crucial factor when it comes to making purchase decisions. The more confident a consumer feels, the more likely they are to buy. Credibility gained from Google is enough to sway people to be 38% more likely to visit your store (or use your service) and 29% more likely to buy something.

Google My Business reviews help build trust, too. Research by Think with Google finds that 88% of consumers trust online reviews as personal recommendations.

This is the second in our series of articles on Google my business. The next in the series talks about how to set up your Google My Business listing. Keep an eye out for when it is published.

Jeff Kikel is the CEO and Founder of T-Werx Coworking and Entrepreneur Centers. Jeff has over 28 years in the Marketing, Financial Services, and Consulting industries. He has a passion for helping small business owners. Jeff is the author of 6 books in the Financial Services, Exit Strategy Planning, and Marketing areas.

How To Set-Up Google My Business

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 18:07:11 GMT

Follow these steps to create your Google My Business profile.

Step 1: Sign in to Google My Business

Go to www.google.com/business to sign in. You can either sign in with a pre-existing Google account or create a new one. If you're already signed in, skip ahead to the next step.

Tip: Make sure you sign up with your business email domain.

Step 2: Add your business

Enter your business name. If it does not appear in the drop-down menu, click Add your business to Google. Then select the appropriate category for your business.

Step 3: Enter your location .

If you have a physical location customers can visit, select yes. Then add your address. You may also be asked to position a marker for the location on a map. Suppose your business does not have a place customers can visit but offers a service or delivery. In that case, you can list your service area. One of the critical factors for creating a professional appearance is a professional address. You can have a professional address using T-Werx Coworking's Virtual Mail service, where you can use our address and receive Mail. Learn more: https://www.t-werx.com/mail-werx

Step 4: Fill in your contact information .

Enter your business phone number and website address so customers can reach you. If you use a Facebook page rather than a website, you can add that instead.

Step 5: Finish and manage your listing

Check Yes if you would like to receive updates and notifications. Then click Finish. You'll then be asked to verify your business.

How to verify your business on Google

Now that your account is set up, here's how to verify your Google business. For most companies, Google verification involves requesting a postcard.

Step 1: Sign in to Google My Business

Go to www.google.com/business to sign in.

Step 2: Click Verify now

If you have multiple Google My Business accounts, make sure you choose the correct one.

Step 3: Choose a way to verify

Postcard by Mail is the default verification option. If your business is eligible for other methods, such as phone or email, choose the one you prefer. Fill in the required details. Double-check to make sure you've entered it correctly, then submit the form.

It can take a few days to two weeks for the postcard to arrive. When you receive your postcard, sign in and click Verify location from the menu. Enter the five-digit verification code from your postcard.

Note: It may take a few weeks for your business listing to appear on Google. While you wait, download the Google My Business app so you can manage your account.

How to claim your business on Google

Need to claim an existing Google business profile? There are three options:

Option 1 : Sign up or log in to Google My Business. Search for your business, and select it. Then follow the steps to confirm that you are the owner.

Option 2 : Locate your business listing in Maps, and click Manage this listing.

Option 3 : Look up the business listing in Google Search and click Own this business?

Don't panic if details aren't accurate. You can edit once you've verified that you're the owner.

If someone else has already claimed the business, but you work for the same company, ask them to add you as a user. If you don't recognize the owner, follow the steps to reclaim your business.

Now that you have your GMB profile set up, it is time to take a tour of the site and get it working for you. In the following article in this series, we will discuss ways to optimize your listing. Keep your eyes out for the following article.

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx Coworking and Entrepreneur Centers in the Austin, Texas Metro area. Jeff has over 28 years of experience as an entrepreneur, wealth manager, marketing, and business consultant. Jeff is also the author of 6 books and is the host of the Money Trekker Podcast (www.moneytrekker.com)

Why Google My Business is Critical for Your Business

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 24 Jun 2021 16:02:50 GMT

Google's entire business model is based around being unquestionably the single best search engine. Suppose you didn't find what you were looking for quickly and easily every time you searched Google. In that case, you might eventually try using a different search engine! So everything Google does is for the searcher's convenience.

Suppose a potential customer is just looking for a phone number and address or opening hours for your business. In that case, there is no need to click through to your website – those details are provided in your Google My Business listing, right in the search results.

You shouldn't consider this as one less click to your website; look at it as a potential customer finding the information they were looking for more easily. If they only wanted your phone number or saw if you were open on a Saturday, they quickly discovered that information. This is much easier than having to click on your site.

That customer is entirely satisfied!

Of course, if the customer wanted some other information, they would have clicked through to your website. For this reason alone, setting up a Google My Business listing is a worthwhile exercise. But when you start looking a little deeper, a Google My Business listing is absolutely essential for every business.

Even if your business is solely "online" – i.e., you may not want to share a street address because you run your business out of your own home. You would still provide your physical location for verification purposes. Still, you can choose not to display your address in your public GMB listing.

Benefits of a Google My Business Listing

Suppose someone is searching for your business name. In that case, they are already aware of your business – perhaps even a returning customer. Your complete Google My Business listing will display in the search results. You've probably seen these listings before, to the right of the search results.

But what if someone is searching for a more generic phrase? Such as:

best Thai restaurant
mechanic near me
pool shop open Sundays

Each one of these searches results in a "three-pack" result above the standard organic search results. You've probably seen these three-packs before as well – a map with three local businesses pinned onto the page.

Those business details are pulled from each business's Google My Business listing. In fact, the backbone of Google's entire Local Search directory is Google My Business.

Simply setting up your Google My Business page can be enough to get you featured in a three-pack result. And the fact that these three-packs appear on top of the standard organic search results makes them critically important.

Don't Miss Out on the Benefits of Google My Business

Make sure that your business has an up-to-date and detailed Google My Business listing. If you have not taken the time to create and optimize one, then you're missing out on one of the best free (and guaranteed!) ways of appearing in the Google search results.

Google My Business pages aren't complicated, but they are essential. While you may feel like it's just one more web page to keep on top of, Google My Business should go to the top of the pile as one of the most important.

It takes just a couple of minutes to set up your basic Google My Business listing, so make sure you do so – you could see the benefits instantly!

Jeff Kikel is the CEO and Founder of T-Werx Coworking and the Entrepreneur Center. Jeff is an entrepreneur, host of the Money Trekker Podcast (www.moneytrekker.com), and the author of several books on Personal Finance, Business Exit Planning, and Entrepreneurship.

5 Strategies for Facing Your Entrepreneurial Fears

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 19:27:37 GMT

Episode 40 - Financial Friday with Tom Kemler

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 02:21:23 GMT

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Are you a Firefighter or Fire Chief?

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 01:48:00 GMT

As Entrepreneurs, we all wear multiple hats. On any given day, we can be the sales department, HR department and accounting department. Plus, if you own a coworking facility you can be the janitorial department and facilities department.A challenge many of us face is we often find ourselves bouncing between many roles andfighting fires that pop up. This causes us to be reactive rather than proactive, which makes us ineffective.What is the solution?If you have ever been at a fire sc [...]

Entrepreneurs Offer an Empathetic Ear

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 26 Aug 2020 18:15:00 GMT

Within a Coworking space there are many Entrepreneurs with successful businesses, which are more than likely to be leaders who have mastered the skill of empathy. Empathy combines understanding both the emotional and the logical rationale that goes into every decision a business owner faces. Successful leaders do not operate alone; each of them needs the support of others to achieve positive results. Everyone needs to rely on their relationships and established profession [...]

Enhance Your Effectiveness...

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 19 Aug 2020 21:41:00 GMT

Research shows that people who use coworking spaces are more effective due to the energy and mindset adjustment that is generated by the interaction and accountability a coworking environment creates. That means the financial costs of using a coworking space are much lower than the financial benefits it creates. Therefore, one advantage of coworking is "Enhancing your Effectiveness!"! [...]

Top Ten Entrepreneurial Quotes To Start Your Day

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 20:51:47 GMT

In the battle of being in business, sometimes it's nice to read a little self-selective, self-motivating psychology delivered in some interesting and helpful wordsmithing...

Trading the Commute for Community

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 12 Aug 2020 12:00:00 GMT

Billions of people commute to work each day. Some spend as much time travelling per day as they do actually working. One of the most beneficial perks of coworking is that freelancers and remote workers are able to decide where and exactly how long they'd like to travel to their office. If you're able to eliminate long drives and traffic jams from your daily schedule, all while gaining yourself endless networking opportunities, why wouldn't you? Whether you spend 10 or 100 [...]

Cut the Commute: Every Skill Set Under One Roof

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 19:53:00 GMT

Working from home or in a "traditional" office space does not typically grant entrepreneurs the opportunity to "pick the brains" of like minded individuals. Coworking, on the other hand, allows- and breeds - collaboration between freelancers & remote workers.At every member's disposal is a vast skill set that spans across nearly every profession under the sun.. and they don't even have to leave the building to access it! From across your desk you can share and gain the same [...]

It’s important for Entrepreneurs to collaborate to inspire business growth.

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 23:00:00 GMT

Focus closely and you will start to notice amazing examples of collaboration happening extensively within your coworking space. Shared workspaces are hubs for sharing business experiences, resources, connecting prospects and just enjoying coffee with a new friend. This opportunity of sharing resources and community makes the idea of collaboration most appealing to entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Being a coworking space ourselves, we often witness the collaborative power between our Members. We feel the best amenity within a Coworking space is the opportunity to collaborate. This is where historical partnerships can be forged, and will continue to do so.

There are a multitude of ways collaboration can inspire growth between businesses. Here are a few innovative ways to harness the power:

Partner for Referrals: Who can I partner with to share referrals?
Co-host an Event: At my event, what other services can my customers benefit from?
Let customer needs lead the way: Who can I refer my customers to in case I need to take a break for vacation or god forbid a real emergency?
Co-promote Products: Can my product bundle up/package with someone else's product for a better outcome?

Collaboration in business is the future. Organizations, individuals and small businesses can gain so much more from working together, than alone. The opportunities and ideas that arise from cross-pollination of individual expertise are boundless. You get pushed in directions you might never take otherwise. Collaboration makes us better.

Take the time to introduce yourself, explain your business, and get to know what everyone within the space does. You never know when “the next step” to your success is right in front of you.

10 Quotes from Famous Entrepreneurs

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 17:24:15 GMT

Do you ever find yourself scrolling social media in hopes of finding some insightful words to get you and your small business amped up? Or maybe you're just having a BLAH day and could use a little nudge to keep fighting the good fight ? That could be especially true in current times.. A global pandemic ? Political battles that never end? The list goes on & things haven't been easy for small businesses or entrepreneurs by any means. Fortunately, we can look to those who have gone before us and have navigated the entrepreneur world for decades- encountering countless obstacles and learning how to overcome them . Why not learn from the best? Continue on for a list of thought-provoking quotes from some of our greatest predecessors such as...

Steve Jobs, Anita Roddick, Casey Neistat, Henry Ford, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Larry Page, Jack Ma, Brian Chesky, Kevin Systrom

...to name a few .

Is Your Professional Development Important?

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 19:39:32 GMT

Your professional development is important because it ensures you continue to be competent in your profession. Plus, if you are an entrepreneur and wear many hats you know it is an ongoing process to learn tips and tricks about other intricate parts of owning a business. This continues throughout your professional career - education never ends!

Education ensures your capable of keeping up with other entrepreneurs and helps you maintain and enhance the knowledge and skills you need to deliver a professional service to your clients and the community. You want the knowledge to stay relevant and up to date with the changing trends and directions in your profession. Marketing changes faster than it’s ever been! If your marketing is at a stand still you will get left behind in the entrepreneurial world. Your professional development helps you become more effective in your business, it inspires you. It assists you to grow your business. Education helps you to stay interested and motivated. Experienced speakers are great teachers! We tend to do what we have done before - change is sometimes not welcomed. Focused educational speakers can spark new possibilities, new knowledge and new skills to help energize your business. Technology changes also...there are professionals that help keep you knowledgeable and up to date in the area. Depending on your profession – you may be someone who can contribute on an educational panel or workshop. The importance of continuing professional development should not be underestimated – it is a must for entrepreneurs and business professionals. Some continuing education is required by law to practice but it is your personal responsibility as a professional to accelerate your skills so that you may deliver the highest quality of service. Instilling professional development in your business routine should be engaging and fun!

Sometimes it’s difficult to find relevant topics that fit into your business. We offer many different opportunities throughout the month for continuing your professional development, presented by local business professionals. We host events in the hopes to connect you with other like minded individuals, which to learn from each other and share business ideas. We also offer business workshops to help you grow and prosper. We are committed to helping you on many levels!

Click here to see a list of our upcoming workshops & events .

Building Your Successful Business

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 16:32:21 GMT

What is Coworking? The definition of Coworking is a style of work that involves a shared workplace, often an office, and independent activity. Unlike in a typical office, those coworking are usually not employed by the same organization.

What is Community? The definition of a Community is a small or large social unit who have something in common, such as norms, religion, values, or identity.

Now...how do those two items help your business grow - Community & Coworking? It’s simple…

When you are running a business you need to keep inspired! In any coworking space there will always be a community of entrepreneurs to connect with and you need this. There is a community of small business owners, already established, and full of knowledge, right there in your local coworking space. They also host events where you can connect with like-minded individuals. Often these entrepreneurs become your inspiration, your friends, your partners, and your emotional support community. Entrepreneurs will listen, because they all need and want to know what you have to say. They will help you figure out what went wrong or what went right so that they can use this knowledge to their mutual benefit. Here are a few benefits of joining a professional coworking space for entrepreneurs:

Learn from each other's mistakes: If you are listening you will be able to see some actions that others in the community are using that may or may not work for you. It is a great way to avoid some major pitfalls in your business by giving you the direction to take, and the possibility of being able to use their adaptations for some great success maneuvers in your own business. Most entrepreneurs I know like talking openly, truthfully, and want direct discussions. Each entrepreneur "gets," to take their turn at success and at failure. Listen and learn and you'll save yourself a lot of headaches.

Exchange tips of the trade: For any entrepreneur, just starting out is so exciting, but this time of beginnings can also be confusing. Having other people that have had some experience be there to give you tips that you can use helps tremendously. You will be able to start off smoothly and keep going strong when the times are tougher. While reading and googling is helpful, it much better to hear actual experiences from entrepreneurs. These exchanges about the tips of the trade will help you have a greater depth in your connections with those within your entrepreneurial community. You will in turn share your tips with other entrepreneurs, and reciprocate the help that you have received.

Pass on knowledge: One of the biggest functions of a coworking space of entrepreneurs is to pass on knowledge that has been gathered from experienced professionals to the less experienced entrepreneurs. It is also a community where you can find a mentor, and/or become a mentor for someone else. In a tight, trusted group of entrepreneurs you create a long standing business partnership and establish a safe place to garner advice when you have a heavy decision to make. You each become a needed person for the other entrepreneurs that are there.

Make connections: Networking is a skill that you will always need in business and in your personal life. If you don't know how to do this naturally, learn it. Making these connections within your coworking space is the greatest reason the community is there. In your network of entrepreneurs you will find that, in time, you will know each other well enough that you can give them a reference if they need one and they will do the same for you. You can do favors for each other and help your entire community grow their businesses and get ahead. This network builds trust and confidence within the coworking community. Willingly helping and encouraging each other raises your whole community to a place of success and accomplishment.

Learn new business skills: A coworking space offers a great opportunity for you and other entrepreneurs is to learn new business skills together. Many coworking spaces host workshops or lunch & learns for business training or personal development. This also an opportunity for you to consider leading a lunch & learn by offering your own skills. Plus, this offers an opportunity to improve your engagement and involvement in the community in an informal manner.

The bottom line is within a coworking space you can grow a successful business if you invest time in your community of entrepreneurs.

Education leads to Growth

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 23:00:00 GMT

There are so many reasons why you should take time to attend events, such as lunch & learns and workshops!

It's easy to get caught up in the daily grind that you lose motivation and excitement for your job or business. Educational workshops help sharpen your skills, along with giving you the opportunity to learn new ideas and approaches to make you more effective and efficient at work. The flip side of learning new things is relearning classic techniques and improving your focus to help you take your business to the next level. There’s nothing like being in a room of like-minded people, who also want to better themselves, to help boost your energy! Sitting in the same chair in your home or office can keep you from fresh new ideas, therefore breaking out of the office can help you uncover new approaches that will grow your business. They will also give you the opportunity to meet other business experts and to position yourself as an expert in your field. Networking is always a bonus!

It’s not just about your business….it’s also about Investing time in yourself and challenging yourself to grow. A couple of hours away from your desk to sharpen your skills, is investing in yourself. It is admitting that you are worth it! Being in business should be rewarding and fun. It should provide unique opportunities to build relationships, while learning and forcing you to grow.

Our mission at T-Werx is to host events in the hopes to connect you with other like minded individuals, which to learn from each other and share business ideas. We also offer business workshops to help you grow and prosper. We hope to help you boost productivity and fulfill your professional and personal goals.

Find out more on our T-Werx Events Page .

The Wizard of OZ…A Business Story?

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 18:51:35 GMT

Most of us grew up watching the Wizard of Oz on TV at least once a year. While we saw the land of Oz and entertainment with Witches, Flying Monkeys and Munchkins, we should also see it as a metaphor for small business ownership.

I know what you are thinking. There were no business people in the Wizard of Oz. How can this classic story be a business tale? We must look at the characters as examples of the traits that every business owner needs for success.

Cast of Characters

The Visionary - Dorothy, the main character, is what all Entrepreneurs strive to be. She is a Visionary. She sets a goal to reach the Emerald City to see the Wizard and eventually get back to Kansas.

While Dorothy moves toward her goal on the “Yellow Brick Road”, she is continually distracted by the outside world. Whether it is the Wicked Witch, Flying Monkeys or Winkie Guards, poppy fields, Dorothy must remain focused on the end goal.

While she begins her journey on her own, except for Toto the dog, Dorothy slowly assembles a team to help her. Understanding the areas that you are weak in and building a team to help you succeed are critical skills that every entrepreneur needs.

You do not have to go down your “Yellow Brick Road” alone.

A Brain - The first of Dorothy’s friends that we meet is the Scarecrow. We learn from the Scarecrow that he desires a brain.

In a business setting, intelligence is an absolute necessity for every business owner. While this can sometimes be simply the ability to see a problem and look for a possible solution. You also must have a strong grasp of your business finances.

Running your financials and understanding your cash flow of your business should be done on a regular basis. You can hire a bookkeeper to do your books (and believe me you should), you must understand what the numbers mean.

The same with any aspects of our business that we may not be experts at such as technology. You should at least try to understand enough to hire the right person to do that task rather than take it all on yourself.

Courage – The most admirable quality of any business owner. Although you might not believe it, as the Cowardly Lion did, you have courage in you. You have gone out on your own to make your own paycheck. You have taken a risk, so there is courage in you.

You need to draw on that courage when it is time to go to a networking meeting, pick up the phone to prospect or call clients, or make tough decisions.

Drawing on your courage is also extremely important when things get difficult in your business. The statistic says that in the first 5 years 4 out of 5 businesses fail. I am convinced that at least 3 out of 5 just give up when adversity sets in.

A Heart – In the Wizard of Oz the Tin Man is looking for a heart. In the end, he finds that he truly had one all along. In the business world today, this is one of the most important lessons.

Like it or not the Millennial generation has changed the world. One of their greatest traits is that they want to know that companies they deal with have a heart. Millennials prefer to spend their money with companies that give back to the world.

Giving your business a heart is more than writing big cash donations. Especially for small businesses, it is difficult to have much impact. This is the reason that at T-Werx we created the Community-Werx program. One small business may not have much impact; however groups of small businesses can have a dramatic impact.

Fun and Family – Toto the Dog represents one of the components of an entrepreneur’s life that we often overlook. Most successful entrepreneurs tend to be work-aholics. A direct result of this is that we tend to get a bit self-absorbed.

Toto is a reminder to keep our families close to us and to set aside time with them. An entrepreneur’s life can be lonely and challenging. Having scheduled time for fun and family is the only way to avoid burnout.

Conclusion

In the end, Dorothy discovered that all the above traits were in her as well as her companions. However, she also learned that it was easier to accomplish her goals by assembling a team to help her.

Dorothy leveraged the skills of her team, encouraged them to believe in themselves and allowed them to develop their natural talents. These are all skills that we as entrepreneurs need to develop.

When you are challenged in business remember the story that we are familiar with from our youths. Channel your inner Scarecrow, when you need to analyze your business or solve a problem. Bring out the Cowardly Lion’s courage when you are contemplating skipping that next networking event. Show your customers that you, like the Tin Man, have a heart and are willing support your community. Finally, remember Toto and ensure that you schedule time to get away from work and spend time with your family.

Managing Your Time

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 20:56:39 GMT

New Year Resolution....Time Management?!

You should begin by creating blocks in your schedule. It's that simple!

Planning and following a routine makes a huge difference in how you feel and what gets done. Here are some of the things that you may find helpful:

Create a routine: Block times for specific activities & turn your calendar into a bunch of blocks. Whatever is not planned, you don't do. If you want free time, plan it.

Group meetings & calls: Block times for meetings and returning calls. Only schedule meetings during your available times. Make your return calls in the morning and in the afternoon.
Optimize time for different meeting types: Here are the types of meetings you might want to book: 30-minute meeting in the office to get to know someone or catch up, 45-minute meeting outside of the office, 10-minute call to help someone who needs advice, 30-minute weekly staff meeting.
Use appointment slots and only book what is available.
Block time for email: You must avoid doing email all the time. To do that you need to schedule the time to do your email.
Plan your exercise and family time: Unless you put it on the calendar, it won't get done. That also applies to your health and family time. Train yourself to promptly unplug!

You will find yourself less overwhelmed and less stressed if you take ownership of your calendar. You will be more productive!

Is Your Visual Presentation BORING?

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 20:37:34 GMT

6 Ways to Create Better Power Point Presentations

Does your presentation lose your audience or capture them? A boring slide show will definitely lose people! Here are 6 tips to creating an attractive presentation:

1. A Consistent Visual Style: Create your own theme to maintain your brand guidelines and represent your company! All the fonts, colors, layout, and animations should be consistent in their feel and look. If you use a different style for every slide, you’ll end up with a messy, unprofessional-looking presentation.

2. Use High-Quality Graphics: Graphics add a lot to the design of a presentation, but using a poor-quality, low-resolution image will look unprofessional. Once you’ve added your images to the presentation, make sure they’re aligned and look like they’re visually related.

3. Avoid Clutter: Less is more - keep each point or summary short. If there’s too much content, split it up onto more than one slide. Too many pictures, words, tables, colors, or animations will only end up overwhelming or confusing your audience. Keep the information to a minimum if possible, so you can organize and design it for maximum impact. An ideal slide will contain a headline, 3-6 bullet points, and a picture or graph. You can always add extra talking points in the Notes section that you can speak to during the presentation. This will enable you to keep the information on the slide high level and clutter-free.

4. Don’t Use Fancy Fonts: While different fonts can enhance the presentation and add visual interest, sticking with easy-to-read fonts is always the best choice. For more informal topics, feel free to use fonts that match the topic as long as they’re still legible. Font size is also very important. As a general rule, use a font size of at least 24 points for headings and 14 points for the body copy.

5. Use Color Carefully: Colors are one of the main components when designing a presentation. When used in a smart way, they can add a lot to the style. Colors are usually used in accordance with the logo or brand colors of the company. A logo can have one or more colors, so decide which one is the most prominent or best for presentations, and use that color for most things. If there is no brand color, use colors that highly contrast each other. Don’t make your slide a rainbow of colors. Stick to 2-3 colors per slide and keep the same color, or at least the same color style, for the whole presentation.

6. Use Animation: Animation can take a presentation from boring to inspiring. Avoid cluttering the presentation with too many animated elements or overly complex animations. Don’t use any animation that diverts the audience’s focus from the content or from the presenter. The purpose of animation is to help better define and enhance the content, not to overwhelm or distract. If there’s too much content on a slide and you don’t want to split it into multiple slides, animation is the best solution. For example, if you have a list of five steps, you can use animation to reveal one step at a time.

Does your presentation share a powerful story? Do all the little details work together? Is it communicating what you want it to communicate? Will it resonate with your audience?

Do you need a Virtual Office?

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 18:29:01 GMT

Work Anywhere

Our Virtual Office allows you and your team to work from any corner of the world with a local Austin address. First and foremost, our Virtual Office Membership allows you to save on the overhead costs of a physical location. It’s not a secret that rent is often the highest cost for a small business. Plus, you get an individualized suite number that will give a better impression of your company to potential clients.

As a Virtual Office provider at a very reasonable price, you get a local business address, mail forwarding, scanning, and shredding. Getting a business address costs as little as $25 monthly + forwarding fee’s. While other mailing services together with phone reception would cost you around $150-200.

Another advantage of our Virtual Office Membership is the fact that it requires little to no management. Plus, we also offer conference room services that can be used for client meetings whenever such a need arises.

Value Ladders

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 23:00:00 GMT

A Profit Producers Minute with CEO Jeff Kikel

Hey everybody here's Jeff once again with a Profit Producers Minute for you and today I'm gonna talk about value ladders.

What is a value ladder?

It's how you get people through a sales process and make them your customers.

How do you do that?

Well first off I want to start by getting their email address and using something (credible) like an e-book to generate an incentive for them to give me their email address. I trade my knowledge for that. In that I might also offer them a short course that relates to that e-book for (let's say) $17.00. Not a whole lot of expenses out of their pocket. But, we know that we're getting them to buy and spend money with us , we can turn around and offer them, later, an Academy that gets into more detail for the people that are really interested in what you do know. Now some of those people may actually want to go to coaching at some point which we can say is $49.97.

So that's how you get people through a value ladder. How you make them customers for life is by using a continuity program where they get access to all of your information for $37 a month. It might not be coaching, but it's your information over time. That's how you build a sustainable long term business on the Internet.

That's your profit producers minute.

Inaction, A Deadly Entrepreneur Sin

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Profit Producers Minute with Jeff Kikel: 7 Deadly Sins of Entrepreneurs Part 1

Hey everybody it's Jeff here once again with a profit producers minute and I want to talk to you a little bit about what I call the Seven Deadly Sins of Entrepreneurship We're gonna talk about the first one today which is Inaction .

What do I mean by inaction?

Well, there are so many people that I've talked to over the years when I started a co-working space that said “Man I had that idea and you know you just got to it before I did” No, I didn't get to it before you did I took action. That's the difference.

Success vs. Failure

The difference between people that are successful and people that are not successful as entrepreneurs is simply taking action. You might not always be right, you may fail miserably! But I will respect the person that takes action over the person that sits back and just says “oh I don't know if I want to do this I don't know if I'm a-- oh I need to think about this more...” Take action, step it up, and take action on what you're doing. Stop thinking about it, get it Launched, and find out if people like whatever you're offering and make changes to it.

That's your Profit Producers Minute.

Improving Your Focus

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 20 May 2020 16:53:00 GMT

Do you get incredibly distracted working from home? Do you struggle to create a clear distinction between your work/home hours/life? It’s easy to answer the phone, a knock at the door, or start doing chores when you should be working. It's nice to have the flexibility to do those things, but the distractions can really add up and pull you away from your FOCUS. When you choose to cowork you are removing yourself from the distractions and putting yourself into a more focused, di [...]

Boost Your Productivity...

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 13 May 2020 18:28:00 GMT

Feeling scattered? Unmotivated? A coworking space may be just what you need. Coworking is a place that both inspires you to be productive and is home to so many interesting self-starters! Sometimes working from home can get a little distracting with laundry, and other tasks that ‘just take 5 minutes’ but those random breaks can interrupt the creative process. Some Tips On Setting Boundaries while coworkingSet office/availability hours: Keep a consistent work schedul [...]

On Memorial Day

Mon, 04 May 2020 21:19:25 GMT

What is the Meaning of the Red Poppy?

Have you ever seen people wearing red poppies on their lapel during memorial holidays?

I hadn't really seen this until my wife and I were in France during Bastille Day and saw them at US, German and Canadian Cemeteries. Not being from Europe, this was not part of our tradition in the U.S. but in recent years I have seen them used by the American Legion and VFW during Memorial and Veterans day celebrations.

Me being me, I became curious this week and wanted to understand the origin.

This next week we celebrate memorial day here in the United States. This holiday was originally created to remember those who died during the Civil War. Memorial Day took on a whole new meaning after the carnage of World War 1 where an entire generation of men were lost.

During World War 1 a Canadian Physician by the name of John McCrae wrote a poem called "In Flanders Fields" after the death of a close friend at the battle of Ypres Salient in Belgium. After its publishing, the Poem led to the Red Poppy being adopted as the "Flower of Remembrance" by Britain and the Commonwealth.

Below is the text of the original poem.

In Flanders Fields

BY JOHN MCCRAE

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

As we hang out this weekend and enjoy our families and friends, a few hot dogs and hamburgers, and maybe an adult beverage or two, please remember those who fought and died to give us the ability to do this.

This weekend I choose to remember two of my friends from the military that were lost on October 3, 1993 during the Battle of Mogadishu.

Sgt James "Casey" Joyce
15 Aug 69 - 3 Oct 93

Cpl James "Jamie" E. Smith
4 Feb 72 - 3 Oct 93

RIP and RLTW Brothers

Stop Overthinking!

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Profit Producer Minute with Jeff Kikel: 7 Deadly Sins of Entrepreneurs Part 2

Hey everybody! It’s Jeff here once again with your Profit Producers Minute and today we're going to talk about the second of the Seven Deadly Sins of Entrepreneurship: Overthinking. Stop overthinking the products that you have.

The Problem with Old School Business Strategies:

When I went to business school we were taught you create a product, then you bring it to market, and you market the heck out of it and advertise the heck out of and you see if people will actually buy your product. Well guess what? That only works if you're a gigantic monster million dollar, billion dollar business. It does not work if you're a small tiny entrepreneurial business.

Adopting a New Strategy

We have to think differently. What we need to do is go out and find a tribe of people who think like we do. We ask them what their problems are and then we create products that solve those people's problems and then we sell them solutions. As a result, we build a loyal clientele that are in love with our products because they’ve helped contribute to what you built.

People spend way too much time today overthinking what they're doing. You need to stop that and find your tribe -- ask them what they want and build it

That's your Profit Producers Minute

Start building your tribe with T-Werx. Part of our mission is building communities and opportunities for collaboration. We offer networking events and workshops on a weekly basis.

Learn more about our community events!

Where do you COLLABORATE with other Entrepreneurs?

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:59:49 GMT

People question the use of a shared workspace until they experience it first hand. It can foster collaboration, promote learning, and nurture a strong culture. It’s a great idea for solo entrepreneurs, freelancers and small business owners to support collaboration.

There’s a natural rhythm to collaboration within a shared workspace. People need to focus alone but also in pairs to generate ideas or process information. When they come together as a group they are able to build on those ideas and take next steps. Working alone is not always effective. There is an increased focus when you are surrounded by others working as well. Working at home or in coffee shops or libraries isn’t the answer—at least not for the long term. Too much remote work creates its own set of problems, such as diminished knowledge transfer, decreased engagement, cultural disconnect, and a slew of new distractions. And, of course, it makes collaboration more difficult.

A coworking space encourages entrepreneurs to collaborate outside of the box by not working alone in their closed-off home office. Having a “go-to collaborative” space often allows people to discuss their crazy ideas and opportunities, plus solve real problems.

Somewhere I Belong: Is Your Work Culture Inclusive or Exclusive?

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 22:41:19 GMT

The Ideal "Work Culture"

Part of what makes or breaks an entrepreneur’s ideal environment is the work culture and we understand that better than anyone.

“T-Werx is such a welcoming and collaborative place of business and all of us business owners support each other. Thank you to all who support making my company feel welcome to be there.” -- Testimonial by Carmen Kyle

So, what is the ideal “Work Culture”?

One of our recurring testimonials is that we are NOTHING like the big co-working jockeys of Austin.

“The problem with most of the “co-working” offices, is that they are not actually co-working offices. They are offices that you can rent to keep from working from home, but they do not have an office environment that is filled with energy, ideas and people. They do not support the needs of the growing professional.

This is not the case at the T-Werx office. The T-Werx co-working office is more than just an office, it is an environment where you can engage with people on a daily basis to grow as an individual and grow your business. It is an active support network of ideas and resources. The facility is very professional. This is a place where you can be proud to bring your clients, both big and small.

I chose to locate my office at the T-Werx facility for these reasons and I have not been disappointed. Each day has been both exciting and rewarding.” -- Testimonial by Terry W.

Here are the biggest complaints we've heard about our biggest competitors:

Noise levels make it hard to concentrate.
Surprisingly, finding productive networking opportunities are far and few. There are plenty of events but not enough entrepreneurs looking to make actual connections.
Very little learning opportunities are being maximized to help out entrepreneurs struggling with business growth and leadership skills.
Unless you are already a paying member, bigger coworking spaces simply lack a community spirit.

So, what are these companies lacking in their coworking culture?

Ideally, work culture in coworking spaces should promote inclusion and support for the entrepreneurial community. It’s easy to be drawn to aesthetic “instragram worthy” city-scapes, freebies, and happy hours every day of the week, but for real professionals trying to make strides to achieve their ambitions, it’ll take more than just free ice cream.

Here is what we believe Coworking Culture should be about:

Diversity : T-Werx Coworking believes in the idea of a healthy and genuinely productive work culture. Our members come from various industries that help to color our work community with various experiences and opinions.
Opportunity : It isn’t just about having a desk away from home, it’s about having opportunities the minute you walk into the building. Opportunities to learn from our workshops, to bounce around ideas, and to build personal and professional relationships.
Community : Coworking should be inclusive not exclusive! You never have to be an official member at T-Werx to be part of our family. We believe in, not just our coworking community, but supporting our local community, non profits , and local businesses. We love giving local business owners a platform to stand on to share their vision with the rest of us.
Collaboration : Hosting meet-ups, creating groups like our Entrepreneurs Guild , Toast Masters , and W.O.M.E.N. Inspired Entrepreneurs is our way of encouraging our members and community to learn from each other, collaborate, and share ideas. We’re always hosting events inside and outside of our space to promote our passionate belief in the entrepreneur spirit.

Creating the perfect coworking culture means creating real opportunities, having real support for your community, and giving professionals a place to belong.

Experience T-Werx Coworking Culture for yourself.

Book a tour at one of our locations: https://www.t-werx.com/ContactUs or call us, (512) 229-1588
Try our Free Coworking Tuesdays
Or Find a workshop/event that interests you!

Check Out More testimonials!

March is National Women’s History Month

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 20:02:30 GMT

March is a exciting month. We are coming out of the cold months and going into spring. The bluebonnets are blooming and in business we tend to get a bit lazy and get the spring blues.

Another event that occurs during March is National Women’s History Month. This official “month” was created by Presidential Proclamation on March 8, 1980. While I believe all Women’s history is important, I believe the history of Women entrepreneurs is extremely important.

A quick Google search for women entrepreneurs brings up a list of very powerful and influential women of today. While I do not wish to belittle their accomplishments, I wanted to go further back in history and look at some of the most influential female entrepreneurs throughout history.

Elizabeth Arden: Making Over America

She brought makeup from the stage to everyday life and slowly developed a global empire. Elizabeth Arden, born Florence Nightingale Graham in Woodbridge, Ontario, moved to New York at the age of 30 to pursue her dream of building a cosmetics corporation. There she began working with a chemist to create a beauty cream, something new for the cosmetics industry at that time. After traveling to Paris in 1912, Arden became the first person to introduce the concept of eye makeup to American women and offered the first makeovers in her 5th Avenue salon. Arden died in 1966, but her brand became as well-known across the U.S. as Singer sewing machines and Coca-Cola. At the end of its fiscal year in June 2007, the company reported $1.1 billion in net sales, up more than 18 percent from $955 million in 2006.

Coco Chanel: Revolutionizing Fashion One Accessory at a Time

"May my legend prosper and thrive. I wish it a long and happy life." Coco Chanel's legend certainly has lived on since she died in 1971. At the time of her death, Chanel's fashion empire brought in more than $160 million a year. The fashionista, born in Saumur, France, opened her first shop in 1910 selling only women's hats. In 1921, the company introduced Chanel No. 5, the first perfume to be sold worldwide. From there, the name Chanel became known across the world. Today, Chanel creations continue to attract a wealthy, celebrity-filled consumer base. Chanel will forever be associated with her little back dress, her timeless suits, shoes, purses and jewelry. As Christian Dior said, "With a black pullover and 10 rows of pearls, she revolutionized fashion."

Olive Ann Beech: Skyrocketing to Success

Olive Ann Beech co-founded Beech Aircraft Corp. in Wichita, Kansas, alongside her husband, Walter, at the height of the Depression in 1932. Together the Beeches grew the business from 10 employees to 10,000. Two hundred seventy of their Beech Model 17 Staggerwings were manufactured for the U.S. Army during World War II. But after Walter died suddenly from a heart attack in 1950, Olive Ann became president and CEO of the company. During her nearly 20 years in charge, she transformed the company into a multimillion-dollar aerospace corporation. Olive Ann retired in 1968 but continued to serve on the board of directors until 1982, just two years after Raytheon Corp. purchased Beech Aircraft. Beech became the company's first chairman emeritus before dying at home in Wichita in 1993. Beech Aircraft Corp. had a lasting impact on general aviation, producing some of the most popular aircraft of the 20th century.

Ruth Handler: Barbie: Creating an American Icon

With the creation of the Barbie doll, Ruth Handler has changed the way little girls play and dream, and has forever left her stamp on American culture. Handler came up with the idea of creating a doll that looked more like an adult after noticing that her daughter preferred to play with paper dolls that looked like adults. Although her husband didn't think the idea would sell, Handler debuted Barbie (her daughter's nickname) at a New York toy fair in 1959. Handler and her husband, Elliot, were already selling dollhouse furniture and other toys through their company, Mattel, based out of their Hawthorne, California, garage. Within five years, Mattel became a Fortune 500 company. In 1967, Handler became president of Mattel Inc., a position she stayed in until 1974. Her legacy lives on today, and Barbie brings in more than $1 billion a year for Mattel.

Dame Anita Roddick: A Business with a Conscience

Dame Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop, became interested in environmental activism at an early age through her world travels. What began as a way of living has emerged into a business with more than 2,100 stores and more than 77 million customers. In 1976, Roddick opened the doors to her first shop in Brighton, England. What sets The Body Shop apart from other stores offering similar bath and hygiene products has been Roddick's commitment to running a company dedicated to the pursuit of social and environmental change. The Body Shop has established community trade relationships in more than 20 countries. Last month, it announced a campaign with MTV to raise HIV and AIDS awareness among those under age 25. The Body Shop was purchased by the L'Oreal Group in 2006 but remains independently run. Roddick and her husband stepped down as co-chairmen of the company in 2002, but she continued to consult until her death last year from a brain hemorrhage at age 64.

All of these amazing women were pioneers in their time and in their industries. They have since become famous for their success. Every day in our community’s women are building businesses that may or may not be as famous. For those women that would like to be part of a community of other like minded women entrepreneurs, you should consider our WOMEN Inspired Network that meets twice a month here at T-Werx.

Coworking helps reduce costs & offers flexibility

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 19:41:00 GMT

An Advantage of Coworking is Reducing Costs & Adding Flexibility!In case you have decided that it is time to get an office, a coworking space makes a lot more financial sense than renting your own office.Renting an office includes taking care of installing infrastructure and the utility bills that will drain your finances and time. If you choose a coworking space, the owner takes care of the space and everything in it for you. Also, a regular office rental requires signing [...]

Coworking offers Financial Flexibility!

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 20:08:00 GMT

Entrepreneurship can be a rocky road and getting stuck in a long-term office lease can sometimes be financial suicide. In a coworking space you can move into a bigger space as your company grows. You can even move back into the small space, if needed. The ability to tailor your space to your current needs is another reason this option can be very attractive to young and growing companies. The flexibility of a month to month lease is important! [...]

An Open Letter to Our Millennial Friends...

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 13:28:00 GMT

First off, let me state that the general belief that people of my generation (Gen X) and those that came before me is wrong. The millennial generation is not lazy. Your generation is rapidly changing the world and you should be proud of that.Five Millennial Changes to the World...Work to Live, not Live to Work: Your generation realizes that we all need to work to make a living, however you also believe that there is life outside of work. This also means that you value the ability to work [...]

Jeff@T-Werx.com

Coworking Vs. The Coffee Shop

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 21:05:00 GMT

Do the addresses of your work office and the nearest Starbucks location just so happen to be exactly the same? If so, it's probably not the overpriced lattes, increasingly loud music, and nearby chatterboxes that draw you in. Not only that.. but when you consider that this month's pumpkin spice latte & bagel budget likely EXCEEDS the cost of an office space rental for the rest of the year.. what excuse do you have left?!Ditching your coffee shop office and instead opting to cowo [...]

Experts Help When Needed

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 20:28:00 GMT

One Advantages of Coworking is Entrepreneurs of all skill sets are available to share advice, expertise & help when needed! Coworking spaces gather the best minds, each experts in their own field. After you dedicate some time to build your social network in the coworking space, you can approach your expert friends for high quality advice on a wide range of topics like social media and digital marketing, insurance, legal matters and much more. The synergies and mutual help of one [...]

Oh Crap! I have already broken my resolutions!

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 20:40:00 GMT

I love this time of the year. The gyms are full of people, everyone is at work and focused, it should only be about 2 weeks and everyone will be complaining that they have broken their resolutions. Once that happens a bulk of the population will give up and go back to planning day to day again. How do we make sure that we do not squander the opportunity to excel at our business this year? It all starts with setting written goals for what we need to accomplish this year. I did things [...]

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Happy New Year - The 10 Best Books I Read This Year

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 18:53:06 GMT

Put these on your Reading List For Next Year...

2 019 was a pretty amazing year! We had one of the best years in the stock market. The economy is humming. We had a President impeached. Plus, business experienced serious growth personally as well as anecdotally from friends. I hope all of you experienced this as well.

I set a goal at the beginning of the year to read at least 45 books this year. This number came from a statistic that I had read in Fast Company magazine, that the average CEO reads between 4-5 books per month. When I counted everything up this year I realized that I had read 52 books this year. I am currently in the middle of 4 books right now. I keep them stationed around the house and read small bits of them each day. I am not sure if I will get done with them before midnight, so they may transfer over to 2020.

The other major goal that I had set for 2019 was to publish at least 2 books this year. I actually crushed that goal by publishing 4 books this year (although technically two are waiting to be published by Amazon). The fun part was that I was able to collaborate with a couple of friends on these projects, including Gary Kasper and my business partner Eric Boyce.

Out of the 52 books that I read this year, I wanted to share with you my top 10 books. These books are a selection of goal planning, sales, marketing, digital marketing, human resources, business systems, content planning, and email marketing. I recommend that you add these to your library for this year which should get your started on your 4-5 books per month as a CEO...

10 . Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs by John Doerr

This book was possibly the most important that I read this year. The concept of OKR's is what I believe is the single most important reason that many of today's most successful companies like Google have rocketed to success. The only reason this one does not rank higher on the list is that it came into the library late in the year and I am just now implementing the techniques into my businesses and personal planning. Finally the death of SMART goals!

(From Amazon)

Legendary venture capitalist John Doerr reveals how the goal-setting system of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) has helped tech giants from Intel to Google achieve explosive growth—and how it can help any organization thrive.

In the fall of 1999, John Doerr met with the founders of a start-up whom he'd just given $12.5 million, the biggest investment of his career. Larry Page and Sergey Brin had amazing technology, entrepreneurial energy, and sky-high ambitions, but no real business plan. For Google to change the world (or even to survive), Page and Brin had to learn how to make tough choices on priorities while keeping their team on track. They'd have to know when to pull the plug on losing propositions, to fail fast. And they needed timely, relevant data to track their progress—to measure what mattered.

Doerr taught them about a proven approach to operating excellence: Objectives and Key Results. He had first discovered OKRs in the 1970s as an engineer at Intel, where the legendary Andy Grove ("the greatest manager of his or any era") drove the best-run company Doerr had ever seen. Later, as a venture capitalist, Doerr shared Grove's brainchild with more than fifty companies. Wherever the process was faithfully practiced, it worked.

In this goal-setting system, objectives define what we seek to achieve; key results are how those top-priority goals will be attained with specific, measurable actions within a set time frame. Everyone's goals, from entry level to CEO, are transparent to the entire organization.

The benefits are profound. OKRs surface an organization's most important work. They focus effort and foster coordination. They keep employees on track. They link objectives across silos to unify and strengthen the entire company. Along the way, OKRs enhance workplace satisfaction and boost retention.

In Measure What Matters, Doerr shares a broad range of first-person, behind-the-scenes case studies, with narrators including Bono and Bill Gates, to demonstrate the focus, agility, and explosive growth that OKRs have spurred at so many great organizations. This book will help a new generation of leaders capture the same magic.

9. Fanatical Prospecting by Jeb Blount

I have been in sales for most of my adult life. This was one of the best prospecting books that I have read and is my top sales pick for the year. Jeb has a great way of calling you on all your B.S. when it comes to sales and prospecting (and not in a Glengarry Glen Ross) way. If you are responsible for sales in your business (hint: We all are), you need to apply the techniques that Jeb lays out in this book. The best sales/prospecting book that I read this year.

(From Amazon)

Fanatical Prospecting gives salespeople, sales leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives a practical, eye-opening guide that clearly explains the why and how behind the most important activity in sales and business development―prospecting.

The brutal fact is the number one reason for failure in sales is an empty pipe and the root cause of an empty pipeline is the failure to consistently prospect. By ignoring the muscle of prospecting, many otherwise competent salespeople and sales organizations consistently underperform.

Step by step, Jeb Blount outlines his innovative approach to prospecting that works for real people, in the real world, with real prospects.

Learn how to keep the pipeline full of qualified opportunities and avoid debilitating sales slumps by leveraging a balanced prospecting methodology across multiple prospecting channels.

This book reveals the secrets, techniques, and tips of top earners. You’ll learn:

Why the 30-Day Rule is critical for keeping the pipeline full
Why understanding the Law of Replacement is the key to avoiding sales slumps
How to leverage the Law of Familiarity to reduce prospecting friction and avoid rejection
The 5 C’s of Social Selling and how to use them to get prospects to call you
How to use the simple 5 Step Telephone Framework to get more appointments fast
How to double call backs with a powerful voice mail technique
How to leverage the powerful 4 Step Email Prospecting Framework to create emails that compel prospects to respond
How to get text working for you with the 7 Step Text Message Prospecting Framework
And there is so much more!

8. One Hour Content Plan by Meera Kothand

I think I came across Meera Kothand when she was recommended by Amazon on my Kindle. This is another book that I bought and ended up keeping it in my Kindle library for a while. Once I finally read the book, I could have kicked myself for waiting so long. Meera is a genius at both email and content planning. This is a book I have gone back to time and again. Both in the book and online she has some wonderful free resources that she makes available. If you are someone that produces content on a regular basis, this is for you (This should be all of you)

From Amazon

Here’s what’s packed in this how-to guide:

Three core ways to INSTANTLY generate content ideas with ease. Ditch the content overwhelm and never ever struggle with what to write again.

5 types of content that will inch your subscriber towards becoming a buyer and sell your products and services with ease. (And why you need ALL five!)
The fastest way to determine your BRAND VOICE so that you create content that fits you like a glove. No “whishy-washy” ideas. No guessing.
8 MUST-NOT neglect elements that either make or break your blog posts and how to optimize each of them.
The trap that bloggers and solopreneurs fall into with producing content and how ways to HOOK more eyeballs on your content.
Imagine for a minute how your blog and business would change if you NEVER run out of blog post ideas…

You know exactly what to create, when and what results it’ll drive.

Your offers (paid and free) become seductive magnets of YES! that readers cannot resist.

Every single piece of content has a purpose in growing your blog and business, sells your products and services for you and builds your online presence…

That’s the power of a content strategy and the promise behind the ‘One Hour Content Plan.’

7. The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy

This was a late edition to my library that I originally bought through Audible as an audio book. As soon as I began to listen, I knew that I needed to have the paperback as a tool to read alongside. It provides a step by step system for you to supercharge your habit, get rid of the bad ones, and motivate yourself.

From Amazon

T he New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller, based on the principle that little, everyday decisions will either take you to the life you desire or to disaster by default.

No gimmicks. No Hyperbole. No Magic Bullet. The Compound Effect is a distillation of the fundamental principles that have guided the most phenomenal achievements in business, relationships, and beyond. This easy-to-use, step-by-step operating system allows you to multiply your success, chart your progress, and achieve any desire. If you're serious about living an extraordinary life, use the power of The Compound Effect to create the success you want. You will find strategies including:

How to win--every time! The No. 1 strategy to achieve any goal and triumph over any competitor, even if they're smarter, more talented or more experienced.
Eradicating your bad habits (some you might be unaware of!) that are derailing your progress.
The real, lasting keys to motivation--how to get yourself to do things you don't feel like doing.
Capturing the elusive, awesome force of momentum. Catch this, and you'll be unstoppable.
The acceleration secrets of superachievers. Do they have an unfair advantage? Yes they do, and now you can too!

6. No B.S. Direct Marketing: The Ultimate No Holds Barred Kick Butt Take No Prisoners Direct Marketing for Non-Direct Marketing Businesses by Dan Kennedy

I can't say enough about Dan Kennedy. He is the marketing legend whose teaching has spawned some of the best marketers of our time including Ryan Diess ( www.digitalmarketer.com ) and Russell Brunson ( www.clickfunnels.com ). Dan brings a history of direct marketing to the table and has updated the book for the digital generation. He has a way of simplifying marketing that no-one else can, especially with today's digital marketing.

From Amazon

Kennedy dares marketers to dramatically simplify their marketing, refocusing on what works. Updated to address the newest media and marketing methods, this marketing master plan — from marketing master Kennedy—delivers a short list of radically different, little-known, profit-proven direct mail strategies for ANY business. Strategies are illustrated by case history examples from an elite team of consultants—all phenomenally successful at borrowing direct marketing strategies from the world of mail-order, TV infomercials, etc., to use in ’ordinary’ businesses including retail stores, restaurants, and sales

5. Scale: Seven Proven Principles to Grow Your Business and Get Your Life Back by Jeff Hoffman and David Finkel

I have to thank these guys for this book. It was recommended to me by a friend who saw how hard I was working earlier in the year. This book has helped and is further helping me redesign my businesses so that I can further scale and automate them. Reading this along with High Performance Habits (below) can completely change your life. It is on my list as a re-read for 2020.

From Amazon

Your concrete road map to rapidly grow your business and get your life back!

Have you ever wanted to grow your business but held back because of fear that it would take over your life? As an owner, it’s all too common to feel you have to choose between your personal life and the success of your business. But the surprising truth is that the only way to truly scale and grow your company is to reduce its reliance on you. This means that, done right, scaling ensures that you can grow your business without sacrificing your life.

Jeff Hoffman, a serial entrepreneur and former CEO in the Priceline (Priceline Yardsale) family of companies, and David Finkel, CEO of Maui Mastermind, a business coaching company with thousands of clients worldwide, offer a concrete road map for rapidly growing your business while also gaining more personal freedom.

You’ll not only learn the best strategies to generate growth, but you’ll also get proven insider tips to sustain that growth through sound systems, empowered teams, and intelligent internal controls. Hoffman and Finkel will also show you how to overcome predictable obstacles in any pillar of your business—including sales, operations, and finance—with insight for building better lead-generation systems, managing cash flow, and retaining talent. You’ll learn how to:

• Escape the Self-Employment Trap and build a business, not a job.

• Systematize your business to reduce costs and increase capacity.

• Ensure your company survives the “Hit by a Bus” test.

• Uncover your company’s top leverage points (and execution strategies to implement what you discover).

• Fund your growth with the seven cash flow commandments.

• And much more.

Scale offers a game plan to work less and get your business to produce more. Written by two world class entrepreneurs who have started, scaled, and successfully exited from multiple businesses, which collectively have generated tens of billions of dollars in sales, it gives you their bottom-line best ideas to effectively grow your company.

If you have ever felt stuck in your business, not knowing the best way forward, this book is your must read guide.

4. People Power: An Entrepreneur's Guide to Managing Human Capital by Scholley Bubenik

My Pick for the best people management book for this year. Scholley (who is also a T-Werx Alum) lays out not only a process for hiring employees, compensating them and keeping them engaged. The book is a practical approach to developing systems for people management within your business.

From Amazon

Looking for an all-in-one solution to maximizing results from your company’s employees? Look no further than People Power!

Employees can make or break a business—yet many companies have no idea how to manage their incredibly valuable “human capital.”

Now, for the first time, HR expert Scholley Bubenik, President of Premier HR Solutions, unlocks the secrets she’s learned over her thirty years of human resources experience in People Power. Detailing her time-tested, practical and proven strategies, Bubenik gives you the tools you need to assemble—and keep in place—the kind of team that will take your business to the top. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner or manager, these innovative insights and nuts-and-bolts advice will help you get the most out of your employees while helping them achieve true job satisfaction.

Maximizing employee engagement means you’ll need to do more than simply abide by state and federal regulations and file the right paperwork at the right time—you need to develop a plan that aligns your company’s business goals and culture with your people’s. The key to this is Bubenik’s “Five Strategies”—a set of principles which, when implemented together, provide a comprehensive approach to the process of recruiting, training and retaining. In addition, People Power also includes interactive exercises that help you customize the book’s content to your own specific business situation—allowing you to take instant advantage of Bubenik’s hard-won HR knowledge.

Inside these pages, you’ll discover how to:

Attract the top talent to your business—and, just as importantly, evaluate how good a fit they’ll be for your company’s culture;
Calculate the compensation you should offer prospective employees—and the kinds of desirable perks you can offer that can offset high salary demands;
Increase your employee engagement—empowering you to retain your most valuable personnel for the longest period of time, and;
Avoid risk—and deal with compliance issues, employment laws and any other trouble that might be on the horizon in the most efficient way.

The author also reveals her exclusive “Funnel Approach” to recruiting the ideal candidate for an open position. From the initial job posting to assessing the candidates, making an offer and, finally, integrating the new employee into your business, Bubenik helps you avoid the massive mistake of hiring the wrong person, a mistake that can cost you time and money, as well as negatively impact your business results.

People Power provides an abundant supply of tips and tricks to create a win-win for both you and your employees, as well as easy-to-use exercises that empower you to apply the book’s strategies directly to your operation. If you’re looking for an all-in-one answer to hiring and managing your personnel, then People Power is the book for you.

3. DotCom Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Growing Your Company Online by Russell Brunson

This was the single best Digital Marketing book that I have ever read. Russell is the real deal. He has spent the last decade honing his craft in his own businesses, while also sharing what he has learned. This one book will give you the best education in online marketing that you can get in a book.

From Amazon

The Underground Playbook For Growing Your Company Online

Founder of Click Funnels, Russell Brunson, shares the secrets that he’s learned about driving online sales from helping 10,000’s of en- trepreneurs sell millions of dollars of products, and services

What is DotcomSecrets?

It is NOT just another “how to” book on Internet Marketing.

It is NOT about getting more traffic to your website - yet these secrets will help you to get exponentially MORE traffic than you’ve ever experienced before.

It is NOT about increasing your conversion - yet these secrets will increase your conversion MORE than any headline tweak or split test ever could.

In Russell Brunson's experience, after working with hundreds of thousands of businesses he realized that low traffic or conversions are symptoms of a much greater problem that’s a little harder to see (that’s the bad news), but a lot easier to fix (that’s the good news).

Inside this book will find the actual playbook we created after running thou- sands of tests and perfecting what works online. You now have access to all of the processes, funnels and scripts that we used to scale companies online.

DotComSecrets will give you the marketing funnels and the sales scripts you need to be able to turn on a flood of new leads into your business.

2. High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendan Burchard

This book along with Scale are two of the most important books of this year for me. I credit both of these with making a change to how I run my businesses that is continuing into 2020. If you want to supercharge your habits, this book is for you.

From Amazon

THESE SIX HABITS WILL MAKE YOU EXTRAORDINARY. After extensive original research and a decade as the world’s highest-paid performance coach, Brendon Burchard finally reveals the most effective habits for reaching long-term success. Based on one of the largest surveys ever conducted on high performers, it turns out that just six habits move the needle the most in helping you succeed. Adopt these six habits, and you win. Neglect them, and life is a never-ending struggle. We all want to be high performing in every area of our lives. But how? Which habits can help you achieve long-term success and vibrant well-being no matter your age, career, strengths, or personality? To become a high performer, you must seek clarity, generate energy, raise necessity, increase productivity, develop influence, and demonstrate courage. This book is about the art and science of how to practice these proven habits. If you do adopt any new habits to succeed faster, choose the habits in this book. Anyone can practice these habits and, when they do, extraordinary things happen in their lives, relationships, and careers. Whether you want to get more done, lead others better, develop skill faster, or dramatically increase your sense of joy and confidence, the habits in this book will help you achieve it. Each of the six habits is illustrated by powerful vignettes, cutting-edge science, thought-provoking exercises, and real-world daily practices you can implement right now. HIGH PERFORMANCE HABITS is a science-backed, heart-centered plan to living a better quality of life. Best of all, you can measure your progress. A link to a professional assessment is included in the book for free.

1. Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller

This was a late edition to my library this year (actually I had owned it for a year on Kindle and never read it...don't judge). This is one of the most useful and critical pieces of my marketing library now. The concepts that Donald Miller uses are the concepts that screen writers have been using for years to build stories. Applying these to your marketing materials and website can tell your story to your future clients.

From Amazon

New York Times best-selling author Donald Miller uses the seven universal elements of powerful stories to teach listeners how to dramatically improve how they connect with customers and grow their businesses.

Donald Miller's StoryBrand process is a proven solution to the struggle business leaders face when talking about their businesses. This revolutionary method for connecting with customers provides listeners with the ultimate competitive advantage, revealing the secret for helping their customers understand the compelling benefits of using their products, ideas, or services. Building a StoryBrand does this by teaching listeners the seven universal story points all humans respond to, the real reason customers make purchases, how to simplify a brand message so people understand it, and how to create the most effective messaging for websites, brochures, and social media.

Whether you are the marketing director of a multibillion-dollar company, the owner of a small business, a politician running for office, or the lead singer of a rock band, Building a StoryBrand will forever transform the way you talk about who you are, what you do, and the unique value you bring to your customers.

T-Werx Launches Entrepreneur Centers

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 19:56:47 GMT

Fulfills our Mission to Help Small Business

CEDAR PARK, TX

T-Werx, LLC, the parent company of T-Werx Coworking today announced the launch of it's Entrepreneur Centers. Currently the Entrepreneur Centers will be located in the T-Werx locations in Cedar Park and the Four Points area of NW Austin.

The Entrepreneur Centers are designed to be learning centers to help small business owners learn skills required to run a business as well as digital marketing. With both online and in person class formats, the training is designed to help someone put the training into action before they leave.

In June 2019, T-Werx began our programming with a Masterclass on advanced LinkedIn training. This training will be made available online in early July. The company also launched its first Workshop at the end of June that focuses on Digital Marketing and specifically what is called Customer Value Architecture.

Jeff Kikel, T-Werx CEO and Founder explained that "The Entrepreneur Centers are the next evolution for our company and go on to fulfill our mission statement of helping business start in our community".

In addition to the training developed internally by T-Werx, additional training is being provided by Omari Broussard of 10X Strategies Consulting on Digital Marketing. Mr Broussard is a Partner Member with Digital Marketer, LLC in Austin and brings a wealth of practical experience to the EC's .

The Entrepreneur Centers will also host SCORE mentors to help new and fledgling businesses launch in our community. SCORE, which stands for Service Corps of Retired Executives ( www.score.org ), Was created to provide volunteer mentoring for those interested in and starting businesses. For more information about what is available please go to the SCORE website.

For more information on what will be available through the Entrepreneur Centers, please go to the T-Werx website, www.t-werx.com .

T-Werx Coworking is a shared office and education facility. Members are typically small businesses and remote workers. We provide an alternative to coffee shops/restaurants and working from home. Both of our Austin locations include open seating, Dedicated Desks and Hot Desks, and Private Offices.

5 Shocking Mistakes Killing Your Productivity

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 12:13:27 GMT

In our distraction filled world it can be difficult to have a productive day. Have you ever reached the end of the day and thought, “What the heck did I do today”? You know you were busy, but did you accomplish anything.

While technology has theoretically made our lives more productive, if our use of it is not controlled, we can become less and less productive. How many times have you started your day by checking email and looked up 2 hours later? Or you are going to take a quick break and check Facebook and look up 30 minutes later?

If you don’t control your time it will gladly control you. What is the solution to making yourself productive again?

1. WORK SESSIONS

One of the biggest changes that I made in the last 2 years was the addition of Work Sessions to my schedule. These are typically 50 minute blocks of time 4 times per day that focus me on completing projects.

The idea for these time blocked sessions came from the Mastery Journal created by John Lee Dumas of the Entrepreneur On Fire. The Mastery Journal is a 100 day journal that helps you to become more productive and disciplined each day.

Implementing this into my life and then adding the Work Sessions to my calendar (see above), I am ensured that complete 4 projects per day. With 261 work days per year that is 1044 projects completed!

2. GIVE ME A BREAK

Have you ever focused on a project for hours and then looked up and found that you really had not accomplished as much as you thought. Often in these marathon sessions, I find my mind wandering or I look something up on the internet and go down a rabbit hole.

What is the cure to this problem? Schedule regular breaks for yourself. Set a timer on your phone and when it goes off, get up immediately whether you have finished your project or not. You will find your mind clearer and you will be more productive.

3. DITCH THE HIP HOP

This pains me, but I love to listen to music while I work on projects. One of my favorites is 90s Hip Hop. One of the things that I learned over the last year was that this habit was actually affecting my work. Music with lyrics can be highly distracting.

My friend Omari Broussard of 10X Strategies Consulting turned me on to a new trend in mental focus with custom designed instrumental music. I am currently testing a site called Brain.FM .

For about $7 a month you can login, tell it how long you want it to run for and select music for either Focus, Relaxation or Sleep.

4. “CHUNK” YOUR APPOINTMENTS

One of the biggest killers of your productivity is meetings. Spending an hour on the road to get to an appointment is a waste of time in most cases.

People are often amazed at how many appointments that I will have in a week. Running three businesses keeps me extremely busy and quite often I will have between 6-8 meetings per day. How do I do it?

I refer to the process of meetings as “Chunking”. If I am scheduling meetings, they are typically in one place. Now I own two Coworking Spaces, so this makes it easy for me to do this, but the same process can be done at a coffee shop or restaurant. Schedule multiple back to back appointments and you will be amazed at how much you can accomplish.

Better still, see if you can book half hour phone appointments like my friend Matthew Pollard. Matthew is a master of keeping his meetings on point and limited to 30 minutes. When he sets a day aside for phone appointments he can work up to 20 in a day!

5. UNCLUTTER THE EMAIL BOX

One of the big killers for me is managing email. I have 3 businesses and over 9 email accounts that receive on average of 300-400 emails daily. Something that I implemented recently is a program called Unroll.me .

One of the greatest parts of this program is that it identifies all the things you are subscribed to and gives you the option to Unsubscribe or “Roll Up” these emails. This has allowed me to finally unsubscribe from things that I had been deleting when I would go through email. It is easy and quick.

The rollup portion of the program takes the subscribed emails that you get and puts them into categories so that you can check them all at one time instead of having to go through your inbox.

CONCLUSION

These are just a few ways that you can gain your productivity back. Gaining back that time that is wasted every day can mean the difference between a successful business and one that is struggling.

Give these a try and then hit me up on social media or comment on this blog to let me know how they worked for you.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Tammy McKinney

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 18:44:28 GMT

“Unlocking Your Best Life”

Tammy McKinney knows better than anyone, “Change has always been part of the journey.”

In our interview with Tammy, she tells us about her ever changing journey leading to her fantastic program “Unlocking Your Best Life”.

Tammy McKinney began her journey by pushing boundaries as a young female in the Chemical Industry. When Tammy started her Wellness and Fitness company almost 14 years ago, she started it with the intent of making positive changes within her life. Tying together her philosophies for wellness with her knowledge in running a business she discovered her keys to unlocking her best life through helping others. Today Tammy is striving to bring those keys for personal success to business owners and professionals alike. Her goals for the next year is to expand her program onto an online platform to get her message out globally.

Find out more about Tammy McKinney and Unlocking Your Best Life: https://unlocking.life/

Tammy’s Recommended books…
“Dare to Lead” By Brene Brown: https://tinyurl.com/y5kqfetk
“Leadershift” By John Maxwell: https://tinyurl.com/y3lqfn2n

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel feat. Christel Gustafson of Vine Financial Partners

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 18:28:17 GMT

Christel Gustafson was through with the normal 8 to 5 in a big corp job. When she met her business partner, Nathan Owen, she found her new calling in providing bookkeeping services to small businesses that could use the help! Here is her story.

Vine Financial Partners are trying to give small to medium businesses the solid foundation they need in their finances in order to run their businesses efficiently and effectively. With the addition of their “Bookkeeping Plus” they are offering their clients even more services such as tax planning and financial statement to help them grow in their businesses. Christel Gustafson stands for giving local businesses a fighting chance in their scalability through high-end book keeping of their finances paired with consultation.

Find out more about Grace Vine Financial Partners: https://vinefinancialpartners.com/

Christel’s Recommended books…
“Captivate” by Vanessa VanEdwards: https://tinyurl.com/y8u2h455
“Never Split the Difference” by Chris Voss: https://tinyurl.com/y39ytveq

The Importance of Being on Time

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Being on time doesn’t come naturally to everyone. The biggest trick for improving your time management is just knowing the importance of punctuality.

Being late weakens your position and trust...

When you’re late, you’re starting off on the wrong foot. Nobody wants to start a business meeting with an apology. You will be stressed and scattered, which will make the other person question your character and reliability. If you can’t even be trusted to be on time, why would a customers trust you with their money? You will make a great impression if you are early by showing the other person you respect their valuable time.

Being on time instantly makes the person feel valued and appreciated. Time is money... when you arrive five minutes late you’ve just stolen something of value from the other person, which is NOT a great way to start a meeting.

Being late communicates alot about your integrity…

Lateness says something about your respect for other people. It tells them you think your time is more important than theirs. Being late communicates disorganization and carelessness. Being on time tells others that you’re trustworthy, considerate, and that their relationship is important to you.

There’s no good excuse...

Unless it's a real emergency, there is no good excuse for bring late. Sleeping late and traffic are results of poor planning and prioritization. Being late is like shooting yourself in the foot. Being on time is an incredibly simple way to impress others, grow trust and build a relationship.

Being on time matters! It communicates to others whether they can trust and rely on you. It gives others insight into how you view them and how you view yourself. Being chronically late can have consequences, and it’s a seemingly small thing that can have a huge and lasting negative effect on your career. Learning the importance of punctuality is an incredibly simple way to set yourself apart from the crowd. It allows you to make a good impression, and it can help you reach your goals faster by helping others see you as someone worth listening to.

Take ownership of your time! Know the importance of punctuality and choose never to be late again.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Belinda Mendoza

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 18:59:22 GMT

How Does Your Work Space Impact Your Profits?

Feng Shui Master, Belinda Mendoza, has take her passion for accumulating good energy to business offices all over Austin! Jeff sits down with Belinda to learn about her entrepreneurial journey into office design and mastering the art of Feng Shui.

Belinda Mendoza and her company "Design For Energy" use Feng Shui philosophy for design to help businesses to work in efficient and productive spaces. Belinda believes a great office space will eventually lead to profits and growth. Having a space that people love to work in makes all the difference in the entrepreneurial mindset and productivity.

Learn More about Design For Energy: http://designforenergy.com/

Belinda's Recommended Book: "Ask and It Is Given" By Esther and Jerry Hicks: http://tinyurl.com/y3dlwvfe

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Grace Lanni

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 21:35:24 GMT

Grace Lanni started from humble beginnings as a Biomedical Electrical Engineer. In the crazy twist and turns of life, Grace became All About That Brand! Jeff Kikel sits to find out how an electrical engineer becomes a branding consultant.

In our “Fast 5” Segment, we always start of asking our interviewees what they would do when business is gone and all they have is a bit of money and a couple of tools. For Grace Lanni, this scenario was her reality in the early 2000s. In the city of Austin, she leveraged her small network and found a need in therealm of branding and business consultation. She took initiatives to become a self-made branding consultant. In her company, Grace has designed a three module system for businesses to establish their brand. Today Grace Lanni is recognized internationally for her “All About That Brand” podcast and one of the best personal branding influencers for consultants.

Find out more about Grace Lanni: https://allaboutthatbrand.com/

Grace’s Recommended books…
“Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown: http://tinyurl.com/y5kqfetk
“What Happens in Vegas Stays on YouTube” by Erik Qualman: http://tinyurl.com/yy2edhwz

Entrepreneurial Failure...Get used to It

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

To be a successful entrepreneur you are going to have to learn to deal with failure.

There is no way around it.

Thomas Edison tried over ten thousand different experiments before he finally demonstrated the first incandescent light bulb on October 21, 1879. Bill Gates' first company, Traf-O-Data, was a failure. Michael Jordan was once quoted as saying: "I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot; and missed. I've failed over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."

In my short stint as an entrepreneur, I've failed more times than I can count. I have also had my share of success, but it’s not even close to equal. The failures far outweigh the successes, and I’m sure I have a lot more failure ahead of me. I’m OK with that because I know that as soon as I stop failing, I have stopped trying to innovate.

It's the nature of the business of being an entrepreneur, and of success in general. If it were easy, everyone would do it. It is naive to think that every good idea that you have will result in a successful business venture.

I have yet to hear an entrepreneur say "every single idea I come up with seems to work." More likely, you hear something like "I failed at my first five businesses before this one took off." (which I have). Think about that for a second. Five businesses. Sometimes the number is three, sometimes it's 20, but the important point is that most entrepreneurs don't hit a home-run with their first company.

It really does amaze me - how many people have the stones to fail five times and still start a sixth business? You have to be supremely confident and treat those previous five times as a learning experience for the sixth. And if number six fails, you have to do the same and move on to number seven.

In my opinion, the most important thing is how you deal with failure. Once you accept that it's inevitable, you are able to learn from your mistakes and move on. It's easy to let the failure consume you - not so much because you are pessimistic, but more so because it is hard to see something that you poured your heart and soul into being ignored or rejected.

As soon as possible you need to come to the realization that your business is what they are ignoring or rejecting, NOT you. The sooner you do that, the sooner you can objectively analyze why you failed and learn the things necessary for improvement in the future.\

Failure isn't easy and is extremely frustrating, but it's a necessary part of success.

Don't believe me? Ask Thomas Edison, Bill Gates or Michael Jordan! Ok, asking Thomas Edison might be a little tough, but you get the idea :)

Jeff Kikel is the CEO/Founder of T-Werx Coworking and the Founder of Profit Producers an entrepreneur education program designed to help entrepreneurs get to profitability as soon as possible. Jeff lives in the Austin, TX area. Jeff is the host of Entrepreneur Essentials on YouTube and the Profit Nation Podcast on ITunes and most of the major podcast platforms.

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Don't go through failure alone.
Check out our success-werx team : a team of our best mentors here at T-Werx Coworking.
Find your Tribe of like-minded people by checking out our meet up groups Here

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat: Denise Antoon

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 17:38:02 GMT

Denise Antoon’s is an expert in marketing research and optimizing customer experience. In her extensive experiences working in Public Relations for both celebrities and small businesses, she has created a philosophy of “personal touch” that thrives in creating loyal customers. Jeff Kikel sit down to talk about her story and experiences.

Denise is bother founder and CEO for her company “Antoon Group” as well as her second company “The Human Experience Group” right here in Austin Texas. She emphasizes the importance of marketing research to fully understand who the idea customer is for various small businesses and how to create loyal clientele communities. Her philosophy revolves around giving customers an “experience” via hosting various events mix with social media engagement that both celebrate them and promote her client’s businesses.

Find out more about Denise Antoon: http://www.antoongroup.com/

Denise’s Recommended book “The Fire Starter Sessions” by Danielle Laporte: https://tinyurl.com/y2ar33h3

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. RF Insurance Masters CEO Ray Freer

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 18:30:54 GMT

Ray Freer has had a long journey from his bachelor’s in electrical engineering to launching his own Health Insurance business! What sort of journey leads an electrical engineer to a business in health insurance? Jeff sits down with Ray to find out.

Ray Freer takes joy in helping small businesses figure out the best health insurance plans for their company. In his experiences working with shady health insurance brokers, he decided to take matters into his own hands and create a wholesome business dedicated to finding their clients competitive premiums and plans that work for them.

Find out more about RF Insurance Masters: https://www.rfimasters.com/

Ray’s Recommended book “Who’s In Your Room” by Dr. Ivan Misner: https://tinyurl.com/y8abzo7j

The WHY behind a Website.....

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Having a website is about sharing your story and providing value to your clients. It isn’t just about selling. Why should you have a website?

Your client wants to see your online presence. They want to learn more about you and your product. If you aren't arm with a credible business website some clients may look elsewhere.
Your clients are look for social proof. Online reviews and testimonials are power influences in converting leads into customers. Don’t rely on Yelp or Google reviews, include testimonials on your site to impress potential clients.
This is your opportunity to share your story! A company blog will help you share your message, mission, and personality in front of your target audience. It's a chance to let them know what you know and build credibility in your industry. Additionally, linking to your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other networking platforms make sharing your content easier.
Your competitors all have websites right? Business has inevitably become digital. Your clients are actively researching & looking for recommendations from friends in their community. They go online to educate themselves , read testimonials, and read reviews. So if you’re not sharing your story, you’re giving people a reason to buy from another business.
You want to show up in Google search results! The more active you are on your website and social media, the more likely you will show up on google. People go to Google and type in one or more keywords if they know what they want. If you don’t have a website the chances of you showing up are zero.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Global Speaker Tonya Hofmann

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 18:12:49 GMT

Tonya Hofmann is an excellent public speaker that has been booked nationally and yet rejected by various public speaking groups. Since then, she has taken matters into her own hands to created the “Public Speakers Association”, an online group that welcomes all speakers of all levels!

Tonya was fed up with being treated as inferior when it came to public speaking, so she decided to make her own association. That is, an online group that welcomes all speakers with all kinds of experiences and personalities wanting to spread their message and change lives! Using her years of experience and large network of international connections, Tonya is changing lives every meeting and getting people connected to speaking opportunities everywhere.

Find out more about Public Speakers Association: http://publicspeakersassociation.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel feat. Play That Uke! Mardi Wareham

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 21:23:18 GMT

When Mardi Wareham discovered the joy of singing, she knew she couldn’t stop. Mardi wanted to find away to sing for a living and make people happy. She has managed to do just that starting with her singing telegrams and team building workshops.

Play that Uke! Is a workshop teaching people how to work together through the art of playing music and songwriting. Mardi Wareham chooses the ukulele because anyone can learn it and jump into playing songs. She often works with austin tech companies, hotels, accounting firms, universities, and other associations.

Find out more about Mardi Wareham: http://www.playthatuke.com

Mardi’s Recommended book “Becoming” by Michelle Obama: https://tinyurl.com/y76ue6q8

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. HotDog Marketing CEO Jessica Scanlon

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 19:35:46 GMT

We sat down with the vivacious CEO of HotDog Marketing, Jessica Scanlon to find out how she climbed the ranks to becoming Austin’s best digital marketing agency in 2017. Her company’s story is a true inspiration to small businesses everywhere.

Jessica made her start working for big corporations yet felt she hadn’t truly made her mark. Starting HotDog Marketing allowed her to feel that she was truly making a difference in her community by catering specifically to small and medium local businesses in Central Texas. She is inspired by the independent spirit of small business owners and strives to be their all in one resource for their digital marketing needs.

Find out more about HotDog Marketing: https://hotdogmarketing.net/

Jessica’s Recommended books:
- “Purple Cow” by Seth Godin: https://tinyurl.com/ya4rhzsp
- “Rework” by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson: https://tinyurl.com/j9n3669

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Dr. Fred Blum

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 19:12:43 GMT

Dr. Fred Blum started his career as a holistic chiropractor that sparked a spiritual journey to his new calling as a life coach. He sits with us to explain his work goes beyond the limitation of a “life coach”.

Dr. Fred Blum wants to make an impact on the world through his ideal clientele of leaders and guiding them through teaching them how to deal with their stress. Rather than administering advice, Fred focuses on having meaningful discussions with his clients that allow them to come to their own insight and solutions to their internal struggles. Dr. Blum has dedicated himself to his service to others.

Find out more about Dr. Fred Blum: http://energyrichliving.net/

Fred’s Recommended book “The Inside Out Revolution” by Michael Neil: https://tinyurl.com/yaljk3ow

What is your clients first impression?

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 20:27:16 GMT

Your very first meeting with a new client is basically the most important. This is where they make up their mind about your work and how perhaps they might be able to collaborate with you. Should you meet in a coffee shop or spend the same amount on a conference room, where WIFI and refreshments are included? A coffee shop does provide a neutral ground with obvious amenities, but what it lacks is privacy and professionalism that a conference room offers.

What kinds of meetings shouldn’t you arrange in a coffee shop?

A meeting that includes more than three or four people
A meeting requiring a whiteboard or video presentation
A meeting that may run longer than an hour
A meeting discussing financials

Here are some of the key reasons why you need to change your approach to your meetings and leave the coffee shops... Unpredictable, Slow and Touchy Wi-Fi; Too Many Distractions and lack of Enough Space.

In conclusion, a professional conference room gives the right impression to your clients. Holding a meeting in a coffee shop or even a restaurant gives you and your clients an opportunity to come out of the office but the perceived risks of unpredictable people or crowds, touchy Wi-Fi, verbal and non-verbal miscommunications. Do you want to risk losing out on business just because that coffee shop you went to was loudly playing music and your new client had a hard time hearing you?

Learn more about our Conference Rooms

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. iWorkZone Brad Lambden

Sat, 05 Jan 2019 18:47:40 GMT

iWorkZone is an innovative application matching job seekers with the perfect careers based on their personality. CEO Brad Lambden sits down with Jeff Kikel to explain how this scientific system works and the services they provide for both employees and employers.

Brad Lambden is an “Entrepreneur of Opportunity” that has found meaning through helping his clients via iWorkZone. His goal is to streamline the career seeking process from as early as highschool and all through retirement; to match people from all walks of life with their dream job.

Find out more about iWorkZone: https://www.iworkzone.com/
Brad’s Recommended book, “Think and Grow Rich” by Napolean Hill: https://tinyurl.com/yb6ohz9c

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Michael Hundley

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 22:01:30 GMT

Michael Hundley takes is financial experiences and brings them into his big role as CEO of Vista Solutions, a government contractor in the technology space providing data capture, digitizing, and storage solutions.

Michael Hundley want to push the horizons of Vista Solutions to continue to serve the private sector as well as small businesses with it's data and document storage services. His experience in sales, marketing, and financing equips him with the tools for his sound decision making that has lead Vista Solutions to the success is knows today.

Learn More: https://www.vistasg.com/

Mike's Recommended Book: https://www.amazon.com/100-Startup-Reinvent-Living-Create/dp/0307951529

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel feat. Angela’s Accents

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 23:03:56 GMT

Angela Hobbs-Lopez left her career as a children’s Psychologist in the pursuit of a business she loves! She finds beauty in the most unsuspecting places in a business to refurbish furniture: taking old and forgotten to create something fresh! We wanted to find out what inspired her drastic change and how her vision became a reality.

Angela has garnered 10 years of education with a Master in Psychology and yet has chosen to pursue a small business in refurbishing and redesigning furniture and handbags. She carries her ability to see through the sadness of the forgotten and find value in both people and old furniture. Her dream is to take off in her business: Angela’s Accents and give back through an apprenticeship program for Adolescents in need of guidance and creative outlets.

Find out more about Angela’s Accents: http://www.angelasaccents.net/

Angela’s Accents Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AngelasAccentsShop

Angela’s Recommended book, “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgeson: https://tinyurl.com/yanqhkn4

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Paul O'Brien

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 21:10:25 GMT

Paul O'Brien believes the city of Austin is the key to stitching together Tech, Media, and innovative industries. Jeff Kikel got to sit down and hear his entrepreneurial Journey, everything he has learned, and what he believes is the future of business: Moving away from big corporations.

Paul O'Brien brings years of experience from Silicon Valley in various roles: from advertising design for Yahoo to marketing for HP. Now as a Venture Capitalist, Paul has chosen Austin, TX in his mission to cultivate technology and start-up culture. His role as CEO in MediaTech Ventures and Director of his own incubator program allows him to further invest and grow technology in media.

Learn More: https://seobrien.com/

Paul's Recommended Read: https://tinyurl.com/Innovation-and-Entrepreneur

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Morning Sunshine Breakfast Coffee Treats

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 18:38:08 GMT

There isn't an entrepreneur out there that doesn't start their day with a cup of hot coffee and a glazed donut! Tee and Tamara Cchay are in the business of kick-starting your day with their signature donuts and freshly roasted cup of java. Jeff Kikel sits down to find out the secret to success behind their business "Morning Sunshine Breakfast".

Tee and Tamara Cchay saw the Donut business as a fun opportunity to bring creativity and quality into their breakfast treats. It isn't about the donuts, but about creating an inclusive family-friendly community starting at their shop and continuing into their catering services. Be sure to stop by either in Cedar Park or Austin, and ask for their signature Brisket Kolache!

Learn More: http://morningsunshinebreakfast.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Maria Gatling

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 16:59:56 GMT

Maria Gatling is on a mission to color the world with long lost creativity. Her passion for art, design, and all things creative is brought to life in the workshops she hosts around the Austin and the Cedar Park community. Jeff Kikel has the pleasure of sitting down with Maria and finding out how her unique business came to life.

Maria worked in Graphic Design and Publishing before deciding to create her own series of workshops based on inspiring creative thinking. Using her book “Project 52” as her guide, she has created a multitude of workshops that focuses on exercising bringing out your inner artist. Whether or not art is your strong suit, Maria finds a way to help get people thinking outside of the box using simple tasks that everyone can do.

Find out more about Maria Gatlings Book, Project 52: https://tinyurl.com/y968xujj
Maria’s Recommended book, “The Creative Habit” by Twyla Tharp: https://tinyurl.com/y8mzpwhy
Learn more: http://mariagatling.com/

Coworking Combats Loneliness: A Member Testimonial

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 20:58:12 GMT

It’s a typical Monday morning, sitting in your home office and shifting through client receipts. Maybe you play a little music or maybe the only sound in the house is the echoes of a ticking clock from your kitchen down the hall. You stop to look out the window with a sunken feeling, uninspired and unmotivated. It’s simply Monday for the average Freelancer… at home, working alone, and feeling stuck.

Tara Johnson is the owner of North Bay Bookkeeping for 12 years and has been a Member at T-werx since June of 2017. She provides bookkeeping services to small businesses that are looking to outsource their accounting needs to keep focus on developing their business.

For years Tara had been running her business from home, struggled with meeting new people, and overcoming isolation. When she learned about T-Werx through a colleague and former member, Chappell Oates, she decided to try coworking out for herself.

“ Last year, I joined T-Werx for what I thought was going to be a 3 month summer term. I have now been a member for well over a year. I stayed with T-Werx because of the community. My team of trusted advisors has grown, my circle of friends has grown and my bank balance has grown. ”

Steve King of the Harvard Business Review reports that 82% of Members in coworking spaces have expanded their professional networks in which 64% saw growth in leads and referrals. ( Source )

Tara attributes her social success to Marketing and Community Director Michelle Johnson, who has coached her on how to effectively increase her network.

“ Jeff and Michelle invest their time and energy into building a community that fosters solopreneurs and small businesses alike… The collaboration among members is my favorite perk in the T-Werx community. I feel like I have a team of trusted advisers who have my best interests at heart. Many members generously share their knowledge and expertise. I have learned so much from T-Werx staff and its members. ”

To freelancers working from home, Tara had this to say:

“ I highly recommend T-Werx to any entrepreneur or remote worker who feels isolated and seeks a community. T-Werx has brought a lot more fun into my world. Because of the T-Werx community I have made friends, earned clients, gained education, grown my professional network and so much more.

Today, Tara Johnson is on our

Success-Werx Team. She offers a one hour complimentary consultation to T-Werx members. We thank Tara Johnson for believing in the T-Werx mission!

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Meredith Casey

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 18:23:08 GMT

Meredith Casey, COO of EPMG Advisors, sits down with Jeff Kikel this week for Entrepreneur Essentials. She tells us why her payment management company is the answer to the headaches of Merchant Services for small businesses.

"We are not Merchant Services, we are the answer to merchant services" says Meredith. Her and her husband, originally from Pennsylvania, have brought their passion for payment management services to the Austin, Texas business world. Meredith's experience in banking combined with her husband's career in Merchant Services and being a small business owner themselves, inspires their mission to make payment management easy to understand for business owners. EPMG Advisors strive to help teach business owners the proper set up for payment management systems that follow the wholesome principles their company was founded on.

Learn More: https://www.epmgadvisors.com/our-story
Meredith's Book Recommendation: Reimagine By Tom Peters ( https://www.amazon.com/Re-Imagine-Business-Excellence-Disruptive-Age/dp/078949647X )

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Michelle Ellis

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Michelle Ellis is not your average Real Estate Agent. Her referral base system keeps her focused on quality customer service for clients looking to buy or sell. Today we learned about her journey into Real Estate and how this ties into starting her own podcast and blog.

Michelle has been in Real Estate all her life. It wasn’t until 2009 she began to consider Real Estate as a career. Through her life experiences she has developed a set of “do’s” and “don’ts” when it comes to selling your home while saving money over renovations and fees. Michelle’s book breaks her list down and saves home owners from fundamental mistakes.
Find out more about Michelle’s Book: http://michellemellis.com/my-book/
Learn more: http://michellemellis.com/
Phone number: (512) 203-0516

Michelle’s Book Recommendations:
“Principles” By Ray Dalio: https://amzn.to/2nw1pkh
“The Bible”: https://amzn.to/2KF7xQg

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Heather Rider

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Heather Rider is The Energy Synergist. In this episodes, we hear from new business owner Heather Rider and how she went from High-Tech Product Manager to Reiki Master.

Heather Rider is a new kind of Energy Healer. After undergoing a cosmic Reiki experience her outlook on Energy has never been the same. Her unique corporate background as a high tech manager brings business skills uncommon to most Reiki Masters.
Learn More: https://www.theenergysynergist.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel feat. Omari Broussard

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Introducing our very own Omari Broussard, an excellent digital marketer operating right out of T-werx. In this episode Jeff Kikel get the scoop on the ups and downs of Omari's Entrepreneurial Journey. Omari Broussard knew he was an entrepreneur by the time he was 9 offering landscaping services around his neighborhood. As a military veteran, he started his business 10x Defense: a business service providing firearm training for police and civilians. Through his small business he discovered his talent and passion for digital Marketing. Today his time and energy is focused on growing his marketing consulting business. Learn More: https://www.facebook.com/theomaribrou...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. CC Mullen

Sun, 29 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet CC Mullen, CEO of Compensation and Organization Solutions inc and a Collaboration Architect.

"Compensation and Organization Solutions, Inc. helps small to mid size companies and the people in them be more mutually successful through the use of strategic total compensation programs and win win partnership communication tools that engage employees and increase the bottom line."
-- http://www.compandorgsolutions.com/ab ...

CC Mullen has been in the business of helping companies find success. By implementing programs and strategies that help to set their employees up for success. She has dedicated her career to strengthening collaboration within businesses. Her recent studies in neuroscience have given her even more tools to help companies achieve their goals.

Learn More: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cc-mullen ...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Levi Murray III

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Levi Murray III is owner of Elements Therapeutic Massage and a consultant at B2B ME (Business to Business Made Easy). Jeff Kikel has the pleasure of discovering Levi's entrepreneurial journey.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Jan Triplett

Wed, 11 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Jan Triplett is CEO of the Business Success Center: a company that provides growth structures for small businesses to follow. Jan Triplett joins Jeff Kikel in this episode to tell us her journey in starting her business.

As CEO of Business Success center, Jan Triplett believes business growth comes down to a 7 step process. Jan uses her PHD, experience in corporate environment, and the university environment as an adjunct professor to educate smaller businesses on how to double efficiency and profits. She continues to contribute to her community through working with businesses and institutions on new education programs.

Learn More: http://ownersview.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Joey McGirr

Thu, 28 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Joey McGirr, CEO McGirr Enterprises and Master of Social Media Marketing with Jeff Kikel on today's Entrepreneur Essentials.

Joey McGirr is a self-taught Social Media Marketer who's built his enterprise on the foundation of guerilla marketing: "A good networker doesn't know everybody, they know all the good networkers". 8 years later, Joey McGirr has established his own successful company that manages social media services for various businesses and budgets.

Learn More: http://mcgirrenterprises.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Darlene Templeton

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Darlene Templeton of Templeton and Associates with Jeff Kikel on Entrepreneur Essentials at T-werx Coworking.

Darlene Templeton found her calling while working at IBM to help people and be in service. Today she is in the business of Success and Growth as a life coach and business consultant. This year, Templeton and Associates are focusing on helping their clients build confidence in their careers.

Learn more about Darlene's mission as CEO and founder of Templeton and Associates http://darlenetempleton.com/about/
Connect with Darlene Templeton https://www.linkedin.com/in/darlene-h...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Sehar Aijaz

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Sehar Aijaz, Attorney and Counselor-at-Law and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Sehar is an Attorney and Counselor-at-Law admitted to the State Bar of Texas. Prior to starting the Law Offices of Sehar Aijaz based out of Austin, Texas, she worked for a law firm based out of New Delhi, India that focused on business and corporate law. During that time, she had the opportunity to work with companies and individuals based in the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, India and the United Arab Emirates. This gave her an international exposure and training in understanding how businesses work globally.

Sehar is experienced in advising businesses across jurisdictions which helps her recognize the problems faced by companies in their day-to-day management and affairs. She is qualified to assist organizations in managing their risks and liabilities while making the best use of opportunities.

At the Law Offices of Sehar Aijaz, Sehar want to use my training and experience to assist and represent start-ups, small companies, and non-profit organizations so that they can also have access to superior legal services of international quality.

Learn more about Law Offices of Sehar Aijaz, PLLC: https://www.seharlaw.com/
Connect with Sehar Aijaz at https://www.linkedin.com/in/seharaijaz/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Kyle Bailey

Thu, 24 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Kyle Bailey of FrontBurner Marketing and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Kyle Bailey is a Strategist, Sales Consultant, SEO Marketing, Speaker and Author. His specialties are: Professional Speaker, Small Business Sales Coach, Online Marketing Expert (SEO, Wordpress, Content Strategy, Social), Brand awareness and promotion, Building out and optimizing strategic online assets, Untangling and simplifying web strategies.

Learn more about FrontBurner Marketing: http://frontburnermarketing.net/
Connect with Kyle Bailey at https://www.linkedin.com/in/thekyleba...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Kyle Dalton

Thu, 24 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Kyle Dalton of Local Eat and Drink and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

For more than 25 years, Kyle has been blessed to cover the Austin sports scene writing for the Austin American-Statesman, San Antonio Express-News, and my own magazine–Capital City Sports Report, as well as numerous sports-related web sites.

During that time, he also developed professionally exploring a variety of different areas including coding/scripting, graphic design, sales, marketing and most recently, entrepreneurial ventures.

With his experience as an entrepreneur, he created Local ePerks. It's a hyper-local discount email marketing program, which he operated for four years in four different markets. For the last four years, he has been the proud owner/operator of Local Eat and Drink, Cedar Park's only local-based restaurant delivery service, providing delivery from more than 30 restaurants to Cedar Park and Leander.

Learn more about Local Eat and Drink: https://www.localeatanddrink.com/
Connect with Kyle Dalton at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-dalt...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Phil Duprey

Thu, 24 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Phil Duprey of Duprey Enterprises and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

I help regular people with their applications to local government bureaucracies because I speak bureaucratize. Not legal advice; just practical help.

Connect with Phil Duprey at https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-dupr...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Felicia Reed

Tue, 22 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Felicia Reed, Photographer and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Felicia Reed Photography is a portrait photography studio taken to a new level. Our services are uniquely designed to help the client truly understand his/her own value and genuinely enjoy the way they look and feel, not just for the duration of the shoot but for long after as well. By handling every aspect of the shoot from wardrobe and hair to makeup and other syling, Felicia Reed’s services provide a full experience that alleviates insecurity and breeds a confident rich environment for the client.

Learn more about Felicia Reed Photography: http://www.feliciareed.com/
Connect with Felicia Reed at https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicia-r...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Crystal Gultz

Sat, 12 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Crystal Gultz of Fresh Floors & More and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Fresh Floors & More is in your neighborhood. We are a family owned carpet cleaning company servicing all of Austin and the surrounding areas. We offer many years of experience with residential, commercial and property management clients. Our employees are highly trained, experienced and passionate individuals who are completely dedicated to our customer’s satisfaction.

Learn more about Fresh Floors and More: https://freshfloorsandmore.com/
Connect with Crystal Gultz at https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystal-g...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Ed Trevis of Corvalent

Fri, 11 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Ed Trevis of Corvalent and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Ed Trevis has been Corvalent President and Chief Executive Officer since the company’s inception in 1993. His leadership and business acumen attributed to double-digit growth and a rapid gain in the company’s market share.

Corvalent provides cost-effective industrial computing solutions. Corvalent, a trusted leader in industrial embedded computing, ensures success by offering long-life motherboards, systems and custom turn-key solutions that help customers make the most of their applications. Corvalent manufactures and designs consistent, lasting products and provides customers with availability and support for years to come. By designing for longevity risk is lowered, and total cost of ownership is significantly minimized.

Learn more about Corvalent at https://corvalent.com/
Connect with Ed Trevis at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-trevis...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Jessica Clarke

Thu, 03 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Jessica Clarke, Independent Wardrobe Consultant and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Jessica believes in the importance to feel confident through every commitment. Dressing to impress ourselves first, to establish a comfort in our own skin. She believes in the possibility to not be ruled by fashion, by spending no more than 5 minutes in the closet and getting dressed with ease.

Most importantly, Jessica believes style is more than fitting a trend. Style is you. Its your personality, your mood, your likes, your life. Style is the unique thing that makes you YOU and its that individuality that sets you apart and inspires possibilities from every end.

Learn more at https://itsjustlivinglifestyle.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Ryan Hansanuwat

Thu, 03 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Ryan Hansanuwat of Mode Design Company and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Ryan Hansauway is a registered architect in California and Texas. He is NCARB Certified and a LEED Accredited Professional with project experience. Ryan is experienced in building information modeling, graphic design and website design.

Learn more about Mode Design Company, an Architecture firm specializing in Public and Private commercial design: http://www.modedc.us/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Patricia Selmo

Tue, 01 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Patricia Selmo, Visual Storyteller and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Patricia Selmo is a graphic recorder (also known as visual storyteller or live scribe), content creator and coach with 20+ years of experience in Instructional Design, Business Analysis, Project and Change Management. By combining this with her strengths in listening and pattern-finding, she helps bring life to boring meetings, guides coaches and consultants in creating their own programs and packages, and helps individuals and teams make the difference they are meant to make in the world.

She has used her graphic techniques with major companies and small non-profits and believes this a great way to impart and retain information and break down barriers to communication in strategy sessions, brainstorming and even conflict management.

Learn more about Patricia Selmo at https://patriciaselmo.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Diego Segura

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Diego Segura of Thirdbreath and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Thirdbreath designs brand identity. They feel your brand NEEDS to figure out who it is and what it's going to look like. That's what they do.

Learn more at http://thirdbreath.com
Contact Diego at diego@thirdbreath.com

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Matthew Melchor

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Matthew Melchor of Smokey Mo's BBQ and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

It's a Family BBQ Business - The Melchor family and the Smokey Mo’s family has been actively involved with the community since we started. They invite you to enjoy some good ol’ Texas BBQ done right. From the excellent food, to the smiling faces, they are awaiting your next visit.

No matter which way you spell it… BBQ, Barbecue, Bar-B-Q or Bar-b-que. Smokey Mo’s is serving up some good Bar-B-Q for those lucky enough to live in Cedar Park, Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Leander, Liberty Hill, Conroe, Boerne, New Braunfels and San Antonio.

Learn more about Smokey Mo's BBQ at http://www.smokeymosbbq.com/
Contact them at (512) 528-0090
info@smokeymosbbq.com

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Eyal Gallico

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Eyal Gallico of TopMac IT Solutions and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Gallico believes in the direct approach in business. He is the person who will provide you with non biased advice when you need it. He will take care of what you need and not what you don't.

TopMac is the company he started with his near 20 years experience in computers, and all aspects of IT - with a little push from his Mom and wonderful wife Katie!

After some years of helping many, many people with questions ranging from their computer problems, peripherals, network, home theater systems, multimedia needs, and conducting free technology workshops for senior residents in Cedar Park, Leander and Round Rock, TopMac was born.

Learn more about TopMac IT Solutions at https://www.topmac.guru/
Contact them at 512-827-8532 or support@topmac.guru

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Anna Bauereis

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Dr. Anna Bauereis of Brain Balance of Cedar Park and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Since 2006, Brain Balance Achievement Centers has helped thousands of children ages of 4 to 17 reach their, academic, social and behavioral potential through its drug-free, whole-child approach. The Brain Balance Program® is a one-stop-shop, whole child experience that utilizes sensory motor exercises, neuro-academic work and nutritional guidance to address the root cause of many learning and behavioral issues.

Direct coordination with each child’s school and family grocery store tours allows Brain Balance of Austin’s passionate staff to walk alongside each family and make a lasting difference in the local Austin community - one family and one generation at a time.

Connect with Anna Bauereis at https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabauer...
Learn more at https://www.brainbalancecenters.com/o...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. Dr. Maryam Boushehri

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Dr. Maryam Boushehri of Pathway to Wellness Chiropractic and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Dr. Boushehri is a proud graduate of the prestigious Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, MO. While in St. Louis she also earned a second bachelors degree in human biology. She is licensed by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners as well as the Texas State Board of Examiners and she is proficient in many chiropractic techniques which she uses to serve a variety of clients with different needs.

Pathway to Wellness Chiropractic was created with one goal in mind: to provide you and your family with quality chiropractic care in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Dr. Boushehri is committed to a better way of life by teaching and practicing the true principles of chiropractic care, nutrition and lifestyle choices.

Contact Dr. Boushehri at pathwaytowellnesschiro@gmail.com
Learn more at http://www.pathwaytowellness.net/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Feat. David & Dr. Miller

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet David & Dr Miller of Premier Health MD and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Concierge Direct Primary Care medical practice located in Cedar Park, Texas. Our patients enjoy an unmatched level of attention, service and access from Dr. Melissa Miller.

At Premier Health MD, you get complete access to personalized care. As a member, you will receive your doctor’s personal cell phone number, so you will be able to get care when you need it most. You will also get guaranteed same or next day appointments with your doctor that actually start on time, appointments that last as long as you want them to, the Premier Health Wellness Program which includes an annual physical exam along with comprehensive lab work, and free office visits in a beautiful relaxing environment, all for an affordable monthly fee.

Contact Dr. Miller at appointments@premierhealthmdtx.com
Learn more at http://www.premierhealthmdtx.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel feat. Sunnie Fox

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Sunnie Fox of Eileen's Colossal Cookies and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Eileen's Colossal Cookies is a Nebraska original. The Fox family fell in love with Eileen's almost 20 years ago. Sunnie was a teacher for 10 years mostly in Nebraska. Up until her family decided to move the Austin area a few years ago. She taught one year here and had a desire to own her own business someday.

So March 2013 her dream became a reality. The doors opened and it has been a fantastic adventure for the Fox family.

Contact Sunnie Fox at eileenscookiescp@gmail.com
Learn more at http://www.eileenscookiescp.com/home-...

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel presents Kacie Nesby

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Kacie Nesby with Thrive and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

I was working 60 hour a week and had nothing left over for my family or myself. A friend introduced me to Thrive and it changed my life, I felt young, strong and hopeful again and my passion for living life to the fullest was back. It's time for you to experience Thrive for yourself and see what you have been missing.

Contact Kacie Nesby at knesby@gmail.com
Learn more at https://kcnesby.le-vel.com/

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel presents Mel Kirkland

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 21:30:44 GMT

Meet Mel Kirkland of Kirkland Consulting, and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel presents Gary Kasper

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 21:28:20 GMT

Meet Gary Kasper of Identity Theft Solutions, and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Identity Theft, is rapidly becoming America's #1 crime. Since becoming a victim I have made it my mission to insure everyone is aware of 3 issues : 1) The true definition of Identity Theft, 2) Just how AT RISK you and your family truly are, and 3) The BEST WAY to protect yourself.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel presents Kimberly Copple

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 21:25:11 GMT

Meet Kimberly Copple of Young Living Essential Oils and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Kimberly wants to help empower individuals to living a life filled with abundant health and wellness, using products from Young Living essential oils and more.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel presents Peggy Lamb

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 21:21:48 GMT

Meet Peggy Lamb of Massage Publications and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Peggy has practiced massage since 1986 and is nationally certified. She currently owns a private massage and movement therapy business, where she practices when she’s not teaching.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel presents Andrea Wiggins Strong

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 00:12:18 GMT

Meet Andrea Wiggins - STRONG, Andrea Wiggins, Fitness & Empowered Living Coach, and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Andrea Wiggins - Strong is committed to providing busy, driven and goal oriented women with the motivation, education, guidance and support to help you embrace your personal strength and live your best life!

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel presents Jack Stanley

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 00:12:10 GMT

Meet Jack Stanley of Stanley Team and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Jack Stanley's approach to real estate business comes with great passion, excellence and service that delivers great results for his clients. The result – smart real estate, nice people!

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel Featuring Michelle Harvey

Tue, 13 Feb 2018 20:34:23 GMT

Meet Michelle Harvey of Young Living Essential Oils and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Michelle is a Certified Professional Life Coach at Rise Above Coaching and works at Independent Distributor at Young Living Essential Oils.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Julie Mullen

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 16:14:34 GMT

Meet Julie Mullen of Rodan Fields and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Julie grew up in Houston and attended Texas A&M University, where she graduated with a degree in education and a minor in math. She enjoys building relationships and has a passion for helping people. Julie is now an Independent Consultant at Rodan + Fields.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features Emily Hendricks

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Emily Hendricks of eshwrites and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Emily published her first column in a local newspaper in January of 2004.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Joe Serio

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Joe Serio of Joe Serio Enterprises and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Dr. Joe Serio believes possibility is everywhere—you just have to know how to look for it. In his unique presentations, he provides a refreshing new perspective on exactly what’s possible for your team, both at work and at home.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Alli Blotter

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Alli Blotter of AB Marketing and Copywriting and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Alli is an independent content creator. She helps you engage your audience with custom strategies, copy and video.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Teresa Touchstone

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Teresa Touchstone with BlueBonnet Visual Branding and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Teresa provide local businesses with the opportunity to be visible on digital signage where your target market hangs out and runs errands in their daily lives.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Bill Combes

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Bill Combes of No Time For Social and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Bill is the founder and CEO of No Time For Social, with over 25 years of experience as an entrepreneur and business owner.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Jesse Walls

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Jesse Walls with The Walls Insurance Agency and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Jesse began his insurance career almost 20 years ago. His expertise in both personal & commercial lines has enabled him to be a trusted partner to his clients providing them the peace of mind that the protection of their loved ones and property is his and his staff's number one priority.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Bob Hannabery

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Bob Hannabery of Allied Consulting & Bookkeeping and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Helping small businesses increase profitability through efficient use of QuickBooks and Business Consulting.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring John Quirk

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Meet John Quirk of Echelon Roofing & Construction and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. "John Quirk is a stand up guy and a true professional. As a building professional and remodeling contractor, we have worked with several roofing contractors, and they are by far the most reliable and responsive of the pack.

Confessions of A Coworking Operator, A Year in The Life

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Tue, 05 Dec 2017 20:18:00 GMT

As I reflected on my life during the Thanksgiving holiday 2017, I came to the realization that the concept for T-Werx Coworking was born this week in 2015. Within 2 weeks the business name, logo and website were created. The same week we ran a Facebook ad campaign for $200 to test the theory.I tell you this, not to brag. I want you to know that it does not require a lot of time, thought, or money to test an idea. Too many great ideas never get launched because potential entrep [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Joyce Michaels

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Joyce Michaels of Austin Custom Errands and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Joyce Michaels is a former teacher. She has lived in the Austin area since 1976.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Dawn Evans

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Meet Dawn Evans of Synergy Skin Care and Spa and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Dawn is very passionate about skin. She has been an Esthetician for 6 years.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Wendy Irwin

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 20:34:00 GMT

Meet Wendy Irwin of Coaching & Perspicacity and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Wendy Irwin is a second generation entrepreneur with a keen insight into the everyday aspects of business ownership. She began her creative business, Ballistic Sweater Girl Designs, in 2004, with much success, press and awards.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features Rayan Horak

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Meet Rayan Horak of Pivot Communications Group and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Rayan, Promotional Advertising Consultant and Owner at Pivot Communications Group, creates promo items that are a symbol of your brands message.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features Mike Shenk

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 05:00:00 GMT

Meet Mike Shenk of Learning Cycle Tutors and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Mike, business owner of Learning Cycle Tutors, is committed to helping students achieve academic success while instilling the importance of environmental friendliness, recreational fitness, and community service.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features Rachelle Grossman

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 18:52:00 GMT

Meet Rachelle Grossman of N2 Publishing and Jeff Kikel of Entrepreneur Essentials at T-Werx Coworking. Rachelle, owner & area director at N2 Publishing, publishes "Life in the Ranch at Brushy Creek".

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Hurdie Burke

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

[...]

How Does Coworking Combat Loneliness?

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 07 Sep 2017 20:11:00 GMT

Being self-employed or working remotely and working at home comes with perks, such as flexible hours and pajama days. But it can get pretty lonely, especially if your neighbors aren’t home during the day. A remote employee and coworker, Terry W., graciously shares his thoughts on coworking, "If you search the internet, you will find multiple topics in regards to working from home. One topic will see a lot of discussion on is “how to prevent being lonely” whil [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Bryan Pierce

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 07 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

[...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Emily Leach

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 28 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Join us as Jeff Kikel interviews Emily Leach of Freelance Conference on our Entrepreneur Essentials Show. Learn more about Emily Leach at: www.emilyleach.com

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Chad Wright

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 19:06:00 GMT

[...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Kim Stanley

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 19:04:00 GMT

[...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring John Becker

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 18:52:00 GMT

Native Austinite and UT alumni John Becker started off his entrepreneurial journey as a corporate controller and eventually evolved into a CFO. For the last 10-15 years John has been working closely with small businesses and entrepreneurs from tax and business standpoints to add value to their bottom line, His best advice for entrepreneurs is to avoid WAITING and ASSUMING. Contacting a CPA before making the jump will help you better understand your options. He notes that, “what you [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Eyal Gallico

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Tue, 16 May 2017 20:37:00 GMT

Gallico was the kid who loved to build things and take them apart. He had began a career in IT and worked for almost 21 years before getting fed up with the anonymity of the IT business world. His mom encouraged him to start his own business and begin business classes. Eyal now does IT commercially and residentially. His typical client is a small business with 5-15 users in need of security or wifi solutions. Gallico seeks to take a preventative and proactive approach with his customers. [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Jamie Richards Whitney

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Tue, 16 May 2017 20:09:00 GMT

Jamie Richards Whitney of Richards Whitney, P.C. first started out working for Judge Sparks in Downtown Austin. Afterwards, she moved on to do litigation work for a big law firm and ten years into it - with three kids and an ill mother - she realized that big law was not the life for her. Upon this realization, she also found that while she did want to continue to practice law, she wanted to do it in a way that was true to herself. Richards Whitney has been practicing law in that way, a w [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features Kevin Lancaster

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Lancaster has been in the banking industry for the past 27 years, doing both commercial residential lending. He first started in collections and eventually ventured into branch management. Lancaster now helps clients starting their new businesses to meet all of their desires and goals. When working with banks, Kevin has two key pieces of advice for those hoping to get a loan: Have ready a business plan and two prior years of tax returns. Having this information available will answer [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features Scholley Bubenik

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Scholley’s entrepreneurial journey began at a very young age when she was offered an opportunity to sell jewelry within her mother’s retail business. By the time she reached college age, Scholley ran her own tutoring program for second and third graders during the summer. At 24, she extended upon her educational business ventures and opened a private school. Bubenik continued to work in the corporate world until 3 and half years ago when she decided that she wanted to get into [...]

sbubenik@premierhrsolutions.net

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Matt Powell

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Mon, 03 Apr 2017 21:53:00 GMT

Matt never expected to be working for himself. One day, while struggling with the frustrations of a typical work day, his wife suggested to him that “If you can’t find the perfect job, you might have to create it.” And that’s exactly what Powell’s done with Powell Strategics. Powell Strategics specializes in profit work (case studies, etc.) and perception work such as public relations, public affairs, crisis, communications, and problem solving. Matt’s [...]

Becoming an Amazing Mentor

Tue, 07 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

I have recently found myself being a mentor for two young entrepreneurs. I am currently mentoring these two young gentlemen, each with different goals and challenges. My first mentee is 19 years old. He is in ACC right now, but is planning on attending University of North Texas in the Fall. He is energetic, has big ideas and a desire to help people and be a role model in the African American community. My second mentee came to me after I volunteered to be a mentor for a friend’s youth based Entrepreneurship program. This young gentleman is a bundle of energy and ideas. His main challenge is focusing on one project at a time (which is a problem that I share with him). Oh and by the way, he is 9.
So what will it take to be a successful mentor?

Set expectations from the very beginning: Part of my first meeting with both Mentees was to establish our relationship from the beginning. I spent time understanding their goals, time frames and current challenges. We set clear goals for what each wanted to accomplish and how each would like me to help them along the way.
Know when to wait before giving advice: This one is difficult. Quite often we just want to answer the questions for our mentees. This is the worst thing you can do. It is important for mentees to discover answers for themselves. A great mentor guides the discussion and leads their mentee to self-discovery.
Don’t assume anything about your mentee: This one almost caused me to back out of my mentorship relationship with my 9 year old “Mini Me”. When I was asked to work with him all I could thing was, “Great! I now have to babysit a 9 year old, what am I going to be able to teach him?”. To my great surprise, he showed up at our first mentorship meeting with detailed notes on the projects he wanted to work on. He had 5-7 different ideas that we discussed and through careful guidance, he decided to focus on starting a YouTube show demonstrating science projects.
Encourage Accountability: At our first meeting we set up accountability rules that each of my mentees would follow. I typically meet with my mentees every other week. I asked each of them after our meeting to send me a follow up email with what they would accomplish over the next two weeks. They both also agree to send weekly updates. If they do not follow up with me, I make sure to email them for an update to let them know I am interested and that they are not meeting their obligations.
Don’t be afraid to admit mistakes: Most people junior to you will not want to admit mistakes in front of you as a sign of weakness. Don’t be afraid to admit mistakes you have made directly to them. The first time I was supposed to meet with my 9-year-old mentee, I double booked a meeting and missed our meeting. I used this as a teachable moment (after profusely apologizing for my error).

Being a mentor is work. You cannot simply go into a mentor relationship to check a box that you did it. You are shaping and helping someone’s life. Take the time to go through the above steps. Become part of their lives, ensure that both of you are accountable and let them discover their own way with your guidance.

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Terry Grier

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 20:00:00 GMT

During his entire entrepreneurial journey, Terry Grier has only had three jobs. Although he learned key values while working at staffing company and UPS, Terry is currently more successful than ever under Strive Insurance. Terry says that he is glad that he did not know how hard it would be to become an entrepreneur. If he’d been aware of all the difficulties he’d face before becoming a commercial insurance agent, he may have never chosen to pursue it! Grier advises all [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Craig Hallenberger

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 02:23:00 GMT

Craig Hallenberger has been through many different careers and businesses in his lifetime. Through it all, Craig’s learned what causes a venture to fail and what essential pieces each failure of his lacked. His knowledge and experience gives him a lot of compassion and empathy to new entrepreneurs. Hallenberger says that it is easy for him to coach newcomers to the business world because he understands what they’re going through. Because Craig believes that “our experien [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Darla Sees

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 16 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Darla Sees previously worked for large and small businesses as a generalist. She now provides the service of HR assessment and offers consultations to entrepreneurs. The key to succeeding as a new business, according to Darla, is to go through the procedures of assessing salaries and employees. Sees work is currently focused on the new H law which went into effect 12/01/16. This law requires salary earning employees who do not make $47476 annually to either receive a raise or change of po [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features John Russell

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Wed, 09 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

When McDonald's wouldn’t hire him as a high school student, John Russell decided to begin his journey as an entrepreneur instead. Russell made $19,000 doing yard work during his senior year. His business continued to grow exponentially. Eventually he used his success and knowledge to transition into coaching other entrepreneurs. John learned that every type of business has the same fundamental challenges and works to turn their problems into opportunities. Russell’s advi [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel features Melanie McCammon

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Tue, 01 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Melanie McCannon found that she didn't feel she was where she belonged working for a law firm. In order to make more of a difference in the word, she decided to move on and do something she cared about. Melanie then discovered coaching as a profession. In another part of Melanie's life, she works on her podcast, Please Don’t Eat the Pencils. McCannon seeks to build a community of people who work from home. Stay up to date with her ventures and gain access to exclusive bonus content [...]

Entrepreneur Essentials with Jeff Kikel featuring Scott Carley

jeff@t-werx.com (Jeff Kikel) — Sat, 22 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

After gaining years of experience in public speaking and guidance through his work as a pastor, Scott Carley made the decision to jump feet first into the world of business. Carley recognized that entrepreneurs faced many hurdles. Because of this, he decided to help them “tame the mustang” that is their schedules and get focused through time management. Scott accredits his success to marketing and making the right connections through networking events such as BNI. Currently, S [...]

T-Werx Coworking and Entrepreneur Centers

Recession-Proofing Small Businesses: A Guide for Businesses with Fewer Than 5 Employees

Focus on Essential Services or Products

Market Research:

Cash Reserves are Crucial

Importance of a Safety Net:

How to Build Reserves:

Build Strong Customer Relationships

Importance of Customer Loyalty:

Strategies:

Use Freelancers and Contractors

Why Use Contractors:

Points to Consider:

Multiple Income Streams

Diversification:

Methods to Diversify:

Agile and Lean Operations

Stay Nimble:

Ways to Stay Lean:

Invest in Employee Skill sets

Cross-Training:

Employee Morale:

In Summary

Fall Pumpkin Silverwar holder

DIY Fall Cutting Boards

Coffee Mug Cozy

Perk or Peril: Why Coffee Shops and Restaurants Are Not The Ideal Office Space

Perk or Peril: Why Coffee Shops and Restaurants Are Not The Ideal Office Space

Cutting Board Craft Ideas

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Zucchini Herb Casserole

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Pumpkin shaped wreaths

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Snowman Hot Cocoa Jars

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Decorative Rolling Rins

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Fall Scarecrows

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How Small Business Owners Can Stand Out from the Competition: A Comprehensive Guide

The Essential Role of Email Marketing for Small Business Owners & Top 10 Email Marketing Software

Why Your Small Business Needs a CRM System: Top 10 CRM Solutions for Growth and Success

How to Create a Marketing Funnel for Small Business Owners: A Comprehensive Guide

The Incredible Benefits of Using a Coworking Space: A Comprehensive Guide

4th of July Truck

(2) Easy Easter Bunny Wreaths

Bunny Hiding Welcome Bunny Wreath

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Attracting and Retaining Top Talent: Strategies for Small Business Success

Time Management Mastery for Small Business Owners: Techniques to Maximize Productivity and Success

Top Techniques for Small Business Owners to Attract and Retain Clients: Boosting Customer Loyalty and Growth

Cash Flow Management for Small Business Owners: Tips and Strategies for Financial Success

Top 10 Challenges Faced by Small Business Owners Today: Overcoming Obstacles for Success

Spring Flower Arragement

8 Big Business Errors That Are Killing Your Business

Crock Pot Beans and Ham Soup

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Entrepreneurial Failure…Get Used To It

Chicken / Turkey Tortilla Soup

Aussie Meat Pie

Be Debt Free Today…Budgeting Solutions for Personal Finance

Do you want to be debt free today? If you have the money in the bank, of course, you can pay off all of your bills. However, for most of us, being debt free today is more of a mentality than a reality.

Being debt free today means no mortgage, no auto loans, and no credit card bills. It means that everything you earn goes into your pocket for spending this month or for saving for the future.

Do you need more income?

5 Key Traits For Being a Business Survivor

Financial Responsibility

Business Structure

Pay Yourself

Vision

Tenacity

Conclusion

Fall Yarn Wreath

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Santa Claus Ornaments

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