Competition SUCKS! part 2 ........ why and what I believe we can do about it.
With a saturated marketplace and new competition getting in 'the game' every day in life, you often hear things like:
"Why should I buy your whatever when the XYZ company sells it for £50 less?"
"Why should I hire you to sell my house when the ABC company will sell it for 5% instead of 6% commission?"
"Why should I listen to you when say your products or service are the best value for money?"
Want to know what’s even worse about living in this state of competition?
In most cases, you’ll never even get a chance to respond to these objections because people won’t verbalize them to you… those objections often never make it past their subconscious evaluation phase. When you live in competition with others, prospects and customers will ELIMINATE you without a second thought… and they often won’t even know why they’ve eliminated you.
Competing against other people inevitably creates an internal struggle within you… Internal struggle leads to other negative feelings like anger, resentment, inferiority and worse!
If you try to win through competing with others … ultimately, your health and your bank balance will suffer!
You can’t win in this way (nobody can)!
Even if you succeed for a while by competing with others, ultimately you will lose because once you become #1, people naturally try to knock you off… pull you down… or otherwise climb over you in their quest to take the #1 spot.
Unless you possess an unlimited budget, incredible good looks, or psychic abilities that let you see into the future, competing with others is NOT the way to win in life or in business over the long haul! At this point, you probably have a question on your mind (or at least you should)…
"If better, faster, quicker competition isn’t the answer, then what’s the secret to winning?"
Simple! Don’t play the game everyone else is playing… Don’t compete.
Instead… you should "Create!"
Creation - not competition - is the secret to winning in everything you do!
As competition is not desirable ....what really matters is creativity.
Lead don't follow ....and have the greatest respect for anyone who has the courage to lead anything creative or constructive ....
Creation is the process of finding, inventing, discovering or originating something new. It’s doing things in a different, more creative, more beneficial way than others are currently delivering to them.
Creation means coming up with new solutions to existing problems and doing things in a way that immediately separates you from the competition in the minds of your prospects.
In fact, being a creator rather than a competitor, so much so, that they won’t even make a comparison… you stand alone in their minds.
Creation means being different… and people who are different stand apart from the crowd and don’t face the struggles that naturally come along with the inherent pressure from market competition.
Creation means being the only game in town if people want and trust what you offer… and that means a whole lot more sales, more satisfaction, better relationships… and more money!
Creation comes with a price… a price most people are mysteriously NOT willing to pay. But if you pay the price… the world will deliver anything you ask. That’s the price?
In order to create instead of compete you must cut yourself off from the mentality of the 'crowd' mindset and ..........
You must be willing to make mistakes.
You must be willing to take chances and be vulnerable.
You must be willing to open yourself up to criticism.
You must be willing to work through the doubts that will inevitably bubble up from your subconscious mind as you experiment with new and better ways to help others get the results they want.
How do you remove yourself from the crowded arena of competition and get into the fresh air of creation? Simple.
Here’s a 4-step formula for getting out of competition and in to creation…
# Step 1 – Decide
Make a positive decision that you will no longer do things the exact same way, sell the exact same things, just because everyone else does it that way doesn’t make it right… or better…
Earl Nightingale termed it best when he said most people play "Follow the follower." People blindly following the person in front of them… who follows the person in front them… and there’s no leader at the front, just an endless line of followers… doing the same old thing… the same old way… with the same old tools… creating needless competition.
And remember – dare to be different.
# Step 2 – Innovate
Innovation means finding a new use for an existing tool or technique and is simply the process of taking something old and creating something new by taking two seemingly unrelated things, putting them together in a slightly different way thus creating a new solution to a problem.
Innovation means sticking your head above the crowd, doing a complete about-face, and heading in a totally different direction looking for new answers to old problems.
Innovation means being different… it means trusting yourself and your abilities…
# Step 3 - Mix in the “magic” ingredient – YOU!
Decide to always look for ways to inject your individuality and unique talents into everything you do or say.
By embracing all of your your talents, developing yourself as a person, and valuing your contributions – you unleash the new way of creative thinking we ALL possess inside us. You simply create needless competition and struggle when you try to be like others without injecting your own uniqueness into what you do and how you do it.
# Step 4 - Trust
Trust that you do contribute exceptional value and always go the extra mile.
Trust that you can always improve in some small way over yesterday
Trust that everything that happens in your life happens with a purpose and it serves you.
Trust that creation, not competition holds the 'secret' for your eventual success and that, like anything, you’ll get better over time with practice and positive application.
Creativity makes you unique… uniqueness makes you almost indispensable… indispensable people have little or no immediate 'competition'!
John
Quote for the Day: "ImagiNATION is the greatest nation on earth......... you are invited to join that nation"
__________________
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"It's what we learn after we think we know it all.....that really counts!"
Friday, 30 October 2009
Thursday, 8 October 2009
When the Going Gets Tough ... the Tough Get Going! - part 1
Life is a journey ..... not a destination and what you have at the moment .... you've attracted to you by the person....you've become!
The subject of this particular 2 part post arose out of a discussion with the members of the 'Table of Eight' which is an informal group (strategic or psuedo mastermind alliance) of my ex-Shetland business colleagues and friends .... many of whom are based or spend some of their 'off the island' time in and around Edinburgh and we meet up at irregular intervals for an occasional meal and associated 'social refreshments'
Why is that relevant ......well it's not directly - but it gave me an introduction/background link for the post which I thought I should clarify and which could well have been entitled 'once upon a time....there was'.
It was my turn on the soapbox as the general topic for the discussion was the difference between personal and business development.
Well ..... is there a difference ? and the answer is (in my opinion) a resounding NO! because if you are a one man/woman band or small business then 'you are your business' and what you do or say affects the impression people have of you and/or your business image/identity.
I mean if you get negative or lazy or careless or impolite or are always late for meetings or provide dodgy products or unprofessional services or do anything which affects the impression people have of you, as an individual, would that affect your business dealings with prospective customers or business colleagues and the answer is ...... Of Course!
You started your business with a dream .....your dream and it is almost impossible to seperate the two ....in fact if you reverse the above underlined statements and become ........ professional, careful and always deliver on promises would that have a positive impact on how you and your business activities were perceived and the answer is ...... OF Course (this is another of these 'of course' moments)
Is there any 'secret' to how we should address the 'of course' moments ..... NO!...... Very few things really rate as “secrets” in our personal or business lives anymore.
In fact, more often than not the word “secret” gets used in false, confusing, or even misleading ways. It seems dozens of books (more like 10,000 books) exist to explain the “secrets” for everything from how to crush the competition in business, make more money, have a better life, create better relationships… but do any of them really contain any “secrets” or are they just rehashing the same old stuff?
It makes you wonder…
Are there really any secrets that, if you learned them, would truly enable you to separate yourself from the competition and WIN virtually every single time you stepped into any arena of life?
No! but there is a way… and it’s so simple you’ll wonder why you never saw it or thought of it before!
I’m not talking about some lame theory of “winning” where you “win” just by showing up and feeling good by contributing and then count on everyone else to pay you back through some mystical, unexpected ways.
NOPE! NO way… that takes way too long and most people quit before that approach ever kicks in… let alone puts money in your bank account!
A major problem most people face in business (online or offline) or in their personal life comes down to answering the question “What am I selling?” whether it be for financial gain or simply an exchange of anything ....I am ......we are ........you are...... involved in selling!
What are you selling in exchange for the money or results or friendship you seek from others?
Now some (maybe even you) might say “I don’t sell anything. I’m a _____________ (service provider,teacher, mother, fireman, cook, fill-in-the-blank)”
But if you want to market yourself offline/online, give yourself a running chance in any form of business, or be happy in other areas of your personal life, you must accept that fact that you ARE a salesperson.
You constantly “sell” people on why they should:
• Accept your business ideas
• Accept your point of view/change theirs
• Keep paying you as an employee
• Respect you as a father/mother or significant other
• Hire you for a new job/contract
• Pay you money for any type of service
• … and much, much more!
But there’s a problem… … and the problem is ........You’re probably doing whatever you’re doing the same way everybody else does it!
There’s a certain way most employees act…
a certain way most people sell offline/online…
a certain way most people behave with their kids…
a certain way most people treat their customers ....
a certain way most people decide what to sell (usually based on what they see others doing)…
Here’s the root of the problem… by doing things the same way others do them, selling the same things others sell, behaving the same way others behave, you create for yourself a little problem we call – competition!
FACT: A state of competition exists when customers (or family members) look at you, then look at other people, and compare the two of you against each other. As soon as others think they can make a comparison between you and someone (or some thing) else – you LOSE!
It doesn’t matter if it’s a fair or even comparison – “apples are apples” be damned! In fact, it doesn’t even matter if the comparison made has absolutely NO basis in reality. None of that matters!
As soon as your prospects, customers, or family members look at you and someone else and, in their minds, see you as equal -- you have LOST! GAME OVER!
Why? Because no matter how good you are, if you choose to compete directly or indirectly with others in any arena of business or personal life, there will ALWAYS be someone who is .......
• bigger
• better
• faster
• richer
• smarter
• nicer
• more fun
• better looking
• earlier
• flashier
• or cheaper than you are!
It’s a fact… if you live in the world of competition, you WILL (not might or maybe)… you WILL eventually lose out to someone else.
In an earlier post I mentioned Wallace D Wattles. In the early 1920's Wallace D Wattles wrote that 'we don't get rich by doing certain things .....we get rich by doing things in a CERTAIN way'
Competition and competing SUCKS! and in part two of this I'll explain why I think so and in what 'certain way' I think we can do something about it.
John
Quote for the day: "If you do the things you need to do, when you need to do them ...... then someday you will be able to do the things you WANT to do ..... when you want to do them" Zig Ziglar.
__________________
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"It's what we learn after we think we know it all.....that really counts!"
The subject of this particular 2 part post arose out of a discussion with the members of the 'Table of Eight' which is an informal group (strategic or psuedo mastermind alliance) of my ex-Shetland business colleagues and friends .... many of whom are based or spend some of their 'off the island' time in and around Edinburgh and we meet up at irregular intervals for an occasional meal and associated 'social refreshments'
Why is that relevant ......well it's not directly - but it gave me an introduction/background link for the post which I thought I should clarify and which could well have been entitled 'once upon a time....there was'.
It was my turn on the soapbox as the general topic for the discussion was the difference between personal and business development.
Well ..... is there a difference ? and the answer is (in my opinion) a resounding NO! because if you are a one man/woman band or small business then 'you are your business' and what you do or say affects the impression people have of you and/or your business image/identity.
I mean if you get negative or lazy or careless or impolite or are always late for meetings or provide dodgy products or unprofessional services or do anything which affects the impression people have of you, as an individual, would that affect your business dealings with prospective customers or business colleagues and the answer is ...... Of Course!
You started your business with a dream .....your dream and it is almost impossible to seperate the two ....in fact if you reverse the above underlined statements and become ........ professional, careful and always deliver on promises would that have a positive impact on how you and your business activities were perceived and the answer is ...... OF Course (this is another of these 'of course' moments)
Is there any 'secret' to how we should address the 'of course' moments ..... NO!...... Very few things really rate as “secrets” in our personal or business lives anymore.
In fact, more often than not the word “secret” gets used in false, confusing, or even misleading ways. It seems dozens of books (more like 10,000 books) exist to explain the “secrets” for everything from how to crush the competition in business, make more money, have a better life, create better relationships… but do any of them really contain any “secrets” or are they just rehashing the same old stuff?
It makes you wonder…
Are there really any secrets that, if you learned them, would truly enable you to separate yourself from the competition and WIN virtually every single time you stepped into any arena of life?
No! but there is a way… and it’s so simple you’ll wonder why you never saw it or thought of it before!
I’m not talking about some lame theory of “winning” where you “win” just by showing up and feeling good by contributing and then count on everyone else to pay you back through some mystical, unexpected ways.
NOPE! NO way… that takes way too long and most people quit before that approach ever kicks in… let alone puts money in your bank account!
A major problem most people face in business (online or offline) or in their personal life comes down to answering the question “What am I selling?” whether it be for financial gain or simply an exchange of anything ....I am ......we are ........you are...... involved in selling!
What are you selling in exchange for the money or results or friendship you seek from others?
Now some (maybe even you) might say “I don’t sell anything. I’m a _____________ (service provider,teacher, mother, fireman, cook, fill-in-the-blank)”
But if you want to market yourself offline/online, give yourself a running chance in any form of business, or be happy in other areas of your personal life, you must accept that fact that you ARE a salesperson.
You constantly “sell” people on why they should:
• Accept your business ideas
• Accept your point of view/change theirs
• Keep paying you as an employee
• Respect you as a father/mother or significant other
• Hire you for a new job/contract
• Pay you money for any type of service
• … and much, much more!
But there’s a problem… … and the problem is ........You’re probably doing whatever you’re doing the same way everybody else does it!
There’s a certain way most employees act…
a certain way most people sell offline/online…
a certain way most people behave with their kids…
a certain way most people treat their customers ....
a certain way most people decide what to sell (usually based on what they see others doing)…
Here’s the root of the problem… by doing things the same way others do them, selling the same things others sell, behaving the same way others behave, you create for yourself a little problem we call – competition!
FACT: A state of competition exists when customers (or family members) look at you, then look at other people, and compare the two of you against each other. As soon as others think they can make a comparison between you and someone (or some thing) else – you LOSE!
It doesn’t matter if it’s a fair or even comparison – “apples are apples” be damned! In fact, it doesn’t even matter if the comparison made has absolutely NO basis in reality. None of that matters!
As soon as your prospects, customers, or family members look at you and someone else and, in their minds, see you as equal -- you have LOST! GAME OVER!
Why? Because no matter how good you are, if you choose to compete directly or indirectly with others in any arena of business or personal life, there will ALWAYS be someone who is .......
• bigger
• better
• faster
• richer
• smarter
• nicer
• more fun
• better looking
• earlier
• flashier
• or cheaper than you are!
It’s a fact… if you live in the world of competition, you WILL (not might or maybe)… you WILL eventually lose out to someone else.
In an earlier post I mentioned Wallace D Wattles. In the early 1920's Wallace D Wattles wrote that 'we don't get rich by doing certain things .....we get rich by doing things in a CERTAIN way'
Competition and competing SUCKS! and in part two of this I'll explain why I think so and in what 'certain way' I think we can do something about it.
John
Quote for the day: "If you do the things you need to do, when you need to do them ...... then someday you will be able to do the things you WANT to do ..... when you want to do them" Zig Ziglar.
__________________
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"It's what we learn after we think we know it all.....that really counts!"
Wednesday, 30 September 2009
How To Implement Systems That Will Simplify Your Life
and enable your business to operate without you ..........
Imagine this scenario.................
It’s 09.00am on a Monday morning and you pick up the phone and call your office and say “Hi, it’s me. I’m taking a few weeks off to travel and attend some business meetings. Look after things for me” and hang up.
If you had the right systems in place could you do that?
I would argue that we don’t have to spend a lot of money to build better business systems. However we do need to put in place a method by which the least professional amongst the professionals, the least experienced amongst the experienced can be given a system which will leverage them to produce the results we seek to achieve over and over again.
The answer is simply to give those ordinary people - extraordinary tools (SYSTEMS) with which to work and those tools need to be developed no matter what we do or the true assets of the business (the people) walk out of the door every day.........leaving it empty of capability, empty of commitment.
It has, been suggested that the intellectual assets of any business, are the systems we develop to allow us the predictable results every single time, no matter what activity we are engaged in and if we can drive that technology down and put it within the reach of ordinary people we literally guarantee ourselves, our business
partners and our Clients............ more opportunity and more chance of success.
We are all aware that running a business can be stressful, especially if we're like most business owners: We want/need to have a hand in everything that goes on in the business because we want to make sure everything is done right.
Most seasoned entrepreneurs eventually realize that the long work hours and constant threat of burnout require a change. The key is to implement systems - that allow your business to operate without you physically being there.
It's obvious that the more talented you are, the more creative you are, the more confident you are, the more ambitious you are etc then it is more likely that you will feel that your life is starting to get out of control, that you will start to operate in an inefficient and unproductive way.
One of the biggest mistakes we often make is to volunteer for so many unconnected things ... we say well I can do that, then I can do this and once I'm finished that I'll come and help you then before we know where we are we start to get under pressure to do the things which we would have finished before our latest round
of 'volunteering to help' was over.
The mnemonic for the word SYSTEM is .... Save Yourself SomeTime Effort and Money.
Something we all want .....right?
#1 Make a list of your priorities
Look at the most effective use of your time by asking yourself 'what one or two things - if I could do them today - would have the biggest impact on my business?'.
Chances are you often find yourself so wrapped up in the actual running of your business that you have little or no time to focus on other key aspects of your business, such as seeking out growth opportunities, networking, or building relationships with your clients.
Once you've made a list of your priorities, you know the most important things on which you want to focus, allowing you to leave the less important or low impact other tasks to your employees or outsource to others, leaving you free to FOCUS solely on the high impact, high yield activities.
#2 Be prepared to delegate or outsource responsibilities
For many small business owners, handing over the everyday responsibilities to employees our outsourcing tasks can be a challenge. But, it's essential if you want your business to run without you and if you want time to concentrate on other aspects of your business. You must learn how to delegate responsibilities and
trust that your employees/others will do as good a job as you would do.
#3 Create replicatable systems
Systems are going to allow you to have a more hands-off approach to the everyday happenings of your business. Everyone in your business should have a role in creating systems. For example, if you have a payroll department, even if it consists of only one person, you're going to create a system that allows the payroll
department to run smoothly even if you're not around.
Have the payroll manager sit down and write a list of all the processes that occur each day to ensure the payroll department runs smoothly. That way, if she isn't around, someone can come in, read the payroll department's procedures and do the job in her place.
#4 Create a step by step simplified procedure manual
A procedure manual is essential to ensuring that your business runs smoothly when you're not around. Take all of the processes that were created by you or your employees and compile them into a comprehensive procedure manual that lists every procedure and process that is followed to ensure your business runs smoothly. A stranger should be able to come into your business, read your procedure manual, and know what needs to be done to run the business smoothly.
#5 Train people to work in other positions
As a business owner, you can and probably have worked in every role in your business. While it's important for you to be able to step in when needed, it's just as important that you cross train your employees, so they are able to step into other roles if and when needed.
#6 Be patient and appreciate that it takes time
Systemizing your business so it can run when you're not around is a process. It's not going to happen overnight, so be prepared to take the time that is needed now so that your business will eventually be able to operate without you there.
John
Quote for the day: "Management and Personnel work IN the system, whilst leaders work ON the system".
www.translatescotland.co.uk
Imagine this scenario.................
It’s 09.00am on a Monday morning and you pick up the phone and call your office and say “Hi, it’s me. I’m taking a few weeks off to travel and attend some business meetings. Look after things for me” and hang up.
If you had the right systems in place could you do that?
I would argue that we don’t have to spend a lot of money to build better business systems. However we do need to put in place a method by which the least professional amongst the professionals, the least experienced amongst the experienced can be given a system which will leverage them to produce the results we seek to achieve over and over again.
The answer is simply to give those ordinary people - extraordinary tools (SYSTEMS) with which to work and those tools need to be developed no matter what we do or the true assets of the business (the people) walk out of the door every day.........leaving it empty of capability, empty of commitment.
It has, been suggested that the intellectual assets of any business, are the systems we develop to allow us the predictable results every single time, no matter what activity we are engaged in and if we can drive that technology down and put it within the reach of ordinary people we literally guarantee ourselves, our business
partners and our Clients............ more opportunity and more chance of success.
We are all aware that running a business can be stressful, especially if we're like most business owners: We want/need to have a hand in everything that goes on in the business because we want to make sure everything is done right.
Most seasoned entrepreneurs eventually realize that the long work hours and constant threat of burnout require a change. The key is to implement systems - that allow your business to operate without you physically being there.
It's obvious that the more talented you are, the more creative you are, the more confident you are, the more ambitious you are etc then it is more likely that you will feel that your life is starting to get out of control, that you will start to operate in an inefficient and unproductive way.
One of the biggest mistakes we often make is to volunteer for so many unconnected things ... we say well I can do that, then I can do this and once I'm finished that I'll come and help you then before we know where we are we start to get under pressure to do the things which we would have finished before our latest round
of 'volunteering to help' was over.
The mnemonic for the word SYSTEM is .... Save Yourself SomeTime Effort and Money.
Something we all want .....right?
#1 Make a list of your priorities
Look at the most effective use of your time by asking yourself 'what one or two things - if I could do them today - would have the biggest impact on my business?'.
Chances are you often find yourself so wrapped up in the actual running of your business that you have little or no time to focus on other key aspects of your business, such as seeking out growth opportunities, networking, or building relationships with your clients.
Once you've made a list of your priorities, you know the most important things on which you want to focus, allowing you to leave the less important or low impact other tasks to your employees or outsource to others, leaving you free to FOCUS solely on the high impact, high yield activities.
#2 Be prepared to delegate or outsource responsibilities
For many small business owners, handing over the everyday responsibilities to employees our outsourcing tasks can be a challenge. But, it's essential if you want your business to run without you and if you want time to concentrate on other aspects of your business. You must learn how to delegate responsibilities and
trust that your employees/others will do as good a job as you would do.
#3 Create replicatable systems
Systems are going to allow you to have a more hands-off approach to the everyday happenings of your business. Everyone in your business should have a role in creating systems. For example, if you have a payroll department, even if it consists of only one person, you're going to create a system that allows the payroll
department to run smoothly even if you're not around.
Have the payroll manager sit down and write a list of all the processes that occur each day to ensure the payroll department runs smoothly. That way, if she isn't around, someone can come in, read the payroll department's procedures and do the job in her place.
#4 Create a step by step simplified procedure manual
A procedure manual is essential to ensuring that your business runs smoothly when you're not around. Take all of the processes that were created by you or your employees and compile them into a comprehensive procedure manual that lists every procedure and process that is followed to ensure your business runs smoothly. A stranger should be able to come into your business, read your procedure manual, and know what needs to be done to run the business smoothly.
#5 Train people to work in other positions
As a business owner, you can and probably have worked in every role in your business. While it's important for you to be able to step in when needed, it's just as important that you cross train your employees, so they are able to step into other roles if and when needed.
#6 Be patient and appreciate that it takes time
Systemizing your business so it can run when you're not around is a process. It's not going to happen overnight, so be prepared to take the time that is needed now so that your business will eventually be able to operate without you there.
John
Quote for the day: "Management and Personnel work IN the system, whilst leaders work ON the system".
www.translatescotland.co.uk
Sunday, 23 August 2009
Some Thoughts on 'Levelling' The Playing Field
Even though you may be a new start or small business doesn't mean you can't compete with the big guns and get all the leverage and visibility you need from external communications – a well thought out strategic approach to every contact you make with the media can help position you as 'lead dog' in your field even if you are on a tight budget.
Here's how and why...
Economics are important but it doesn’t take a lot of money to put in place these things I'm talking about here. It takes creativity; the desire to change/adapt... it takes such qualities as:
• Innovation (PR-otagonist confident to lead without authority)
• Inspiration (PR-edisposed to try out new ideas)
• Motivation (PR-agmatic with your time mangement)
• Imagination (PR-udent in your analysis of what is possible)
• Communication (PR-ecise in your selective use of the appropriate media)
• Determination (PR-emptive in your avoidance of naysayers)
• Dedication (PR-oactive in the drive for 'value added' service)
• Activation (PR-epared to step outside your comfort zone)
Progress is made in any business venture by simply out innovating your competition through the development of an effective and well thought out communications strategy.
The media and channels of communication are flooded with the big players, multimillion pound advertising, PR and marketing campaigns, backed by legions of proactive practitioners.
When viewed through the eyes of an SME, this environment can be decidedly unnerving, leaving small businesses wondering if they'll ever be able to compete and get their name out there, let alone derive any significant and measurable benefit from their marketing efforts.
But it doesn’t have to be this way – sometimes the most frequent mistake in marketing that an SME makes is trying to do too much, too early and too often.
Indeed, so many companies end up trying to take over the world with communications before mastering their own particular niche and immediate customer base, thus spending more than they can afford, on a shotgun approach rather than a sniper like communications campaign.
One important tip for SME's is to establish command of its own niche by taking control and identifying the problems then delivering solutions that are relevant to its industry and customers. This strategy centres on solutions ownership which has been shown, in a competitive marketplace, to be highly effective.
On a basic level the solutions strategy centres on knowing, guiding and developing discussion to the relevant press within their particular market or sector. By doing this an organisation will, over time, build a base of credibility, knowledge and inform new and potential prospects of their 'value added' business ethos.
Finding out which publications are read by your customers, what particular topics are written about and then making a concerted effort to contribute is an easy first step.
Another great way to get quality coverage is by guiding debate using development in your particular niche and regularly update relevant journalists on the hot topics in your industry in order to secure unbiased opinion
pieces.
Develop a contact list of the most important publications and journalists in your sector and keep them updated with relevant (i.e. of interest to their readership) information. Create a media page on your website giving all your contact details and archive any contributions or published releases/case studies so that they are available for review.
Another great thing about a solutions driven communication program is that it can always be reused – not for other publications - but in your search for new clients effort and later testimonials. Circulating information (within the bounds of copyright) to prospective clients can help you to really build your reputation with little extra effort or expenditure.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to become a dream crusher here but your integrated and communicative effort should be like throwing a stone into the pond and then allowing the ripples to dissapate before throwing your next stone.
Thought for the Day:
'Not having enough stones to throw is never the problem it's often that there are just too many people around the same pond'.
John
__________________
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"It's what we learn after we think we know it all.....that really counts!"
Here's how and why...
Economics are important but it doesn’t take a lot of money to put in place these things I'm talking about here. It takes creativity; the desire to change/adapt... it takes such qualities as:
• Innovation (PR-otagonist confident to lead without authority)
• Inspiration (PR-edisposed to try out new ideas)
• Motivation (PR-agmatic with your time mangement)
• Imagination (PR-udent in your analysis of what is possible)
• Communication (PR-ecise in your selective use of the appropriate media)
• Determination (PR-emptive in your avoidance of naysayers)
• Dedication (PR-oactive in the drive for 'value added' service)
• Activation (PR-epared to step outside your comfort zone)
Progress is made in any business venture by simply out innovating your competition through the development of an effective and well thought out communications strategy.
The media and channels of communication are flooded with the big players, multimillion pound advertising, PR and marketing campaigns, backed by legions of proactive practitioners.
When viewed through the eyes of an SME, this environment can be decidedly unnerving, leaving small businesses wondering if they'll ever be able to compete and get their name out there, let alone derive any significant and measurable benefit from their marketing efforts.
But it doesn’t have to be this way – sometimes the most frequent mistake in marketing that an SME makes is trying to do too much, too early and too often.
Indeed, so many companies end up trying to take over the world with communications before mastering their own particular niche and immediate customer base, thus spending more than they can afford, on a shotgun approach rather than a sniper like communications campaign.
One important tip for SME's is to establish command of its own niche by taking control and identifying the problems then delivering solutions that are relevant to its industry and customers. This strategy centres on solutions ownership which has been shown, in a competitive marketplace, to be highly effective.
On a basic level the solutions strategy centres on knowing, guiding and developing discussion to the relevant press within their particular market or sector. By doing this an organisation will, over time, build a base of credibility, knowledge and inform new and potential prospects of their 'value added' business ethos.
Finding out which publications are read by your customers, what particular topics are written about and then making a concerted effort to contribute is an easy first step.
Another great way to get quality coverage is by guiding debate using development in your particular niche and regularly update relevant journalists on the hot topics in your industry in order to secure unbiased opinion
pieces.
Develop a contact list of the most important publications and journalists in your sector and keep them updated with relevant (i.e. of interest to their readership) information. Create a media page on your website giving all your contact details and archive any contributions or published releases/case studies so that they are available for review.
Another great thing about a solutions driven communication program is that it can always be reused – not for other publications - but in your search for new clients effort and later testimonials. Circulating information (within the bounds of copyright) to prospective clients can help you to really build your reputation with little extra effort or expenditure.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to become a dream crusher here but your integrated and communicative effort should be like throwing a stone into the pond and then allowing the ripples to dissapate before throwing your next stone.
Thought for the Day:
'Not having enough stones to throw is never the problem it's often that there are just too many people around the same pond'.
John
__________________
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"It's what we learn after we think we know it all.....that really counts!"
Wednesday, 5 August 2009
Keeping an ear to the ground is useful .....but!
One of the 'drums' I'm always banging in communications is that "It's not always what you say that's important ....but what they (your target audience) hear!" and in the role reversal exercise .....YOU become the listener.
Good communication is simply a role reversal exercise between two people - YOU and your prospective client.
You ask your opening question (for example) "How is your business effected by ......... " and then listen .....he/she thinks about the question and then replies, giving you a hint on what your next question should be.
All good communicators ask lots of questions and listen very carefully to the answers. One of the most important skills of listening is simply to pause before replying. When your prospective client finishes talking, rather than jumping in with the first thing that you can think of, take three to five seconds to pause quietly and wait.
The success of many of our business activities depends on how well we listen. Studies show that we spend about 80 percent of our waking hours communicating, and at least 45 percent of that time listening.
But although listening is so critical in our daily lives, it is taught and studied far less than the other three basic communications skills: reading, writing, and speaking.
Much of the perceived trouble we have in communicating with others is usually because of poor listening skills.The good news is that listening efficiency can be improved by understanding the steps involved in the listening process and by following these basic guidelines.
Are You a Good Listener?
Most people are not. Many years ago, Sperry (now UniSys) did a survey and found that 85 percent of all people questioned rated themselves average or below in listening ability. Fewer than 5 percent rated themselves either superior or excellent.
The Four Steps of Listening
Hearing is the first step in the process. At this stage, you simply pay attention to make sure you have heard the message. If your client says, "I really need your proposal on my desk by Friday ....latest" you simply repeat the sentence internally, then reply to affirm your understanding.
The second step is interpretation. Failure to interpret the speaker's words correctly frequently leads to misunderstanding. People sometimes interpret words differently because of varying experience, knowledge, vocabulary, culture, background, and attitudes.
A good speaker uses tone of voice, facial expressions, and mannerisms to help make the message clear to the listener. For instance, if your client speaks loudly, frowns, and puts their hands on her hips, you know they are probably upset and angry.
During the third step, evaluation, you decide what to do with the information you have received. For example, when listening to your clents needs, you have two options: you choose either to accept or to reject the statements or presumptions made. The judgments you make in the evaluation stage are a crucial part of the listening process.
The final step is to respond to what you have heard. This is a verbal or visual response that lets the speaker know whether you have gotten the message and what your reaction is. When you tell the client that you would be happy to proceed on that basis, you are showing that you have heard and believe the message.
When it comes to listening, many of us are guilty (including me) of at least some bad habits. Instead of listening:
# We often think about what we're going to say next while the other person is still talking.
# We get easily distracted by the speaker's mannerisms or by what is going on around us.
# We often drift off into daydreams because we are sure we know what the speaker is going to say next.
All of these habits can hinder our listening ability. Contrary to popular notion, listening is not a passive activity. It requires full concentration and active involvement and is, in fact, hard work.
The following tips can help you become a better listener:
1. Don't talk. Listen. Studies show that sales people (you and I) are more likely to make a favourable impression and get the sale or project when we let the client do most of the talking.
2. Don't jump to conclusions. Assumptions can be dangerous. Maybe the speaker is not following the same train of thought that you are, or is not planning to make the point you think they are. If you don't listen, you may miss the real point the speaker is trying to get across.
3. "Listen "between the lines." Concentrate on what is not being said as well as what is being said.
4. Ask questions. If you are not sure of what the speaker is saying, ask. It's perfectly acceptable to say, “Do you mean . . . ?” or “Did I understand you to say . . . ?” It's also a good idea to repeat what the speaker has said in your own words to confirm that you have understood correctly.
5. Don't let yourself be distracted by the environment or by the speaker's appearance, accent, mannerisms, or word use. Keep an open mind. Don’t just listen for statements that back up your own opinions and support your beliefs. The point of listening, after all, is to gain new information.
6. Provide feedback. Make eye contact with the speaker. Show them you understand their talk by nodding your head, and, if appropriate, interjecting an occasional comment such as ''I see" or "that’s interesting." The speaker will appreciate your interest and feel that you are really listening.
Motivation is an essential key to becoming a good listener. Think how your ears perk up if someone says, "Let me tell you how pleased I am with that report you did,'' or "I plan to give you a million pounds as a bonus if we can deliver this project on time" That would get your interest and motivate you wouldn't it?
To get the most out of a meeting, speech, or conversation, go in with a positive attitude. Say to yourself, "What can I learn from this to make me more valuable in my industry and to this particular client'' You might be surprised at what you can learn, even from routine meetings and verbal jam sessions at the water cooler.
Quote of the day: ""We first make our habits, and then our habits make us."
Listen well...........
John
__________________
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"It's what we learn after we think we know it all.....that really counts!"
Good communication is simply a role reversal exercise between two people - YOU and your prospective client.
You ask your opening question (for example) "How is your business effected by ......... " and then listen .....he/she thinks about the question and then replies, giving you a hint on what your next question should be.
All good communicators ask lots of questions and listen very carefully to the answers. One of the most important skills of listening is simply to pause before replying. When your prospective client finishes talking, rather than jumping in with the first thing that you can think of, take three to five seconds to pause quietly and wait.
The success of many of our business activities depends on how well we listen. Studies show that we spend about 80 percent of our waking hours communicating, and at least 45 percent of that time listening.
But although listening is so critical in our daily lives, it is taught and studied far less than the other three basic communications skills: reading, writing, and speaking.
Much of the perceived trouble we have in communicating with others is usually because of poor listening skills.The good news is that listening efficiency can be improved by understanding the steps involved in the listening process and by following these basic guidelines.
Are You a Good Listener?
Most people are not. Many years ago, Sperry (now UniSys) did a survey and found that 85 percent of all people questioned rated themselves average or below in listening ability. Fewer than 5 percent rated themselves either superior or excellent.
The Four Steps of Listening
Hearing is the first step in the process. At this stage, you simply pay attention to make sure you have heard the message. If your client says, "I really need your proposal on my desk by Friday ....latest" you simply repeat the sentence internally, then reply to affirm your understanding.
The second step is interpretation. Failure to interpret the speaker's words correctly frequently leads to misunderstanding. People sometimes interpret words differently because of varying experience, knowledge, vocabulary, culture, background, and attitudes.
A good speaker uses tone of voice, facial expressions, and mannerisms to help make the message clear to the listener. For instance, if your client speaks loudly, frowns, and puts their hands on her hips, you know they are probably upset and angry.
During the third step, evaluation, you decide what to do with the information you have received. For example, when listening to your clents needs, you have two options: you choose either to accept or to reject the statements or presumptions made. The judgments you make in the evaluation stage are a crucial part of the listening process.
The final step is to respond to what you have heard. This is a verbal or visual response that lets the speaker know whether you have gotten the message and what your reaction is. When you tell the client that you would be happy to proceed on that basis, you are showing that you have heard and believe the message.
When it comes to listening, many of us are guilty (including me) of at least some bad habits. Instead of listening:
# We often think about what we're going to say next while the other person is still talking.
# We get easily distracted by the speaker's mannerisms or by what is going on around us.
# We often drift off into daydreams because we are sure we know what the speaker is going to say next.
All of these habits can hinder our listening ability. Contrary to popular notion, listening is not a passive activity. It requires full concentration and active involvement and is, in fact, hard work.
The following tips can help you become a better listener:
1. Don't talk. Listen. Studies show that sales people (you and I) are more likely to make a favourable impression and get the sale or project when we let the client do most of the talking.
2. Don't jump to conclusions. Assumptions can be dangerous. Maybe the speaker is not following the same train of thought that you are, or is not planning to make the point you think they are. If you don't listen, you may miss the real point the speaker is trying to get across.
3. "Listen "between the lines." Concentrate on what is not being said as well as what is being said.
4. Ask questions. If you are not sure of what the speaker is saying, ask. It's perfectly acceptable to say, “Do you mean . . . ?” or “Did I understand you to say . . . ?” It's also a good idea to repeat what the speaker has said in your own words to confirm that you have understood correctly.
5. Don't let yourself be distracted by the environment or by the speaker's appearance, accent, mannerisms, or word use. Keep an open mind. Don’t just listen for statements that back up your own opinions and support your beliefs. The point of listening, after all, is to gain new information.
6. Provide feedback. Make eye contact with the speaker. Show them you understand their talk by nodding your head, and, if appropriate, interjecting an occasional comment such as ''I see" or "that’s interesting." The speaker will appreciate your interest and feel that you are really listening.
Motivation is an essential key to becoming a good listener. Think how your ears perk up if someone says, "Let me tell you how pleased I am with that report you did,'' or "I plan to give you a million pounds as a bonus if we can deliver this project on time" That would get your interest and motivate you wouldn't it?
To get the most out of a meeting, speech, or conversation, go in with a positive attitude. Say to yourself, "What can I learn from this to make me more valuable in my industry and to this particular client'' You might be surprised at what you can learn, even from routine meetings and verbal jam sessions at the water cooler.
Quote of the day: ""We first make our habits, and then our habits make us."
Listen well...........
John
__________________
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"It's what we learn after we think we know it all.....that really counts!"
Tuesday, 28 July 2009
The Same 'Wind' Blows On Us All!
5 Positive Things to Do To Remove Negative Thinking. (some of it at least)
"You will find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people. Why not make earnest effort to confer that pleasure on others? Half the battle is gained if you never allow yourself to say anything gloomy."
Lydia M. Child
1802-1880, Abolitionist and Writer
My colleagues often refer to me as a serial optimist and 'born again' searcher of good things..... well I'm fine with that! hence the avatar ...... john the searcher.
How long would I keep looking? ........ as long as it takes - would be my response.
Obviously there are things that happen.....events in our lives that will test us and it is only natural to become sad or think negatively during those periods but as we are all aware that time heals and we deal with them in what ever way we can and then move on.
I use the tagline below for my business in an effort to put the above into perspective....... for me at least! Read it by all means .....but don't watch me closely - as I'm still working on it.
'the difference between ordinary and extraordinary ....... is simply that little bit EXTRA! and sometimes that's all it takes ....... is a little bit extra ...... a little more effort........ a little more positive and a little less pessimistic and negative (each and every day)
One of the key principles or recommendation on how to remove most of our negative thinking is that we have a choice of how we invest our time and energy both at home and at work. We can focus on the negative or the positive.
We can focus on problems or use those problems - as objects of change - to create effective and lasting solutions.
It’s all about our intention, our focus and our attitude. Bad attitudes create bad results and good attitudes always create good results. And since one of the best ways to get rid of a bad or poor attitude is to replace it with a good one, here are 5 positive things we can TRY each day to stay positive.
Remember that it's not altitude that determines how high we will go ........ but ATTITUDE!
1. Be Grateful. Research shows that when we are thankful for the things we have, we get a measurable boost in happiness that keeps us going. It’s also physiologically impossible to be stressed and thankful at the same time, just the same as you can't smile ..... I mean ....... really smile and be angry at the same time.
Two thoughts cannot occupy our mind at the same time, so if you are focusing on gratitude, you can’t be negative.
2. Encourage Others. Instead of complaining about what others are doing wrong, start focusing on what they are doing right then watch as they get better as a result.
3. Focus on Success. Start a success journal. Each night before you go to bed, write down the one great thing about your day. The one great conversation, accomplishment, or change in attitude that you are most proud of.
Focus on your success, and it will become a habit which can be life changing.
4. Do What You Can and Let Go. Focus on the things that you have the power to change, and let go of the things that are beyond your control, the things you can't do or can't get done. You’ll be amazed that when you stop trying to control everything, it all somehow works out and you find more focus and ultimately more time.
5. Learn From Each Day. Scientific research shows us that ........ a few simple disciplines practiced every day help to reduce stress; boost positive energy; and promote health, vitality, and longevity. When you are faced with the urge to complain or you are feeling stressed ......... stop, be still, clear your mind and smile.
Think 'sunshine'
John
www.translatescotland.co.uk
"You will find yourself refreshed by the presence of cheerful people. Why not make earnest effort to confer that pleasure on others? Half the battle is gained if you never allow yourself to say anything gloomy."
Lydia M. Child
1802-1880, Abolitionist and Writer
My colleagues often refer to me as a serial optimist and 'born again' searcher of good things..... well I'm fine with that! hence the avatar ...... john the searcher.
How long would I keep looking? ........ as long as it takes - would be my response.
Obviously there are things that happen.....events in our lives that will test us and it is only natural to become sad or think negatively during those periods but as we are all aware that time heals and we deal with them in what ever way we can and then move on.
I use the tagline below for my business in an effort to put the above into perspective....... for me at least! Read it by all means .....but don't watch me closely - as I'm still working on it.
'the difference between ordinary and extraordinary ....... is simply that little bit EXTRA! and sometimes that's all it takes ....... is a little bit extra ...... a little more effort........ a little more positive and a little less pessimistic and negative (each and every day)
One of the key principles or recommendation on how to remove most of our negative thinking is that we have a choice of how we invest our time and energy both at home and at work. We can focus on the negative or the positive.
We can focus on problems or use those problems - as objects of change - to create effective and lasting solutions.
It’s all about our intention, our focus and our attitude. Bad attitudes create bad results and good attitudes always create good results. And since one of the best ways to get rid of a bad or poor attitude is to replace it with a good one, here are 5 positive things we can TRY each day to stay positive.
Remember that it's not altitude that determines how high we will go ........ but ATTITUDE!
1. Be Grateful. Research shows that when we are thankful for the things we have, we get a measurable boost in happiness that keeps us going. It’s also physiologically impossible to be stressed and thankful at the same time, just the same as you can't smile ..... I mean ....... really smile and be angry at the same time.
Two thoughts cannot occupy our mind at the same time, so if you are focusing on gratitude, you can’t be negative.
2. Encourage Others. Instead of complaining about what others are doing wrong, start focusing on what they are doing right then watch as they get better as a result.
3. Focus on Success. Start a success journal. Each night before you go to bed, write down the one great thing about your day. The one great conversation, accomplishment, or change in attitude that you are most proud of.
Focus on your success, and it will become a habit which can be life changing.
4. Do What You Can and Let Go. Focus on the things that you have the power to change, and let go of the things that are beyond your control, the things you can't do or can't get done. You’ll be amazed that when you stop trying to control everything, it all somehow works out and you find more focus and ultimately more time.
5. Learn From Each Day. Scientific research shows us that ........ a few simple disciplines practiced every day help to reduce stress; boost positive energy; and promote health, vitality, and longevity. When you are faced with the urge to complain or you are feeling stressed ......... stop, be still, clear your mind and smile.
Think 'sunshine'
John
www.translatescotland.co.uk
Sunday, 14 June 2009
When 'Thinking' Hurts Your Brain - Get Creative!
Creative Thinking
How many times have you caught yourself saying that there could be no solution to a problem – and that all thoughts on the problem simply lead to a dead end?
How many times have you felt stumped knowing that the problem laying before you is one you think you should be able to solve ..... but cannot.
No leads. No Ideas. No options. No solutions.
Did it feel like you had exhausted all possible options and yet are still before the mountain – large, unconquerable, and impregnable?
When encountering problems, you may often feel like you're banging your head against the wall and the pressure of having to solve the problem may be overwhelming.
But rejoice! There is hope!
With some creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light.
We've all heard the saying: that there is light at the end of the tunnel that leads to possible solutions, but often it is a train (yet another problem') heading in your direction.
Not always, though!
First of all, in the light of creative problem-solving, you must be open-minded to the fact that there may be more than just one solution to the problem. And, you must be open to the fact that there may be many solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.
Now, with this optimistic mindset, we can try to be a little bit more creative in solving our problems.
# 1: maybe the reason we cannot solve our problems is that we have not really taken a hard look at what the problem is. Here, trying to understanding the problem and having a concrete understanding of its workings is integral to solving the problem.
If you know how it works, what the problem is, then you have a better start point towards solving the problem.
Not trying to make the simple statement of what problem is. Try to identify the participating entities and what their relationships with one another are.
Take note of the things you stand to gain and stand to lose from the current problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is.
# 2: try to take note of all of the constraints and assumptions you have in respect of the problem.
Sometimes it is these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible solutions. You have to identify which assumptions are valid, in which assumptions need to be addressed.
# 3: try to solve the problem by parts. Solve it going from general view towards the more detailed parts of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the question, and then come up with a one-sentence solution to that from them.
The solution should be a general statement of what will solve the problem. From here you can develop the solution further, and increase its complexity little by little.
# 4: although it helps to have critical thinking aboard as you solve a problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at the back of your head. When someone comes up with a prospective solution, tried to think how you could make that solution work.
Try to be creative. At the same time, look for chinks in the armour of that solution.
# 5: it pays to remember that there may be more than just one solution being developed at one time. Try to keep track of all the solutions and their developments. Remember, there may be more than just one solution to the problem.
# 6: remember that old adage," two heads are better than one." That one is truer than it sounds. Always be open to new ideas. You can only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person has.
This is especially true when the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems similar to yours.
You don't have to be a gung-ho, solo hero to solve the problem. If you can organize collective thought on the subject, it would be much better.
# 7: be patient. As long as you persevere, there is always a chance that a solution will present itself. Remember that no one was able to create an invention the first time around.
Creative thinking exercises (often referred to as: Mind Mapping) can also help you in your quest be a more creative problems solver.
Here is one example.
Take a piece of blank paper and write the problem down and other any word that comes to mind at the center. Now look at those words then write the first two words that come to your mind.
This can go on until you can build a tree of related words. This helps you build analogical skills, and fortify your creative processes.
So, next time you see a problem you think you can not solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative thinking, some planning, and a whole lot of work.
John
Quote for the day:
"If you think you can ....or you think you can't.....then you're probably right!"
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
How many times have you caught yourself saying that there could be no solution to a problem – and that all thoughts on the problem simply lead to a dead end?
How many times have you felt stumped knowing that the problem laying before you is one you think you should be able to solve ..... but cannot.
No leads. No Ideas. No options. No solutions.
Did it feel like you had exhausted all possible options and yet are still before the mountain – large, unconquerable, and impregnable?
When encountering problems, you may often feel like you're banging your head against the wall and the pressure of having to solve the problem may be overwhelming.
But rejoice! There is hope!
With some creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light.
We've all heard the saying: that there is light at the end of the tunnel that leads to possible solutions, but often it is a train (yet another problem') heading in your direction.
Not always, though!
First of all, in the light of creative problem-solving, you must be open-minded to the fact that there may be more than just one solution to the problem. And, you must be open to the fact that there may be many solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.
Now, with this optimistic mindset, we can try to be a little bit more creative in solving our problems.
# 1: maybe the reason we cannot solve our problems is that we have not really taken a hard look at what the problem is. Here, trying to understanding the problem and having a concrete understanding of its workings is integral to solving the problem.
If you know how it works, what the problem is, then you have a better start point towards solving the problem.
Not trying to make the simple statement of what problem is. Try to identify the participating entities and what their relationships with one another are.
Take note of the things you stand to gain and stand to lose from the current problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is.
# 2: try to take note of all of the constraints and assumptions you have in respect of the problem.
Sometimes it is these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible solutions. You have to identify which assumptions are valid, in which assumptions need to be addressed.
# 3: try to solve the problem by parts. Solve it going from general view towards the more detailed parts of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the question, and then come up with a one-sentence solution to that from them.
The solution should be a general statement of what will solve the problem. From here you can develop the solution further, and increase its complexity little by little.
# 4: although it helps to have critical thinking aboard as you solve a problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at the back of your head. When someone comes up with a prospective solution, tried to think how you could make that solution work.
Try to be creative. At the same time, look for chinks in the armour of that solution.
# 5: it pays to remember that there may be more than just one solution being developed at one time. Try to keep track of all the solutions and their developments. Remember, there may be more than just one solution to the problem.
# 6: remember that old adage," two heads are better than one." That one is truer than it sounds. Always be open to new ideas. You can only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person has.
This is especially true when the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems similar to yours.
You don't have to be a gung-ho, solo hero to solve the problem. If you can organize collective thought on the subject, it would be much better.
# 7: be patient. As long as you persevere, there is always a chance that a solution will present itself. Remember that no one was able to create an invention the first time around.
Creative thinking exercises (often referred to as: Mind Mapping) can also help you in your quest be a more creative problems solver.
Here is one example.
Take a piece of blank paper and write the problem down and other any word that comes to mind at the center. Now look at those words then write the first two words that come to your mind.
This can go on until you can build a tree of related words. This helps you build analogical skills, and fortify your creative processes.
So, next time you see a problem you think you can not solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative thinking, some planning, and a whole lot of work.
John
Quote for the day:
"If you think you can ....or you think you can't.....then you're probably right!"
John Wylie MCIPR Director of Public Affairs
Translate Scotland Public Relations & Marketing
www.translatescotland.co.uk
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