Raw Reality

Communication and Email Etiquette. 20 Rules to Follow.

2009-07-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

Email Etiquette. Is there such a thing?

In this ever growing world of technology and communication, more and more email messages have become like phone text messaging, I’m afraid. Email messages are exhibiting obvious signs of laziness or disregard for human sensitivity, not to mention just using manners. Should there be such a thing as Email etiquette? Who should be required to follow these rules, and is it always necessary to adhere to some form of email principles when communicating?

If you are a business person or entrepreneur and you are currently using email as your primary source of communication, your email etiquette speaks volumes about how you conduct business. Not only that, but it speaks volumes about your entire personality, mannerism and personal character.

I know many business trainers will try to convince the business owner that to streamline business, be more productive and respond quickly is the best way to communicate with email. Many will tell you to just type in a few words or a sentence and hit the send button.

I receive hundreds of emails every single day and I am surprised at some of them. I often wonder if the sender has any idea what kind of message he or she is truly conveying. Since personal accountability as a core value in the workplace and customer service is what I stand for, I have developed a set of email etiquette rule that everyone should try to adhere to.

Email etiquette. I have decided that there should be a standard, a rule of order, a basic understanding between people that everyone writes email with a standard of politeness and courtesy. This is not texting. So I developed my own set of 20 rules for email etiquette.

1. Make it personal.

Nothing can be worse than disregarding a person. Not only should the e-mail be personally addressed, it should also include personal appropriate content for that person. This rule can be broken if you are sending a template special email newsletter or event email. Contrary to what you have been told auto replies are usually not very effective and most people do not like receiving them. Please include a signature of some kind.

Never Make This Networking Mistake! 20 Expert Tips for the Successful Networker

2009-04-24T03:21:00.000-07:00

10 Tips For The Effective Networker

I am writing this post after visiting a few new networking groups in the area and seeing the differences in groups, not to mention that I have hosted a successful group for two years.hosting my own successful group for nearly two years.

I feel confident as an expert in the field to write this column and offer up some advice for newbies, or a refresher course for the more advanced networker.

Recently I attended two different groups where the format of the introductions were similar. I met a woman in business and just happened to be a HOT LEAD, prepared to buy customer in her industry and I knew exactly what I wanted to purchase. She really had to make no effort for a large sale.

I am currently personally shopping for two items or services. I made my way directly to her to save her looking for prospects. With the amount of my purchase she would not have to make another sale all day, or week for that matter. I was in the market for her products that could have easily amounted to over $2,000.00. Noticing that she was busy with regulars at the meeting, or friends because the conservation was not business, I took her card and left.

Later that day I sent her an email stating that I wanted to do business today. Please call me or email me and I would order. I was very interested in saving the calling around or spending my time shopping. four days passed and no email, no call. I sent a second email again mentioning that I had met her at the networking group and wanted to make this large purchase, and again several days and no reply. In fact, I didn't make the next meeting and two weeks passed. I was desperate to make my purchase.

I showed up at the following meeting and there she was introducing herself telling the group what kind of prospect would be a good lead for her. Curious as to her reasoning for not contacting me, I approached her. I politely reintroduced myself to which she acknowledged she knew me. I explained the items I wanted to purchase, told her I knew they were high ticket, but I was prepared to pay today! To go a step further I offered to go with her to select my merchandise and have it ordered.

She said she had another appointment and she would email me something. A catalog or something to order from. I said "Great, please do I really want to purchase fast."

An entire week has gone by and I have not heard one word. When you go to network...be prepared to do business. Nothing looks worse than this.

Now here are 20 expert tips from a professional business growth consultant and expert.

1. Choose two to three groups and be consistent.

2. Avoid talking with people you already know.
3. Wear a nametag it makes a difference.
4. Make eye contact, smile and shake hands.
5. Ask open ended questions to provoke a reply and conversation.
6. Be sincere and authentic, build a relationship.
7. Be prepared to tell your story in 30 seconds or less.
8. Do not spend more than 5 minutes with one person.
9. Remember your reason for being at an event, to meet and make contact, NOT SELL.
10. Know what you want to get out of a networking event. l
11. Be prepared to follow-up within a day or two with a call or card.
12. Look imortant and introduce others
13. Be welcoming and accepting to everyone.
14. Ask for someone’s card after you have spoken with them. Do not hand yours out without being asked for it.
15. Have fun.
16. Look for people who seem to know a lot of people. They can help introduce you to others.
17. Seek out the people in charge.
18. Donate a gift to the drawing and be a sponsor

19. Be prepared to do business immediately after the meeting. Know a customer from a lead.

20. Always keep a promise to call back. Your reputation depends on it!

I hope this helps and is useful information. Join us at the ABC meeting

For help building your business visit our Business Explosion Seminar help monthly.
http://www.businessexplosion.biz/

Trust me! No one will tell you this stuff.

2009-04-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

Did you know that the true key to success in business is to know all of the things that the others want to charge you for. Knowledge gives you power and power brings you wealth and success.

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The secrets to success are locked up in an ever so simple process that too many small business people stumble right over it. You will be amazed, maybe even shocked. You will be refueled with energy, passion and drive to grow your business. You will have an entire new outlook, thought about your business and marketing plan.

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I call it working and growing your business smart. You can earn back the cost of your seminar and more in 90 days if you follow these simple steps.

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Breakfast Business Bunch Meeting April 16th, Orlando FL

2009-04-10T04:24:00.000-07:00

My Angel, "Dave"

2009-03-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

My Angel, "Dave"

The Friday evening news reported that the worst snow storm of the year was heading toward New York City and would be pounding Manhattan with up to 18 inches of snow. The imminent storm was due to hit on Monday morning early, and last most of the day.

This was terrible. I was already frantic about flying into the city, but now there is an approaching ice storm. There is no way I am flying on an airplane and trying to land in that snow and ice storm. I was torn apart not knowing what to do.

I made plans to drive the entire 18 hour trip, but deep inside I knew I could not make that trip alone. I got on the phone and made reservations to take a bus all the way to New York City. I arrived in the city and spent my week taking care of business, but this trip was different from all others because I was alone. At the end of the week I thought I was staying one more day, however there was a mistake with the room and I found out I had an hours notice to check out.

They came to my hotel door at 12:45 because I had to be out by 1 PM. They came with a wagon to haul me out. I got a cab and arrived at the Port Authority. The cab driver pulled up to the front and set my bags out on the street.

2 X-large suitcases weighed over 50 lbs each, a laptop bag with two computers, chargers etc.... A backpack strapped to my back and another rolling backpack. All bags overweight as I am coming home with more Giroptic cameras.

I got out on the corner, pushed bags and dragged the heavy weight of my load one inch at a time. It was too overwhelming. I burst into tears. Just then I looked up and saw a man, very dirty, unshaven, tattered clothing, no front teeth, smelling of alcohol and obviously homeless.

He approached me and said "Can I help you?" At first impulse and scared to death of thee stories of the New York City Port Authority, I politely refused his help. He asked the second time and said "Please".

Afraid of what others would think and my stereotyping him as dangerous, I graciously and fearfully accepted. I said to him "If you will carry all this heavy baggage to the terminal while I get my ticket, through the food court so I can buy food to take on the bus and get me to the bottom floor to my gate, aI will give you $15.00. He agreed and told me not to be afraid of him and that his name was Dave. He offered to stay for five more hours till I left, but I strongly refused. We arrived at my gate, I paid him, he thanked me for letting him help someone and he left with the cash in a flash. Off to buy liquor I suppose.

I was moved by his compassion, his smile. He smiled so big even without any teeth. He kept telling me not to have tears because life was okay. Dave, my angel for today.

The story about Dave

2009-03-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

Coming tomorrow, you won't want to miss this post!

New York & Snow

2009-03-12T17:36:00.001-07:00

Last week I had the absolute amazing opportunity to be back in the city I love so deary during the snow storm that blanketed the city with 18 inches on snow overnight.

Once again it was amazing! While I visited the city I met with two publishers about my two books, Road to Hope and my third book that I will release the name of next week. I wanted to be sure I had a publisher secured. I had the opportunity to broadcast my radio show live while in New York. My trip was absolutely wonderful! I took a bus and traveled across America seeing the road. Every state and city was different and it was so awesome to see the highway! Definitely this is the way to travel. It is like traveling in a huge motor coach, but you don't have to do the driving. I took so many photos and had such fun. Tomorrow I will share the story about Dave.

Beautiful Snow in Central Park

2009-01-12T18:55:00.000-08:00

This was my first time seeing snow. What an amazing view in Central Park. I waited all week during out business trip to New York City. Finally, the last night there a snow storm came through and it was amazing!

Snow Flurries in Manhattan

2009-01-06T17:10:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends,
You eyes are seeing correctly. That is me with ear muffs, gloves and my ski jacket in Manhattan, Times Square. January 6, 2009 and it is 30 degrees. A few snow flurries falling, but nothing white yet. I have never seen snow...so I am hoping. I will keep you posted on my week long adventure here. I am meeting with publishers about my next new book coming out.

I will update tomorrow!
nite
~~Shell~~

Tis The Season

2008-12-23T03:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas is my favorite time of year. My favorite song is, I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas, and this is because truly my dream is to see snow at Christmas. I often wonder, Don't other people around the US or the world know that today on Christmas day it is going to be 83 degrees? I guess if the whole world really knew this and knew they could put on a bathing suit and lay in the sun or go to the beach then the whole world would be here in Florida.

Tis the season to lay in the sun, tis the season to be jolly, tis the season to give to others. You don't need a gift to do the last one on the list. Take what you have, your talent, your humor, your kindness and your love and share it with someone else this Christmas. Better yet, help make someone else’s dreams come true.

What do you possess that can be shared? How about a wish? Exert the extra energy and go to your computer and send electronic holiday cards, or print a personally made card and send it to someone. Utilize the resources that have made you successful and share them, In my opinion, this would be the true meaning of sharing the wealth.

In the end your true success is measured by what you give not how much you have. Tis the season to change the way you view your success. Tis the season to be different. This season I could feel in despair beneath the plight and circumstance that has befallen me, but I would only loose sight of the spirit of the season. Tis the season to choose how I shall feel, act, react, and in the midst of what might look uncertain, still give something from the heart.

Tis the season to find who you are. Remember...dreams still come true, discover them and pursue them relentlessly. So I give to each reader this gift...a wish for you to know your most valuable holiday gift may not be one that is wrapped and waiting under the tree, it is the one that lies within you.

Warmly,

~~Shell~~

Dreams Still Come True

2008-12-15T19:09:00.000-08:00

There was a time I looked at others and wondered why good fortune, great opportunities and positive things came their way. Lately I am amazed that I have become the recipient of some of these exceptional opportunities in life.

What is success and by what system is it measured? I have never measured the success of a person by money, status, fame or beauty. True success is defined by how much you do for others instead of yourself. One of my favorite things to do is help others achieve their dreams.

I always thought that one day the truly good things in life would come my way. In recent months I have published my first book with the second one to follow. I have a job that I love. I am the National Sales Manager for a company from France. Now the opportunities are limitless. I am traveling all around the country, and I am slated to travel to Paris in April 2009.

After working for 15 years in Marketing and Business Management for Fortune 500 companies, my experience and hard work has paid off. Maybe it sounds like bragging, but its not. It is being thankful and feeling blessed for each opportunity.

Even today, more that ever I am convinced that dreams still come true for those who persevere. Dreams do not have to be big. They do not have to be unattainable, they just have to be something you can hold onto.

I firmly believe that continue to do your best at doing the right thing and the exceptional opportunities will ultimately come your way. Keep believing without wavering and don't give your dream up to someone who does not have your best interest at hand.

Remember dreams still come true.

~~Shell~~

Shelley Meets Mike Huckabee

2008-12-07T18:55:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to meet Mike Huckabee. Today I had the opportunity to meet him in person, shake hands, chat and take a photo. This was very cool. This will be the next book I read, Do the Right Thing, by Mike Huckabee. Later after the book signing we stopped by Starbucks.

I am a huge fan of Mike Huckabee and enjoy watching HUCKABEE on Fox. It is just really cool meeting someone like him in person. I love books and love having books autographed by authors. I look forward to the read.

Personal Accomplishment

2008-12-02T19:33:00.000-08:00

This blog is the personal blog of Shelley. Here you may not read much about the travel guide or Road to Hope, but you will get more of a sense of who Shelley is.

This evening I recline back in my oversize black leather desk chair, sip on a cup of hot herbal tea (its 30 degrees outside) and enjoy the feeling inside I have today. This feeling is one of accomplishment from one who wondered would I ever do anything great, or if not great just significant.

I am forgetful often, I forget my keys, forget my wallet and forget my cell phone. It is okay to forget the simple things in life, but too often I am finding myself forgetful of the one who made it possible for me to have this moment in life to relish the success of publishing this book.

So in my sitting here admiring my accomplishment, gazing at my beautiful book cover and sipping tea, I shall pause for a moment and thank Him.

~~nite Shell~~

EXCITING NEWS!!!!!

2008-11-01T01:52:00.000-07:00

Hello My Faithful Blog Readers and Dear Friends,

It has finally happened. My book about to be published. It very well may be available for Christmas. You can pre-order this exciting book on the State of Florida.

Aberdeen Bay Travel Guide to Orlando

Here are the ISBN numbers. You can follow my travel excitement on the Travel Reviewer Blog, and the Touring Central Florida with Shelley Blog. for me as well.

ISBN-13: 978-0-9814725-6-0

ISBN-10: 0-9814725-6-7

Aberdeen Bay is putting up a website. This is very exciting friends. Until tomorrow.

Shell

Nearing the End!

2008-10-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Dear Readers,

Yes I am nearly finished writing my book. I am so excited, but very tired. I will write more next week. Let me know if you would like a copy of my Orlando book.
Nite.
Shelley

New Opportunities- Personal Photo to Share.

2008-10-17T06:35:00.000-07:00

My entry today finds me amazed and excited about the opportunities that have come my way recently. I have been marketing my new book and as a result I have booked several speaking engagements to talk about the book.

Pre-orders of the books are going great! Visit my travel blog at http://thefloridatravelreviewer.blogspot.com/ you can sign up to be a follower of any of my blogs. I am very excited about this weekend and taking a travel tour for the book and blog.

I have been contacted by a travel company in St. Augustine to visit and review their travel spot.

When Shelley is not working at her favorite place...the Vet clinic, she is busy traveling with her husband Patrick promoting her books. Shelley & Patrick love spending time with their two labs. Now I get the opportunity to share a personal photo. These are my favorite two guys in the world. My boys, Cody & Pongo.

Travel Through Florida with Shelley Costello

2008-09-28T12:14:00.000-07:00

Shelley Costello, native Floridian and Florida State travel guide outdoor expert,
launches new book project. Book to be released December 2008.

Traveling Florida with Native Floridian & Florida Travel Guide Shelley Costello

There are so many fascinating places to go and visit in our country, but none as spectacular as the State of Florida. I might sound a little partial, but being a native Floridian and Florida's Travel Expert, I have a particular interest in the "Sunshine State."

I will be presenting a series of articles and excerpts from my new book, Travel Guide to Central Florida. This book will be loaded with great articles about history, culture, beaches, theme parks, wetlands, trails, parks, hotels, restaurants and a whole lot of other goodies about traveling Florida.

We will travel the State together. We will explore the 1197 miles of Florida coastline, the nearly 1500 miles of rugged terrain called The Florida Trail as well as all the tourist spots, lighthouses and small ghost towns. We will kayak through some of the greatest paddle trails, hike the forest, fish the lakes, visit theme parks and dine out in some of Florida's favorite restaurants.

Let's start our grand Florida adventure. Keep up with each article. As we travel you will see live video footage or photos of the places we visit.

Watch for the Travel Guide to Central Florida published by Aberdeen Bay publishing Co. Release date for the book is December 2008. I will make the ISBN number available.

Now let's start our travel through Central Florida.

By Shelley Costello Copyright 2008