Change the Station, Expand Your Network

I've been inspired. I'm blasting out the cobwebs, turning up the music and just plainly getting on with things. With that, I'm learning about people. Someone (probably more than one person) said one small degree of change at the beginning make a world of difference at the end so this is what I have changed:

• The radio station I listen to
• Reading offline
• Renewed commitment to better eating
• Insisting on gratitude, openness, and respect
  

This mind is open and willing to receive new experiences which includes new experiences with people online and off. I believe we meet the people we need to meet when we need to meet them. With a conscious decision to learn, our awareness needs to be turned on. Unfortunately, many of us walk around with little protective barriers and not so open minds.

Have you ever re-read a book that continues to make a difference? Last month, I re-read The Celestine Prophecy. For those of you who don't know, this book by James Redfield was a hit back in the early 90's and one of its messages was about learning from each other and how each of us has messages for the other. Reading this book in my college days, I embraced the "meeting who we need to meet" philosophy. It was interesting for me to recognize that core belief, ignited nearly 20 years ago (along with a ton of what we'll call life exprerience for now), still alive and part of my life force.

It's a choice to either connect with others or not. I think lots of social media enthusiasts get this. For things to work well, you have to connect. You can't connect without asking questions, and you can't ask questions without listening or reading at some point. Once you decide or become aware of what sort of people you are looking to connect with, you'll see opportunities pop up. Will you be looking broadly or will you have your blinders on?

Life has changed for me, there is no doubt. I'm enjoying the shift in my mindset and in the new roads ahead. I'm grateful for the relationships I have developed over Twitter resulting in both local and non-local friendships. Some have transferred offline and that is something really neat and authentic too. See my post about Hiding Behind Technology.

So who are you? What can we learn from each other?

Nimbly,
JCM

P.S. Thank you to Kneale Mann (One Mann's Opinion) for inspiring today's post.

Geeks, Nerds, and Xs, Oh My!

It came as a bit of a surprise really.

"You're a geek" she said.

"Me?"

"It's okay, really. You are."

I was so surprised I honestly didn't have anything else to add but "okay, I guess." This gave me pondering material as I drove home. Comfortable with technology I am indeed. Knowledgeable enough to find my way around and ask good questions, no doubt. But a geek? No. There are people far more knowledgeable and enthusiastic about technology (which I totally respect) than I.

Leveraging technology is what I need to do to support the clients I work with; that is a given. Teaching certain aspects for process comprehension is another. From the perspective of someone who hasn't related most technology to a specific business purpose, I understand where some technology can seem from outer space for some people.

At the last Geek Dinner London (www.twitter.com/#gdldn) @jvyoung kindly shed some light on geek-dom for the social media enthusiast-non-geeks attending (aka: me and two others).

A Geek - someone who enjoys technology and likes the gadgets and wizardry, has social skills and thus can drink beer and discuss it without any mishaps.

A Nerd - someone who stays in their basement, revels in the bits and bites and can't be social without medication or pant-wetting.

This information was timely of course since I became aware of the perception my peers had of what I do. I'm looking for a little help with the term though...here's my definition:

NeedHelpWithACoolTermX - someone who leverages technology, learns from and hangs with the geeks and bridges those who need to be brought up to speed.

My cell phone (the one I was reluctant to use at #gdldn due to its' vintage) knocked me out of my quandry and was the perfect reminder that I am not a geek but rather something in between.

Help a gal out here...would love some amo for the next time I hear those words again.

Nimbly,
JCM

Don't Hold Back.

Keep it simple. Don't hold back. We've all heard that before, no? But how do we really do it? Sometimes our egos get in the way and insist upon being elaborate or defined a certain way.

Recently, I have received newsletters with slight errors in them. As I came across the errors (and don't get me wrong, I make my own errors on a regular basis) the words "get it out 'good enough'" from various gurus echo in my ears. In an altering world of human acceptance and connectedness I think we are forgiving in ways we haven't previously been. I thought of my interactions with both of these individuals and what I remembered was their laughter, genuineness and worldly intention. Quite frankly these types of slight errors no longer matter in my big picture. This does not mean I'm not committed to correct messaging, proper marketing techniques or good English. My point is human connection and how we feel towards a person, product or service will overrule small typos and formatting incongruity.

Life isn't perfect, we aren't perfect, and if we are attracting the right customers, evangelists and supporters, they will lump the mis-perfections too. So do your thing, spread your word, share your talents...we'll all be the better for it.

Nimbly,
JCM

Networking = Dating for Business

The first Wednesday of the month is a busy day for me, but I love it! I have blogged about Networking Wednesdays (London Small Business Centre) before; referencing the new people I've met or the ones I've reconnected with. For the last few consecutive months, there has been a record crowd so that's always fun!

There were a couple of people there I was delighted to reconnect with. It was a new event to some. Little did I know I would be heeding my own advice (and getting back to basics) later on in the evening at the second event I attended: the London Geek Dinner and Tweetup; a brand new experience for me.

New social settings are always a little unnerving, no matter how confident you are or what reason you have for going. Networking for business doesn't need to be any different than when you're looking for a date. You are, after all, looking to create a new relationship.

Sometimes we fumble for words to use or decide to not participate in the opportunity despite being there in person. Here are some questions I keep in my back pocket when I find a lull in the conversation. By the time I get to the fifth one and it just seems like I'm firing questions, and there really isn't any connection, I recognize it's time to move on to meet someone else.

For those of you who can relate to the dating scene, here are some translations for you.

"What's your sign" = "What business are you in?"
"Where do you work" = "How do people find you?"
"Do you come here often?" = "Where else do you promote what you do?"
and the more personal: "May I buy you a drink?" = "Tell me what motivates you to do what you do."

Finally, when it's time to move around...

"...so how 'bout those {insert sport's team}" = "Let me introduce you to..."

When networking, I absorb as much information as possible...which is why I'm pretty whupped when it's over.

My motivation is quite simply this: "What do you do, and how can you help any of the people I have ever met or will ever meet?" You see, I love connecting people. Finding new ways, products and services that can make this world a better place (one person at a time) is very rewarding for me. And thus, I love networking.

So next time you've pumped yourself up to get out and network, don't forget to participate and be clear and articulate about what you have to offer.

Nimbly,
JCM

Don't Hide Behind Technology - Pick Up the Phone.

The telephone, invented so long ago by our revered Alexander Graham Bell, seems like old technology by age. And yet, it still connects us all everyday and probably multiple times. The wireless world is slowly creeping up on the old boy's invention but there's an element that just can't be overlooked: Direct Human Interaction. Included in this assessment of information is tone, language, background noise, and attentiveness.

We can show Twitter love and links, Facebook friends and follies, however there is nothing more direct and telling than a real-time conversation. There is no delete key, no technological blips or excuses. (We can usually tell when someone is faking the "...psccht...what?...you're breaking up...bad signal here"!)

Part of the power behind Twitter is the capacity for developing relationships, eventually leading to referrals and trusted information sources. A sure way to facilitate this is to pick up the phone. Here are a few conversation starters:

1. How does Twitter support what you do?
   
   
2. What's your biggest challenge?
   
   
3. Whose tweets do you look forward to the most?
   
   
4. What kind of information do you generally appreciate?
   
   
5. How did you get to where you are now?
   

These questions apply to any kind of networking so use them wherever you meet people. Insert "technology" for Twitter and "tweets" for "information" and you've got a very portable and flexible conversation starter.

Don't hide behind technology. I really encourage you to connect with people you are intrigued or inspired by. Pick up the phone and call. You may be surprised by the impact you create by doing so. As for me, I can be reached at 519-652-2384 EST. I would love to hear from you!

Nimbly,
JCM

Another Do's and Don'ts of Social Media

There are many opinions on how to leverage Twitter and other social media sites to grow your business. Here's my take on some do's and don'ts.

• DO strike up a conversation...you never know where it might lead. Chances are, exactly that; a lead. You need to pay attention and connect on something specific about that individual. Don't become a forgweeter just as Jason Tryfon suggests here.
  
  
• DON'T pretend to be someone else. Authenticity is paramount and your credibility will be flushed if there is any doubt. Furthermore, there is no reason not to be you. Twitter has people in business and people being personal (some a mix of both). You choose who you follow. Chris Brogan has blogged about the freedom to follow or not if you'd like a succinct explanation.
  
  
• DO have an avatar reflective of you or your business. Not having one at all sends a message of incompleteness. I never follow anyone I can't see. If you're tweeting for business, unless you are in the pet business, pets aren't big sellers for me either nor are most caricatures.
  


• DO send personal direct messages to the followers you choose to engage with. I send one to everyone who follows me. That doesn't mean I follow everyone back. DO NOT be tempted by the auto DM's they seriously annoy those of us who do the personal ones. Although a nice touch to be immediately responded to, the effect is erased when recognized as an auto.
  
  
• DO set an alarm, set an appointment because this is addictive. Twitter doesn't run out of food or the staff don't kick you out. It's one great big networking event that can go on as long as you want.
  
  
• DON'T participate expecting to "sell your junk." Connect first, sell later. Period.

There's a ton of information and a gazillion people looking to connect. How far is your network taking you these days? Consider Twitter and other social media outlets to expand your reach.

Nimbly yours,
JCM

Where's your heart? Where's your Business?

Apparently, more than ever, people are wanting to connect with each other.

Apparently, technology is facilitating the connection.

Apparently, we're still doing business with people.

Apparently, money isn't greasing all customer wheels.

I had a wonderful, direct, conversation yesterday with Lewis Green, author of How to Grow a Business by Putting People First yesterday afternoon. Mr. Green believes in heart for both customer and company and gives those listening or reading a formula to keep things realistic.

In our discussion, we both agreed that if there is no relationship, or personal tie all we were talking about was products and services (widgets) and our decision making would be price based. If we have experienced something, created a relationship, trusted information, or received a referral, it was about "the next sale" and then price was not the major factor, the company was. (Company being either a business entity or the people surrounding the transaction)

This is not new. The question for me is how do I support businesses in realtionship (not a typo);

1. understanding the effect relationship building can have on their business
2. give them something relate-able from micro-business, small business, big business
3. assist them in overcoming the "what's the cost" concern.

Larger companies are hesitant to expose their heart (with the exception of the few mentioned in Mr. Green's book). Just as they are reluctant to rev-up the engines of social media. Smaller companies or micro-companies have the ability to turn quicker, adjust, accommodate feedback, without need to accumulate approvals from various departments. They just don't have the resources (people, time, money) to do it.

Here we are, back at the beginning. So where does Real and Relationship meet for my customers? There are no quick and easy answers or blanket solutions. What's your mix of heart and business; what's your Realtionship Status?

Nimbly,
JCM

Staying on Track if You're Not in the Race

I deserved it. Last post I was boasting about the benefits of working at home and how much drive and determination it took. Since then, I've been sick with the flu...and well, my drive is a little different now. But I'm still happy to be working from home. Although much less productive I'm still able to get into the work at hand for urgent matters and then retreat.

Enough of that. I'm on the mend and I wanted to share some links to a few products and businesses run by amazing women.

Here they are:

Susan Regier, Vantage One Writing and Publisher of Networking Today just launched a new website and franchise opportunity. She's an amazing role model and business woman! Check it out here: www.networkingtoday.com

Kat Tansey, Choosing To Be, just launched her new book, Choosing to Be - Lessons in Living from a Feline Zen Master. Kat has experience quite a journey and she is a delight to interact with. She also runs a radio show Finding Magic in Midlife on Exceptional Wisdom Radio.

On the same literary theme, Pauline Duncan-Thrasher has launched her book recently Swimmin' Women: Ride the Waves of Change and Dive into Life. She also speaks to groups on various topics. She's a very warm & gentle lady with lots of life experience and pizzazz for creating the life you want!

Finally, Dina Santorelli is the creator of Work, Home, You. I met Dina online and have loved her newsletter and style ever since. I even submitted for a contest she was offering and I won! The newsletters are short, relevant to working at home and nice to look at too! For the month of December (08) if you sign up for her newsletter you'll get a free mug...perfect for those of us working from home. Sign up here (at bottom of page). Can you tell which slogan I created?

The point I want to make in this post is the importance of the community and how we can support each other in celebrating successes, creating new opportunities, and the power or social media for whomever is willing to put in the time. Flu or not, I still checked in with my buddies; thank God there's no video cam!

Nimbly,
JCM

Three Components to Networking...What's Your Mix?

Good morning and good week to you all!

After a much deserved techno-break over the last few days, I want to talk about your network. There are a few different ways to build your business and life before you need to call on anyone. (see Harvey MacKay's book, Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty).

I bet when Harvey first wrote that book, social media probably didn't exist. He notes in the later pages of the book about email and how to keep in touch with people. So here is my take on the three components of networking essential to a thriving business.

1. Local Networking
   You've got to get out and meet people face to face. It's a litmus test. Can you communicate, live, with someone, where you can't hit the backspace key and reformulate what you're pitching? Can you present yourself with all the right subliminal clues making what you're all about congruent with everything you say, do or sell?
   
   
2. Social Networking
   Reach into the wide world of information and people. Can you relay your personality and commitment in 140 characters? Probably not in one shot but you must do so in multiple times. That's the key. Give sound bytes of what you're all about more than once. This network will also feed the local network if you do it right. As someone who assists, this is a critical fountain of information that I can feed to my local, non-friended or followed, network.
   
   
3. Research Networking
   It was suggested that listening was the first step in embarking Twitter and it's very true. There is nothing wrong with checking out the scene before you jump in. I couldn't help it since it was obvious to me I should be swimming there. Here's the thing: It applies to any kind of networking. Before you commit to either of the above, check it out and see what is applicable to you. There's nothing wrong in telling people what your intention is. If you are researching for information, please state that upfront. Most people are happy to share their experience. It will be up to you to decipher the quality of the information you get. This will also speak volumes about the kind of person you are.

In any kind of networking it's important to listen first, then talk. No one wants to be pitched right after "hello" so don't do it. I believe Mr. Godin was the guy who stated we're out of the "information age" and into the "recommendation age" and we should all keep that in mind as we sell our wares. I think Mr. Mackay would agree.

Regardless, you must network to live. It's up to you what combination you create for yourself. Just remember; what you do in one, you do in the other.

Nimbly,
JCM

Motivated Monday

I am seriously motivated today.

Not only have I completed a few paying pieces of work, I'm energized by feedback from complete strangers and they are affirming for me what my passion is: assisting.

@GaryVee's address to the web2.0 conference (thanks to post from Perry Belcher) is amazing. Find your passion and quit whining. Just do it.



As I learn about Social Media so too am I discovering that some things just don't change. Treat people as you want to be treated, live truthfully, transparently...and HUSTLE just as Gary put it.

Here's another way to look at your work week. Scott tweeted this last week and well, here we are on Monday. So if you're slumpy, grumpy or frumpy today, listen to this:





What's your passion? If you don't have one, you better hang with people who do...you'll catch up!

As for me, how can I assist YOU?

What You Can Expect from The Nimble Assistant

I was inspired by this blog post at http://tinyurl.com/5nhgkc (by @jer979 referred by @ChrisBrogan) for today's post. Read it after mine!

Here's what you can expect from me, dear social media pals:

1. I enjoy relationships & love helping people.
   
   
   
2. I adore a sense of humour.
   
   
   
3. I admire respectful behaviour.
   
   
   
4. I appreciate good systems.
   
   
   
5. I celebrate with others.
   

So here it is: Don't be afraid to ask for help. The right people may very well be right under your nose! For those of you coming from Facebook, you may be confused by some of my updates because they arrive in Twitter Language. Point #4 is in motion here.

It has been very rewarding for me to learn and interact within both Facebook and Twitter. Twitter has been the easiest and quickest though and I appreciate all that I've been able to accomplish there. Thought I would share a few results in the quotes above.

All in all, I assist. It's what I do and Twitter is a great place to build social media relationships in a very open and congruent way that I do business. Now, who would like all of my attention for 5 hours a week, a month at a time?

Thanks to all of my followers!

Nimbly,
JCM

Let's Talk About Women & Technology

I've re-written this post twice and can't seem to get the right words out to make it a full post. So I thought a different approach might be warranted.

Here are the details:

1. Women rock the WWW & IT world. http://twurl.nl/o2415n
2. What would the 'ol gals have to say about it?
3. What to the guys think?

What do you think? The best part of blogging is the discussion. 'll give it another go with some responses. Now for some brain food.

Nimbly,
JCM

Threading Twitter

So yesterday I learned something about others as well as myself.

In following various individuals through Twitter, creating my threaded network, I realized a couple of strengths of the medium as well as some weaknesses and it's only because no matter what kind of fabulous software exists, for the most part, people still need to be involved.

I was assessing the kind of information I receive through my day and thought it was time to prune a little here and there. I've unsubscribed to a few newsletters that just weren't speaking to me anymore. Some of them because they were repetitive and although used different words were essentially saying the same thing.

The same thing happened with Twitter. I'm looking to connect with real people; the kind I can relate to. There were a couple just sharing their pitch and propaganda and I will decide upon them later. There are those I'm following that haven't posted...ever since I chose to follow them. I guess they aren't really hurting anything being on my following list. And then there are those I don't agree with or offer very bold statements.

This is what I learned about us:

1. They have strong opinions.
2. They voice their perspectives.
3. I should dig deeper.
4. I can respect them.

You see in our sound byte lives Twitter feeds our need for pieces we can digest quickly. We are often quick to make judgements. Anyone worth following will go to the effort of expanding on their thoughts through their blog and you should dig deeper if you are moved by something. And there it was. Effort. That's something I admire. Confidence: something else I admire. Speaking your truth is huge on my list!

So culling has become more than originally thought. Turns out the people I thought I would ditch are the people I'm admiring most. Thanks for the lesson Loren Feldman @1938media. As for the other sensationalists that aren't consistent in their story or authenticity are the ones I'm blasting!

So put in the effort and I will follow.

Who knew?

Are You a Twi-Trick or Twi-Treat?

Top Five Business Criteria For Twitter Following:

1. Have a real picture of you somewhere. I want to see who I'm talking to. Cariacatures are okay since it is a representation of you. Avoid pet photos unless it's a representation of your business. Put your company logo on the background image and a link to the company on the profile to show you mean business.
   
   
2. Be clever with your online name. I realize most people don't change their real name to reflect their business but your online name can be a little fun and should reflect what you do. Having numbers at the end send a "spammer" signal by the way. Plain old names can work if your picture speaks of your style.
   
   
3. Tell us what's real for you in the description. The purpose of this is to develop relationships first and sell later. People will connect with you two-fold if they like what your business does and can relate with your quirk too.
   
   
4. Do your own commenting. If you want to have someone do the research then great, I highly recommend a VA to do that kind of task. The followers, who have chosen to do so, have connected with you and your brain, not someone else's. There's plenty of information out there and now people are looking to connect with the interpretation of that information. In particular, they are interested in yours!
   
   
5. Comment. Set a schedule and just do it. You'll get out of it what you put into it. Find new people, visit their blogs/websites/squidoo and leave your tweetprint. Just as you wouldn't ignore someone at the punch bowl, account for where you go and what you do. Let people know what has moved you...wouldn't you like to know?

So what do you think of that? Twi-Trick or Twi-Treat?

Nimbly,
JCM

People Connection in Blogging.

I've been blogging about my adventures in social marketing and making notes along the way about the resources I felt were useful. Today, I have added other blogs below (on the right) to those I have found most useful, intriguing, and insightful. Here we go:

Mack Collier(the Viral Garden): Blurring the line between company and customer.

Harte of Marketing: tips, opinions and observations on marketing, communications & social media

Jim Connolly: Marketing specialist who goes the extra mile for the people he works with (either for or along side of)

John Taylor: Experienced advertising guy with great comments and interpretations of worldly events and advertisements!

Perry Belcher: I'm in love with how this blog looks...Perry's Marketing Blog (among many of blogs Perry has) He has great content and wit...something about a gift from God.

These are all REAL PEOPLE connecting with others. Check'em out for yourself.

Nimbly,
JCM

Good on Godin!

Even the big guys make mistakes.

And I'm happy they do because we can learn from them. I'm even happier when they share what they did, why they did and why it didn't work. It's admirable of them to let us learn from their mistakes.

Seth Godin did just that this morning on his blog. You can read it here.

There are a few social statements about the change in our world here as well which just goes to show you something cool to do a decade ago (or so) may not fly in today's world...so cue the toilet flush.

It's important to project (or hang with people that can) what the needs and desires of people will be. I really like Godin's reference to being the dumbest person in the room. How else do we learn without something to reach for or the humility to recognize we need to.

Thanks Seth! Now, I'm off to buy Tribes: We need you to lead us.

Last week vs. This week

Last week I dove into the world of social marketing. Now that I'm coming back up for air, I thought I would share where I'm at.

Twitter: this is a great way to get quick links to things the experts (aka: those who have been doing this and sorting through the not-as-good stuff for a while) Yes, there is some superfluous information but those worth following aren't telling you about brushing their teeth.

Facebook: I created the Nimble Neighbourhood so join! There are links to stuff I've come across on the other sites you may be interested in. Please contribute and post to build this together!

Linkedin: This week's adventure...anyone with any tips for me?

Have a great week everyone...here's to moving mountains!

Bridges for Kudos and Contacts

Those who follow me on Facebook and Twitter know I attended Bridges To Better Business yesterday here in London yesterday. It's an annual conference put on by the Small Business Centre and this year was the 10th anniversary! My dear friend and mentor received special recognition for serving as a mentor to many for 5+ years to this particular event. Susan, I'm glad others appreciate all you do.

Mr. Leonard Lee, Founder of Lee Valley was our breakfast guest speaker and what a delight it was to listen to a seasoned entrepreneur as he. Everything I have thought, imagined and experienced through this company was right there in front of us yesterday morning. This gentleman has integrity, humility and humour all in one. Despite being in a room full of business people, it felt more like we were at a kitchen table. Thank you Mr. Lee for keeping it real!

I signed up for two sessions. The first one I know well, and keep dear every day. It was about Relationship Building. I recognized one mentor right away and that made me realize I probably picked this session last year as well. Howie Wright, Careswell Partners, thank you for the gentle suggestions and great feedback to the participants; it's always nice to be in your company. David Wyatt, Middlsex Appliance, I suspect you are cut from the same cloth as Mr. Lee above. It was a pleasure to meet you and hear your perspective on the time and perseverance it takes to create and build long term relations. Mr. Barry Fitzgerald, you have a mountain of experience and we're all grateful for your contribution as well!

To my classmates, Mr. James Gibbons (CMA), Eli Wielhouwer (Wielhouwer & Associates), Herb Sinden (Sinden Renovation & Design), Michael Ferrell (four wide Design), Jim from Nature's Image, Teresa with the bookkeeping service, and Jennifer Teeple (Red Razberry Design) thanks for your participation...and your patience during my hack attack. I encourage you to explore the idea of social marketing and how to develop relationships this way too!

I will post the synopsis of our discussion on my Facebook Group - Nimble Neighbourhood as soon as I receive it. Thanks again everyone for a great day of making new contacts!

Nimbly,
JCM

Learning Isn't Always Easy. Unlearning Almost Never Is.

Have you ever unlearned something? Try it with something little like an expression you always use. I was told that I always ask "so what's new in your world?". I thought that was great way to get in touch with what was real for whomever I was talking with. Their answer could be about whatever they wanted to share, business or personal. It's no longer fun when it's predictable though so I endeavoured to find another way to open that conversation. It wasn't easy.

Likewise, it is difficult to change other physical habits like using the mouse on the left or right side of your computer. It's advisable to switch every now and again to circumvent repetitive strain on whichever wrist you're used to. Try it for a day and if you're willing, share your experience here. Again, it isn't easy.

I was inspired to write about this when a friend of mine told me about www.unlearn.com

unlearn: A process of removing barriers that blind us to our authentic selves, questioning our classical conditioning, deconstructing and re-ordering our identities, identifying and discarding negative values, repeatedly focusing awareness towards one’s state of being. – Steve D’Amico

This is going way beyond our general conversations and actions, or is it? Being the change you want to see is not as lofty as most think. More and more people are taking a leadership role in ensuring a respectful, accepting, and encouraging environment; one where are differences bring us together not apart. We have a choice to unlearn what has been acceptable in the past and to make our current reality something we can stand strong in.

The connections we bring to our business appears in subtle ways as well. Consider the diversity of your client base and question any patterns you may have created by the services you provide or the customers you have attracted: intentionally or not. Are you limiting your prospects by keeping old beliefs?

I encourage you to support unlearn in their plight to initiate positive change and conversation in whichever way you feel comfortable. This isn't about adopting all of their practices and beliefs; simply which ones you feel you can really stand behind anywhere you go. If nothing else, just giving it some thought is better than none.

Thank you for the insight Michael and Chris.

Nimbly,
JCM

Be Brave

Headshots are important to keep up to date. You are representing your company and for some of us, our company represents us so why not keep that up to date. I happen to love photography. People in particular since we're all so unique.

There's a place though for serious shots and business representation is one of them. I enjoyed hosting a Headshot H-event yesterday morning. Not only is Fred Hunsberger totally awesome in photography but he let me assist him; it's what I do: I assist. It's very hard for me to sit aside when I know I can help. I digress...

It's good to have a variety of pictures so not only do you need the serious, business photo you should be able to have some fun ones too. More and more, our customers want to know what's we're all about. Frankly, I like to have a little fun and make people smile so it came in handy yesterday as I assisted. This also explains the silly headshot to the right. My mentor dared me to put it on my website. This is easier and I didn't want to miss the opportunity to comment. Now that I have scoffed at the dare, what's next? Anybody know?

Be brave folks! Don't be afraid to show your fun side too! You might be surprised to see what you get in return.

Nimbly,
JCM