Your Worst Employee is Your Website’s Contact Form- Fire It!

Customer Experience, ,

When was the last time you left a voice mail message for a company you were considering doing business with? For example, if you had a leaky faucet and called a plumber, but got their voicemail, would you leave a message? For the vast majority of us, the answer is “No.” We just move on and contact the next vendor on the list. The bigger question is “Why don’t we — or won’t we- leave a message?”

The Three Reasons are:
1. We simply don’t want to wait. We have become accustomed to getting the answers we want when we want them. Whether it is being able to order items online 24-7, or simply asking Alexa or Google Home for the answer to a question. Today we don’t wait for a response. The information is at our fingertips and purchases are available with just one click.

2. There is an almost endless selection of other options available to us. Virtually everyone is good these days because if they weren’t, the marketplace would “out” them in short order. Face it, quality choices abound.

3. We don’t know when, or if, someone will get back to us. The same dynamic exists with your website contact form. The “contact form” is the answering machine of the internet. Nobody wants to fill it out. They want direct contact information to a real person. Get rid of it!

Here is the uncomfortable truth: If the only way for your customers (or prospective customers) to reach a real person at your business is through your website’s contact form, then you need to know that your form is driving away more prospects than your worst employee. It’s costing you a fortune in lost business.

To be clear, I understand why you have a contact form. You want to funnel all your messages to one person or department. You want to capture their contact information. You want to get a sense of what the question or problem is before you return their call. You want to avoid scaring people away with your unpublished price so you have them fill out the form so you can ascertain their needs and have a sales rep call them back to have a real conversation and tailor your solutions to their individual needs. Blah, blah blah.  The reasons go on and on.

The problem is that they are YOUR reasons. News Flash: Your customers don’t care about your reasons and they certainly don’t want to contact you the way you want them to. Your customers want to contact you the way THEY want to. And if you restrict their access or their communication options, you are driving them away — in droves.

The solution: Give them options! Sure, you can have a contact form, but also post a key staff directory with contact options. Give them phone numbers, email addresses and after hours options. I know you are reluctant, but your customers don’t care! Your customers want to connect with a real person. If you won’t let them, then they will contact your competitors. Trust me, it happens millions of times every day. Look! There goes another one!

David Avrin, CSP is a sought-after international speaker on Customer Experience and Marketing. He is the author of the best-selling book: Why Customers Leave (and How to Win Them Back) named by Forbes as:
“One of the 7 Business Books Entrepreneurs Need to Read!” Book David Today: https://bit.ly/2m1WutK

100 DEADLIEST DAYS OF SUMMER

Safety, , ,

Another summer is upon us and as we make plans for vacations and summer fun, we would like to remind you that we are entering the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer.” This may be the time to relax and plan for summer fun but IT IS NOT the time to relax while driving, especially for your teens. Just look at some of the facts:

  • Motor Vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens.
  • Teens have the highest crash rate of any age group.
  • An average 260 teens are killed in car crashes each month during the summer, an increase of 26 % compared with the other months of the year.
  • 60 percent of teen crashes today are caused by distracted driving.
  • Surprisingly, the top distraction for teens is other passengers, accounting for 15 % of teen driver crashes, compared to 12 % caused by texting or talking on a cell phone.
  • For every 100,000 Americans under the age of 21, 1.2 people were killed in drunk driving fatalities in 2015.
  • “Not only are teens themselves more likely to die in car crashes, they also have the highest rates of crash involvement resulting in the deaths of others, including passengers, pedestrians or occupants of other vehicles.” Newsday
Candace Lightner Blog

What does this mean for us as we watch our young people load up the car and drive off to the beach? It means we must remain vigilant and ensure that we have provided our teens with every safety tip known to man, woman and then some. Sometimes, it takes “a little extra courage” to remind our teen that too many passengers is dangerous, the cell phone should go in the trunk of the car while they are driving or at least be put in Drive Mode, that other distractions can be just as deadly and that impaired driving is not only dangerous; it is a crime.

Getting arrested for driving drugged or drunk can ruin the potential for a college education, a good job, an increase in insurance, not to mention the fine, lawyer’s fees, etc. These are some practical things to consider here that we often forget in our hurry to see our young people have fun.

Parents: It also means that we should not be serving alcohol or other drugs at parties, and we, too must eliminate distractions behind the wheel and always drive sober.

Give them permission and encourage them to call you if they are in a potentially dangerous driving situation such as their friend, who is driving, is drunk. Let them know you will pick them up without recriminations.

Empower them to show courage and decline a ride from a friend who has been drinking or taking drugs, and that driving in a car with a driver who can’t take their finger off the cell phone is not only hazardous to their friend’s health but their own. Saying “no thanks” may make the difference between life and death.

If they use Ride Share, they should travel in pairs, make sure their driver is sober, does not drive distracted, and take a picture of the license and ensure that it is their driver before they get in. I am not a fan of either Uber or Lyft for a number of reasons and prefer taxis.

Encourage them to sign the Courage to Intervene promise, https://wesavelives.org/education/courage-to-intervene/

Also, we can’t forget about speed limits, basic highway safety laws and tips on what to do if a tire goes flat, etc. Unfortunately, our young drivers are more likely to underestimate dangerous situations or not recognize potentially hazardous situations than we older drivers. Life is too precious to waste it on a cell phone conversation or a drink before driving. These tips can help your family have a safer summer.

Because I care . . . . .

Candace Lightner, Founder of MADD, and called by People Magazine as
“The Conscience of a Nation” is returning to the forefront. Candace has founded We Save Lives as a representative voice on highway safety issues. Focusing on the 3 D’s, drugged, drunk and distracted driving, We Save Lives works with more than 60 partners at the local, state, national and international levels, to reduce deaths and injuries on the highways. She found her life’s purpose and continues today to move forward in her fight to save lives!  Book Candace to speak: https://bit.ly/2XCcC28

Why Nonprofit Board Prospects Say No!

Leadership, Nonprofits, ,

Do your nonprofit board prospects say No, when they are approached? When someone declines an invitation to join a nonprofit board, it could be for more reasons than the organization might assume.

Board members participating in my “Why Don’t Board Members Do What They’re Supposed to Do?” survey were asked the reasons why they would not accept a board position. Their answers revealed “No” could actually have meaning that goes much deeper than “not enough time” or “not having a connection with the cause.”

Survey responses indicate a board turn down may be symptomatic of significant organizational issues.

According to survey participants, here are five specific red flag concerns having a negative influence on board prospect decisions:

  • The board isn’t organized, and its goals aren’t clear.
  • The current leadership is a turnoff.
  • The current staff or board members are a turnoff.
  • There’s a personal giving requirement, or there’s too much fundraising.
  • It’s a board in name only, and not enough would be accomplished.

Here are three action steps to take when too many board prospects say No:

Consider the possibility that your nonprofit’s efforts are being compromised by a less than positive reputation or a damaging perception, and address it.

Create a dialogue in your recruitment process that allows honest feedback when a board prospect isn’t responding positively.

Conduct a self-evaluation to determine possible causes when negative responses seem to be a trend.

When someone doesn’t accept an opportunity to serve on your board, be willing to get a candid assessment. Accept those comments as constructive criticism and a first step toward taking corrective action.

Understanding why prospects say Yes helps ensure successful board recruiting. However, understanding why they say No can be equally important to the overall success of achieving your nonprofit’s mission.

What are some of the reasons you’ve encountered as to why board-member prospects say No? Comment here on this blog as Hardy is interested to hear your thoughts!

Speaker and Author, Hardy Smith works with nonprofits and associations who want an ongoing culture of performance. A master storyteller, organizations across America have benefitted from Hardy’s extensive career in the world of Nascar racing. His involvment with nonprofits, volunteer and community based groups nationwide has earned him the title of: “The Guru of Nonprofits!” Hardy offers: Keynotes, Seminars, Workshops, Leadership Retreats, and Strategic Planning Sessions! Book Hardy today: https://bit.ly/2ZFALqb

Do You Delegate Well?

Delegate, ,

Most of us are aware of the positives from delegating—we’ve heard them before.  In theory, it’s a great concept: “Get other people to do your work for you…Awesome!” 

We also know we can get more done in less time if we delegate properly.  The results of not delegating include burnout, stress, and getting overwhelmed with mundane tasks that distract us from our most important responsibilities.

Yet, why is delegation one of the most underutilized skills in organizations today?  Why don’t we delegate more?  Delegation is actually a learned and applied skill.  It takes an understanding of how to do it correctly, and conscious focus to create a habit.

Let me ask you: How many times in your life have you said this to yourself? “If it’s going to get done right, and if it’s going to get done on time—I might as well do it myself!”

Here are the Top 4 reasons we rationalize not delegating:
1.“I don’t have anyone to delegate to.”

We often believe we don’t have anyone to delegate to.  Certainly, if you don’t have employees or a personal assistant, you may have stopped reading already.  However—don’t fret.  Delegation, at its’ most basic level, is simply having someone help you.  Help can also come from peers, other departments, friends, interns, or even your children (please consult the child labor laws in your state first!)  There are even examples of those who have mastered the art of delegation enough that they can delegate…to their boss. 

2. “I’ve tried to delegate and it doesn’t work. I’ve been burned before.”

You’re right.  Something didn’t get done right or on time because you gave it to someone else.  You trusted someone, and they didn’t come through.  Someone let you down.  Someone made you look bad.  Got it.  It’s happened to all of us.  But, here’s the key:  Don’t make that an excuse to STOP DELEGATING FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE. 

3. “By the time I explained it to someone, I could have done it myself.”

Quite possibly, there are things that could take just a bit more time to explain to someone else—the first time.  However, if we think that way all the time, we WILL be the only person that knows how to do everything—and we will stay in the trap of having to do everything ourselves.  But if we invest the time to delegate the first time, and that same or related item arises again…wallah!  It’s now a time saver from that point on. 

4. “I don’t want to ‘bother’ someone else…they already have enough on their plate.”

I liken this “bothering someone” mentality to asking someone to buy something if you are in sales, or even asking someone out on a date.  Psychologically, there is a certain uncomfortable side to delegating.  We don’t want to seem as if we are pawning work off on others.  We don’t like giving people more work, especially if they, too, seem busy.  However, if we are truly overwhelmed, who do we really have to blame if we never even ask for help in the first place?  Who do we have to blame that we don’t have time for the important projects that we should be focusing our time on? Delegation often has to do with pushing ourselves outside our comfort zone, rather than “not feeling like asking” for help and continuing the pattern of taking it all on ourselves.

The key to delegating is the word “habit.” Using the above excuses rationalizes and enhances the habit of doing everything yourself.  Avoiding this excuse creates the habit of delegating. Establish the pattern of delegating, especially on smaller or quicker tasks, to create a habit.

“A leader isn’t the person running around doing everything themselves.  A leader is someone who inspires others to achieve the goals of the organization as a team.”

Like anything else, delegation takes focus, and a concerted conscious effort everyday—or we revert to our old habits.  You have to WORK on being an excellent “delegator.”  Place a one-word post-it note on your PC to help create this habit everyday.  Bring someone along on that next big project.  Look at your “To-Do List” and delegate 3, 4, or 5 items before you do anything else.  Then devote your time to your big picture goals–and achieve MORE, in less time, with higher quality, and less stress.  

You deserve vacation days without your cell phone going off, and you will be amazed at what your organization can accomplish.


About the Author:  Andy Masters, MA, CSP has written 5 books, earned 4 degrees, and has earned the prestigious CSP award of the National Speakers Association (NSA).  Andy presents entertaining and impactful programs on leadership, sales/service, and personal development topics. Book Andy today: https://bit.ly/2WWOZRn h

Are You Newsjacking?

Branding, PR, , ,

One of the easiest ways to get media exposure for your business is by taking what is already in the news and bringing it home and/or establishing yourself as the expert on that topic. This is known as “newsjacking.”  

A media cycle starts with the breaking news. After that, the media is looking to add to the story. What is your expertise on the matter? What is your “spin”? What information can you provide to keep the story going and position you as the industry expert?

There are many sources providing studies, statistics, and information on your industry that provide good data that you can use to create a news story. If it’s a national study, what does it mean for your local market or specifically for your aspect of your industry.

Another thing to look at is what is happening in the news that is trending. Look at trends.google.com and Twitter trends to see what people are talking about. It doesn’t matter if it’s not happening right in your own backyard. What would it mean if it was happening in your area or in your industry? What would the ramifications be if it were where you are?

If you disagree what someone in your industry is doing and that makes news, provide your opinion on the subject and why you think what they are doing is wrong. The media loves to hear the other side of the story so if you can provide information on that aspect of it, you will be more likely to get media coverage.

What can you “newsjack” to position yourself as the expert and provide expert information to the media on a trending news story?

Christina Daves is a do-it-yourself Publicity Strategist. She is the best-selling author of, PR for Anyone™ – 100+ Affordable Ways to Easily Create Buzz for Your Business, that shares her journey of getting exposure for a product she invented. As a sought-after Keynote Speaker, she brings all the information to help you and/or your company “Get Visible!” Christina taught herself everything she could about generating her own publicity. She has appeared in over 1,000 local and national media outlets including: The Steve Harvey Show, Dr. Oz, The TODAY Show, local affiliates of NBC, ABC, CBS, and FOX, magazines such as, Forbes, Success and Entrepreneur, Sirius XM Radio, The Washington Post, and many more. She also has a regular segment on Good Morning Washington. Last year alone, Christina, together with her clients, reached over 873 million views and generated over 8 figures in sales from free publicity. To book Christina for your next event contact us at 888-766-3155 today!

“Go Get’em Tiger!”

Mindset,

May 28, 2009 is a day I’ll never forget. Usually I don’t remember when people die, but this date I’ll remember forever because it was the day my dad died.

My dad lived in one end of Canada and I lived at the other end and I only saw him every two years since the age of 9.

But in 2009, I saw him three times in five weeks. The first time was because I was participating in a trade show for my business and I spent 12 days with him. The longest amount of time I ever spent with him since I was nine.

When he dropped me off at the airport, I thought to myself that I should get a picture with him, but I didn’t. That is definitely one ‘selfie’ moment that I regret. His last words to me were “go get ‘em tiger.”

Little did I know that that would be the last time I would actually get to hear my dad’s voice and those famous words he said to me at the end of every conversation I had with him.

The second time I saw him was ten days later when I got a phone call from my sister saying Dad had a heart attack and we needed to be with him. We did and spent five days with him while he was pretty much in an induced coma. The nurse woke him up long enough so he could see us for about 30 minutes.

The third time was less than two weeks later when we got another call saying we should come back because he wasn’t going to make it through the night. My sister and I flew back and within half an hour of our arrival he passed away.

In five weeks I was there three times and I found it so interesting to spend those 10 days with him and to hear him say one more time “go get ‘em tiger.”

My life as a burn survivor definitely hasn’t been an easy one and I’m constantly reminding myself that life is worth fighting for. That’s what makes this picture of him boxing in the Pan-Am Games so special for me. It’s a reminder to never give up and to keep the inner fight going.

Many of us will use our tragedies to block ourselves and halt our lives, but it’s up to us to see the gift in them and propel our lives forward.

Here’s three tools you can use from my Perserverance Tool Kit:

  1. Visualization Tool – Visualize in your mind a 30-second movie of yourself in your “ideal” life & play this movie in your head whenever you’re feeling stressed.
  2. Musical Tool – play only songs that empower and energize you. Make sure they really energize you to get up and move around. I have one song that I play over and over until I’ve shifted. Some times I play it five times in a row. Whatever it takes to shift from stressed to empowered.
  3. Video Tool – Google “motivational speakers” and watch videos of your favorite ones.

And remember as I do….

Keep your inner fight going and “go get ‘em tiger!”

Kelly Falardeau has gone from Near-death to Success! She went from being an ugly scar-faced burn victim, to being honored by Queen Elizabeth and becoming an Award-winning International Speaker and Best -selling Author. How did she do it? Contact us today at 888-766-3155 and book Kelly to speak at your next event, and you will hear and see the keys to the secrets she shares. #resilience, #empowerment



You’re Missing a Great Game!

Leadership,
basketball hoop.jpg

“You’re missing a great game!” This is something you often hear yelled at officials by displeased basketball fans from the heights of their seats. Somehow they believe the screaming of insults to people in stripes will make the calls better. I am still puzzled by this logic.

It actually makes no sense at all.

Being wrong doesn’t make you miss a great game; not showing up does.

Did you catch that truth?

Missing a great game starts when you don’t show up.

In the same way, enjoying the great game of life means we show up. We play. We are open to discovering the lessons and principles that will help us along the way. We learn, we keep going, and we fall in love with life.

You have plans for your life. Plans to accomplish your dreams, goals, and passions. What will be the difference between you enjoying the great game of life or missing it?

Here is what I know to be true:

Once you decide to take something on, to go after something that matters, to make a difference, this is the biggest step you must take to enjoy the great game of life:

Start!

Simply begin.

Take one step, even if it is small.

It is amazing how experiences become far less monumental than we think when we just put one foot in front of the other.

What step will you take today to make progress in your professional and personal life to ensure you don’t miss a great game?


Randy Fox is a Professional Speaker, Leadership expert, Best-selling Author, and NCAA basketball official who inspires organizations and individuals as they seek to maximize their potential and performance. It is all about people with Randy, who delivers presentations that are built on heartwarming stories, inspirational quotes, humor, and memorable content that engages, inspires and resonates with people for their journey of success. Randy brings ultra-high energy to the stage, with his undeniable passion for people, and an engaging approach to motivating and inspiring others to achieve great results. To book him for your next event contact 888-766-3155 today.

Overcoming Your Fears!

Fear, ,

I love this true story about the human penchant for worry.

Larry David, the creator of “Seinfeld“ and “curb your enthusiasm“ was working as a cab driver in New York City before his big break.

David once told the story of someone getting out of his cab and him being struck with the fear that “what if no one ever got into my cab again?“

Actually, fear about potential negative outcomes is natural – – it’s designed to prepare us should they happen.

However, constant focus on negative outcomes draws them to us creating an unhappy self-fulfilling prophecy.

Click Here and See Will Bowen Share how to overcome your fears without being consumed by them!

Will Bowen is a Funny, Engaging, and One of a Kind International Speaker and Author! Think it’s Possible to quit Complaining? Will shows us how! Featured on Oprah, The Today Show, Dr. Oz, CBS Sunday Morning, The ABC Evening News, Newsweek, People magazine, Forbes Magazine, O Magazine, Chicken Soup for the Soul; Will also writes a daily blog with thousands of subscribers. To have Will at your next event, contact us today at 888-766-3155 or Click Here to See More About Will Bowen



Where is Your Focus?

Mindset, , ,

When I was 16, I took driving lessons from a driving instructor.

I’d been driving for over a year and because I’d had a couple of accidents my dad wanted me to undergo training by a professional.

The instructor and I only had one lesson because I only had one problem to solve — and it’s the same problem I and most people struggle with in every area of our lives.

The instructor said, “I want you to hold your hands completely steady on the wheel — don’t swerve.”

I did.

“Now, look ahead but focus more to your left.” The car glided to the left.

“Shift your focus more to the right.” He said. The car slipped silently to the right.

“The problem,” he summarized, “is that you’re wanting to drive straight ahead but you’re focusing everywhere else. And the car goes where you look.”

Question: where in your own life, are you wanting to go one direction but looking somewhere else?

Today, let’s correct course once and for all.

Listen to this daily blog by Will: Jumpstart Focus

Think It’s Possible to Quit Complaining????  International Motivational Speaker, and #1 Best-selling Author of “A Compliant Free World” Will Bowen Shows Us How! In 2006 he was delivering a series on prosperity, and noticed that his audience all said they wanted greater prosperity– that is: more stuff.  But, they all complained about what they already had. He suggested everyone break the complaining habit by going 21 days in a row without complaining. Will gave purple rubber bracelets to everyone in attendance urging them to put the bracelet on either wrist and switch it to the other wrist with every spoken complaint. Will’s idea EXPLODED around the world, and continues today! So far, more than 11 million complaint bracelets have been distributed worldwide. The six millionth Complaint Free® bracelet was personally presented by Will to the late Dr. Maya Angelou. Featured on Oprah, The Today Show, Dr. Oz, CBS Sunday Morning, The ABC Evening News, Newsweek, People magazine, Forbes magazine, O magazine, Chicken Soup for the Soul; Will also writes a daily blog with thousands of subscribers. To have Will at your next event contact 888-766-3155 today, or click here for more information about Will: Will Bowen

How 15 Minutes and $15 or Less Will Create Amazing Impacts!

Business, , , , , ,

Do you have 15 minutes and $15 or less to see an amazing impact in your business and life?This principle works!

Recently I  presented at an event hosted by the University of Michigan, and enjoyed dinner afterwards with my client, Marilyn.

During casual conversation while deciding what to order, my host mentioned she “goes hog-wild” for A&W Root Beer. Good thing she didn’t say Dom Perignon, since dinner was on me!

I made a mental note of her affinity for A&W Root Beer and pondered a few alternatives on the flight back.  Arriving home I jumped online for less than 15 minutes and ordered a case of A&W Root Beer for less than $15, which was delivered to her home address within three days.

Pretty cool. The moral of the story? I was re-booked there the following year,  right? Ehhhhh…..no.
I was referred to a colleague who booked me the following year, right?
Ehhhhh…..no.
In fact, over three years went by, and I didn’t hear anything from Marilyn!

Until one day, I received a phone call. Here is how it went:
Marilyn: “Andy…Hi—It’s Marilyn from up in Michigan, do you
remember me?”

Andy: “Sure I remember you, Marilyn. How are you doing?”
Marilyn: “I’m great! Hey, I wanted to tell you that I’m so sorry I
hadn’t kept in touch. You’re not going to believe this, but, the very
next day after your program…well, I quit my job! I’m doing
something completely different now. But, guess what….?”

Andy: “What?”
Marilyn: “I just became chair of the planning committee for our
upcoming conference, and we’d love for you to be our keynote
speaker. Are you available on August 23rd ?”
Andy: “Yes…that sounds great. Would love to do it!”

Once again after that event,  Marilyn and I again enjoyed dinner together. I just had to have this conversation:

Andy: “So, Marilyn, I have to ask…After three years, what made you decide to track me down to present this program for you?”
Marilyn: “Sure, Andy. I’ve been waiting three years to tell you this. You know, I love your program. You’re really a great speaker. But, there are plenty of other great speakers out there who also present great programs, as well. Do you remember that case of A&W Root Beer you shipped to my home?”

Andy: “Sure….absolutely.”
Marilyn: “Andy, do you know I STILL have one can of that A&W Root Beer in my refrigerator, that I show my friends and family when they come over? That was the greatest small gesture that anyone has ever done for me when it wasn’t my birthday or Christmas.”

Wow!

As great as we think we are at what we do, there is another person, or another company, who can probably perform the same function or service just as well as we can.

So, what makes the difference? The little things. The little things which take 15 minutes or less, and $15  or less. What an amazing investment of so little time, and so little money.

We use the excuses of: “I don’t have enough time” and “I don’t have enough budget,” don’t
we?  Sure we do. We should always have 15 minutes or less, and $15 or less, to spend on the most important people in our life and career.

Fifteen minutes per day is just 1/100 th of our time.  Here’s the challenge! What amazing impact can you make today with your special client, significant other, employee, or new contact, using just 15 minutes and $15 dollars or less?

Andy Masters is an award-winning author and international speaker who has written 5 books, earned 4 degrees, and presented hundreds of sales/service, leadership, and personal development experiences. Andy has earned the prestigious “CSP” designation of the National Speakers Association (NSA), the highest earned international recognition for professional speakers, in which less than 10% of speakers worldwide have achieved. To hire Andy for your next event call 888-766-3155 today, or click here: Hire Andy Masters