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Lessons from the Domino’s Pizza Fiasco

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Posted by User ImageKristina Hill,April 17th, 2009

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Like the majority of the more than half-million people who have viewed the Domino’s Pizza video that’s been circulating the web this week, I was totally grossed out during and after I watched this showcase of employee misconduct at its worst. My fears about what could happen behind the scenes at restaurants had been realized, and it wasn’t a pretty sight.

However, consumer gross-out and probably a few felony charges for the employees in the video aren’t the only thing at stake here. Also on the line is a brand, Domino’s, which thus far has enjoyed a solid reputation among consumers. Not a day goes by that I don’t see a Domino’s commercial on TV or a Domino’s delivery car rolling though my neighborhood.

Overall, I’ve been impressed by how Domino’s has tackled this catastrophic issue. They’ve spent the last few days wrestling their brand from destruction by issuing stern statements and press releases, fielding interview requests, posting video responses on YouTube, and establishing an account on Twitter that speaks directly to this crisis (among other things). I think this response and the incident in general has within it several worthwhile examples that small and mid-sized businesses can learn from as we all get used to navigating the world of social media. Here are a few thoughts:

  • Recognize the power of social media : The Groundswell is real. Hundreds of millions of people across the globe are engaged in social media every second of the day, and this interaction will only continue. It’s important that everyone recognize the power of social media, and the people who participate in it. After all, it was the online community that brought the Domino’s employee video to the forefront. And, if you aren’t already engaged in social media in some way, now might be a good time for you to jump in.
  • Monitor the web : Do you know your Webutation? If not, now’s the time to find out. Monitor what’s being said about you and your brand in the social media realm through vehicles like Twitter,  YouTube, Flickr, and online in general. The best part about online monitoring is that you don’t need a large budget to begin your monitoring efforts. Start off using free tools like Google or Yahoo! alerts and checking vehicles like search.twitter.com for key words connected to you or your company.
  • Be Responsive : If you do find inaccuracies about your company online, swiftly respond using the appropriate channels. Like Domino’s, your response mechanisms can range from media and public relations, to posting on social media sites, to using your website, or using an integrated strategy.  Your response mechanisms will depend on the severity of the issue. All-in-all, it’s best to get a grasp on the situation before it spreads like wildfire.
  • Education is key : If you haven’t already done so, invest in social media education for you and your employees. In today’s environment, even having basic knowledge of this new landscape can be beneficial to your organization’s growth and vitality. If you don’t have a budget to confer with an expert, follow blogs on the subject, find online presentations/websites/articles, or take a trip to your local library and check out a few books on the subject. It also might be beneficial to establish social media procedures for your organization that speak to how the medium will be used, employee participation, crisis response, etc.

These are just a few basic takeaways from the Domino’s case. As this story continues to play out, I’m sure that there will be more lessons that we all can and will benefit from. Are there any other lessons that should be added to the above list?

————————
About Kristina Hill

Kristina Hill is the owner of MarComm Creative Group, LLC, a marketing communications business that helps small and mid-sized companies tell their story.

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Are You Ready for Marketing?

Read more about : (matching categories Lets Talk Marketing, Your Referral Network )
Posted by User ImageKristina Hill,March 15th, 2009

Let’s face it. As business owners, we all need to execute some form of marketing for our businesses to attract customers. After all, marketing is the driving force in telling our target audience who we are and what we have to offer through our products and services. As important as it is to market, it’s even more important to know that you are ready for marketing. Consider the consequences of starting a marketing campaign without being able to deliver on the promise that’s being communicated. The results of this can be disastrous, and place you in a not so good spot with current and potential customers. Here are six basic questions that you can use today to determine if you are ready for marketing:

  1. Do you know your business’ story : It’s important to know and be able to clearly articulate your business’ story . Questions such as why you launched your business, product and service details, who the key players are in your business, company milestones, and other foundational questions play an integral role in your marketing.
  2. What’s special about your product or service : Do you know what distinguishes your product or service from the competition? Can you succinctly articulate these brand benefits in your marketing? Take time to jot down your standout product/service elements. With a little effort, you will be surprised at all of the gems you uncover. This exercise also will let you know if you need to fine tune your product or service to fit the needs of your target audience.
  3. Do you have a budget : Marketing takes time and money. Set parameters for how much you are willing to commit in both areas. And remember, you can still achieve marketing success on a limited budget as long as you’re creative and know the primary selling points of your product or service.
  4. Are you confident : Having confidence in your products and services will serve you well in your marketing.  People tend to be more at ease with those who are confident in their abilities. Know, without a doubt, that you have a wonderful product or service, and don’t be shy about spreading the word.
  5. Should you outsource your marketing efforts: Get a clear barometer of your comfort level with marketing. Do you (or someone on your team) have the expertise to plan, execute, and measure your business’ marketing activities? If not, then you may want to consider researching and hiring a marketing consultant to fill this gap.
  6. Are you committed to marketing for the long haul : Marketing is an ongoing conversation with your target audience. Before you start the race, be comfortable and committed to the journey.

These are just a few questions that you can answer as you get on the road to marketing. Are there any more questions or observations to add to the list? If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

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Speed Networking-How Word Gets Around

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,October 15th, 2008

My partner Laurie went to a women’s networking luncheon event last week.  While most considered her outgoing, she was definitely trepidacious when asked to join the speed networking circles. 
 
Here’s the concept:  In front of each place setting at the table was a small piece of paper with a number from 1-8   Laurie was asked to stand under a corresponding sign on the wall of the room.   She was joined there by half a dozen other women who had the same number at their plates.
 
Each woman was asked to speak for :60 about her business .  She was asked to include what she considers to be a good referral/client.  Additionally, if she needed a specific resource she could ask i.e., a graphic artist, a computer repair person, etc.
 
It’s not the kind of  connecting/relationship-building we’ve talked about in other posts.   But it has its appeal for the more intense and focused networker.
 
Round 1:  As luck would have it, Laurie was the last in the circle to speak. This gave her a  chance to observe the others (and figure out what she would say).
 
The circle was comprised of members, first-time guests and serial attendees who hadn’t yet committed to membership.  Laurie found that most of the women were very polished in their ‘elevator speeches’ and direct in asking for what they want.   If one of the ladies had an expertise that others found relevant, cards were reqested.  
 
Although an appointed networking member was supposed to be timekeeper, a few did manage to go well beyond the :60 limit. By the time Laurie’s turn came, she only had about :20 to speak before the moderator announced the end of the session.
 
Round 2: A nother exchange of numbers, another spot in a circle.  This time Laurie spoke for what felt like forever but was probably less than the full minute.   No sooner did the last word come out of her mouth than the woman next to her jumped in to volunteer a glowing endorsement of our company.  As Laurie listened in surprise silence, the woman was exhilarated about her experience as a  coaching client, sharing with others how it had been life-changing for her and her family business.   If this had been a TV show people would have thought she was a plant in the audience.  When the moderator told her it was time for her talk about her business, everyone in the circle asked Laurie for a business card.
 
Lessons learned:

  1. Never underestimate the power of a referral
  2. Referrals are free advertising
  3. You never know where a networking contact or experience will take you

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Positive perks for the well-rounded networker

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,October 3rd, 2008

Earlier this year I attended a one week seminar in Pennsylvania.  There were 12 professionals in the class, from all around the country.

While all of us have a commonality of  being professional development facilitators, our expertise, business backgrounds and lifestyles were diverse.
 
They are now some of my greatest resources.  We support each other in our business endeavors.  We share relevant topics.
 
And what I like most is having 12 smart people from all corners of the country as an ongoing feed of information.  
 
On any given day I can put out a request and receive at least one resolution.  What a timesaver!
 
In last two weeks I’ve received the following from my group:

  1. “Cliff notes” on a book entitled “Fail-Safe Leadership
  2. An online source for learning computer programs www.lynda.com
  3. A great website for news resources:   www.ceoexpress.com

If your networking efforts are all about selling products, then you ultimately miss out pm the many perks afforded the well-rounded networker.

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“Get Service” for Networking Success

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,September 24th, 2008

         

“Get Service” is yet another reminder of the importance of connecting with people.  The core of all business is making that connection but too often we wear our selling hats instead of our human being hats.
 
Do you eye a roomful of networkers like a hungry tiger ?
 
I recently met a woman who is very strategic in her networking; she targets a couple of people per networking meeting—exclusively decision makers.   She considers everyone else a waste of her time.   
 
While I agree on strategic networking,  I’ve found that if one uses this as their only approach—it can also be limiting.

Who’s in your network?  
Decision makers may be all that, but behold the role of Connectors and Supporters:  They’re often pointers to the decision makers.    Make sure you surround yourself with a healthy sprinkle of all three.

  1. The Supporters.  We all need people we can count on to be there for us in the difficult times.
  2. The Connector.  Those who enjoy connecting others. They get their energy and worth from connecting one to another .
  3. The Conductors.  These are the ‘decision makers”. 

Walk into a room, then walk in someone else’s shoes. Remember to look at the other person.  Listen to them.  Stop thinking about what you are going to say next, or how you can fix them with your service or product.  Just be there. You might not make a sale at first blush, but you might make something more enduring: a relationship.

———————————–

Harvey Smith is the President of Carolina Business Coach.  He is a UNCC-Certified Business Coach, a Certified Behavior and Values Analyst, and past President of the International Coach Federation, Charlotte Chapter.  Email: Harvey@CarolinaBusinessCoach.com   Website:www.CarolinaBusinessCoach.com

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Born to Network?

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,September 14th, 2008

Some people take to networking like a horse out of the gate.  They are extroverts, energized by interactions with others.  The more, the better.
 
Then there are those who would rather take a long walk off a short plank than attend a networking event.  They are introverted, uncomfortable and see little use for connecting with others.   Socializing drains their energy.
 
Building relationships is integral to success.   We simply can’t do it all by ourselves.  And it’s a fact: people are more likely to use your product or service when they like you.
 
If you weren’t born to network, consider this: 70% of our behavior is a product of nature and nurture.  30% of our behavior is adaptable.  Translation: there’s still hope.
 
Remember the old joke:

Q: How many psychiatrists does it take to change a light bulb?
A: One, but the light bulb has to really want to change.
 

We’re not saying you have to become someone you aren’t.  Just become more of who you are. One surefire way of engaging others is asking them about their expertise.  People love to talk about what they know best.   And remember it works both ways: you can impact someone else’s life by sharing what’s in your mind or heart.
 
Change isn’t easy.  It takes commitment and time and what we call spaced repetition.  Doing something again and again helps us rewire those parts of the brain that say ‘no can do’.
 
Consider finding yourself a change facilitator: mentor, coach, therapist, hypnotist, self-help program or book.

Do you have role models in the networking world? 
 
What do they do that you admire? How do they engage others? What makes them someone that others seek out?
 
Behavior is observable.  Observe what they do and try to emulate those positive traits.  It will probably feel awkward at first, but keep in mind: it takes 21 times to form a new habit.
 
Ever hear of Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana? Last year they celebrated over 1 million visitors to their park and when asked how they maintain workforce enthusiasm, customer-centric energy and responsiveness necessary for profitability in the amusement park year after year, CEO Will Koch shared his thoughts on corporate culture by quoting their tagline:

“Look at me.  Smile at me. Talk to me. Thank you.”

——————————     

Harvey Smith is the President of Carolina Business Coach.  He is a UNCC-Certified Business Coach, a Certified Behavior and Values Analyst, and past President of the International Coach Federation, Charlotte Chapter.  Email: Harvey@CarolinaBusinessCoach.com   Website:www.CarolinaBusinessCoach.com

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Harnessing the Muscle, Magic and Muses of Mastermind

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,September 3rd, 2008

There is something mysteriously dark and satisfying about using the term “Mastermind”.

For many, however, the word itself is a mystery as in: What is it?

Simply put, Mastermind is yet another opportunity to network. The concept “Mastermind Alliance” was first introduced in Napoleon Hill’s “Think and Grow Rich” in 1938.

He wrote about Mastermind as:

“The coordination of knowledge and effort of two or more people, who work toward a definite purpose, in the spirit of harmony.”

He continues…

“No two minds ever come together without thereby creating a third, invisible intangible force, which may be likened to a third mind.”

Recently my co-blogger Reneisha Black-Ferguson wrote about writer’s block. Similarly, we can also experience what I call “Business Block” The symptoms are the same: Feeling uninspired? Stuck? Like you’ve hit a wall? If peer support, collective thinking and limitless creativity sound appealing, then a Mastermind Group may be just the antidote.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Identify 3-5 people that you respect
  2. Invite them to participate
  3. clear agreements i.e., confidentiality, no judgments
  4. Meet at least once a month, schedule meetings for a minimum of 1.5 hours
  5. Meeting format: Focus on one person’s situation/issues OR Break up the time into segments so each person has an opportunity to talk

As a coach, one of the things I do in my groups is to start by asking each person to share a personal and professional success since our last get together. After that, whoever is ready to elicit the brainstorming power of the group briefly explains their challenge and begins to ask questions like:

  1. What do I do in this situation?
  2. Could you introduce me to someone…?
  3. What will it take?
  4. Has anyone had a similar experience?

You will be learning from others’ expertise and real life experiences. Expect a flow of ideas.

———————————-

Harvey Smith is the President of Carolina Business Coach. He is a UNCC-Certified Business Coach, a Certified Behavior and Values Analyst, and past President of the International Coach Federation, Charlotte Chapter. Email: Harvey@CarolinaBusinessCoach.com Website: www.CarolinaBusinessCoach.com

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Profile: Power Networker Ira Bass

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,August 22nd, 2008

Ira Bass falls under the category of “Power Networker” because he really works at it, averaging four to five one-on-one meetings each week. He is warm and engaging, and loves what he does—who wouldn’t want to sit down and spend a few minutes talking to him?  Ira is also great at making others feel comfortable.

Case in point: Ira Bass knows a lot of people. If Ira doesn’t know someone directly, he probably knows someone who does.  He’s been in Charlotte for just two years, yet his list of contacts would put most of ours to shame.   As an entrepreneur with a great concept (Virtual Media Director), waiting for people to find his website would be like treading water and hoping you’ll get to shore.

True to character, when I asked Ira if he’d share his networking advice, Ira didn’t hesitate.

Q:  Do you have a networking strategy?
Be willing to meet with anyone and I mean anyone, anywhere, anytime. Opportunities can come from the most likely and unlikely places and people.  Treat every encounter as a chance to impress and be genuine.  People like to work with someone who is energetic, professional and provides value.

Q:  I’ve heard that when it comes to cold calling you’re fearless? Are you ever a little bit hesitant to pick up the phone to call someone?
Cold calling can be useful in certain businesses but in my case, I have to explain what I’m offering in greater detail.  Actually, I do everything I can to “warm call”.   A warm call is an implied endorsement by the referring person. As a result, the recipient is more attentive and receptive to what you have to say.

Q: What was your networking tipping point?
My tipping point was when I realized that going to network group meetings didn’t work for me.  I am better suited for one on one meetings where I can establish a personal connection.

Q:  How successful has networking been for you?
Without networking, my business would not be anywhere near established as it is today.  It is my lifeblood and I spend at least half of my week connecting in one form or another. 

Q:  How many Linkedin connections do you have?
At this writing, I have 464 Linkedin connections.  It is an invaluable tool.

Q:  Any advice for the newbie networkers?
Be relentless.  Never lose sight of the need to continually meet new people.  It should become part of your business and personal model.  Remember that one connection can lead to many.  Make it fun and challenge yourself to meet at least 2 new people each week.  Don’t hesitate asking someone to join you for a cup of coffee or lunch. 

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6 Most Common Networking Phobias

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,August 6th, 2008

Are you suffering from Fear of Networking?

Do you find networking uncomfortable and awkward?

Below, we’ve listed some of the common symptoms of networking phobia.

The good news? You’re not alone.

More good news: You can be helped.  With some behavior modification tips, you CAN face your fears and become a successful networker yet! 

6 Most Common Networking Phobias:

  1. Vortex-itis:  Fear of being swallowed up in room full of people   
  2. Compulsive frowner:  Corners of your mouth become stuck in a Charlie Brown-like flatliner.  Your body language screams ” Not approachable!”
  3. Judge-aholic:  You get great joy in silently putting others down in order to make yourself feel better 
  4. Wallflower Syndrome:  Desire to stand on sidelines; flashbacks of school dances or sports team selections
  5. Conversationally challenged:  Monosyllabic responses.
  6. Commitment-phobic:   You have a tough time scheduling and sticking to plans
  7. Unsightly Business Cards:  Inaccurate perception of business card’s appearance, seeing everyone else’s as more beautiful/professional

While no Fear-of-Networking support groups exists (most networkphobes wouldn’t  attend anyway), we encourage you to step out into the world.

It WILL get easier.  You MIGHT even like it.  And chances are, you WILL make friends, build relationships and have more business opportunities as a result!

Most importantly, keep reading. We’ll help you get out of your head and into the world.  If you have a networking phobia we haven’t addressed, feel free to let us know.  Comment to this post or email:
Laurie @carolinabusinesscoach.com

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Out-of-the-Box Networking!

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Posted by User ImageHarvey Smith,July 27th, 2008

In Best Places to Network in Charlotte I talked about some of the larger and better known networking arenas.  But if you find yourself recoiling at the thought of entering a packed room, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to meet and greet in local downsized groups.  Check the back pages of the Charlotte Business Journal for a veritable smorgasbord of listings. Charlotte Woman magazine doesn’t list quite as many but is still worth crosschecking. 

  1. Trade Associations—Contractors, Subcontractors, Accountants, Financial Industries, Retailers, Bankers, and Attorneys, to name a few – If your target audience is specific, start here.  Trades and associations have scheduled events and websites with calendars.  And remember: they all need speakers!  National Association of Women in Construction and National Funding Association are examples two in our area.
  2. Civic organizations- i.e., Rotary Clubs, Lions Clubs, Chambers, etc.  Keep in mind that towns surrounding Charlotte have smaller chambers that might be a better fit.  Check out the Mint Hill, Matthews and Concord Chambers. 
  3. Religious institutions- Events at House of Worship can help you form good relationships, both personal and professional.  Some of them offer professional networking groups that are formed by congregants.  Two that come to mind:  Jewish Community Business Circle and SouthPark Christian Men’s Connections.
  4. InternetLinkedin and FastPitch! Networking are online networking sites that let you connect with someone you know, who lets you connect with everyone they know…  And so on, and so on.  A great way to meet one on one.
  5. Special Interest Groups-  If you have a special interest, there’s probably a group for it in Charlotte. There’s even a networking group for pro athletes turned business pro: TBNA4S  (The National Business Association 4 Athletes) This just in:  here’s a new one for former military members called Carolinas Veterans Connections.
  6. Golf courses- The oldest networking game in town, but still a goodie.  While golf was traditionally a men’s club, now businesswomen are par for the course.  Corporate events, fundraisers and friendly foursomes give you ample opportunity to develop strategic alliances.

Do you have a favorite networking group you’d like to share?  Please submit your suggestions as comments below or send them to: Laurie@carolinabusinesscoach.com

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